Car Hire in Ayr - Burns Country and the Ayrshire Coast
Ayr, the historic heart of Burns Country, sits on Scotland's beautiful Ayrshire coast. Robert Burns was born just south of here at Alloway, and the region celebrates his legacy with museums, monuments, and the cottages where he lived and loved. Beyond Burns, Ayr offers championship golf courses, beautiful beaches, and easy access to the Isle of Arran. The town itself has Victorian elegance, a thriving high street, and one of Scotland's premier racecourses. With a hire car, you can explore the entire Ayrshire coast, visit Culzean Castle, and take the ferry to Arran - Scotland in miniature.
Ayr and Ayrshire Highlights
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
World-class museum in Alloway with Burns' birthplace cottage, the monument, and Brig o' Doon. Essential for understanding Scotland's national poet.
Culzean Castle
National Trust for Scotland's flagship property. Clifftop castle with stunning interiors, country park, and dramatic coastal setting.
Ayr Beach & Esplanade
Long sandy beach with Victorian promenade, children's play areas, and views to Arran and Ailsa Craig.
Isle of Arran
Ferry from Ardrossan (30 mins from Ayr) to 'Scotland in miniature' - mountains, castles, whisky, and spectacular scenery.
Troon & Royal Troon Golf
Championship golf course and attractive coastal town. Beautiful beaches and harbour.
Driving from Ayr
Main Roads
- • A77 - North to Glasgow (1 hour), South to Stranraer
- • A719 - Coastal road south to Culzean and Turnberry
- • A70 - East to Edinburgh via Cumnock
- • A78 - North along coast to Troon, Irvine, and Ardrossan
- • A713 - Southeast into the Galloway hills
- • M77 - Fast route to Glasgow
Driving Tips
- • Ferry traffic to Arran can cause queues at Ardrossan in summer
- • The coastal road to Culzean is scenic but narrow in places
- • Turnberry golf resort can cause local traffic during tournaments
- • Ayr racecourse events mean busy town centre - plan ahead
- • Electric vehicle charging available at most larger car parks
Parking
Town centre parking at Burns Statue Square, Kyle Centre, and the seafront. Culzean Castle has extensive parking (included with admission). Beach car parks at Ayr, Troon, and along the coast.
Why Hire a Car in Ayr
- Explore the complete Burns Heritage Trail at your own pace
- Visit Culzean Castle and the Ayrshire countryside
- Easy access to Arran ferry at Ardrossan
- Play multiple championship golf courses
- Drive the scenic Ayrshire coastal road
- Perfect base for exploring southwest Scotland
Nearby Destinations
Local Tip
On a clear day, drive to the Electric Brae near Dunure - a famous optical illusion where cars appear to roll uphill. It's on the A719 coastal road and there's a layby for stopping.
Browse by Vehicle Type
Whatever your needs, we have the right vehicle for you. From compact city cars to spacious 9-seaters.
Premium & Executive
Specialist
Car Hire Across Scotland
From the Highlands to the Borders, we serve communities across Scotland with quality vehicle hire.
North East Scotland
East Scotland
Isle of Skye
Outer Hebrides
Orkney
Shetland
Ayrshire
Renfrewshire
Inverclyde
West Lothian
South Lanarkshire
North Lanarkshire
Moray
Aberdeenshire
North Ayrshire
Serving 39 locations across Scotland with free delivery and collection