Kilmarnock tourist information

Historic Kilmarnock is a handsome town with some fine Victorian buildings, with a large statue of Robert Burns as its centrepiece. Burns is depicted alongside his printer, John Wilson, commemorating the fact that the first edition of his poems was printed in the town.

The town has some excellent cultural attractions, most notably the galleries and museum at the Dick Institute, the Palace Theatre and Grand Hall, and Dean Castle Country Park. The Burns Monument Centre is set within Kay Park and dedicated to local archives and ancestoral history, and is also now home to another iconic 19th century statue of Burns.

Another statue in Kilmarnock dedicated to a less literary but a very famous figure. Johnnie Walker began selling 'Walker's Kilmarnock Whisky' in the 19th century, which then became popular as 'Johnnie Walkers' after his death. The firm still produces whisky blends in Kilmarnock, but are planning to move to plants elsewhere in Scotland.

Close to Kilmarnock is the popular theme park of Loudoun Castle, set in the grounds of an erie ruined castle which was once home to the grandfather of Sir William Wallace.