Monday

We travel north to Irvine, arriving late afternoon at the Riverside Lodge Hotel for our 4-night stay.

Tuesday

This morning we head to Wemyss Bay to catch the ferry to Bute. On arrival we visit neo-gothic Mount Stuart, one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age, set in 300 acres of landscaped gardens, woodland and coast. Afterwards we take a scenic tour around the island, finishing in Rothesay where we catch the ferry back to the mainland.

Wednesday

The highlight of our tour, we enjoy a return cruise on the famous Waverley Paddle Steamer, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, around Loch Long and Loch Goil from Largs or Greenock, with entertaining commentary highlighting the passing points of interest. On board we may visit the Engine Room to experience the sights and sounds of this magnificent steamship - hear the telegraph ring, watch the engine start to move and see the paddles turning through the portholes. We enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from the decks as we sail around.

Thursday

We follow the Ayrshire coast through to Ayr, where we visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. The museum is a celebration of the early life and the enduring legacy of Scotland's national poet and home to 5,000 Burns artefacts including his handwritten manuscripts. In the afternoon we make the short trip to Dumfries House, one of Britain's most beautiful stately homes and best kept secrets, with sumptuous interiors and furnishings all set around 2000 acres of land. Remaining virtually unchanged in 250 years, in 2007 King Charles III headed a consortium of charities to purchase the house in order to keep this historical jewel intact and accessible to the public.

Friday

Home.