While there is no historical reference to Robert Burns ever having set foot in Largs, the world-famous Scottish poet was certainly aware of its historical significance to Scotland in his famous poetry.

Burns (1759-1796) references Largs and its famous Viking battle of 1263 in his poem 'Caledonia, A Ballad,' penned in 1789. 

The great Ayrshire Bard was 30 years old when he wrote the ballad, two years before penning 'Tam O'Shanter.' However, it was not originally published.

The setting of the ballad is in 1263, when Alexander III defeated King Haakon, thus breaking the Norse power in Scotland.

'But brave Caledonia in vain they assail'd,
As Largs well can witness and Loncartie tell.'

Burns is also well known for his contribution to over 300 songs that celebrate love, friendship, work, and drink with often hilarious and tender sympathy, such as 'Auld Lang Syne.'

'Caledonia' was sent to James Johnson on January 23, 1789 for inclusion in the Scots Musical Museum. However, Johnson did not print the song.

The poem reflects upon the Scottish superiority over the Romans (A flight of bold eagles), the Danes (The fell Harpy-Raven), and the Norwegians (The wild Scandinavian Boar).

Burns refers to battles won against invaders at Largs in 1263 and Loncartie in 990, playing to the Scottish myth of an unconquered nation.

You can read the full poem here on the BBC Scotland website.

Although there is no reference to Burns having visited Largs, another prolific Scottish writer, Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832), stayed at 1 Gallowgate Square for a short time.