Six of the best independent Ayrshire bakeries to visit

From the best pies in the county to the yummiest scones, we're spoilt for choice for baked goods in Ayrshire.

So why not stop by and support your local baker! Here's a list of some of our favourites...

1.  The Kandy Bar (Saltcoats, West Kilbride, Kilwinning) 

Employees of the Kandy Bar with some of their baked goods (Image: The Kandy Bar)

This fine bakery has locations in Kilwinning, West Kilbride and Stevenston, and the award-winning bakery owns the hearts of many North Ayrshire residents

They recently won the top 'diamond' award at the World Championship Scotch Pie Awards for two items: their macaroni pie and meat, veg and potato pie in the hot savoury category.

Get yourself down and grab a bite to eat and enjoy the coastal views right on the bakery’s doorstep.

2.  They Bake (Ayr, Prestwick)

Their second shop opened in Prestwick earlier this year (Image: They Bake)

Founded in the heart of Ayr by Zoe Hunter and Amanda Rodgers, this bakery regularly makes appearances on list of the best things to do when visiting Ayr and it’s easy to see why.

And despite being a newer bakery compared to others they have been a huge hit with visitors and locals.

From delicious traybakes, classic sponges to mouth-watering tarts, it is guaranteed that there will be a sweet treat for everyone to enjoy.

3. Beth Brownings Bakery (Kilwinning, Stevenston)

Plenty of delicious sweet and savoury baked goods on offer at Beth Brownings Bakery (Image: Beth Brownings Bakery)

This award-winning bakery, which has a store in both Kilwinning and Stevenston, were recently recognised as the best in the business for their apple pies as they won the gold award. 

The Kilwinning bakery is no stranger to awards, winning the prestigious Scottish Baker of the Year Award for their morning rolls and potato scones in 2018.

The bakery specialises in birthday cakes, filled pies, tattie scones and morning rolls. It is definitely one not to miss if you are nearby.

4. Pathhead Bakery (New Cumnock, Sanquhar)

They sell a variety of different flavour cheesecake pots (Image: Pathhead Bakery)

This amazing bakery has shops in New Cumnock and Sanquhar and is the place to be if you fancy a feast for the eyes and a treat for the tummy.

It was a fixture in the Cumnock community in the former town precinct, and then latterly on Townhead Street, before one of the co-owners' retirement.

Anyone with a sweet tooth should check out their offerings ranging from everyday delicious muffins, cheesecake pots to once in a lifetime wedding cakes.

5.  Irvine's Bakery (Dalry, Beith)

Award-winning Irvine's Bakery always has a full cabinet on offer (Image: Irvine's Bakery)

This is another award-winning bakery that is known for its potato scones and toffee empire biscuits. 

Family-run Irvine's Bakery has branches in Beith and Dalry and are one of the only independent bakeries serving people in the Garnock Valley.

They offer a wide selection of tasty sandwiches, homemade bread and you can't forget their renowned chocolate orange scone.

6. Idle Hands Bakery (Dunlop)

Idle Hands Shop and Bakery sell a variety of bread (Image: Idle Hands Shop and Bakery)

Idle Hands in Dunlop is a speciality grocery shop and bakery bringing unusual and interesting finds from across the UK and Europe.

The bakery always provides a wide range of sausage rolls, beautiful pastries, doughnuts and great coffee.

It is open Thursdays to Sundays to bring you the best they have to offer. It is one you have to give a try!