Just along the coast from Irvine is the seaside town of Saltcoats, which joins with the neighbouring towns of Ardrossan and Stevenson around the golden sands of Irvine Bay.
The town's name derives from the traditional industry of salt production from seawater, once carried out in the workers cottages or 'salt-cots'.
This traditional town started life as a fishing village but gained prosperity, like so many others in this part of Scotland, through the shipping and shipbuilding industries in the 19th century. It became very popular in the Victorian era as a coastal resort and remains popular today due to its fine beaches and attractive harbourside.
The centre of Saltcoats has a small number of number of shops.
Enjoy the beaches then pop into Irvine or up to Largs along the coast
Towns Near Saltcoats To Visit - straight line distance:
Irvine (5.33 miles) Troon (8.42 miles) Great Cumbrae (9.90 miles) Largs (11.00 miles)
How to get to Saltcoats
Tourist Attractions in Saltcoats to Visit 
ActivitiesCraft Town Scotland Studios and gallery showcasing the best of local arts and crafts.
CastlesPortencross Castle 14th century ruined castle, recently restored in a major heritage project.
MuseumsNorth Ayrshire Museum Interesting small museum of local life.
Saltcoats Weather
14°C Partly cloudy skies
7°C Clear skies
12°C Sunny skies4°C Clear skies
