Ayrshire is a large and exciting region filled to the brim with hidden gems and areas yet to be fully explored by the wider public.

From castle ruins to museums, there is a lot to discover this weekend.

This is why we have pulled together some of the best-hidden gems in the region based on Tripadvisor ratings.

Ayrshire's 5 best-kept secrets to visit this weekend based on Tripadvisor reviews

Ayr Advertiser: (Tripadvisor) The Cathedral of the Isles is located near Millport(Tripadvisor) The Cathedral of the Isles is located near Millport (Image: Tripadvisor)

Here are some of Ayrshire's best hidden gems to visit this weekend based on user reviews:

The Cook School Scotland

Location: Moorfield Park, 7 B7081, Kilmarnock KA2 0FE

Rating: 4.5

Number of excellent reviews: 194

One visitor said: "I did the cook school @ home kids class this morning with my 2 children (age 2 and 4) - it was brilliant! Chef Stuart managed to keep all the children engaged whilst making chocolate shortbread."

Find out more via the location's Tripadvisor page.

Spier's School Grounds

Location: Beith KA15 1JU

Rating: 4.5

Number of excellent reviews: 20

One visitor said: "One of my favourite places to go for a walk. Such peaceful, beautifully looked after grounds. There are picnic benches around too, so there are plenty of places to rest and enjoy the surroundings."

Find out more via the location's Tripadvisor page.

Cathedral of the Isles

Location: College St, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae KA28 0HE

Rating: 4.5

Number of excellent reviews: 58

One Tripadvisor reviewer said: "Gorgeous little cathedral tucked away in Millport. We enjoyed a quick visit with our kids and they mainly enjoyed playing in the cute garden and woodland surrounds. Truly quaint and beautiful."

Find out more via the location's Tripadvisor page.

Ayr Advertiser: (Tripadvisor) Visitors to the Scottish Industrial Railway Centre can ride a real life steam train(Tripadvisor) Visitors to the Scottish Industrial Railway Centre can ride a real life steam train (Image: Tripadvisor)

Portencross Castle

Location: Portencross, West Kilbride KA23 9QA

Rating: 4.5

Number of excellent reviews: 139

One visitor said: "A lovely castle in an amazing place which is surrounded by fab views of Arran and beyond. Easy access to the castle and there is a car park just before it. Would recommend a visit if passing!"

Find out more via the location's Tripadvisor page.

Scottish Industrial Railway Centre

Find out more via the location's Tripadvisor page.

Location:  Dunaskin Bridge, Dalmellington Rd, Waterside, Patna, Ayr KA6 7JH

Rating: 4

Number of excellent reviews: 11

One visitor said: "We went here on one of the steam days. It is a small place, but all of the volunteers were really friendly, enthusiastic and knew their stuff. We spent an enjoyable hour or so here."