Ayr, County town in South Ayrshire, Scotland

Ayr sits on the southwest coast of Scotland and stretches along the Firth of Clyde with sandy beaches and a working harbour for maritime use. The town centre includes shops, schools, and the University Hospital Ayr, serving the wider South Ayrshire region.

King William the Lion granted Ayr royal burgh status in 1205, giving fishing rights and trade privileges that turned the settlement into a major medieval market town. This royal favour laid the foundation for the development of the community as a trading centre on the Scottish west coast.

The Gaiety Theatre hosts regular stage performances, concerts, and community gatherings throughout the season, keeping the artistic tradition of South Ayrshire alive. Visitors can attend shows during the performance calendar and experience how the theatre shapes the cultural life of the town.

The centre is easy to explore on foot, with most facilities within walking distance of each other. Visitors will find public toilets and seating along the main shopping street, which tends to be busy on most days.

Ayr Racecourse hosts the Scottish Grand National each year, a horse race that draws thousands of spectators from across Britain. The race takes place in spring and stands as one of the most important steeplechase events in the Scottish sporting calendar.

• Location: South Ayrshire
• Inception: 1205
• Elevation above the sea: 36 m
• Shares border with: Prestwick
• Website: http://south-ayrshire.gov.uk/about/ayr
• GPS coordinates: 55.46389,-4.62778
• Latest update: December 12, 2025 22:39