Heads of Ayr Farm Park is a well-liked family destination located about 10 kilometres south of Prestwick town centre in Ayrshire, Scotland. Covering more than 50 acres of farmland near Heads of Ayr Holiday Park, it has a range of animal encounters, play areas, and seasonal events. Admission costs generally range from £12 to 20 per person depending on age and the time of year, providing an affordable outing for families.
The park is open mainly from March through October, with typical hours from 10:00 to 17:00. Visitors usually spend 3 to 4 hours walking the farm grounds, which are home to over 200 animals including rare breeds, common farmyard animals, and some exotic species. The park is easy to reach by car via the A77 road, with public transport options and on-site parking available at Heads of Ayr Farm Park car park.
The park is open mainly from March through October, with typical hours from 10:00 to 17:00. Visitors usually spend 3 to 4 hours walking the farm grounds, which are home to over 200 animals including rare breeds, common farmyard animals, and some exotic species. The park is easy to reach by car via the A77 road, with public transport options and on-site parking available at Heads of Ayr Farm Park car park.
Where to stay in Prestwick
Live rates from Booking.com, Agoda, Hotels.com and more — stays picked by review score.
Grand top floor apartment in the Royal Bank House
9.7 · 19 reviews
from £151.76
Prices and availability shown on partner sites at time of click. We may earn a commission.
What are the ticket prices for Heads of Ayr Farm Park and how can I buy them?
Ticket prices at Heads of Ayr Farm Park range from £12 to £20, depending on age and season, and can be purchased online or at the entrance.
Adults typically pay around £18, while children aged 2 to 15 are charged about £12. Children under 2 enter free. Family tickets, covering two adults and two children, cost approximately £55. Prices may rise during school holidays or special event days.
Booking tickets in advance through the official website is recommended to avoid queues on busy days. Tickets can also be bought on-site, but waiting times may occur during peak periods. Group and school visits can be arranged beforehand, often with discounts.
Adults typically pay around £18, while children aged 2 to 15 are charged about £12. Children under 2 enter free. Family tickets, covering two adults and two children, cost approximately £55. Prices may rise during school holidays or special event days.
Booking tickets in advance through the official website is recommended to avoid queues on busy days. Tickets can also be bought on-site, but waiting times may occur during peak periods. Group and school visits can be arranged beforehand, often with discounts.
Best time to visit Heads of Ayr Farm Park
The best months to visit Heads of Ayr Farm Park are from May to September, when the weather is generally milder and more outdoor activities are available.
Animals are most active during this period, and the outdoor play areas are fully open. Seasonal events such as Easter egg hunts, summer tractor rides, and Halloween-themed activities take place at these times.
Weekdays outside school holidays tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. The park usually closes from November to February, except for occasional special events.
Animals are most active during this period, and the outdoor play areas are fully open. Seasonal events such as Easter egg hunts, summer tractor rides, and Halloween-themed activities take place at these times.
Weekdays outside school holidays tend to be quieter, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. The park usually closes from November to February, except for occasional special events.
Prestwick
Map of Prestwick
How do I get to Heads of Ayr Farm Park from Prestwick town centre?
Heads of Ayr Farm Park is about a 20-minute drive from Prestwick town centre, reachable by car via the A77 and A719 roads.
If you don’t have a car, local buses run between Prestwick and Ayr, with stops near the farm park. The closest bus stop is Alloway, roughly a 15-minute walk from the park entrance on Heads of Ayr Road. Visitors should check current schedules with Stagecoach West Scotland.
Free parking is available on-site. The farm park is also accessible by taxi from Prestwick railway station, a 15-minute drive away.
If you don’t have a car, local buses run between Prestwick and Ayr, with stops near the farm park. The closest bus stop is Alloway, roughly a 15-minute walk from the park entrance on Heads of Ayr Road. Visitors should check current schedules with Stagecoach West Scotland.
Free parking is available on-site. The farm park is also accessible by taxi from Prestwick railway station, a 15-minute drive away.
Animal attractions and activities at Heads of Ayr Farm Park
Heads of Ayr Farm Park has over 200 animals including rare breeds, common farmyard animals, and some exotic species, with interactive feeding sessions and designated petting areas.
