Imagine living by the seaside on the glorious west coast of Scotland, but being within 40 miles of Glasgow – one of Scotland’s major cities.
Well, imagine no more. You’re in Ayr.
Living in Ayr: Everything you need to know
Ayr is on the west coast of Scotland, just 37 miles from Glasgow and bordering Prestwick and Alloway.
Alloway is best known as the birthplace of esteemed poet Robert Burns, while Scotland’s premiere horse racing event, the Scottish Grand National, has been held at Ayr racecourse since 1965.
Put simply, Ayr is classic Scottish seaside living, with amazing coastal views as far as Northern Ireland on a clear day.
The town is steeped in Victorian history and its buildings and housing reflect that era, with imposing 19th century architecture backed up by rows of classic Victorian terraced housing.
Houses for sale in Ayr
Properties for sale in Ayr town centre largely consist of stone-built Victorian terraces, with some of the larger properties now converted flats and apartments.
The town is also home to many post-war family homes, while suburbs like Alloway have a mixture of post-war homes and modern detached family houses.
As well as Alloway, family buyers should also check out neighbouring suburbs Alloway, Doonfoot, Heathfield and Seafield for more of the same.
Property prices in Ayr have dipped over the past 12 months to an average price of £144,463, meaning there is real value to be found in the town.
Suburbs like Alloway generally command a slightly higher prices, however.
Average property price in Ayr: £144,463.
Flats for sale in Ayr
Some of Ayr’s most popular flats for sale lie along the banks of the River Ayr.
These properties are largely purpose-built flats and apartments, as well as some conversions.
The Doonholm Meadows development in Alloway, meanwhile, has larger three-bedroom flats among it’s new-build stock.
Many flats for sale in Ayr are available for less than £100,000, with one and two-bedroom examples on the market for between £76,000 and £92,000.
Schools in Ayr
Seaside living, great access to Glasgow and plenty of stunning outdoor space are all among the reasons why families flock to buy and rent in Ayr year after year.
Another reason is the town’s schools.
Among the best primary schools in Ayr are Grammar Primary and Doonfoot Primary, while Ayr Academy and Belmont Academy shine brightest among the area’s secondary schools.
Ayr transport links
If you live in Ayr but need to get somewhere else, you’ll have no problems thanks to the towns rail, road and air links.
Trains from Ayr station mean Glasgow, Carlisle, Edinburgh and Newcastle are all well within reach, with services to Glasgow Central taking 45 minutes.
On the roads, the A79 links Ayr to Prestwick with the A70 to Edinburgh and the A77 and M77 to Glasgow.
And with Glasgow Prestwick Airport nearby, domestic and European flights are easily accessible.
Shopping in Ayr
With Glasgow’s big city appeal a mere 45 minutes away, professional shoppers often head east.
But Ayr has plenty to offer, too, with Ayr Central Shopping Centre home to the likes of Topshop and Debenhams and Arran Mall mixes independent shops with luxury retailers like Pringle.
The Kyle Shopping Centre, meanwhile, also plays host to a number of top high street brands.
Eating out in Ayr
One of Ayr’s most popular Asian restaurants, @ Home offers a variety of flavours from Thailand and is well worth a visit.
For something a little more traditional, try MacFarland on Sandgate, which serves up classic British dishes – including the old Scottish favourite, haggis.
For real value, head to Lychees-Ayr on Miller Road for superb Chinese food right in the town centre.
Things to do in Ayr
You’ll never have any worries over what to do in Ayr, that’s for sure.
Scotland, of course, is the home of golf and Ayrshire is blessed with some of the country’s finest courses.
They say golf is the best way to spoil a good walk, but not in Ayr – head to Belleisie and Seafield Golf Clubs, which both offer a testing course but also amazing views across to the Isle of Arran.
Sport lovers should also take in a race meet at Ayr racecourse, while Ayr United play in the second tier Championship of the Scottish Football League and play at Somerset Park in the town.
Away from sport, Ayr’s outdoor space is what really attracts buyers and renters to the area.
Try some fishing off Ayr Beach, or simply relax on the sands. Or, try Galloway Forest Park, a short drive from Ayr, where you’ll see stunning views of the loch nearby.
Things to do with the kids
Of course, in the warmer months Ayr Beach is a must for a day out with the children.
But on colder days, Ayr’s Odeon cinema is a great option alongside the LA Bowl ten-pin bowling alley.
Pirate Pete’s play centre is also hugely popular, as is the Citadel Leisure Centre which offers three swimming pools to keep the kids entertained for hours.
Estate agents in Ayr
Martin & Co has been the go-to sales and letting agent in Ayr for many years.
Our highly-experienced and dedicated team is on hand to help with your next move, so please do pop into the branch on Parkshouse Street, or contact the team through our website.
