NORTH AYRSHIRE

The northernmost of the three Ayrshire regions, North Ayrshire is also the most heavily populated, without being densely packed

Clinging to the western edge of the old Strathclyde region, North Ayrshire is an instantly likeable region. It begins with Skelmorlie, a narrow ribbon of red sandstone houses and quirky new-build villas that clings to the coastline, and ends with the Three Towns ñ worthy candidates for the title of Scotlandís most improved boroughs.

Not so long ago, Ardrossan, Saltcoats and Stevenston were viewed as isolated, rundown towns whose glory days were far beyond them, so itís fascinating to see how in 2008, they are once again climbing in the publicís estimation. Take Ardrossan as an example. A revitalised marina, two freshly upgraded beaches and a whole slew of new housing has turned this town into a genuinely desirable address, indicative of the wider changes to sweep across the county as the property market roared ahead and people began moving further out from Glasgow to commute in.

North Ayrshire has much to commend it, from the stunning scenery of the A78 coast road through to the quaint charm of Largs, the perfect place to settle down once the children have moved out. New housing may be fairly limited compared to other parts of the country, but itís worth seeking out.