Robert Burns’ Hometown (Alloway) – Part 1

Alloway is a sweet village on the southwestern side of the Scottish Mainland. Its principal attractions are the birthplace of Robert Burns (Burns Cottage), The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, the Robert Burns Monument, and the Bridge of Doon (aka Brig O’ Doon). It is now considered a suburb of Ayr, but it still holds a great deal of charm, as a small village will do.

First up: Burns Cottage

The cottage is worth seeing at the least from the outside, as it is very well restored, and let’s face it, you can’t see too many thatched roofs. The inside is interesting, but not very revealing. Still, it IS the birthplace of Robert Burns, so if you get the chance, you should take the opportunity.

This is true Robert Burns Territory.

The Robert Burns Birthplace Museum is a great museum, but also the only place in Ayrshire to buy good Robert Burns souvenirs. And let’s face it: we all need bookmarks, glassware, scarves, books, and other great stuff with Robert Burns’ name, visage, and/or quotes on them. Shops in Ayr, and other locations in the surrounding area will have plenty of Scottish things, just not Robert Burns things, in particular.

Next up….
Part II: Bridge of Doon
Part III: Robert Burns Monument