Troon Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, local food, and culture in Troon, Scotland. Plan your itinerary with our extensive guide for a memorable trip!


Introduction to Troon

Troon is a charming town located in the South West of Scotland, in the Ayrshire region. Sitting on the Firth of Clyde coast, Troon provides fantastic views of the Isle of Arran and is known for its sandy beaches, golf courses, and historic landmarks. The town boasts a history dating back to the 16th century, when it was a fishing village, and it has since evolved into a thriving tourist destination. The town is small enough to explore by foot, yet offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. In this travel guide to Troon, we will provide you with a comprehensive list of things to do, places to eat, and accommodations to stay, to help you plan a memorable trip to this Scottish gem.

List of Places to Visit in Troon

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Troon is a town rich in history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks and culturally important museums that you can visit to learn more about the town’s past.

1. Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre

Dating back to the 1371, the magnificent Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre is an excellent spot to learn about Scottish history. You can enjoy a tour of the castle’s tower or hike up to the Dundonald Hill, where you can enjoy a stunning view of Ayrshire and the Firth of Clyde.

2. The Harbour and Piers

For many years, Troon has been, and still is, a significant fishing port. The harbour and piers are perfect places to take a stroll and admire the boats and yachts. You will love the lighthouse still standing and visit the old fish market.

3. The Royal Troon Golf Club

If you’re a golf enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the Royal Troon Golf Club, which has hosted the Open Championship nine times and has a range of golf courses to choose from.

Natural Attractions of Troon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Troon has many scenic spots and natural attractions that you can enjoy, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs and picturesque parks.

1. Barassie Beach

Barassie Beach is a stunning sandy beach with a fantastic view of the Isle of Arran. It is perfect for a relaxing day of sunbathing, picnicking, and taking a refreshing swim in the water.

2. The Marr Rugby Grounds

If you’re interested in rugby, visit the Marr Rugby Grounds, which is the home of the amateur rugby team, Marr Rugby Football Club. You can watch a live match or enjoy a bite to eat at the clubhouse.

3. Fullarton Woods

Fullarton Woods is a charming parkland that features a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees. It has numerous trails for hiking, jogging, and cycling, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds for kids.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Troon

Troon has a range of hiking and biking trails that cater to both novice and experienced enthusiasts. The most popular hiking/biking spots in Troon are Dundonald Hill, Marr Rugby Grounds, and the Troon Coastal Path, which stretches around five miles from Troon to Scottos.

Best Things to Do in Troon: Activities and Tours

There are abundant activities that you can choose from to make your stay in Troon more memorable, ranging from water sports to cultural tours.

1. Water Sports

Troon’s beach is the perfect place for water sports. You can try surfing, kayaking, swimming, and stand-up paddleboarding. You can also opt for a boat tour or fishing trip to get a new perspective of the area.

2. Cultural Tours

There are several cultural tours that you can take to learn more about Troon’s history. From ghost tours to whisky tasting, you can find a tour that interests you.

Week-Long Itinerary for Troon

Here’s a week-long itinerary to see the best sights and have the most fun during your Troon trip:

Day Activities
Day 1 Take a stroll around the Troon Harbour and dine at the local restaurants.
Day 2 Visit Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre, and the Fullarton Woods.
Day 3 Play a round of golf at the Royal Troon Golf Club.
Day 4 Take a walk around the Barassie Beach and visit the Marr Rugby Grounds.
Day 5 Explore the town’s galleries and shops, and go on a cultural tour.
Day 6 Hike the Troon Coastal Path and have a picnic.
Day 7 Visit the Robert Burns Museum in Alloway or the Culzean Castle and Country Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Troon

Must-Try Dishes

Troon is home to several local dishes, including fish and chips, haggis, and Scottish salmon.

Local Beverages

Aside from imported beer and wine, Troon has several local beverages that you can try, including Ayrshire’s own Fraiser liqueur.

Where to Stay in Troon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Troon offers a range of accommodations for all budgets, from hotels, guesthouses to hostels located in the town centre. Some popular options include:

  • Marine Hotel and Spa
  • Piersland House Hotel
  • The Old Loans Inn

What to Buy in Troon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Troon, there are several souvenirs and local products that you can take home with you. These include:

  • A bottle of Fraiser Liqueur
  • A bag of Scottish toffee
  • A piece of local handicraft, such as pottery or glassware

Local Culture and Customs of Troon

Troon’s culture is influenced heavily by its rich history, with each building and landmark telling a story. The town is also proud of its association with golf, rugby, and maritime history.

Best Time to Visit Troon

The best time to visit Troon is during the summer months of May to September, when the weather is mild and sunny, and the town’s coastal location can be enjoyed.

Do’s and Don’ts of Troon

Do:

  • Try the local seafood
  • Take a walk in the Fullarton Woods
  • Try a round of golf at the Royal Troon Golf Club
  • Experience water sports in Barassie Beach

Don’t:

  • Fail to take in the views from Dundonald Hill
  • Litter on the beach or in the parks
  • Ignore the town’s history and cultural landmarks

Safety and Health

Safety in Troon

Troon is generally a safe town. However, like any other tourist destination, it’s essential to be mindful of your surroundings and belongings.

Health in Troon

If you require medical attention, the town has several clinics and pharmacies that can cater to your needs.

Getting to Troon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Troon

The Glasgow Prestwick International Airport is the closest airport to Troon and is only eight miles away. Glasgow International Airport is located 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Troon

Troon is served by a range of bus services, such as Stagecoach, which connects the town to Glasgow, Ayr, and other nearby towns.

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by train, the town has a train station that is just over half a mile from the town centre.

How to Get Around in Troon

Troon is a small town, and most of the local landmarks and amenities are within walking distance. You can also use a bike or rent a car if you want to venture further.

Where to Go Next from Troon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re interested in exploring more of Scotland, some popular destinations from Troon include:

  • Glasgow (31 miles away)
  • Ayr (8 miles away)
  • Loch Lomond (42 miles away)
  • Edinburgh (78 miles away)

Conclusion

Troon is a charming and peaceful coastal town in Scotland that is perfect for a relaxing vacation or a golfing adventure. With rich history, beautiful beaches, and friendly locals, Troon offers a unique and memorable experience that you won’t want to miss. We hope that this travel guide helps you plan your perfect trip to Troon.

Black Rocks, Troon Black Rocks, Troon Arran seen from Barassie Beach Arran seen from Barassie Beach Dundonald Castle Dundonald Castle Royal Troon Clubhouse Royal Troon Clubhouse