About the Irvine Bay Area
Irvine Bay is located on the North Ayrshire Coast, 35 miles south west of Glasgow. It is an area of outstanding natural beauty spanning 14 miles of sandy coastline and comprises five principal settlements with a total population of approximately 88,000:
- Ardrossan
- Saltcoats
- Stevenston
- Kilwinning
- Irvine
The five towns all have historic roots; for example, Stevenston has a history that can be traced back 1000 years. The character of the area has, however, been shaped in two periods of dramatic change. The first was the Victorian era when the rail and port facilities led to widespread industrialisation. The second was in the 1970s with the development of the new town (encompassing Kilwinning).
Irvine Bay has a number of fantastic natural, historical and built assets.
- An attractive coastline with some beautiful beaches and dunes.
- High quality marina facilities at Ardrossan with scope for expansion adjacent to world class sailing areas.
- A rich maritime history in Irvine and the resources of the Maritime Museum.
- A historic coastal resort in Saltcoats.
- A historic market town in Kilwinning with an Abbey founded almost 900 years ago.
- A tremendous natural environment and views to the Isle of Arran.
- Thirteen golf courses including a number of ‘links' courses, some of which are world-class standard.
- A strong sense of community spirit.
- Excellent transport links to Glasgow and to Prestwick Airport.