Born in Alloway, Ayrshire, in 1759 to William Burness, a poor tenant farmer,
and Agnes Broun, Robert Burns was the eldest of seven. He spent his youth
working his father's farm, but in spite of his poverty he was extremely well read
- at the insistence of his father, who employed a tutor for Robert and younger
brother Gilbert. At 15 Robert was the principal worker on the farm and this
prompted him to start writing in an attempt to find "some kind of counterpoise
for his circumstances." It was at this tender age that Burns penned his first verse,
"My Handsome Nell", which was an ode to the other subjects that dominated his
life, namely scotch and women.
BURNS COUNTRY
to a moose
Wee, sleekit, cowran, tim'rous beastie,
O, what panic's in thy breastie!
Thou need na start awa sae hasty,
Wi' bickering brattle!
I wad be laith to rin an' chase thee,
Wi' murd'ring pattle!
Born in the family cottage in Alloway, Ayr, Burns spent much of his childhood
years in this area. The cottage still stands to this day, now forming the heart
of the Burns National Heritage Park. Now fully restored to it's original state a
visit to Burns Cottage is a must see for all Burns enthusiasts!
The heritage park also has a museum, where you could easily spend hours
perusing the hundreds of artefacts, personal items belonging to Burns and
original manuscripts, including one of "Auld Lang Syne". A visit to the
Tam O'Shanter experience, where Burns' famous tale is brought to life is
also recommended. As too is a walk over the Brig O'Doon, the climax in
his famous poem Tam O'Shanter.
PHOTO TAKEN DAD
Situated within an area of outstanding natural beauty in Alloway, Ayrshire
- the very birthplace of Robert Burns, Brig O’Doon House offers a quality
product in the heart of this historical part of the West Scotland.
The original Inn on the site was built in 1827 and was later replaced by a
hotel which was sympathetically restored and upgraded in 1988 by Costely
Hotels to provide a delightfully luxurious venue for guests seeking
high quality accommodation or a fine dining experience in a relaxed friendly
atmosphere.
Brig O’Doon house has five deluxe bedrooms all ensuite and tastefully
decorated in a traditional style, but it is perhaps best known for its wonderful
gardens and the incredible interior architecture and workmanship of the
old building.The hotel has become synonymous with weddings since it re-opened and is now regarded as the number one choice in Ayrshire, perhaps even the West of Scotland for brides.