TOURISM in Ayrshire is getting a major boost with more funding for Cumnock and Doon Valley.

Hotspots like the Baird Institute and Auchinleck House could see a spike in visitors now £300k has been awarded to the area by the Scottish Government.

The exciting new initiative called ‘Five Routes – One Great Adventure’, is aiming to showcase Ayrshire’s natural beauty promoting its ancient castles, stunning coastlines, famous golf courses and links to Burns.

It comes as part of the latest Scottish Government funding commitment for Ayrshire and Clyde Tourism.

Future cash will be made available to help increase tourism for the rural economy, covering six local authority areas including; North Ayrshire, East Ayrshire, South Ayrshire, Argyll and Bute, Renfrewshire and Inverclyde.

Commenting on the Scottish Government announcement, Tourism Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “Today’s announcement is an exciting development for Ayrshire and the wider region. The opening of this stunning series of five ring routes will help showcase Ayrshire’s natural beauty and enhance the region’s tourism offer.

“These routes, and the co-operative working between the industry and local authorities, are an important development and will help Ayrshire develop as a destination showcasing to our visitors all that the region has to offer.

“I am pleased to announce £300,000 Scottish Government funding towards this project, in line with our Programme for Government commitment to promote Ayrshire as a tourism destination.”

Marc Crothall, CEO, Scottish Tourism Alliance, added: “This announcement is a huge boost for all organisations connected with tourism in the region and shines the light on the huge potential to develop these wonderful local assets into experiences for visitors.

“Collaboration between local authorities, tourism businesses, public agencies and private enterprises will be key to growing this area into one of Scotland’s top destinations.

“The STA team is looking forward to building new relationships in the area and engaging with our members locally to help grow tourism in the region.”