Things To Do
in Prestwick

Prestwick is a charming coastal town located in South Ayrshire, Scotland, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant golfing culture. It boasts a rich historical background and is closely associated with the aviation industry, being home to Scotland's first international airport. The town is also famous for its picturesque promenade and charming Victorian architecture.

With a friendly community and a variety of local attractions, Prestwick provides a delightful escape for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Prestwick
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along Prestwick Beach, enjoying the fresh sea air and stunning views of the Firth of Clyde. Afterward, grab breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Prestwick Old Course, one of the oldest golf courses in the world, or explore the local shops along the High Street.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional fish and chip shop and enjoy a walk along the promenade as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Prestwick Golf Club for a round of golf or a lesson. Enjoy brunch at a nearby bistro afterward.

afternoon
:

Take a trip to the nearby town of Ayr to visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and enjoy the local parks.

evening
:

Return to Prestwick for dinner at a family-run restaurant, followed by a pub visit to experience local live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Pint of beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich golfing heritage and access to historic courses.
  • Friendly local community and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, particularly in winter.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent outside peak hours.

Places to Visit in Prestwick

Visit one of these nice places.

Prestwick Beach

A picturesque stretch of sandy beach, perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots and the surrounding seascape.

The Old Course

The historic golf course offers beautiful landscapes and traditional Scottish architecture, ideal for photography.

Prestwick Promenade

The scenic promenade is perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere of the town and its coastal beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Prestwick

Prestwick offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Scottish fare and contemporary dining options. Must-try local dishes include haggis, neeps and tatties, fish and chips, and Cullen skink. The town hosts various food markets and street food vendors, particularly during festivals and events. For those with dietary restrictions, many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for all diners.

Prestwick Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haggis

A traditional Scottish dish made of sheep's offal mixed with spices, oats, and served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes).

Must-Try!

Cullen Skink

A hearty soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, offering a taste of the sea.

Fish and Chips

Crispy battered fish served with golden fries, a classic British dish to enjoy by the seaside.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Prestwick Farmers' Market

Held monthly, featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Prestwick experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while winter temperatures hover around 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, with autumn and winter being particularly wet, so visitors should come prepared with waterproof clothing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Scots value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is appreciated.

Queueing

Always wait your turn in a queue; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Respect for Nature

Visitors are encouraged to respect the natural surroundings and dispose of litter responsibly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Prestwick is generally a safe town for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999 for police, fire, and medical assistance.

Tipping in Prestwick

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Most places accept card payments, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blossoming flowers and vibrant greenery, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer brings warm temperatures, ideal for beach days and outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning fall colors, with cooler temperatures; perfect for nature walks and photography.

Winter

Winter can be quite cold and wet, but the festive atmosphere and local holiday events make it a charming time to visit.

Nightlife Guide

Prestwick at Night

Prestwick has a vibrant nightlife scene with several pubs and bars offering live music, quiz nights, and a friendly atmosphere. The town's pubs often serve local ales and whiskies, making it a great place to experience Scottish culture. Live music events are common, and many venues feature local bands, providing a lively and entertaining evening for visitors.

Hiking in Prestwick

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Culzean Castle Walk

A scenic walk through the grounds of Culzean Castle, offering stunning views of the coastline and woodlands.

Glenapp Estate Trails

Explore the beautiful trails around Glenapp Estate, featuring lush landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Prestwick by plane.

Glasgow Prestwick Airport

Located just a few miles from Prestwick, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Prestwick is highly walkable, with most amenities, shops, and attractions located within a short distance from each other. The town's flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy to explore on foot, and the scenic promenade along the beach is particularly popular for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Prestwick is home to many families, who enjoy the community's parks, schools, and family-friendly activities.

Retirees

The town attracts many retirees who appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and access to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Golf

As a historic site for golf, Prestwick offers numerous golf courses and is home to the first Open Championship.

Football

Football is also popular in the region, with local teams and community involvement in the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Prestwick is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes local buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though services may be less frequent during off-peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Prestwick.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Prestwick offer vegetarian dishes, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menus to accommodate those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Prestwick is provided through the NHS, with several local clinics and a nearby hospital in Ayr. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers health care costs, as certain treatments may require payment upfront. Pharmacies are also available for minor ailments and over-the-counter medications.

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