The main town in North Ayrshire, Irvine, incorporates a unique blend of old and new attractions. Just 26 miles south of Glasgow, both Glasgow and Prestwick are easily accessible from the industrial town that has both important historical and maritime connections. Its harbour became a major west coast seaport and now houses the main site of the Scottish Maritime Museum which is an award winning attraction and fantastic day out. A vibrant community spirit is spread throughout the town, with an active Burns Club; which happens to be the oldest in Scotland. The Rivergate shopping centre offers a mix of both independently run shops and major retail stores, meaning you can find almost anything you are looking for.
Eat and Drink
The beautiful redeveloped harbour area, with traditional pubs and restaurants as well as a newly opened Italian ice cream parlour Vanilla Joes where you can choose from a vast variety of flavours is the ideal place to spend a family day out.
Sport and Recreation
The Magnum leisure centre has a pool, gym and various fitness classes throughout the week. Set in a seaside location, with the peaks of Arran creating a stunning backdrop lays the Gailes Links golf course known as one of Scotland’s hidden gems, offering a traditional links challenge, which owes much of its present day character to the course design of the great James Braid. In 2003 The Club co-hosted the Amateur Championship with Royal Troon and also in 2007 for the British Seniors’ Open with Turnberry. Irvine’s glorious sandy beach is the ideal setting for a relaxing stroll and is enjoyed by horse riders.
Schools
Enjoying an array of primary and secondary schools, Irvine is a popular area for families.
Transport Links
Irvine offers first class travel links, with trains running to Glasgow every 15 minutes from Irvine Train Station, which also benefits from generous parking. It is also just a 40 minute drive to Glasgow via the motorway.
