Prestwick shorefront
Prestwick Burgh dates back over one thousand years and is an old burgh of barony.
It is interesting to note that Prestwick is one of the few coastal towns that has
neither a harbour nor jetty.
This town has historically been known as a health resort from the time of St. Ninian
who had a hospital to help those suffering from leprosy. The site of the hospital
can be found to the rear of St. Ninian's Church as can Bruce's Well, a natural spring
from which Robert the Bruce is reputed to have drunk to ease his complaints. During
the late Victorian era and into the 1900's, Prestwick was a popular health resort
where people would come to enjoy the sea breezes and walks along the beach.
The beach area is mainly sand although there is an area of shingle to the south,
which provides some variety for those who wish to wander along the beach or esplanade.
In terms of sporting activities although, is no harbour there are points from which
small sailing craft can be launched, some windsurfing takes place, as well as a
certain amount of fishing.
A Walk along the esplanade, starting in the north headed south, would include Old
Prestwick Golf Course; it was here that the first British Open Golf Championship
was held in 1860. Further south, the children's play area in the location of the
old salt-water swimming pool. Walk further and you pass the putting green, which
is open during the summer, and next to it another children's play area. Prestwick
Sailing Club is situated at the junction of the esplanade and Grangemuir Road. At
the end of the esplanade is another golf course, that of St. Nicholas.
Should you wish to continue your walk there is a path that runs along the boundary
of the Golf Course, which allows you to progress even further south, and into Ayr.