Ayr's new audio walking tour launched as part of Scotland's Year of Stories

The story of Ayr is being brought to life through a new walking experience called Shadows of the past...Ayr's Myths, Legends & History.

Running as part of a year-long programme of events called Once Upon a Time in South Ayrshire, supported by EventScotland as part of the Year of Stories 2022, this self-led journey uses our mobile devices to reveal the town's local tales and legends.

Highlights of the walking trail include life-sized character silhouettes and realistic audio which transports you back in time. Audiences can access QR codes as well as information boards to discover Ayr's iconic stories as you follow in the footsteps of Robert Burns and explore locations such as the Brig o' Doon and Loudoun Hall. You will also learn about the gruesome history of the Malt Cross and lots more.

This family friendly tour is completely free for everyone to enjoy. You can walk the trail in any order, splitting it into sections over several days if you wish.

Councillor Chris Cullen, Economy and Culture Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "This walking tour explores the heritage of Ayr in a completely new way. The past is delivered to your mobile device through text and audio bringing the town's auld streets and closes to life. There are also information boards, so you won't miss out if your device runs out of battery.

"The beauty of the self-led walk, it that you get to soak up the past at your own pace, so you can stop for a bite to eat, or do some shopping before continuing your exploration.

"I have no doubt this will be a big hit with visitors, but I also urge locals to scan the QR codes, as there are more than a few surprises in Ayr's colourful past."

Gordon Smith, Regional Director at VisitScotland said: "We are delighted to be supporting Shadows of the past...Ayr's Myths, Legends & History as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022. This new, interactive trail offers a great opportunity for visitors and locals alike to enjoy the rich stories and heritage of this fascinating region as part of the year-long Once Upon a Time in South Ayrshire programme." 

Myths? Legends? or History? That's for you to find out as you delve into the past of some of Scotland's most colourful people. The trail will run until the end of the year. For more info and a map of all the sites visit https://destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk/shadows-of-the-past/

Shadows of the past...Ayr's Myths, Legends & History is supported by South Ayrshire Council, National Trust for Scotland, and EventScotland as part of Scotland's Year of Stories 2022. The trail is part of Once Upon A Time in South Ayrshire, a year-long programme of events and activities, with more details to be announced in the coming months. Find out more at https://destinationsouthayrshire.co.uk/stories/