Visitors will see Highland cattle with their long, shaggy coats, Shetland ponies, wallabies hopping in their enclosures, llamas with their thick woolly fur, and various breeds of chickens and ducks. Young children can safely feed and pet some of the gentler animals under supervision.
Additional activities include tractor rides circling the farm, a large adventure playground with climbing frames and slides, and seasonal events such as sheepdog demonstrations that showcase traditional farm work.
Visitors will see Highland cattle with their long, shaggy coats, Shetland ponies, wallabies hopping in their enclosures, llamas with their thick woolly fur, and various breeds of chickens and ducks. Young children can safely feed and pet some of the gentler animals under supervision.
Additional activities include tractor rides circling the farm, a large adventure playground with climbing frames and slides, and seasonal events such as sheepdog demonstrations that showcase traditional farm work.
What visitor facilities are available at Heads of Ayr Farm Park?
The park features several visitor facilities including a café, picnic areas, gift shop, and accessible amenities to suit all guests.
The café near the main entrance serves hot meals like soups and sandwiches, cold snacks, and a selection of teas and coffees, including child-friendly options and choices for various dietary needs. Picnic tables set on grassy areas provide space for visitors who bring their own food.
Toilets with accessible stalls and baby-changing facilities are located throughout the park. Wheelchair users can navigate paved paths and ramps in key areas. The gift shop stocks farm-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and regional food products.
The café near the main entrance serves hot meals like soups and sandwiches, cold snacks, and a selection of teas and coffees, including child-friendly options and choices for various dietary needs. Picnic tables set on grassy areas provide space for visitors who bring their own food.
Toilets with accessible stalls and baby-changing facilities are located throughout the park. Wheelchair users can navigate paved paths and ramps in key areas. The gift shop stocks farm-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and regional food products.
“
“If you head to Heads of Ayr Farm Park on Auchenharvie Road around 10 AM, tickets usually cost about £12.50 for adults, and I’d recommend grabbing a pasty from the café before the animals get too lively in the afternoon.”
Ewan MacLeod/ Local Tour Operator
Seasonal events and activities at Heads of Ayr Farm Park
Heads of Ayr Farm Park runs seasonal events including Easter egg hunts, summer tractor rides, and Halloween activities that add variety to visits.
Easter events let children hunt for eggs scattered across the grounds and meet newborn lambs and chicks. Summer tractor rides guide visitors around fields and animal enclosures. Halloween features themed trails, costume days, and pumpkin carving.
Many events require advance booking and sometimes have separate fees. Checking the official website or contacting the farm ahead of time ensures accurate information on dates and availability.
Easter events let children hunt for eggs scattered across the grounds and meet newborn lambs and chicks. Summer tractor rides guide visitors around fields and animal enclosures. Halloween features themed trails, costume days, and pumpkin carving.
Many events require advance booking and sometimes have separate fees. Checking the official website or contacting the farm ahead of time ensures accurate information on dates and availability.
What are the opening hours and best days to visit Heads of Ayr Farm Park?
The farm park is generally open from 10:00 to 17:00, Wednesday through Sunday, between March and October, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays outside school holidays.
Weekends and school holidays see the highest visitor numbers and can feel busy. For a quieter visit, choose weekdays when schools are in session.
Hours may change for special events or holidays, so confirming times before arrival is advisable. The park closes during winter except for selected festive events.
Weekends and school holidays see the highest visitor numbers and can feel busy. For a quieter visit, choose weekdays when schools are in session.
Hours may change for special events or holidays, so confirming times before arrival is advisable. The park closes during winter except for selected festive events.
What practical tips should visitors know before going to Heads of Ayr Farm Park?
Visitors should wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing, as much of the farm park involves walking on uneven or gravel paths outdoors.
Strollers can be used but some surfaces may be rough. Bringing your own food is allowed, though many prefer the café or picnic areas. Dogs are not permitted inside except assistance animals.
Photography is welcome, but drones are not allowed. Checking the weather forecast and the farm’s official updates before your visit will help you plan accordingly.
Strollers can be used but some surfaces may be rough. Bringing your own food is allowed, though many prefer the café or picnic areas. Dogs are not permitted inside except assistance animals.
Photography is welcome, but drones are not allowed. Checking the weather forecast and the farm’s official updates before your visit will help you plan accordingly.
Reference Resources
What local attractions and insights can enhance a visit to Heads of Ayr Farm Park?
