Discover the intriguing life of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns, as you explore the landmarks that inspired his work and museums dedicated to his life on this tour which takes us through the lovely scenery of Ayrshire and Dumfries and Galloway.
Our first stop is the village of Alloway where you can visit The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum which houses the biggest and most important Burns collection in the world, including his writing set, pistols and even a cast of his skull. The extensive museum is set in 10 acres of beautiful countryside in Alloway and the site includes a collection of buildings and landmarks that are all connected to the poet’s life, including Burns’ Cottage where he was born in 1759, the Burns Monument and Brig O’ Doon, from his famous poem Tam o Shanter. You can also visit the home of Souter Johnnie who was immortalised in this famous poem, in Kirkoswald.
Other Burns attractions in Ayrshire include the Bachelors' Club in Tarboltan, the 17th century thatched cottage where Burns established his debating club, and the Burns House Museum in Mauchline where Robert Burns lived and worked between 1784 and 1788.
We then drive south towards Dumfries and follow in Burns’ footsteps as he moved to the region with his family in 1788. It is possible to visit his former home, Ellisland Farm, which is now a museum, and see some of his original writings and possessions.
In Dumfries you can also spend some time at Burns’ final home, Robert Burns House, where you will see the famous Kilmarnock and Edinburgh editions of Burns’ work and take a look around the study where he wrote some of his best-loved poems. Just around the corner you can enjoy a drink and an informative tour at The Globe Inn, Burns’ local ‘howff’ or pub, where you will see his old chair in the bar but beware - if you sit on it you have to either recite a line from one of his poems or buy all the other customers a drink!
An alternative itinerary for this day is to leave Dumfries for another time to allow you to spend more time at the museum in Alloway followed by a visit to Culzean Castle or Dumfries House.
Like all of our tours the choice is yours as to how you spend your day and, as you have total flexibilty, you can even change the itinerary during your tour. You can also spend as long as you wish at any attraction as you do not need to compromise and follow anyone elses agenda or timescale. This is one of the main benefits available to you when you choose your tour with Glascotours.