Ayrshire and Arran are renowned very widely both nationally and internationally for the quality of their food resulting from the unique “terroir” and west coast of Scotland  damp climatic conditions.

 The raw materials available within the whole area are exceptional – beef, lamb, bacon, pork and game in season; fish and shellfish; vegetables; and of course the famous Ayrshire ‘Tattie’.You can add Dunlop PGI cheeses, award winning free range eggs, a wide range of smoked delicacies, vegetarian savoury produce,  exciting street food, cakes, chilli preserves, farmhouse ice creams and handmade chocolates. The result is  you really are in an authentic artisan food and drink haven which includes hand roasted coffees,craft beers and distinctive individual whiskies.

The experienced and passionate producers behind these products have a distinct and individual story to tell and knowledge to share.

The hotels,exclusive use venues and restaurants in the network have the award-winning skills to prepare these special raw materials into  menus  of culinary excellence  – and serve them with knowledge, care, skill and attention. Many of them are working very closely with educational and training providers plus community groups.

You also have plenty of opportunity to take food home, by buying fresh produce at the regular  Farmers’ Markets. You can visit network members who have farm shops or delicatessens specialising in local foods or by calling on one of the artisan food producers who are able to welcome visitors.  Online collated food  orders  for home delivery  &  exciting "hampers "are also available.

About Ayrshire Food Network

Founded in November 2002, after the success of the Ayrshire farmers market cooperative, activities commenced with 10 producers and 10 providers of locally sourced food. With encouragement from Scottish  Enterprise/ Business Gateway, the local authorities, tourism agencies, and Ayrshire College, the group has developed to its position today where circa 45 Ayrshire based food and drink producers and providers, along with circa 15 associated  B&Bs are working together to promote the produce, culinary and food tourism delights of the area.

Ayrshire Food Network Members

A.D. Rattray