Local visitors often suggest combining a trip to Heads of Ayr Farm Park with nearby sites like Culzean Castle or a round of golf at Prestwick Golf Club to get more from the Ayrshire area.
Arriving early helps avoid crowds and allows more time to visit animal enclosures and play areas. During busy times, bringing a packed lunch can be economical, though the café is well-reviewed.
Online ticket purchase often includes discounts or family deals. Checking local transport passes can reduce travel costs if arriving by bus or train.
Arriving early helps avoid crowds and allows more time to visit animal enclosures and play areas. During busy times, bringing a packed lunch can be economical, though the café is well-reviewed.
Online ticket purchase often includes discounts or family deals. Checking local transport passes can reduce travel costs if arriving by bus or train.
Frequently Asked Questions
While it is possible to buy tickets at the gate, it is highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance, especially during weekends, school holidays, and seasonal events. Booking ahead ensures entry on your preferred date and often features discounted rates. Tickets typically range from £9 to £15 for adults and £7 to £12 for children, depending on the season and any special promotions. Online booking also saves time by avoiding queues at the entrance. You can purchase tickets directly from the Heads of Ayr Farm Park official website or authorized ticket vendors.
Yes, Heads of Ayr Farm Park features various discounts including family passes and group rates. A typical family ticket for two adults and two children costs around £40-£50, which is more economical than buying individual tickets. Senior citizens and children under 3 usually enter for free or at a reduced cost. Additionally, discounts may be available for local residents or through partnerships with nearby attractions. It’s best to check the park’s website for current offers before planning your visit.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park is committed to being accessible to all visitors. The park features wheelchair-friendly paths and accessible toilets throughout the premises. Visitors with mobility impairments can rent mobility scooters on-site. Assistance dogs are welcome, and staff are trained to provide help if needed. Parking spaces close to the entrance are reserved for disabled visitors. To ensure a smooth experience, it is advisable to contact the park ahead of your visit to discuss any specific accessibility requirements.
Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks to Heads of Ayr Farm Park. There are picnic areas available where you can enjoy a packed lunch. However, for safety and hygiene reasons, the park restricts the consumption of alcohol on the premises. Additionally, there are several on-site cafés and snack bars offering a variety of meals, snacks, and refreshments, with prices typically ranging from £3 to £10. Bringing your own food can be a budget-friendly option, especially for families.
For a comfortable visit to Heads of Ayr Farm Park, it’s wise to pack a few essentials. Comfortable walking shoes are a must as the park covers a sizable area with outdoor terrain. Weather-appropriate clothing is important; bring a waterproof jacket and sun protection such as hats and sunscreen depending on the forecast. Don’t forget water bottles to stay hydrated, snacks if you prefer your own food, and any necessary items for young children such as wipes, nappies, or a stroller. A camera or smartphone will help capture memories, and a small backpack can keep your hands free.
Dogs are welcome at Heads of Ayr Farm Park but must be kept on a lead at all times. It’s important to respect the animals and other visitors by ensuring your dog behaves calmly and does not disturb the farm animals. Dogs are not permitted in indoor areas such as cafés and shops, but outdoor areas and designated dog-friendly zones are accessible. Remember to bring waste bags and clean up after your pet to help maintain the park’s cleanliness. Check the park’s website for any seasonal restrictions regarding dogs before your visit.
If you’re traveling without a car, Heads of Ayr Farm Park is accessible by public transport from Prestwick and nearby towns. The nearest train station is Ayr, about 5 km away, from which you can take local buses or a taxi to the park. Bus services run regularly from Prestwick town centre to the park, with journey times around 20-30 minutes. For more flexibility, local taxi companies operate from Prestwick and Ayr, typically costing £10-£15 for a one-way trip. Cycling is also an option in good weather, with bike paths connecting from Prestwick.
Visitors to Heads of Ayr Farm Park should follow several key rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Feeding the animals is only allowed with designated food sold on-site to prevent harm to the wildlife. Smoking is prohibited in animal areas and indoor facilities. Visitors must supervise children at all times, especially around animals and play areas. Glass containers are not permitted, and littering is strictly forbidden to maintain the park’s cleanliness. Additionally, drones and bicycles are not allowed inside the park. Observing these rules helps protect both visitors and animals.
