SPOTLIGHT: Support Local in Ayrshire

Support your local! We understand that right now, it may be hard to imagine there being any positive outcome to the crazy events of the last year, but there has definitely been a few, and one of them is the increased support we’ve shown to small independent businesses and organisations.

It goes without saying, now more than ever it’s important to shop local and show your support for the small independent businesses, organisations and clubs of your community. Our goal now should be to keep up with that support even as lockdown restrictions begin to ease! 

This is why we’ve created our Support Local Spotlight, to help highlight the unsung heroes of our wonderful Ayrshire community, and to give you information on how you can help these amazing businesses during their time of need. 

Your Local Idle Hands Shop & Bakery

If you’re looking for freshly baked artisan bread, homemade cakes, a good cup of fresh coffee or maybe some unique savoury deli options that are ever-changing, or maybe just some unusual ingredients for some adventurous home cooking, The Idle Hands Bakery & Shop is the place for you! It truly is a little corner of Heaven on earth

For more information about Idle Hands and their delicious offerings, you can check them out here and at @idlehandsdunlop  

Drift Coffee+Kitchen

Drift is a local, family-run business, and they’re passionate about serving the finest coffee and freshest, high-quality food to all those who visit. They’re also big on supporting other local businesses, and just when you think it couldn’t get any better – they’re dog-friendly too! 🐶☕️

So why not drop in for a warm drink and even warmer Ayrshire welcome? You’ll be so glad you did!

For more information about Drift Coffee+Kitchen, you can visit them here and at @drift.coffee.kitchen 

Your Local Ayr United FC

When we talk about supporting small local businesses – we’re not just talking about shops and cafes!

If you’re part of the Ayrshire community, be sure to show your support for our very own Ayr United FC? 

Even if you’re not a football fan yourself, you’re bound to know someone who is, and nothing can bring a community together quite like their local football team!

So whether you buy a match ticket, buy an Ayr United Five Star Lottery ticket or even donate to their AU 500 Fund, be sure to show your support in any way you can.

For more information, you can visit the Ayr United FC website here  or on Instagram @ayrunitedfc

Cafe Thyme

Cafe Thyme is the best new lunch and brunch spot located in Ayr town centre! Delicious meals, fresh coffee and mouth-watering bakes, Thyme cafe caters for all. 

And with dedicated seating both inside and out, it’s the perfect place for a quick bite to eat or a long, tasty lunch with a loved one. They even offer takeaway if you prefer to enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of your own home. So why not pop in next time you find yourself in Ayr city centre?

 For more information about their services and menu offerings, head over to their Instagram page @thyme_____ or visit their website here. 

Your Local Ayrshire Hospice

Local charities provide us with such a vital service, and they need our help now more than ever!

If you’re a member of the Ayrshire & Arran community and have a little to spare, why not take part in their Dare to Dream sports auction?

And for more information about this amazing organisation and all the great work they do, check them out at @ayrshire_hospice or visit their website here.

The Smoking Goat

Next time you’re strolling down Academy Street, why not pop in for a bite or, a refreshing tipple or maybe even try to catch one of their legendary acoustic nights featuring up and coming bands?

And for more information about The Smoking Goat, visit them on Instagram at @smokinggoatayr, or check out their website here. 

Your Local Ayrshire Women’s Hub

Ayrshire Women’s Hub is a community organisation that provides women with a safe place to socialise, learn and empower each other through free workshops, surgeries and classes. 

So if you’re a member of the Ayrshire community, why not help them out in any way you can?

And for more information about this amazing organisation and all the great work they do, check them out at @ayrshirewomenshub or visit their website here.

Ayrshire Hampers

Ayrshire Hampers create Hampers and Gifts especially for you, all sourced from Scotland! Each Hamper is filled with love, and can even be used for corporate occasions.

So next time you’re looking for a unique, locally sourced gift for a loved one (or even just to treat yourself to!) why not try Ayrshire Hampers?

For more information about their products, visit them on Instagram at @ayrshire_hampers, or check out their website here. 

We’ll be updating our Support Local Spotlight every month, so be sure to keep checking back to discover even more amazing independent businesses within your area.

And if you are someone, or know someone who would live to be featured on our blog – get in touch! We’d love nothing more than to shine the spotlight on them too.