- Must visit
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum
Birthplace museum of Robert Burns with original cottage, manuscripts, and major exhibitions. One of Scotland's essential literary attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cairnryan to Ayr
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$15
Average price
$15
Fastest journey
2 h 52 m
Average duration
2 h 52 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
60 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cairnryan to Ayr is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairnryan to Ayr will cost around $15 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cairnryan to Ayr without transferring at least once.
9:56 AM2h52Cairnryan12:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer- 11:56 AM2h52Cairnryan2:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer
- 1:56 PM2h52Cairnryan4:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer
- 9:56 AM2h52Cairnryan12:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer
- 11:56 AM2h52Cairnryan2:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer
- 1:56 PM2h52Cairnryan4:48 PMAyr$151One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cairnryan to Ayr
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cairnryan to Ayr among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $22, and a bus costs an average of $36.
Distance: 37 miles (60 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$36 Average price | $23 Average price Cheapest | $17 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 2m Average total duration 1h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 53m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 9m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cairnryan to Ayr is a train with an average price of $23.
This is compared to other travel options from Cairnryan to Ayr:
A train is $13 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cairnryan to Ayr costing on average $36.
The fastest way to travel from Cairnryan to Ayr is by train with an average journey time of 1h 23m.
Other travel options to Ayr take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cairnryan and Ayr including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cairnryan to Ayr among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -23m sooner (1h 32m by bus vs 1h 9m by car) and save roughly $-19.54 compared to fuel and tolls ($36 vs $17). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by Stagecoach West Scotland.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Cairnryan to Ayr Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 07:47AM | Arrival Time 10:48AM | Duration 3h01 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Scotrail | Departure Time 08:48AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 1h32 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 09:56AM | Arrival Time 12:48PM | Duration 2h52 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 10:28AM | Arrival Time 12:17PM | Duration 1h49 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 10:31AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 2h54 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 11:56AM | Arrival Time 02:48PM | Duration 2h52 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Scotrail | Departure Time 12:52PM | Arrival Time 02:26PM | Duration 1h34 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 1h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 01:28PM | Arrival Time 03:46PM | Duration 2h18 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 01:31PM | Arrival Time 04:17PM | Duration 2h46 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 01:56PM | Arrival Time 04:48PM | Duration 2h52 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 06:51PM | Duration 2h51 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 04:28PM | Arrival Time 06:17PM | Duration 1h49 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 04:31PM | Arrival Time 07:46PM | Duration 3h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 07:28PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 1h57 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator Stagecoach West Scotland | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 10:27PM | Duration 2h56 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
Live departures
Cairnryan to Ayr bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cairnryan to Ayr buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:56 AM Cairnryan | 2h52 | 12:48 PM Ayr | 1 transfer | |
| 11:56 AM Cairnryan | 2h52 | 2:48 PM Ayr | 1 transfer | |
| 1:56 PM Cairnryan | 2h52 | 4:48 PM Ayr | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cairnryan to Ayr by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cairnryan to Ayr
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cairnryan to Ayr run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 but you can travel from only $22 by train.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 09:00, the last at 21:41. The fastest bus covers the 37 miles (60 km) distance in 1h 15m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $22
Distance 37 miles (60 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 15m |
First bus 9:00 AM |
Last bus 9:41 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 3 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $22
Bus providers: Stagecoach West Scotland from Cairnryan to AyrYou can travel by bus between Cairnryan to Ayr with Stagecoach West Scotland for as low as $22. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Stagecoach West Scotland
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest Price
$11
Stagecoach West Scotland frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Ayr
Things to do in Ayr
Discover the best of Ayr — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ayr trip today.
- Recommended
The McKechnie Institute
Ayr's main museum in a restored church. Covers local history, archaeology, Burns connections, and changing exhibitions in a central setting.
- Recommended
Alloway Auld Kirk
Historic church and burial ground where Burns's father is buried. Interprets the poet's family story and the landscape that shaped his work.
- Must visit
Ayr Esplanade
Elegant seafront promenade beside Ayr Beach. Ideal for walking, cycling, and sunset views, with classic resort atmosphere and open coastal scenery.
- Must visit
Alloway
Historic village area south of Ayr linked to Burns's life and works. Combines heritage sites, riverside scenery, and a strong sense of place.
- Recommended
Low Green
Large central greensward beside the shore, used for events and everyday recreation. A favorite local space with wide views over the Firth of Clyde.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
Cullen skink is a rich smoked haddock, potato and onion soup from Scotland, prized for its warming flavour and coastal heritage.
Haggis
Haggis is Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of minced offal, oats and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Neeps and tatties are mashed swede and potatoes, a classic Scottish side that commonly accompanies haggis and roast meats.
The Treehouse
Established harbourside seafood restaurant known for fresh fish, shellfish and classic Scottish plates in a relaxed setting.
The Fox And Willow
Popular casual restaurant and bar serving steaks, burgers and Scottish favourites with a lively modern atmosphere.
Renaldos
Well-known seafront venue for fish and chips, ice cream and quick seaside meals, loved for traditional Ayrshire comfort food.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than major cities, while dining and local transport are fairly typical for British seaside towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.10
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Sandgate -> Ayr Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Most local buses in Ayr are run by Stagecoach West Scotland; contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses.
- Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app before boarding to save time and check live departures.
FAQs: Bus from Cairnryan to Ayr
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairnryan to Ayr by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ayr, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cairnryan to Ayr can start from as little as $36 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cairnryan to Ayr is $36 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cairnryan to Ayr is 1h 15m to travel the 37 miles (60 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cairnryan to Ayr leaves at 9:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cairnryan to Ayr leaves at 9:41 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Cairnryan to Ayr with Stagecoach West Scotland. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cairnryan to Ayr, you can count on Stagecoach West Scotland for the best way to get you to Ayr. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cairnryan and Ayr and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Ayr from Cairnryan is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cairnryan to Ayr is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cairnryan and Ayr including taking a bus and train.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
No, the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr has no accessibility options.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
No, luggage for the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Cairnryan to Ayr.
Since neither Cairnryan nor Ayr are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cairnryan to Ayr among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Ayr, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and during events. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and avoid unmarked vehicles to prevent overcharging scams. Be wary of street vendors offering deals that seem too good to be true, and always secure personal belongings when using public transportation.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cairnryan to Ayr
Most Cairnryan to Ayr buses use the to Ayr, Sandgate station pair. Use this guide to compare Cairnryan and Ayr bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cairnryan
Arrival bus stations in Ayr
Ayr, Sandgate
City-centre transport
Getting to Ayr, Sandgate from Ayr city centre
Bus3, 6, 3B · 3m · $2 · every ~15 min
More options for your journey from Cairnryan to Ayr
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Most popular buses to and from Ayr and Cairnryan
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