Overview of Newton on Ayr

A northern suburb of Ayr, Newton on Ayr lies on the north bank of the River Ayr, a half-mile (1 km) north of the town centre. Originally established as a Burgh of Barony in the mid 14th Century, Newton grew as a consequence of the growth of Ayr, but without the restrictions of Royal Burgh status. Its major growth occurred in the late 18th century with the exploitation of coal and the restrictions imposed on business and commerce in Ayr. Growth in the 19th century led to a grid pattern of development in the town, with houses of single storey being the major feature. Notable buildings include the Newton Tower, all that remains of the Tolbooth (1795), and the Carnegie Library (1893). A railway station opened here in 1840.