Alloway

infobox UK place
country = Scotland
official_name = Alloway
scots_name =
gaelic_name = Allmhaigh
population =
os_grid_reference = NS333184
latitude = 55.43
longitude = -4.636
unitary_scotland = South Ayrshire
lieutenancy_scotland = Ayrshire and Arran
constituency_westminster =
constituency_scottish_parliament =
post_town = AYR
postcode_district = KA7
postcode_area = KA
dial_code =

Alloway (Gaelic "Allmhaigh," pronounced|aɫ̪avaj) is a now extended village and leafy suburb of Ayr on the River Doon, in Scotland. It is best known as the birthplace of Robert Burns, and is also where he set "Tam o' Shanter".

The ruined Alloway Kirk, or Auld Kirk as the locals call it, features in the poem—as the scene of the witches' dance—as does the local Brig o' Doon, where the witch chased Tam O' Shanter over the bridge, but pulled the tail off his horse half-way across, as witches cannot cross water.

In the heart of the village lies the birthplace of Robert Burns, known as 'Burns Cottage' and the adjacent museum. Here you can find original manuscripts in the poet's own hand. There is also a small gift shop and garden. There is a nineteenth century memorial to Burns designed by Thomas Hamilton at the foot of the village next to the church. Robert Burns' father, William Burns, is buried in the Auld Kirk, and is the first grave you come to as you walk up the steps and through the gate. At night, green lights are illuminated over the Auld Kirk, adding to its ghostly appearance. In addition to Burns Cottage and museum,the village has a Burns related visitor centre, The Tam O' Shanter Experience, which houses a large gift shop, restaurant and some outdoor seating.

The National Trust for Scotland has grand plans (for which they are currently fundraising), to establish a new purpose built Burns heritage centre in Alloway.

There are two main parks in Alloway. The first, Rozelle, hosts Ayr Flower Show each summer and has an art gallery which holds various exhibitions throughout the year. It also has interesting permanent collections which include a Henry Moore scultpture and a series of outdoor sculptures by Ronald Rae [http://www.ruleworks.co.uk/Ayrshire/ronald-rae.asp Ronald Rae's Granite Stone Sculptures in Rozelle Park] . Bellisle Park, houses a golf course, walled garden, Camelia House, animal park and playground. Both parks are very popular in the summer.

Alloway is served by a primary school, library, post office and general store, pharmacy and gift shop. There are two or three cafes as well as two highly regarded hotels with limited accommodation. Due to the picturesque and historical surroundings, you can often spot a wedding party here on a summer afternoon.

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Cambusdoon New Ground is located in Alloway and has played host to a number of Scotland Cricket Internationals, as well as being the home of Ayr Cricket Club. (The old Cambusdoon ground houses the ruins of a former boys school and a pleasant walk can be had along the riverside below.) Ayr Hockey Club also play out of the Cambusdoon ground, on a purpose-built astroturf pitch.

Also in Alloway is Millbrae, the home of Ayr Rugby Club, it is located behind the Monument and gardens.

References