Ayrshire nightclubs to reopen after 18 months of lockdowns

Nightclubs officially closed in Scotland on March 20, 2020.

This Monday, August 9, will see the end of the levels system, what some see as Scotland's 'freedom day', as coronavirus restrictions are lifted and where the removal of social distancing measures and the axing of the six-person limit on indoor gatherings allows for the reopening of nightclubs.

It was originally thought that masks would still be required for dancing and 'vertical drinking' however the Scottish Government has now confirmed that from August 9, ‘wearing of face masks is not required while eating or drinking (whether seated or standing)’.

The night-time economy has undoubtedly been one of the hardest-hit sectors during the pandemic.

As some places across Scotland have been forced to close permanently, others have been battling to stay afloat.

Night club staff have been furloughed and unable to get back to work for the entire 18 months because of the restrictions imposed on opening hours and alcohol sales. 

So expect next week some much anticipated and very much needed celebrating - from venue goers and club owners alike. 

A publication with the new guidance is set to be released in the coming days, more than 500 days since nightclubs across the country closed their doors.

And as they reopen, here is our guide to the best late-night clubs and venues in Ayrshire, if you still have the stamina to party after the last year and a half! 

Furys, Ayr

Posting on Facebook after the First Minister's announcement, Fury's said: "Night out pending! After Tuesday's announcement, we are over the moon to discover Level 0 will be short-lived & our dance floor will be filled once more.

"It’s no small task to revive a venue after such a long period of closure, and we also await clarification of the ‘small print’ from the Scottish Government regarding how we can operate. As soon as we receive official guidance, we will share details of our plans to return."

The self-proclaimed number one nightclub in Ayr, above rock pub Harleys (also open late, if 'vertical drinking' isn't your thing). They usually run over five nights between Wednesday and Sunday with 'top-quality DJs every night. Famous for Skint Thursdays, the clue is in the name, for a cheap mid-week night out in the 'shire.

Nile Court, 154B High St, Ayr KA7 1PX

Pitchers Bar and Nightclub, Irvine

Pitcher's in Irvine have launched straight back into it with nights out announced from next week, with the club open to 2am from Thursday, August 12. The bar has already been open since hospitality has been allowed to restart, but getting back to the nightlife is what Irvine locals will have been waiting for.

Posting on Facebook, Pitcher's said: "Our Nightclub is back!!!!

"We are delighted to be opening our club doors once again! We have missed you all and can’t wait to have you back on the dance floor!"

NHS workers have free entry on a Sunday. 

18 Bank Street, Irvine, North Ayrshire 

Venue 38 (previously Madisons, Ayr)

Madisons nightclub had recently gone through a refit and rebrand as new owners had just launched Ayrshire's first new grassroots venue for music and events in February 2020. Then, boom, pandemic hit before getting off the starter's blocks.

The good news is that despite the global pandemic throwing a spanner in the works, Venue 38 will join the Ayrshire clubbing scene this year. 

Expect: A new Music and Events space in Ayr and is the largest "grassroots music venue" in Ayrshire providing a platform for new undiscovered talent, promoting all types of live music and events. They will provide a professional sound and lighting system where acts can have the "big stage experience" to enhance performance.

They have a programme of events such as Limelight, SingAyr, Friday Cover Clinic and live DJ sets throughout the week so there is always something, no matter what your musical fix is. 

38A Carrick Street, Ayr, KA7 1NS

Vinyl (Previously Club de Mar) 
 

From the same stableyard as Furys, Vinyl is where folk finish up their night on Ayr's busy Arthur Street. Grab drinks at Arthur Street Kitchen (ASK) or The Buff (also open late) and remind yourself how to dance outside of Tik Tok.

Expect: The bring the BIGGEST disco to Ayrshire every week!

Available to book: Booth Packages / Private Functions / Events / Charity Fundraisers

They are the ULTIMATE Multi-Room Party Venue. 

5 Arthur St, Ayr KA7 1QJ

The Metro, Saltcoats

No, you haven't woken up in a parallel universe set in the nineties, the legendary Metro in Saltcoats is still in the process of being renovated with the intent to reopen. 

It is a labour of love but the team behind reopening the club posted this photo from inside the shuttered venue a few months ago.

There is still a bit to go yet, but hopefully, it won't be long until it has been restored to its former glory. 

Will you be going clubbing in Ayrshire next weekend?