A less obvious choice on the outskirts of Ayr is the 18 hole parkland course of Dalmilling.

Set between the famous Racecourse and the A77, this is, as they say, honest and open parkland that plays away from the clubhouse and dips into a rolling valley.

The river Ayr borders the southern end of the course, with some of its tributary burns adding interest to the early holes, especially the sixth, a 135 yard par three that is virtually surrounded by water. Playing here you are aware that you are in the heart of "Burns Country", where the famous poet Robert Burns was born and raised.