Robert Burns mural

You'll find this rather striking mural tucked away in Ardeer, just outside Ayrshire - a proper tribute to Scotland's national poet painted across a gable wall. It's the kind of thing you'd miss if you weren't looking for it, which is half the charm. The artwork captures Burns in bold colours, and it's become something of a pilgrimage spot for literature types and anyone with a soft spot for Scottish culture.

There's no faffing about with opening hours or entry fees - it's out in the open, free to view whenever you fancy. You can park up nearby and spend ten minutes taking it in, or linger longer if you're keen on photography. Don't expect a visitor centre or guided tour; this is street art, pure and simple, and that's exactly what makes it feel genuine.

It works well if you're staying at Parkdean Resorts Sandylands Holiday Park, which is just down the road. Families won't get hours of entertainment from the mural itself, but if you're exploring Ayrshire's literary connections or doing a Burns trail through the region, it's absolutely worth the short detour. The surrounding area is fairly industrial - this isn't a scenic walk - so treat it as a quick stop rather than a destination in itself. Best visited during daylight, obviously, when you can actually see what you're looking at.