It will be difficult to leave the serenity of the immediate vicinity of The Mansions, but Ayr and the surrounding County has considerable appeal.

Good shops and fine restaurants combine with a wide variety of golf courses, sailing opportunities, a leading race course, rugby, football and a mighty coastline, north and south, to explore.

The cosmopolitan attractions of Glasgow, with the curiosities of the West End, chic City Centre and leading Arts organisations, such as Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, are only 36 miles away.

For travel to foreign shores, both Prestwick and Glasgow Airports are easily reached.