A coast to toast; Bustling market towns, pretty villages and some beautiful beaches make Ayrshire a top place to live.

WHEN it comes to picturesque locations, the Ayrshire coast has something to offer everyone.

From sandy beaches and country parks to world class golf courses and castles, Ayrshire provides a quality of life that's hard to match anywhere else in Scotland.

Known for its beautiful scenery, diverse history and agricultural heritage, Ayrshire is a community of bustling market towns and pretty villages located on the Clyde coast.

Taking in towns like Ayr, Kilmarnock and Irvine as well as Largs, Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Dalry, thousands of Scots move to the area every year in search of relaxation and stunning surroundings.

And with most towns a commutable distance away from Glasgow, it's the ideal solution for homeowners looking to escape Scotland's largest city.

Full of woodland walks, country parks, beaches and castles, it's the perfect antidote to the bustling streets and busy roads associated with stressful city life.

The region's famous coastline - which stretches over 80 miles - is just one of the many reasons people decide to buy a home in Ayrshire. With miles and miles of headlands, harbours and sandy strands, the coast is one of Scotland's greatest.

Ayr beach, Millport beach and Barassie beach to the north of Troon Harbour are just some of the bays which attract countless locals and day-trippers every weekend - each one giving stunning views over the Firth of Clyde.

For budding sailors, the area also has a world-class reputation for yachting - with marinas in Largs, Ardrossan and Troon. Each one offers berths for visiting or resident yachts as well as charters for competent sailors.

But even if you don't have your own yacht, it's easy to have a great sea-faring adventure by visiting the islands of Arran, Ailsa Craig and Cumbrae. Each one sits only a short distance off the coast, making them an ideal family day-out destination.

With over 40 historic castles and famous sons such as Robert Burns and Robert the Bruce hailing from the area, Ayrshire has also played a key part in Scotland's history.

Culzean Castle near Ayr, Dean Castle north of Kilmarnock and Eglinton Castle on the outskirts of Kilwinning are all stuffed full of history, intriguing facts and mystery. While a visit to The Burns Heritage Centre in the village of Alloway near Ayr is a must for any self-respecting Scot.

The birthplace of Scotland's National Poet is also the ideal starting point for a walk up the Carrick Hills. On a clear day you're guaranteed a fantastic view over Ayr itself as well as the coastal bays, the Firth of Clyde and sometimes even Ireland.

For keen walkers, the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park - which crosses the Ayrshire border into Renfrewshire - is an ideal way to spend an energetic afternoon with plenty of woodland walks and activities like cycling, sailing, archery and fishing to keep outdoor lovers happy.

If fun and excitement is what you're after, Ayrshire doesn't disappoint. Loudon Castle, which lies just five miles from Kilmarnock, is one of the best theme parks in Scotland and a constant hit with kids and adults alike. From roller coasters and go karts to log flumes and even a falconry, it's a great family adventure. And if you fancy a flutter, Ayr Racecourse attracts thousands of horseracing fans every year - with the annual Gold Cup being one of the most popular events on the racing calendar.

With such fantastic scenery, it's also no surprise that Ayrshire is well-known as a golfer's paradise. Championship Links courses and scenic park courses are dotted all over the region, providing professionals and amateurs alike with excellent facilities.

Both the Turnberry and Royal Troon courses are already household names - with Troon playing host to the British Open Golf Championships twice in the last seven years.

Western Gailes Golf Club and the Irvine Golf Club also offer challenging Links courses - both of which are used for Open golf qualifying. But if you fancy a bit of nostalgia, then a trip to Prestwick Golf Club will not disappoint - as it's here the first ever Open was played way back in 1860.

With so much to offer so close to the central belt, it's no wonder that so many people are making the decision to live in one of Scotland's hidden gems.

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IDEAL HOMES: Many new estates have been built near Ayrshire's 80 miles of beautiful coastline to meet growing demand