Kay Park: Kilmarnock’s Historic Green Heart with the Burns Monument
Historic urban park in Kilmarnock featuring the iconic Burns Monument and tranquil green spaces for family-friendly leisure.
Kay Park in Kilmarnock is a cherished public park known for its expansive green spaces, family-friendly atmosphere, and the iconic Burns Monument. This tranquil urban oasis offers scenic walking paths, a large duck pond, and cultural heritage linked to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Open year-round from dawn till dusk, Kay Park is a hub for leisure, history, and community events in East Ayrshire.
A brief summary to Kay Park
- 2 Kay Park Terrace, Kilmarnock, KA3 7AZ, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the Burns Monument Centre within the park to explore extensive local history and Robert Burns archives.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk around the large duck pond, a favorite spot for families and nature lovers.
- Bring a picnic to relax on the lawns during warmer months and soak in the park’s tranquil atmosphere.
- Check the Burns Monument Centre’s schedule for workshops and cultural events to enrich your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the park’s paths are extensive and ideal for leisurely strolls.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Kilmarnock town centre to Kay Park, with frequent routes running every 10-20 minutes; journey time approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses are wheelchair accessible and cost around £1.50-£2.50 GBP.
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Car
Drive to Kay Park via main roads in Kilmarnock; parking is available nearby but limited on weekends and during events. Travel time from town centre is about 5-10 minutes. Parking is free but spaces may fill quickly.
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Walking
From Kilmarnock town centre, a pleasant 20-25 minute walk along flat, paved streets leads to Kay Park. Suitable for most visitors, including families and those with limited mobility.
Kay Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kay Park
A Legacy Rooted in Scottish Heritage
Kay Park is deeply intertwined with Kilmarnock’s cultural identity, primarily through the Burns Monument, a tribute to Robert Burns, Scotland’s beloved national poet. The original monument, unveiled in 1879, was a focal point of the park and featured a statue by W. G. Stevenson. Although much of the monument was damaged by fire in 2004, the statue survived and was incorporated into the Burns Monument Centre, a modern cultural venue opened in 2009 that preserves the legacy and archives related to Burns and local history.A Serene Urban Retreat for All Ages
Spanning a generous area in Kilmarnock, Kay Park offers a peaceful environment ideal for families, walkers, and nature lovers. The park features a large duck pond, well-maintained paths, and open lawns that invite picnics, casual strolls, and outdoor play. Its accessibility and welcoming atmosphere make it a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a relaxing escape within the town.The Burns Monument Centre: A Hub of History and Culture
Located within Kay Park, the Burns Monument Centre is a key cultural institution housing extensive local and family history collections. It serves as an archive and resource center with newspapers, maps, photographs, and genealogical records dating back to the 16th century. The Centre hosts educational programs, workshops, and events that engage the community with East Ayrshire’s rich heritage, making it a vital link between past and present.Architectural and Natural Features
The park combines natural beauty with historic architecture. Beyond the Burns Monument, visitors can enjoy picturesque landscaping, mature trees, and thoughtfully designed garden areas. The integration of heritage elements with green space creates a visually appealing setting that highlights both the natural environment and Kilmarnock’s historical narrative.Community and Events
Kay Park is more than just a green space; it is a community focal point. Throughout the year, it hosts various cultural and recreational events that draw families and groups together. Whether attending a local festival, participating in a family history workshop at the Burns Monument Centre, or simply enjoying the outdoors, visitors experience the park’s lively yet tranquil spirit.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
Open daily from dawn till dusk, Kay Park is easily accessible and suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. The park offers level paths and seating areas, enhancing comfort for leisurely visits. Nearby amenities and the central location within Kilmarnock make it a convenient and enjoyable destination for a wide range of travelers.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wallace's Monument, Ayrshire “Burnweil”
9.2 km
A proud Ayrshire landmark honoring William Wallace, Scotland’s legendary hero of independence and bravery.
Trinity Church (Former)
11.3 km
A majestic Gothic Revival landmark showcasing Victorian ecclesiastical architecture and Irvine’s rich religious heritage.
