Things To Do
in Prestwick
Prestwick sits on the Ayrshire coast just south of Glasgow and beside the town of Ayr, with easy access to golf courses and Arran ferries. It’s known for its seaside promenade, historic links and proximity to Glasgow Prestwick Airport, making it a convenient base for exploring Southwest Scotland. The town blends maritime charm with quiet streets and boutique shops, and offers easy day trips to Ayr, Troon, Culzean Castle and beyond.
Visitors enjoy fresh seafood, coastal walks and a relaxed pace just a short ride from Glasgow’s city lights.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis and black pudding. Afterward, stroll through Prestwick's charming streets, taking in the historical architecture and quaint shops that line the way. Don't forget to stop by the beautiful St. Nicholas Church, an iconic landmark with stunning stained glass windows.
Visit the Prestwick Museum and enjoy a fascinating collection of local artifacts, showcasing the rich history of the area. Afterward, take a scenic walk along the seafront promenade, where you can admire the views of the Firth of Clyde and spot some local wildlife. Conclude your afternoon with lunch at a seaside pub, sampling freshly caught seafood while listening to the sound of the waves.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk along the beach, where you can watch the sky turn vibrant colors. For dinner, indulge in a traditional Scottish meal at one of Prestwick's acclaimed restaurants, perhaps trying the renowned Cullen skink. Finish your evening with a visit to a local pub for a taste of authentic Scottish whisky while enjoying live music.
Start your beach day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Prestwick Beach. Once there, spend the morning soaking up the sun or taking a refreshing swim in the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking with local rental services available on the beach.
After a morning of fun, enjoy a picnic lunch on the beach while watching the waves lap gently at the shore. In the afternoon, join a windsurfing lesson or rent a jet ski for some exhilarating water fun in the sparkling waters of the Clyde. Alternatively, you can relax on the sand with a good book or explore the nearby rock pools.
As the day winds down, take a long stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and appreciating the peaceful ambiance. For dinner, head to a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of the sunset over the water. Cap off your beach day with a bonfire on the sand, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥪Lunch for one | $8-12 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and easy access to beaches
- Renowned golf courses nearby
- Compact town with straightforward navigation
- Close to Glasgow and Ayrshire attractions
- Limited nightlife within Prestwick itself
- Weather can be changeable and rainy
- Some facilities may feel tourist-focused outside peak season
Places to Visit in Prestwick
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with views toward Arran on clear days; ideal for sunrise and long-exposure seascapes.
Promenade along the coast offering colorful skies at dawn and golden hour with a backdrop of the sea.
Small harbour area with boats and seasonal activity; great for maritime photos and reflections on calmer days.
Nearby coastal headland with dramatic sea views and rugged cliffs, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Prestwick
Prestwick Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy smoked haddock soup, best enjoyed in coastal cafes and pubs along Prestwick and Ayr.
Must-Try!
The classic Scottish dish widely available in pubs and restaurants; a comforting plate with swede and potato mash.
Crispy battered fish with chips from seaside chippers or pubs; best when enjoyed with a splash of salt and vinegar by the coast.
Lightly cooked shellfish and locally landed fish served with lemon and chips or bread; a coastal specialty.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Monthly market showcasing local produce, artisanal foods, and seasonal treats from across Ayrshire.
Seasonal pop-up stalls along Prestwick promenade and nearby towns offering quick bites and seaside snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British and Scottish etiquette emphasizes polite queuing and patience in public spaces, pubs, and transport hubs.
A friendly greeting and eye contact are common; a handshake is customary in formal settings.
Pubs are social spaces; conversations are generally relaxed, and it’s polite to let others speak and respect personal space.
Safety
Tipping in Prestwick
Ensure a smooth experience
In Prestwick and across the UK, service charges are not always included. If you’re happy with the service, a tip of 10-15% in restaurants is common; rounding up the bill is also appreciated. Cash is accepted, but contactless and card payments (including Apple/Google Pay) are widely used. Check if a service charge is included before tipping; taxis and pubs may not expect tips but appreciate small round-ups.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild temperatures, and a lively coast; expect beachgoers and outdoor dining, with refreshing sea breezes.
Cooler but comfortable; changing foliage and fewer crowds; ideal for coastal walks and photography at softer light.
Cool and often windy with rain or occasional snow; daylight hours are shorter, but coastal storms can offer dramatic skies.
Mild and budding with greenery; passerine birds along the coast and blooming gardens in town centers.
Prestwick at Night
Hiking in Prestwick
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal walking route with sea views, wildlife, and accessible segments.
Woodland and coastal trails near Maybole offering expansive sea vistas.
Dramatic ocean views and cliff-side paths along the Turnberry coastline.
Airports
How to reach Prestwick by plane.
Regional airport near Prestwick with domestic and limited international routes; easy access to Glasgow and Ayrshire.
Major hub about 40-60 minutes from Prestwick by road or rail; broad international and domestic flight options.
Primary Scottish international airport about 1.5-2 hours from Prestwick by car or train; serves numerous European and global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Local families and commuters to Glasgow and Ayrshire towns.
A relaxed coastal community with space for quiet residential living.
Visitors drawn to the coast, beaches, and famed golf courses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Prestwick and neighboring towns host historic courses, with Prestwick Golf Club and Royal Troon drawing enthusiasts from around the world.
Ayr Racecourse nearby hosts major flat racing events and family-friendly days out.
Coastal location supports sailing, kayaking, and other water-based activities from nearby marinas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Prestwick.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most pubs and restaurants in Prestwick offer vegetarian options; look for veggie haggis, mushroom dishes, and pasta or risotto on menus.