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Troon Love | Why to visit & why I stay

My first visit to Troon, involved a leap of faith - a spontaneous trip to the hometown of the man I had just started dating. This seems like a lifetime ago. Fast forward to today: we are married, and now, over a decade later, we’ve made the picturesque seaside town of Troon our home.


Breathtaking sunset over the Firth of Clyde as seen from Troon, Scotland, with vibrant orange and pink skies reflecting on the water.
A stunning Troon sunset over the Firth of Clyde, offering a glimpse of Scotland's natural beauty.

Moving to my husbands childhood town was more than just a practical decision - it was an emotional one. It felt like stepping into a life we had often imagined but never thought possible. The dream of living seconds from the sea has come true: from morning walks along the shore with the crisp sea air (and often rain) wrapping our faces, to evenings watching the changing light over the Firth of Clyde. On perfect nights, the colours separate and form bands that fill the entire sky. For me, the coast has become a source of endless peace and inspiration. Ultimately, this is the town that never left my husband’s heart and one that has since captured mine.


Troon, nestled on Scotland’s west coast, boasts beautiful views of the famous Isles of Arran and Ailsa Craig. It lies on The Ayrshire Coastal Path which runs 106 miles long, attracting walkers with some of the most stunning panoramic coastline in the British Isles. It is a seaside town with a unique connection to golfing history, perhaps its greatest claim to fame. As the host of The Open Championship at the world-renowned Royal Troon Golf Course, the town attracts golf enthusiasts from across the globe. The Marine Troon Hotel, recently refurbished, provides a luxurious staycation experience, perfect for day trippers from Glasgow, and wider Scotland, as well as a destination hotel, frequented often by American visitors. Its elegant amenities and proximity to the course make it a favourite for both golf fans and those seeking a luxury coastal retreat.


That being said, it’s not a town just for those seeking golf - there’s so much more to explore. One feature of the town I’m particularly drawn to is its heartbeat of independent shops and businesses. Unlike many other towns, Troon's high street feels vibrant. The independent galleries and handmade gift shops here celebrate the creativity of local artisans residing in Troon and its surrounding areas. One such place I have a particular fondness for is COAST Gallery.


COAST Gallery in Troon featuring Scottish handmade jewellery gifts, art and ceramics.
COAST Gallery in Troon is a treasure trove of Scottish handmade jewellery and gifts, showcasing local artists and artisans.

COAST Gallery (Creatives of Ayrshire Selling Together) is a must-visit. The gallery exclusively showcases Scottish handmade gifts and artists, including original paintings, stunning photography, limited-edition prints, handcrafted jewellery, ceramics, and more. When I started Bianca O'Neill Jewellery in 2020, Milla was the first gallery owner to stock my work, and as both of our businesses have evolved, we have become more than creative partners - we’ve become firm friends. That’s the thing about Troon: it’s large enough to have such a diverse creative community, but intimate enough to leave space for people to form personal relationships. There is a big heart in this small town - particularly in this curated haven, where the minute you enter it feels as much like a gallery as it does a home.


As well as beautiful art galleries and independent gift shops, Troon offers unique food and drink outlets. Brodies Deli supplies fine food and drink and has an adjoining café where customers can enjoy homemade soups and sandwiches, just a stone’s throw from the promenade. A family-run business, I visit often and particularly enjoy their selection of cheeses - perhaps more frequently than I should! Fruits and Roots is my go-to for fresh produce. This humble greengrocer in the heart of town offers locally sourced, ripe fruits and vegetables that are irresistible when displayed outside the shop in their delivery crates, accompanied by hand-drawn signage. From The Jar - our expertly curated whiskey shop, to our traditional confectioner The Cookie Jar we have plenty of speciality shops too. So many it seems we are cannibalising names! But whether speciality or staple, there is no convenience missing here. We have everything covered on Troon high street - the only shop missing is the candlestick maker.


Aerial view of Troon South Beach showcasing the promenade, park, and picturesque coastal townscape with the Isle of Arran in the background.
Troon South Beach offers a perfect blend of seaside charm, green spaces, and stunning views of the Isle of Arran.

Exploring Troon for the day, however, is likely to build up an appetite that only a chef can satisfy. Luckily our town offers a variety of dining options, from cosy cafes to restaurants serving mouth-watering meals, as well as atmosphere. Bloom Cafe is a perfect such eatery to fuel your adventures, known for its hearty Scottish breakfasts and delicious cakes baked in-house. For dinner - The Maharani - something of an institution. It's a long established local favourite with a butter chicken second to none, a lamb karahi that warms the bones, and a portion of perfectly crafted vegetable pakora, known to be offered in such large portions an order of it alone would be fit to feed the thousands. 


By some, Troon is seen as a stopover since the Troon Port and Ferry Terminal provides services to Brodick. The Isle of Arran, often called 'Scotland in Miniature,' offers towering mountains, serene beaches, and a chance to experience some of Scotland’s finest produce, like Arran cheese and whisky. For visitors heading to Arran, Troon serves as a gateway to their island adventure. However, Troon itself is more than just a transit point; it’s a destination worth exploring. With its vibrant high street, stunning coastal views, and welcoming community, many visitors find themselves staying longer to soak in all that this seaside town has to offer.


Having called Troon home for several years, I’ve grown to love its unique blend of natural beauty, creativity, and community spirit. Yes, the Scottish weather can be unpredictable, but on sunny days, the views of Arran and Ailsa Craig are unmatched. Even when the skies are cloudy, Troon’s vibrant arts scene and welcoming eateries offer plenty to enjoy. So, why not plan your next trip? It’s a destination that will leave you wanting to come back for more.


Are you looking to support Troon creatives, or just find the perfect gift made in there? You can explore handmade jewellery crafted in Troon, Scotland, by visiting the webshop.




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