A trip to Maybole in Scotland is a journey into a magical kingdom filled with castles and Medieval architecture. Hidden away a few miles south of Ayr, this town in South Ayrshire has many fine buildings and lengthy history. Stick with us as we uncover the top things to do in Maybole.
Maybole’s history is deeply intertwined with lords and ladies. In the 1700s, a census recorded 28 homes of lords and landowners with estates in the region – what a neighbourhood! Today, the town’s notable architecture attracts the awe of many when venturing down from Ayr.
Things to Do in Maybole
You won’t be lacking in things to do when visiting Maybole, that’s for sure!
This ancient capital of Carrick is mesmerising, with remarkable buildings everywhere you look. Maybole Castle, Culzean Country Park, and Turnberry Lighthouse are some of the most popular attractions in Maybole, but there are plenty of other gems hidden around every corner.
Taking a few days away from Ayr to explore Maybole is undoubtedly one of the more enriching experiences you can enjoy, so start packing your bags and see our guide for the top things to do in Maybole.
Culzean Castle & Country Park
There’s no feeling of awe and wonder quite like when you first set your eyes upon Culzean Castle for the first time.
You can find this beautiful estate situated south-west of Maybole overlooking the Firth of Clyde. The impressive castle is interlaced with intricate details and will delight history buffs, but the main star is the lush gardens surrounding it.
Blairquhan Castle
Blairquhan Castle is a famous wedding venue, so if you’re looking for a place for your special day, here’s your chance!
Once home to the Hunter-Blair Baronet family, Blaiquhan Castle is worth visiting just to see the well-kept grounds and amenities. Make sure to check out their website for more details.
Electric Brae Gallery & Studio
Hosting incredible works from notable artists like Ferrero Rossi and Alexa Hope, the Electric Brae Gallery & Studio is an artisan’s paradise.
You can find this profound gallery along the A719 next to the coast, and we won’t blame you for taking a piece or two home with you!
Maybole Castle
The pinnacle of the architecture of Maybole Castle immediately draws the eyes as you traverse the cobbled streets of Maybole.
On Cassillis Street, part of the high street of Maybole, you can find this impressive castle and enjoy its towering structure amidst the quaint town houses, shops, primary schools, and churches.
Visit the Swan Pond
One of the most beautiful locations in Culzean is the Swan Pond.
This tranquil pond is a fantastic place to bring the family to at the end of a day of sightseeing. The pond holds snow-white swans, charming ducks, and a few other birds to see.
Turnberry Lighthouse
At the end of a long road sits the Turnberry Lighthouse, a remarkable attraction with spectacular views.
The Turnberry Lighthouse is well-kept and with excellent facilities and informative guides. There’s also a wonderful cafe that lets you enjoy an invigorating coffee overlooking the Firth of Clyde.
Maybole Parish Church
The striking orange stone of this church is instantly recognisable, and you’ll immediately find charmed by its unique design.
This parish church, built in the 12th century, has a very odd square spire comprising of a series of smaller squares. The spire could be at home in an Aztec temple, but you need to see it to believe it.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park
This bustling farm park is a great place to bring kids and hosts many friendly farmyard creatures.
There are donkeys, otters, horses, meerkats, monkies, deer, and so much more! You can spend an entire afternoon enjoying the feeding shows.
Explore Maybole Town Centre
Maybole’s collection of buildings are all equally impressive, so exploring the Maybole town centre is a treat no matter what corner you take.
The high street in Maybole is home to many shops, a collegiate church, restaurants, the imposing town hall, and whatever else you may need to enjoy while en route to an exciting map location.
Kirkoswald Old Kirkyard
The Kirkoswald Old Kirkyard is a testament to Oswald, 7th-century king of Northumbria’s victory in 654 AD.
Besides what remains of this distinguished church, one of the unique attractions of the kirkyard is Robert the Bruce’s old font used when he was baptised!
Maidens Beach
If you happen on a hot summer’s day in Maybole, a trip to Maidens Beach is the best place to relax.
This charming beach has a nearby harbour, perfect for a day of pleasure boating or fishing, whichever one takes your fancy.
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
The name Robert Burns is well-known wherever you go in Scotland, and at this museum, you can uncover the origins of this legendary bard.
See the humble cottage that birthed a genius, with copies of poems that were written here, artefacts from his childhood, and many more hidden gems that will delight any historian.
Alloway Auld Kirk
Speaking of Burns, the respected Alloway Auld Kirk is a beautiful church associated with the prolific bard.
You can see the graves of Burns’ father and sister, where ‘where ghaists and houlets nightly cry’ – haunting.
Bargany Gardens
A stunning 50-acre garden awaits you at Bargany Gardens, filled with matured woodland, azaleas, and rhododendrons.
The Gardens are only open during Spring and early Summer, so don’t miss out on this attraction if you’re visiting near Maybole during this time.
Dalcairney Falls
The Dalcairney Falls are a gorgeous hidden gem east of Maybole, perfect for any adventure deep in South Ayrshire.
The picturesque falls lie just off Doon Bridge and make for a scenic spot to stop as you explore Scotland.
Loch Doon Castle
The impressive scale of Loch Doon Castle is a wonder to behold.
This 11-sided stone castle was believed to have been built by Robert the Bruce in the late 1200s. The Castle originally sat in Loch Doon but was meticulously replaced stone by stone in the spot it sits today.
See Ayr
Just north east of Maybole sits the stunning town of Ayr, a bustling and lively city.
Ayr has so many attractions, and it’s well worth staying a few days in the capital city of Ayrshire. The friendly population are more than happy to help you discover the many hidden gems of Ayr.
Rozelle Estate
The fantastic 37 acres of the Rozelle Estate cover a wealth of flora and wildlife.
There’s no better place in Ayrshire to enjoy the stunning Scottish wildlife and tranquillity, so make sure to set aside time for this attraction.
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