Guide of Cairnryan

Cairnryan is a fishing village on the west coast of Scotland, the village has a very important maritime history and two ferry services connecting Scotland and Northern Ireland.

A brief history of Cairnryan

The village of Cairnryan was established in 1700 and was formally known as Macherie meaning 'hill on the lake'. Lochryan House was built in 1701 along with the surrounding houses, which were built to house the workers on the Lochryan Estate. By 1800 Cairnryan had become an important port and passageway to the town of Ayr. During the World Wars, Cairnryan served as an important military port.

What to see in Cairnryan

Stranraer is a nice nearby town to visit. There is a castle, known as the Castle of Saint John and a medieval tower that was built around 1510 by the Adairs of Kilhilt (who originally came from Ireland). It has been used as a home, a court, a police station and as a military garrison.

Also around Stranraer, there is an interesting Viking site, with boulders and stones arranged as Christian crosses and pagan symbols. There is plenty of nature to enjoy and some stunning views of unspoiled nature. The nearby Penwhirm nature reserve is perfect for those who enjoy the great outdoors, you can walk around surrounded by wildlife and the reserve is home to many varieties of fish. The Castle Kennedy Gardens are about eight kilometres away in Stranraer, an enchanting place to take children and one of Scotland's most important historical landscaped gardens. There is a beautiful collection of Rhododendrons, Championship Trees and other rare species.

Beaches around Cairnryan

The coast around Cairnryan is very beautiful, with alternating white pebble and sandy stretches. The nearby beaches are perfect for relaxing walks by the sea to admire the landscape that stretches all the way to the horizon. Barassie Beach in Troon and the beach in Ardrossan are also nice. Around 4 km away there is beautiful Finnarts Bay, surrounded by sea-sculpted rocks and sandy stretches, it is not to be missed.