Ayrshire seaside: Why our towns and villages deserve more credit

Inexcusably, no Ayrshire places featured on the list, with areas in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and many more finding a spot.

The top place in Scotland went to St Andrews. A fair choice, but there's no reason why our stunning seaside places in Ayrshire shouldn't feature on the list.

Here's why we think our Ayrshire seaside town and villages are the best in the world.

AYR

Photo- Richie Jones

Ayr is host to around 200 Airbnb accomodations, meaning there is plenty of choice to rest up after a fun day at the beach and exploring the town.

The town has a number of stunning golf courses on offer, so there is ample time to enjoy the fairways before enjoying the rest of what Ayr has to offer.

As you can tell from the image above, the views from Ayr beach, like all Ayrshire beaches, are breathtaking.

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the town, there are plenty of nature walks to explore - showing that Ayr offers the best of both worlds for seaside lovers and nature lovers.

If you are a lover of all things Robert Burns, then Ayr is the place to be. Burns Cottage and the Robert Burns Birthplace museum are both only a short distance away from the town centre. 

Who wouldn't want to visit Ayr?

IRVINE

Photo - Colin Mearns

The beauty of Irvine beach can be enjoyed all year round, as this image from Colin Mearns shows with locals enjoying their seaside views on New Year's Day.

Again, there are plenty of choices for overnight stays in Irvine, as well as the beach being within walking distance of a variety of pub, cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Irvine is the home of the Scottish Maratime Museum's Linthouse building, meaning it is a haven for any industrially-minded folks.

Eglinton Country Park is the perfect place to enjoy a quiet, relaxing walk to wind down, enjoy a walk with the dog, or take the kids exploring through the trees.

We don't know why Irvine wasn't on the list either.

LARGS

Largs

If you are planning a visit to Cumbrae or Millport, then Largs is the place to go. A short ferry journey will take you from one beauty spot to another. Travel advice can be found here.

There are plenty of attractions to see in Largs, including The Pencil, Skelmorlie Aisle and Clark Memorial church.

Largs sea front is lined with amazing restaurants and cafes to enjoy a meal and enjoy the view. Or for the more traditional people, there are plenty of places to feast on a fish supper as well.

We love Largs as much as you do.

ARDROSSAN

Image - Stewart McMurran

Ardrossan is home to some of the most stunning views in the whole world. Many of these have been captured in the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald Camera Club. If you want to see some views as stunning as this, then head to North Ayrshire right now.

Just like Largs, Ardrossan is just a short ferry ride away from the stunning Isle of Arran, which has run since 1834. Advice about this journey can be found here.

Photo - Becca Louise

More about Ardrossan's views, the amazing sunsets and sunrises would be enough to give you that jolt of motivation.

Have we mentioned the views?

PRESTWICK

Photo - Rebecca Milan

Prestwick's golf clubs boast similarly stunning views and is why they attract thousands of visitors from across the country every year.

Prestwick beach may not be the most famous in the area, bit it still allows a mixture of relaxation and the opportunity to set off on a nature trail if you so wish.

Prestwick Main Street would put any holiday island's strip to shame. Previously voted the best high street in the country, there's no limit to the bars and restaurants to enjoy.

If you are into a bit of plane spotting, then you're in luck. Glasgow Prestwick Airport is surrounded by places to park up and watch the flights coming in and out.

Prestwick has a bit of everything and it's a scandal that it wasn't included on the list.

What is your favourite seaside town or village in Ayrshire? Let us know in the comments.