It takes just under two hours to drive from Cairnryan to Glasgow, making our ferry crossing from Larne a very convenient option for those travelling to Scotland from Northern Ireland. Although the drive itself is short, there are a number of great places en route which you can explore on the way. Here, we share some of our favourite stop-off points for those driving to Glasgow from Cairnryan, and the things that you can do there.
Things to do in Girvan
Offering unmissable views and plenty of history, Girvan offers a relaxing but interesting pitstop when driving to Glasgow from Cairnryan Port, and is located just 35 minutes into your journey. Set amongst stunning scenery, this Scottish harbour town offers excellent walking options thanks to being located on the Ayrshire Coastal footpath, including the opportunity to explore a number of walkways leading through Carrick Forest. Not only will this give you the chance to see Girvan for yourself, but provides the opportunity to stretch your legs after your ferry crossing from Larne too.
Girvan’s beach is another highlight, and this stretch of sand boasts views across to the Isle of Arran and the Mull of Kintyre on clear days. Plus, you might even spot a seal if you look hard enough! A boating lake and amusement arcade offer extra entertainment for those who need it, or you can simply take a stroll with some delicious fish and chips. Girvan also offer views of Ailsa Craig, and you can take a boat ride there during the summer months. An RSPB reserve that’s home to around 70,000 gannets, Ailsa Craig is definitely a must-visit for bird enthusiasts.
The town offers things to do for history fans too, as you can find out all about Girvan in the Stumpy Tower. Formally built to be a prison, this building is now home to an exhibition about the town so you can learn everything there is to know about the area. In addition to this, you’ll find the McKechnie Institute in the town centre. Interesting to look at both inside and out, this museum boasts artefacts which highlight Girvan’s heritage, including fossils, Bronze Age urns, and maritime objects.
Things to do in Ayr
Just 40 minutes on from Girvan is the town of Ayr, which offers another convenient stop-off point when driving to Glasgow from Cairnryan. One of Ayr’s top attractions is the Heads of Ayr Farm Park which offers plenty to do for the whole family. Open at specific times during the winter and perfect for summer trips, this park boasts a number of indoor and outdoor animals to discover – including mammals, reptiles, and all of your farmyard favourites. There’s also lots of activities to try, such as riding quad bikes, playing with diggers, bouncing on trampolines, and zooming down giant indoor slides!
The culture vultures among you will enjoy a visit to the Robert Burns Museum. Celebrating everything to do with Scotland’s national poet, this museum will immerse you in Burns’ life through introducing you to the cottage where he was born, and enabling you to discover over 5000 artefacts – including handwritten manuscripts. You’ll also find a true taste of Scotland in the museum’s café where you can indulge in haggis, neeps and tatties before continuing your onward journey to Glasgow.
If coastal walks are a holiday highlight for you, a trip to Ayr shorefront is a must. Popular back in the 1800s due to its proximity to some of the area’s industrial towns and cities, people would flock to Ayr shorefront for some sea air and well-deserved rest, and you can do the same today. Take a stroll along the sand, try your luck on the putting green, or simply sit back and people-watch from the Low Green. If you’re travelling with children, you might like to let them blow off some steam in the soft play area which can be found in the Pavilion, especially on rainy days when spending time on the beach is a little less desirable!
Things to do in Kilmarnock
Just half an hour outside of Glasgow you’ll find Kilmarnock, a town boasting both a bustling shopping scene and some lovely green spaces. Browse both independent and well-known high street brands while looking out for impressive architecture before heading to one of the town’s parks to stretch your legs. Dean Castle County Park is a great option and entry is completely free of charge. With its 14th century castle, woodland walks, children’s playground, and urban farm, there’s plenty to keep the while family entertained during your visit.
For a bit of culture, head to the Dick Institute. The largest museum and gallery space in Ayrshire, this building is home to temporary exhibitions and permanent displays covering everything from the history of the area to archaeology, so you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. The Dick Institute is also home to East Ayrshire’s central library, and there’s a café on site should you require refreshments.
Kilmarnock boasts the largest monument to poet Robert Burns in Scotland, and you can find it in another of the town’s green spaces: Kay Park. A category B listed building, the monument was opened in 1879 and saw the addition of the Burns Monument Centre in 2009 following a fire. Elsewhere in Kay Park you’ll find a pond (which is home to swans), a circular walking route, and a playground, making it a great place for a wander and a picnic. You can enjoy some of the best views of Kilmarnock from the park too, so make sure that you have a camera to hand.
From Kilmarnock you can take on the last part of your drive to Glasgow – the perfect base for a Scottish holiday. Fancy visiting some of these great towns for yourself? Book your Larne to Cairnryan ferry crossing today.
