Girvan

About Girvan

The traditional holiday resort of Girvan dates back to 1668 when it became a municipal burgh incorporated by Charter.

Girvan's harbour is a centre of attraction for visitors and offers convenient mooring facilities for visiting yachts. From here you can set off for a day's sea angling or a pleasure trip around Ailsa Craig, the plug of an extinct volcano and now a bird sanctuary.

Stumpy Tower in Girvan was built in 1789, and was used as a tollbooth in Reform riots in 1832. Another imposing building, the McKechnie Institute, was built in Scots Baronial style in 1888, and is now used as a local art and all year round exhibition centre.

Girvan is proud of its reputation for floral attractions and colourful displays which are situated in many parts of the town and include the Rose Gardens, Knockcushan Gardens and Orchard Gardens. The town is also a good base for exploring on foot or by bike the Carrick Forest and the many picturesque villages of the surrounding Carrick area. There are no fewer than 20 different castles in the local area, from the National Trust for Scotland's Jewel in the Crown – Culzean Castle and Country Park to the dramatic ruins of Dunure Castle.

Girvan's links golf course shares the same stunning views towards Ailsa Craig as its illustrious neighbour, Turnberry. The newly refurbished Turnberry Golf and Spa Resort is located 6 miles north where The Open 2009 was played over the championship Ailsa Course. Play on some of the best golf courses in Scotland.

Discover more about Girvan and its surroundings, visit our local events. To find more about doing business in Girvan visit our Business section. To come and work for South Ayrshire Council, view the Council vacancies.