Ayr

Administrative headquarters of South Ayrshire, southwest Scotland, at the mouth of the River Ayr; population (2001) 46,400. Ayr has strong associations with the Scottish poet Robert Burns. Industries include fishing, electronics, and aircraft parts.

Burns National Heritage Park, situated in Alloway, 4 km/2.5 mi south of the town centre, includes Robert Burns' 18th-century cottage birthplace and the Auld Brig O'Doon. The first bridge was built in the 13th century and was replaced by a stone-built one in 149. This was reconstructed in 1588.

Ayr is a popular holiday resort, with a long sandy beach. Its racecourse hosts the Scottish Grand National. Greenan Castle on a cliff top just south of Ayr was built in the 15th century. It has been put forward by some as a possible setting for Camelot, the legendary castle of King Arthur. Ayr has Scotland's only professional ice-hockey team and several golf courses. Glasgow Prestwick International Airport is 6 km/4 mi to the north of the town centre.

Ayr

River in South and East Ayrshire unitary authorities, Scotland, rising 6 km/4 mi east of Muirkirk and flowing 60 km/38 mi west to join the Firth of Clyde at Ayr. The river provides excellent salmon and trout fishing.