Old Byre Visitor Centre / Cafe Thyme

The Old Byre Visitor Centre is a family owned and run business on the west coast of Arran approximately a mile north of Machrie golf course. It comprises Café Thyme, the Old Byre Showroom shop and an outdoor children's play area. Café Thyme serves home baking, delicious lunches which are all freshly prepared including soups, salads using salad leaves and herbs grown on site and speciality pides, a Turkish style pizza/calzone with an array of topping choices. The Scottish and Mediterranean menu is a little bit different and offers something for everyone including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. There are 30 choices of loose leaf tea to choose from, excellent coffee, wines, beers and stunning views. There are outside tables if it's a nice day, ideal to watch your kids play in the play area opposite.

The Old Byre Showroom is next door and sells quality sustainable fashion, knitwear, sheepskin, leather products and accessories. Knitwear brands include Harley of Scotland, Scott Officer, Eribe, Fisherman out of Ireland and Ireland's Eye. There are handknitted Aran sweaters and cardigans showing the name of the knitter on the label. Fashion brands include Seasalt, Mistral, White Stuff and Thought, and for the children Frugi. For outerwear there are Didrikson's jackets and coats and then there's sheepskin slippers, rugs, throws and leather handbags. There is a sister shop in Brodick called the Byre at Brodick and you can also buy online at www.oldbyre.co.uk

The Children's play area welcomes you with a sign from the owners children "Welcome to Archie and Gregor's play area, cool kids allowed". There is a £1.50 charge to cover maintenance costs. Within the play area there are swings, trampoline, slide, castle, climbing wall, sand pit, digger den, bricks, ride on tractors and go carts. There is also a grassy area for football, basketball and swing ball - so something for everyone!

The Old Byre Visitor Centre is rated 4 star by Visit Scotland and guarantees stunning views and a warm welcome.