Spirit of Scotland Monument
17.7 km
A towering steel silhouette honoring William Wallace and Scotland’s historic battles at Loudoun Hill, embodying the nation’s enduring spirit.
Ayr Citadel
19.0 km
Explore Ayr Citadel, a 17th-century hexagonal fortress by the sea, rich in history and coastal charm.
Coats Paisley
26.0 km
Historic wedding and events venue on Paisley’s High Street, blending heritage charm with cinematic interiors and versatile celebration spaces.
Renfrewshire House
26.1 km
Explore the architectural beauty and rich history of Renfrewshire House, a key landmark in the vibrant town of Paisley, Scotland.
Paisley Museum & Art Gallery
26.1 km
Explore the Paisley Museum & Art Gallery, a cultural treasure trove showcasing art, history, and local heritage in the heart of Scotland.
Paisley.is
26.1 km
Explore the historic charm and vibrant culture of Paisley, a captivating town in Renfrewshire known for its rich heritage and stunning architecture.
Coats Observatory
26.2 km
Explore the cosmos at Coats Observatory, Scotland's oldest public observatory, where history and astronomy come together in a stunning setting.
Paisley Abbey
26.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Paisley Abbey, a stunning Gothic Presbyterian church with breathtaking architecture and rich heritage in the heart of Scotland.
Barochan Cross
26.2 km
Discover the timeless beauty and historical significance of Barochan Cross, a captivating monument in Paisley that tells Scotland's rich story.
Newlands Park
26.2 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Newlands Park, Glasgow's serene green space perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities.
Holmwood House
26.2 km
Discover the architectural masterpiece of Holmwood House, a must-visit museum in Glasgow surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich history.
Pollok House
26.2 km
Experience the rich heritage of Pollok House, a stunning historical museum and garden in Glasgow, showcasing exquisite architecture and captivating art.
Paisley Town Hall
26.2 km
A majestic Victorian landmark at Paisley’s heart, blending historic grandeur with vibrant arts, events, and festive celebrations.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dick Institute
0.5 km
A historic cultural hub in Kilmarnock featuring Ayrshire’s largest museum, gallery, and library with free admission and vibrant community programs.
Burns Shopping Mall
0.5 km
Kilmarnock’s central shopping destination offering practical retail choices and convenient services in a covered, accessible environment.
Dean Castle Country Park
0.9 km
Explore 200 acres of history, nature, and family fun at Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock’s scenic green heart.
Craigie Castle
7.0 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Craigie Castle, a medieval fortress steeped in Wallace heritage and architectural grandeur near Kilmarnock.
Dundonald Castle and Visitor Centre
7.9 km
Explore the medieval hilltop fortress of Dundonald Castle, where Scottish royal history meets scenic coastal views and engaging visitor experiences.
Shewalton Wood
9.9 km
Discover serene woodland trails and vibrant wildlife in Shewalton Wood, a peaceful nature reserve near Irvine.
Bachelors' Club
11.1 km
Step into the 17th-century thatched house where Robert Burns and friends debated, danced, and shaped Scottish literary history.
The Blair
11.2 km
A cozy country restaurant near Kilwinning offering hearty local dishes, warm hospitality, and a welcoming rural atmosphere.
Rivergate
11.6 km
Ayrshire’s largest indoor shopping centre offering over 60 stores, cozy cafes, and free parking in the heart of Irvine.
Eglinton Castle
11.7 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Eglinton Castle, a grand Gothic estate steeped in Scottish history and legendary medieval pageantry.
Scottish Maritime Museum, Linthouse Building
11.8 km
Explore Scotland’s rich maritime heritage in the historic Linthouse Building at Irvine Harbour, home to iconic vessels and interactive exhibits.
Fullarton Fairy Trail
11.9 km
Discover the enchanting Fullarton Fairy Trail in Troon—a magical woodland walk filled with fairy doors, wooden carvings, and family-friendly play areas.
Eglinton Country Park
12.0 km
Explore 400 hectares of history, nature, and family fun at Eglinton Country Park, Ayrshire’s beloved free-access estate with castle ruins and scenic trails.
