Discover something new in South Ayrshire this summer

School's out for summer and for many people that means one thing - seven whole weeks to keep the kids entertained!

That's likely to be a daunting thought for some. But for those of us living in South Ayrshire, we're lucky to have a head start. With beautiful beaches, rolling countryside and plenty of great parks, there are loads of outdoor spaces where youngsters can let off steam.

As well as enjoying what's right on your doorstep, summer's the perfect time to explore some of South Ayrshire's other towns and villages that you've maybe not been to before.

The Destination South Ayrshire website features 27 - yes 27! - locations from Troon all the way down to Ballantrae. Have a look at all the Things to Do and places to Eat and Drink - there's bound to be something new to discover.

Holiday fun doesn't need to cost a fortune either. We've put together Six Things to Do Outdoors in South Ayrshire with the family this summer - these are all free, with the option of a couple of budget friendly add-ons. So leave the gadgets behind, pack a picnic and enjoy some fresh air fun!

1.     Meet Peter Rabbit and friends at Rozelle Park, Ayr

Follow the Story Stroll around Rozelle Park to find 11 spectacular willow sculptures of well-loved storybook characters, all with a Scottish link. Captain Hook, Peter Pan, Shrek, Sherlock Holmes, Peter Rabbit and the Stick Man are just some of those waiting to be found in the woods on this free trail. See Story Stroll | Destination South Ayrshire

2.     Take a day trip to Dunure

Now famous as the location for Outlander, Dunure is perfect for a family day out. Explore the rock pools, go for a paddle, puzzle your way through the labyrinth or climb up to the ruin of Dunure Castle. Kennedy Park (where there's a car parking charge of £2.50) offers a play park, picnic tables and barbecue areas. If you can stay into the evening, the sunsets over to Arran are truly spectacular.

Look also on Facebook for the Dunure Festival of the Sea which takes place this year on Saturday 19^th August.

3.     Celebrate Bruce in Maybole

Join in the fun at a special free family day in Maybole on Saturday 15th July 2023, to kick off an 18 month programme of events celebrating the 750th Anniversary of Robert the Bruce's birth. There's entertainment, stalls, activities and food for everyone to enjoy. See Robert the Bruce 750th Anniversary  or follow Bruce750 on socials for more info.

4.     Show off your skills at the Skatepark, Troon

This newly opened facility on Troon esplanade offers hours of free fun for all kinds of wheeled sports. Skateboarders, rollerbladers, BMX and scooter riders can enjoy an exciting array of ramps, bowls, ledges and railings.

5.    Enjoy some fun and games at Girvan

Girvan Youth Trust has organised free Family Summer Thursdays, 1.30pm-3.00pm, throughout the holidays. Based at the putting green, primary school kids and parents/carers can enjoy ball games, inflatables, slip n slides and loads more. See Girvan Youth Trust | Facebook for more details. There's also the play park, boating pond (£5 per pedalo for maximum of 5 adults/children) and bike hire from Biosphere Bikes (prices start at £5 for a kid's bike/mini go-kart).

6.     Scramble up to Straiton Monument

Ok, so this one requires a bit more of an effort, but the panoramic views from the top are totally worth it! Starting from Straiton Main St, a grassy path through a field leads to shady woodland, followed by a steep climb towards the summit and a monument to Lt.Col. James Hunter Blair. It's a perfect picnic stop where, on a clear day, you can see all the way to Argyll and Ben Lomond. For more details see South Ayrshire Paths - Straiton Trails