Tourism

A visitor destination with so much to offer

There are many good reasons a tourism-based business can find success in East Ayrshire. The area offers an attractive combination of history and heritage, cultural venues and visitor attractions.

East Ayrshire has a lot to offer its visitors – including a natural environment that is perfect for a range of outdoor activities and recreation. This is an established and diverse sector to be part of, with a variety of 4-star hotels, boutique bed & breakfasts and self-catering accommodation to suit every budget.

It is not surprising that tourism contributes £64m to the East Ayrshire economy in revenue and jobs. This sector is set to grow, with firm plans in place to significantly develop the tourism industry.

Some key attractions

• Dumfries House, near Cumnock is one of Britain’s most beautiful stately homes
• The Palace Theatre and Grand Hall complex, Kilmarnock, offers year-round entertainment, including music, comedy and drama
• Dean Castle, Kilmarnock, is a 14th century castle with historic weapons, armour and musical instruments
• The Barony A Frame is a preserved headgear from the town’s old colliery
• Rowallan Castle, north of Kilmarnock, is newly refurbished with a golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie
• The Dick Institute gallery and museum is the largest in Ayrshire
• The Burns Monument Centre is a unique venue, attracting visitors from around the globe who are keen to trace their Scots ancestry