Barassie Beach
12.3 km
A peaceful sandy beach north of Troon with stunning views, watersports, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.
Highland Mary's Monument
12.4 km
A poignant monument in Ayrshire marking the heartfelt farewell of Robert Burns and Highland Mary by the River Ayr.
Essential places to dine
Salt and Barrel
0.7 km
Discover fresh, locally crafted Scottish cuisine in a vibrant training restaurant at the heart of Kilmarnock’s college campus.
The Long House
1.1 km
A stylish and welcoming modern British restaurant and bar with a dog-friendly garden in the heart of Kilmarnock.
Blues Restaurant
1.7 km
Modern European dining with local Ayrshire flavors in a stylish setting at The Park Hotel, Kilmarnock’s premier restaurant.
The Glasshouse Restaurant
4.3 km
Elegant dining in a Victorian glasshouse set within the historic and scenic Rowallan Castle Estate in Ayrshire.
The canny crow restaurant
10.7 km
Contemporary Scottish dining with stunning views and warm hospitality in the heart of Irvine’s Dundonald Links.
The Potting Shed at Si!
11.5 km
Experience artisan Scottish dining in a charming garden-themed setting with dog-friendly spaces and vibrant events in Irvine.
The Ship Irvine Ayrshire
12.4 km
A beloved harbour-side gastropub in Irvine offering hearty traditional dishes and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Swan Restaurant - Troon
13.4 km
A welcoming British restaurant in Troon known for hearty classics, generous portions, and a cozy atmosphere.
The Vine
15.0 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Prestwick, serving seasonal dishes and cocktails from day to late night.
The ClockTower
15.6 km
A charming restaurant nestled in historic Auchincruive Estate, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere in Ayr’s scenic countryside.
The Waterfront At Coyle Water Fishery - Restaurant and Cafe Ayrshire
18.7 km
A charming Ayrshire fishery restaurant offering fresh local seafood, scenic lake views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Arthur Street Kitchen (ASK)
19.0 km
A vibrant British cuisine restaurant in Ayr offering hearty dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great selection of wines and cocktails at moderate prices.
The Tree House
19.0 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Ayr’s heart, featuring fresh local dishes and a hidden urban garden terrace.
The Tam O'Shanter Inn
19.0 km
Ayr’s oldest pub blending historic Scottish charm with hearty traditional fare, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Coylton Arms
19.1 km
Cozy family-run gastropub in Ayrshire serving hearty Scottish dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
A Scents Of Scotland
2.3 km
Discover handcrafted Scottish gifts and luxurious home fragrances that bring the spirit of the Highlands into your home.
A.M. Christie
6.8 km
Discover A.M. Christie in Galston – a boutique offering unique styles and quality clothing at reasonable prices for every fashion enthusiast.
Specially For You
7.7 km
Explore a treasure trove of unique gifts at Specially For You in Stewarton, perfect for souvenirs and special occasions.
Little Ripley Shop
11.3 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and local charm at Little Ripley Shop, Irvine’s boutique destination for unique gifts and authentic Ayrshire crafts.
The Wee Shire Shop
11.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local craftsmanship in a warm, welcoming atmosphere at The Wee Shire Shop in Irvine.
Many Thanks
12.8 km
Discover Many Thanks in Mauchline: a cozy gift shop and café offering unique Scottish crafts and warm hospitality in the heart of Ayrshire.
The Wee Gift Shop
13.3 km
A charming independent gift shop in Troon, showcasing handcrafted goods from over 30 Scottish artists and makers.
The Herbary
13.4 km
Discover Troon's charming independent gift shop offering unique jewellery, fine gifts, and local treasures in a welcoming boutique setting.
The Keekin' Glass
14.8 km
Discover quirky gifts and cheeky charm at The Keekin' Glass, Prestwick’s beloved boutique for unique treasures and joyful surprises.
Emporium Boutique
14.9 km
Affordable, stylish womenswear in a relaxed, independent boutique on Prestwick’s Main Street – perfect for everyday looks and special occasions.
Hidden Treasures
15.0 km
A charming boutique in Prestwick offering stylish ladies’ clothing, hats, and accessories in a warm, welcoming setting.
In The Mix
15.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local crafts at In The Mix, Prestwick’s charming boutique on Main Street.
The Original Factory Shop (Dalry)
18.4 km
Discover unbeatable discounts on fashion, homeware, and more at The Original Factory Shop Dalry, your go-to destination for quality bargains.
Honeyman Boutique
18.8 km
Discover timeless bridal elegance at Diane Honeyman Boutique, Ayr’s premier destination for designer wedding gowns and accessories.
Om Store UK
18.8 km
Discover a serene metaphysical sanctuary in Ayr’s High Street, offering crystals, incense, and spiritual treasures for mindful living.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Harbour Lights
12.0 km
Historic harbourside pub in Irvine offering a lively atmosphere, scenic views, and a welcoming spot for drinks and socializing.
The Harbour Bar
13.8 km
A traditional nautical-themed pub in Troon offering great drinks, hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere by the waterfront.
Eglinton Inn
17.8 km
Cozy and friendly pub in Beith offering great food, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Wee Mans Bar
18.5 km
Experience authentic Ayrshire hospitality and local flavors at The Wee Mans Bar, a cozy and historic pub in the heart of Ayr.
The Black Bull
18.6 km
Ayr’s oldest riverside pub, The Black Bull blends historic charm with lively entertainment and friendly local spirit.
The Box Night Club
18.7 km
A welcoming and lively local nightclub in Saltcoats offering an intimate, friendly atmosphere for casual nightlife and socializing.
Smugglers
18.7 km
Traditional Scottish pub with rustic charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere on Ayr’s historic harbourfront.
Anchor Bar
18.7 km
A welcoming, traditional seaside pub in Ayr offering hearty food, great drinks, and scenic harbor views at an affordable price.
Willie Wastles Sports Bar & Restaurant
18.8 km
Lively sports bar and restaurant in Ayr with over 30 TVs, family and dog friendly, serving hearty meals and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Fort Bar
18.8 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Ayr offering friendly service, great drinks, and a cozy atmosphere steeped in Scottish tradition.
The Smoking Goat bar and grill
18.8 km
A vibrant basement bar and grill in Ayr offering award-winning ambiance, live entertainment, and diverse, inclusive dining options.
Billy Bridges Bar
18.9 km
Experience authentic Ayr nightlife with local ales, friendly vibes, and lively events at Billy Bridges Bar, your cozy Scottish pub retreat.
Wee Windaes
18.9 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish pub in Ayr offering warm hospitality, authentic atmosphere, and a welcoming local vibe.
Christina's Bar
18.9 km
A friendly and affordable Scottish pub on Ayr’s Mill Street, offering hearty meals and a warm local atmosphere.
Harleys Ayr
18.9 km
A vibrant and welcoming bar on Ayr’s High Street, perfect for lively nights and social gatherings with a modern, inviting atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Club
0.7 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in the heart of Kilmarnock, offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Pitchers Bar and Nightclub
11.1 km
A vibrant and inclusive nightclub in Irvine’s heart, offering lively music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere until the early hours.
Ayr Ex-Services Club
18.8 km
A friendly and lively social club in Ayrshire offering great music, community spirit, and vibrant weekend nights.
Printhouse Ayr
18.9 km
Experience Ayrshire’s vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Printhouse Ayr, where music and atmosphere unite for unforgettable nights.
Notion Ayr
19.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Notion Ayr, an exceptional events venue in the heart of Ayr, perfect for unforgettable social experiences.
Skye Nightclub & Lounge
25.5 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
Downtown Nightclub
25.6 km
Experience East Kilbride’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Downtown Nightclub, a hub of music, dancing, and late-night energy in the town centre.
Vienna's Nightclub
26.0 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
Fantoosh
26.0 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Club 69 Paisley
26.7 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
The Shed
27.6 km
Dive into Shawlands' glitzy two-floor nightclub where chart bangers, R&B, hip-hop, and 80s cheese anthems fuel unpretentious Southside partying till the early hours.
Sub Club
30.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
30.9 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
31.0 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Club Tropicana & Venga
31.2 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly