Alloway Auld Kirk — Attraction in Scotland

I remember visiting the Auld Kirk when I was 9, I found it to be quite goffic in the terms of literature. I read stories and heard about folklore and legend - mostly from my nan and dad who grew up in Ayr. - being 22 now, I always revisit. Not only for the history, but for the Scottish beauty. However, the Auld Kirk has always been a place that has somehow stuck to me, it's got beauty, it's got that eery feeling as you walk through the gates, especially on warm and sunny days. It's an amazing place to visit, let alone, brig o'doon and Burns' cottage to be such an amazing experience to learn about, and have visited more than enough times to want to stay put. Definitely...

This is a ruined church that dates back to at least the 13th century, although the present structure dates to the 16th century. It's major claim to fame is it's mention in one of Robert Burn most famous poems, Tam O'Shanter and the line "By Alloway's auld, haunted kirk."

In truth, there's very little to see except wander amongst the gravestones of long forgotten dead. Although Robert Burns father is buried here. Can't miss his grave as it's right in front of the entrance.

There's paving stones along the paths inside the churchyard with reference to the poem. A must see for Robert Burns fans. Probably not for...

Beautiful and peaceful. Look out for Rabbie's father's grave as you enter. It has a engraving on the back written by Rabbie himself. Also there are stone blocks in the pathway with quotes from Rabbie. You can not enter the Kirk itself. But you can walk around the cemetery. Check the dates on the headstones. And marvel at the craftsmanship on a few of them, absolutely incredible details. What happened? We rarely see those skills or attention to detail in our modern lives. Also looks...