Irvine Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Located in the beautiful region of Scotland, Irvine is a charming Burgh that offers a delightful mix of history, natural beauty, and modern attractions. With its rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Irvine is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Scottish experience.

History enthusiasts will be captivated by Irvine's fascinating past, which dates back to the 12th century. The town is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the magnificent Irvine Castle. Built in the late 12th century, this ancient fortress played a significant role in the region's history and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. Explore the castle's ruins and imagine the stories of knights and nobles that once graced its halls.

For those who love the outdoors, Irvine boasts breathtaking natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by stunning countryside, with rolling hills, picturesque valleys, and serene lochs. Take a leisurely walk along the Irvine beach and enjoy the fresh sea breeze, or hike through the nearby nature reserves and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Irvine also offers a range of modern attractions and amenities to cater to all interests. The town center is vibrant and bustling, with a wide selection of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Indulge in some retail therapy, sample delicious local cuisine, or simply relax and watch the world go by in one of the charming cafes.

Art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Irvine. The town is home to several art galleries and cultural centers, showcasing the works of local artists and hosting exhibitions and events throughout the year. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local arts scene and discover the creative talents of Irvine.

Alternative names: Population: 33.7 thous.Area: 6.18 mi²Elevation: 36 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 55°36'51"N, 4°40'11"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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Irvine Top Attractions

Irvine Attractions - What to See and Explore

Irvine offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Eglinton Country Park, Irvine Harbour, Seagate Castle, Scottish Maritime Museum. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Park
Eglinton Country Park
Nestled in the historic town of Irvine, Eglinton Country Park offers a tranquil escape to nature within the bustling region of Ayrshire, Scotland. This picturesque park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a day out in the Scottish countryside.
Archaeological site
Irvine Harbour
The harbours serving Irvine at Seagatefoot and Fullarton in North Ayrshire have had a long and complex history. Irvine's harbour was one of the most important ports in Scotland in the 16th century.
Forts and castles
Seagate Castle
Seagate Castle is a castle in North Ayrshire, in the town of Irvine, close to the River Irvine, Scotland. The castle was formerly a stronghold, a town house, and later a dower house of the Montgomery Clan.

Specialty museum • History museum • Museum
Scottish Maritime Museum
The Scottish Maritime Museum is an industrial museum with a Collection Recognised as Nationally Significant to Scotland. It is located at two sites in the West of Scotland in Irvine and Dumbarton, with a focus on Scotland's shipbuilding heritage.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Trindlemoss Loch
Trindlemoss Loch, Scott's / Scot's Loch or the Loch of Irvine was situated in a low-lying area running from Ravenspark to near Stanecastle and down to Lockwards, now represented only by the playing fields off Bank Street in the Parish of Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland.
Archaeological site
Grannie stone
The Grannie or Granny stone is either the only surviving part of a stone circle or a simple glacial erratic. It lies in the River Irvine below the Rivergate Centre in Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland.
Forts and castles
Stanecastle
Stanecastle was a medieval barony and estate in North Ayrshire, Scotland, first mentioned in 1363 and now part of the Irvine New Town project. Its nearest neighbours are Bourtreehill and Girdle Toll.
55°36'36"N • 4°39'42"W
Tanzie Well
The Tanzie Well, also known as Saint Anne's Well, the Washing House Well or the Spoot is located beside the River Irvine in the Golf-fields or Golffields at the end of the footbridge across the River Irvine in Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland.
Bridge
Drukken Steps
The Drukken, Drucken Steps or Drunken Steps were stepping stones across the Red Burn in Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland and are associated with Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns.
55°36'41"N • 4°39'52"W
The Chapel Well
The Chapel Well, sometimes known as Saint Mary's Well or probably erroneously as 'Saint Inan's Well' is located beside the River Irvine at the end of the Chapel Lane path that links to the Kirk Vennel in Irvine, North Ayrshire. Scotland.
55°36'52"N • 4°39'55"W
Irvine Townhouse
Irvine Townhouse is a municipal building in the High Street, Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland. The townhouse, which was the headquarters of Irvine Burgh Council, is a Category B listed building.
55°38'4"N • 4°40'36"W
Woodland View
Woodland View is an acute mental health hospital, acute adult services and elderly and community rehabilitation facility located within the grounds of Ayrshire Central Hospital, Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland. The hospital was constructed by Balfour Beattie Construction, and opened in 2016.
55°37'54"N • 4°39'21"W
Robert Burns and the Eglinton Estate
During the years 1781–1782, at the age of 23, Robert Burns lived in Irvine, North Ayrshire for a period of around 9 months, whilst learning the craft of flax-dressing from Alexander Peacock, who may have been his mother's half-brother, working at the heckling shop in the Glasgow Vennel.
55°36'58"N • 4°39'54"W
Saint Inan
Saint Inan was the patron saint of Irvine, Ayrshire, Scotland, where he is said to have resided during the 9th century AD. He is reputed to have come from Iona, and to have died in Irvine, where his tomb was reputed to have been the site of miracles.

Day trips

Irvine – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Irvine, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Glasgow), Riverside Museum (Glasgow), Gallery of Modern Art (Glasgow).

23 milesNE
Grand building of art and natural history
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, Glasgow
Nestled in the heart of Glasgow, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum stands as a beacon of culture and history in Scotland's most vibrant city. This majestic building, which first opened its doors in 1901, is not only an architectural masterpiece but also one of the...
22 milesNE
Museum, Specialty museum, History museum
Riverside Museum, Glasgow
The Riverside Museum in Glasgow is a beacon of innovation and design, providing a window into the city's rich industrial past. This contemporary museum, which opened its doors in 2011, stands proudly on the banks of the River Clyde, showcasing Glasgow's transportation...
23 milesNE
Museum, Art museum, Modern art museum
Gallery of Modern Art, Glasgow
The Gallery of Modern Art, nestled in the heart of Glasgow, United Kingdom, stands as a testament to contemporary creativity and the vibrant art scene of the city. This premier destination for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike is housed in an elegant...
21 milesS
Golf
Turnberry
Turnberry, located on the rugged coast of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, United Kingdom, is a name that resonates with golf enthusiasts around the globe. Known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning ocean views, Turnberry's Ailsa Course is a jewel in the crown of golf...
21 milesNE
Specialist museum of art and artifacts
Burrell Collection, Glasgow
Nestled within the vibrant city of Glasgow, the Burrell Collection is a treasure trove of art and antiquities that offers a unique glimpse into the eclectic tastes of its eponymous collector, Sir William Burrell. This museum, which opened its doors to the public in...

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Best Time To Visit Irvine

Learn when is the best time to travel to Irvine weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Irvine?

The top attractions to visit in Irvine are: