GOLF COURSES
Some of the World's most renowned golf courses on our doorstep!
Prestwick Holiday Park is ideally located close to many of the most famous golf courses in Scotland - sandwiched between Royal Troon and Old Prestwick and with Turnberry only about 30 minutes away by car. Offering the perfect base to sample the local golf links courses in a relaxed, friendly and convenient atmosphere.
Prestwick Holiday Park is ideally located close to many of the most famous golf courses in Scotland - sandwiched between Royal Troon and Old Prestwick and with Turnberry only about 30 minutes away by car. Offering the perfect base to sample the local golf links courses in a relaxed, friendly and convenient atmosphere.
CULZEAN COUNTRY PARK
A Perfect & Historic Family Day Out!
With its dramatic clifftop setting, Robert Adam architecture, fascinating history and beautiful surroundings, it's easy to see why Culzean Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions.
Surrounded by Culzean Country Park, an extensive estate encompassing lush woodland, landscaped gardens and rugged beach coastline, this 18th-century Scottish castle couldn’t be better placed for a family day out.
With its dramatic clifftop setting, Robert Adam architecture, fascinating history and beautiful surroundings, it's easy to see why Culzean Castle is one of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions.
Surrounded by Culzean Country Park, an extensive estate encompassing lush woodland, landscaped gardens and rugged beach coastline, this 18th-century Scottish castle couldn’t be better placed for a family day out.
HEADS OF AYR FARM PARK
Children of All Ages just Keep Coming Back!
Whatever the weather there is always something to do at the Heads of Ayr Farm Park! There are almost 50 different types of animal, each with its own particular charm. Meet them, touch them, feed them!
You could play all day at our farm park! It's packed with fantastic activities like indoor and outdoor play areas, Quads and Boats, thrilling Ringo Sledging, Camelot Castle and the Combine Castle. Visit the new PIRATE BAY and climb aboard! Ship ahoy me hearties!!!
Whatever the weather there is always something to do at the Heads of Ayr Farm Park! There are almost 50 different types of animal, each with its own particular charm. Meet them, touch them, feed them!
You could play all day at our farm park! It's packed with fantastic activities like indoor and outdoor play areas, Quads and Boats, thrilling Ringo Sledging, Camelot Castle and the Combine Castle. Visit the new PIRATE BAY and climb aboard! Ship ahoy me hearties!!!
ROBERT BURNS CENTRE & MUSEUM
In the Heart of Robert Burns Country!
The museum comprises the famous Burns Cottage where the poet was born, the historic landmarks where he set his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing the world’s most important collection of his life and works.
The Burns Centre is a short stroll away and has a cafe, gift shop and interactive activities.
The museum comprises the famous Burns Cottage where the poet was born, the historic landmarks where he set his greatest work, the elegant monument and gardens created in his honour and a modern museum housing the world’s most important collection of his life and works.
The Burns Centre is a short stroll away and has a cafe, gift shop and interactive activities.
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory occupies a fantastic hilltop site on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park. It is within the magical surroundings of Craigengillan, rated by Historic Scotland as one of the top four Designed Landscapes in the country, on a par with Culzean and Drumlanrig and ahead of even Balmoral.
The Scottish Dark Sky Observatory occupies a fantastic hilltop site on the edge of the Galloway Forest Park. It is within the magical surroundings of Craigengillan, rated by Historic Scotland as one of the top four Designed Landscapes in the country, on a par with Culzean and Drumlanrig and ahead of even Balmoral.
The Ailsa Craig
Take a trip by boat and visit the Ailsa Craig. See spectacular bird and wildlife. Daily sailings from Girvan Harbour - up to 12 passengers.
Take a trip by boat and visit the Ailsa Craig. See spectacular bird and wildlife. Daily sailings from Girvan Harbour - up to 12 passengers.
Troon Ferry Terminal
For ferry crossings to Arran and the Islands and also Larne. New routes added annually. Troon ferry terminal is 20 minutes from Prestwick Holiday Park.
For ferry crossings to Arran and the Islands and also Larne. New routes added annually. Troon ferry terminal is 20 minutes from Prestwick Holiday Park.
Waverley Paddle Steamer
Waverley is the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world. Magnificently restored with towering funnels, timber decks, gleaming varnish and brass. See and hear the mighty engines – they will provide a whiff of nostalgia for some but are sure to impress all!
Waverley is the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world. Magnificently restored with towering funnels, timber decks, gleaming varnish and brass. See and hear the mighty engines – they will provide a whiff of nostalgia for some but are sure to impress all!
AYRSHIRE & ARRAN HISTORY & ATTRACTIONS
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Dunure Castle , Kennedy Park, DUNURE (KA7 4LW)
www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk
Ruined Castle on the head land of a rocky promontory, protecting the small deep harbour. Stunning views, great for lunch, a picnic, ice cream or a beer!
Culzean Castle & Country Park, MAYBOLE (KA19 8LE)
www.nts.org.uk
Take the scenic costal road south of Ayr, this Castle and Gardens is on a dramatic clifftop setting. Architect Robert Adam designed a grand 18th century building in blond sand-stone. Woodlands, swan pond, beach, glass house and walled garden. For the young ones there is the ‘Adventure Cove’ outdoor play park and ice cream.
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, ALLOWAY (KA7 4PQ)
www.nts.org.uk
Visit the Poet’s childhood thatched Cottage, the famous ‘Brig’o Doon’, The Auld Kirk and award-winning interactive museum. Exhibition, restaurant, shop and outdoor play. Also visit, The Bachelor’s Club, Tarbolton (KA5 5RB), Burns House, Mauchline (KA5 5BZ) and Souter Johnnie’s Cottage, Kirkoswald (KA19 8HY)
Crossraguel Abbey, Crossraguel, MAYBOLE (KA19 8HQ)
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Enigmatic, but ruined during the Reformation, Sister Abbey of St. Andrews. One of the most complete medieval abbey complexes in Scotland, guarding some violent secret!
Dumfries House, Dumfries, CUMNOCK (KA18 2NJ)
www.dumfries-house.org.uk
Home of the world’s most extensive collections of 18th century British furniture, much by Thomas Chippendale. The house and its contents were saved by Prince Charles, Duke of Rothsay. Fabulous Tearoom, shop, walks, great play area for kids and daily guided tours.
Dundonald Castle, Dundonald, KILMARNOCK (KA2 9HD)
dundonaldcastle.org.uk
After 10 years of restoration, examine the origins of the Royal Stewart dynasty. Visitor centre, shop.
Kelburn Castle and Country Centre, LARGS (KA29 0BE)
www.kelburnestate.com
Ancient home of The Earl of Glasgow. Waterfalls, gardens, ridding, falconry, secret forest, café, adventure course and play barn.
ACTIVITIES & SPORT
DAILY EXCURSIONS
Brodick Castle, Gardens, Country Park & Goatfell Mountain, Isle of Arran (KA27 8HY)
www.nts.ogr.uk
Take the earliest ferry from Adrossan to Arran. The crossing is about an hour. The breakfast on the ferry is very good, so make sure you have a full breakfast on board. Don’t forget to look out over the bay to see the curvature of the Earth as you cross! Brodick Castle is a magnificent Scottish baronial-style castle in a stunning setting. Start at the car park and walk up Goatfell, at 874 feet is a ’CORBETT’. Dramatic and challenging landscape, the walker is rewarded with a spectacular view from the top. Tearoom, shop, playground, picnic area. If you have time for a refreshment, stop off at
The Crofters (www.croftersmusicbar.com)
or
The Douglas (www.thedouglashotel.co.uk)
Lochranza Castle & Whisky Museum, Isle of Arran (KA27 8HJ)
www.arranwhisky.com
Discover the 16th century tower house and uncover its 13th century origins. Look out for seals! Enjoy the amber nectar at the Isle of Arran Distillery and whisky visitor’s centre. Guided tours, exhibition, shop and tearoom.
Machrie Moor, The Hill Fort and Kings Caves, BLACKWATERFOOT, Isle of Arran (KA27 8DT)
www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk
The Stone Circle at Machrie Moor is one of the most important sites of its kind in Britain. Prehistoric standing stones and circle, burial cairns and cists spanning the Neolithic to the early Bronze Age, and interesting walk! Scramble over rocky beach and headland to the Kings Caves and Bronze Hill Fort. Vast Views of the Kyles of Bute.
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory ,Craigengillan, DALMELLINGTON (KA6 7PZ)
www.scottishdarkskyobservatory.co.uk
Set within a rare ‘Gold Tier’ Dark Sky Park, it boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK. Roll off roof observatory, dome-housed telescope, viewing deck and activity room.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park, ALLOWAY (KA7 4LD)
www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk
Outdoor and indoor play areas, quad bikes, trampolines, air pillows, café and picnic area. Critters, reptiles, primates and mammals - large and small! Open 10am to 5 pm.
FISHING, SAILING & SPORT
Local Fishing, Ayrshire Rivers Trust
www.ayrshireriverstrust.org
Fishing off of the harbour at Ayr with the locals or hire a fishing boat for the day. There are also a variety of fisheries in the local area.
Coyle Water Fishery, COYLTON (KA6 6LZ)
www.waterfrontfishery.co.uk
Two fully stocked Lochs. Family friendly fishing. The Smoke House and coffee shop.
Prestwick Sailing Club, 31 Grangemuir Road, PRESTWICK (KA9 1SN)
www.prestwicksailingclub.co.uk
Book a week sailing or wind surfing from beginners upwards. For the more serious check out the annual Regatta in June and National Championships in August.
Ayr Racecourse, AYR (KA8 OJE)
www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk
Scotland’s only Grade 1 track with Flat Racing and National Hunt racing since 1907. A large calendar of fixtures for all the family.
Northfield Bowling Championships, Hunters Avenue, AYR (KA8 9AL)
www.bowlsscotland.com
Major bowling championship on the Lawns calendar. The outdoor bowling championship is held annually at Ayr. The gates usually open from 10 am at The Northfield Bowling Complex.
Classic Motorcycle Show – AYR (KA8 0JE)
www.ayrclassicmc.com
Annual Motorcylce Show held at Ayr Racecourse in June (10am-4pm). Demonstration area, sales and classic parade.
The Scottish International Air Show, Prestwick Airport, PRESTWICK (KA92QH)
www.military-airshows.co.uk
Prestwick Airport hosts The Scottish Air Show in September - 10 am to 6 pm. The flights take place over the bay and can be viewed from the park. Activities for this event are held at ‘The Low Green’ in Ayr. Large selection of aircraft - past and present - including B25, Mustang, RAF Typhoon, LED planes, the Red Arrows and fireworks.
Scottish Paintball Centre, Rowallan, Kilmaurs Road, KILMARNOCK (KA3 6AY)
www.scottishpaintaballcentre.co.uk
50 acres of mixed woodland for the paint ball enthusiast to enjoy.
SHRED, AYR (KA8 9SN)
www.shredskatepark.co.uk
Ayrshire’s only indoor skate park. All ages and skill levels welcome. Equipment can be hired. View their videos on line, to be inspired!
KIDZ Play, PRESTWICK (KA9 1QG)
www.kidz-play.co.uk
Seaside themed indoor play park on Prestwick beach front. Café. Open 9am to 6 pm.
GOLF
Ayrshire is the birth place of The Open and the holiday park is set between two championship Golf Courses – Royal Troon and Old Prestwick. The Open was first held at Old Prestwick Racecourse in 1860 after a discussion in the local pub, ‘The Red Lion’, still serving beers today. Troon Golf Club was founded in 1878, with the original links comprising of 5 holes. The course was extended to 12 in 1883 and to 18 holes, by Willie Fernie in 1888.
The Open Championship was first held at Troon in 1923, then 1950, 1962, 1973, 1982, 1989, 1997, and 2004 and 2016. The world famous par 3 ‘postage stamp’ is the shortest hole on the Open Rota, whilst the 6th is the longest. The Club received the Royal Charter in 1978 - its centenary year.
Local Gold Courses
Old Prestwick (KA9 1QG); Royal Troon (KA10 6EP); Troon St Meddans (KA10 6NF); Dundonald Links (KA11 5BF); Turnberry (KA26 9LT); St Nicholas (KA9 1SN); St Cuthbert’s (KA9 2SX); Belleisle (KA7 4DU); Auchincruive (KA20 3HU); Dalmilling (KA8 0QY); Gailes (KA11 5AE) and Irvine (KA12 8SN)
WINDSURFING & BODYBOARDING
With the benefit of The Gulf Stream, the waters are slightly warmer. Good waves at Brassie Beach and at Prestwick Sailing Club for Wind Surfers. Body-boarding is safe for the kids at the wide, blond, sandy beach at Prestwick, a short walk from the holiday park. If you bring a wet suit this makes this an all-weather sport! Sand castles or ‘digging to Australia' are great fun too! Catch flanders, minos and crabs in the small stranded pools when the tide goes out. The sand dunes a perfect places to ‘coorie in’ and have a picnic.
CYCLING
The local cycle path runs across the entrance to the park. It is a safe route for cyclist and parents with young children, who could manage as far as Irvine, getting the train back to Prestwick Airport. Millport is a small Island, kids can hire bikes and cycle safely around the Island in an afternoon. The ferry crossing is from Largs and takes 11 minutes - a wee adventure! More power is required to cycle Arran. Take an early ferry to the island and power hard! The British Road Championship in 2016 made use of the undulating tarmac and open countryside locally.
STARGAZING
The Vikings gave the port of Ayr its name. AYR means ‘clear sky’. Prestwick Airport is in the shadow of Goatfell and is never affected by sea fog, rarely has ice on runway and receives very little snow. It’s the only airport in the country with a record like this. As a result, the holiday park is protected from many of these weather events. The park also has the benefit of being on the coast and adjacent to open land, therefore offering reasonably dark skies all year round. Of course, in Scotland you cannot guarantee the weather, but Scotland has some of the darkest skies in Europe and, due to our low lying location, you can see all 360 degrees of the night sky.
WILDLIFE
Red mullet shoals are often seen under the bridge. Honeybees buzz in the ivy, bunnies frolic at dusk, crickets sing and butterflies flutter in the long grasses as you walk to the beach. For the bird watcher we have swans, pheasants, curlew, pied wag-tails, magpies, waders, turns and robbins.
MONKS BAR
Monks Bar is right next to ‘The Monk’ - the 9th hole at Royal Troon Golf Course. The very cheerful Charles McGuire, the licence holder of Monks Bar, hosts a variety of acts throughout the season, on Friday and Saturday nights. Also BINGO on Friday (7-8pm), Saturday (7-8pm), and Sunday (4-5pm).
The bar was the ‘dance hall’ of the Mansion House and is hewn from the same red sandstone. With sprung flooring the ‘dance hall’ is very comfortable under foot, whilst the domed ceiling allows for excellent acoustics to support ‘every voice’. So do not be afraid to try out the karaoke! After a few of Charles’s cocktails we feel sure that you will sound amazing! Free WI FI, Sport on the television and coal fire blazing.
LOCAL FOOD
AYRSHIRE & ARRAN
Prestwick KA9 1JN
www.lido-prestwick.co.uk
Symington KA1 5QB
www.thewheatsheafsymington.co.uk
Ayr KA9 6EY
www.hollybushinn-ayrshire.co.uk
Arran KA27 8AJ
www.croftersmusicbar.com
Arran KA27 8AW
www.thedouglashotel.co.uk
HISTORY & HERITAGE
Dunure Castle , Kennedy Park, DUNURE (KA7 4LW)
www.thecastlesofscotland.co.uk
Ruined Castle on the head land of a rocky promontory, protecting the small deep harbour. Stunning views, great for lunch, a picnic, ice cream or a beer!
Culzean Castle & Country Park, MAYBOLE (KA19 8LE)
www.nts.org.uk
Take the scenic costal road south of Ayr, this Castle and Gardens is on a dramatic clifftop setting. Architect Robert Adam designed a grand 18th century building in blond sand-stone. Woodlands, swan pond, beach, glass house and walled garden. For the young ones there is the ‘Adventure Cove’ outdoor play park and ice cream.
Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, ALLOWAY (KA7 4PQ)
www.nts.org.uk
Visit the Poet’s childhood thatched Cottage, the famous ‘Brig’o Doon’, The Auld Kirk and award-winning interactive museum. Exhibition, restaurant, shop and outdoor play. Also visit, The Bachelor’s Club, Tarbolton (KA5 5RB), Burns House, Mauchline (KA5 5BZ) and Souter Johnnie’s Cottage, Kirkoswald (KA19 8HY)
Crossraguel Abbey, Crossraguel, MAYBOLE (KA19 8HQ)
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Enigmatic, but ruined during the Reformation, Sister Abbey of St. Andrews. One of the most complete medieval abbey complexes in Scotland, guarding some violent secret!
Dumfries House, Dumfries, CUMNOCK (KA18 2NJ)
www.dumfries-house.org.uk
Home of the world’s most extensive collections of 18th century British furniture, much by Thomas Chippendale. The house and its contents were saved by Prince Charles, Duke of Rothsay. Fabulous Tearoom, shop, walks, great play area for kids and daily guided tours.
Dundonald Castle, Dundonald, KILMARNOCK (KA2 9HD)
dundonaldcastle.org.uk
After 10 years of restoration, examine the origins of the Royal Stewart dynasty. Visitor centre, shop.
Kelburn Castle and Country Centre, LARGS (KA29 0BE)
www.kelburnestate.com
Ancient home of The Earl of Glasgow. Waterfalls, gardens, ridding, falconry, secret forest, café, adventure course and play barn.
ACTIVITIES & SPORT
DAILY EXCURSIONS
Brodick Castle, Gardens, Country Park & Goatfell Mountain, Isle of Arran (KA27 8HY)
www.nts.ogr.uk
Take the earliest ferry from Adrossan to Arran. The crossing is about an hour. The breakfast on the ferry is very good, so make sure you have a full breakfast on board. Don’t forget to look out over the bay to see the curvature of the Earth as you cross! Brodick Castle is a magnificent Scottish baronial-style castle in a stunning setting. Start at the car park and walk up Goatfell, at 874 feet is a ’CORBETT’. Dramatic and challenging landscape, the walker is rewarded with a spectacular view from the top. Tearoom, shop, playground, picnic area. If you have time for a refreshment, stop off at
The Crofters (www.croftersmusicbar.com)
or
The Douglas (www.thedouglashotel.co.uk)
Lochranza Castle & Whisky Museum, Isle of Arran (KA27 8HJ)
www.arranwhisky.com
Discover the 16th century tower house and uncover its 13th century origins. Look out for seals! Enjoy the amber nectar at the Isle of Arran Distillery and whisky visitor’s centre. Guided tours, exhibition, shop and tearoom.
Machrie Moor, The Hill Fort and Kings Caves, BLACKWATERFOOT, Isle of Arran (KA27 8DT)
www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk
The Stone Circle at Machrie Moor is one of the most important sites of its kind in Britain. Prehistoric standing stones and circle, burial cairns and cists spanning the Neolithic to the early Bronze Age, and interesting walk! Scramble over rocky beach and headland to the Kings Caves and Bronze Hill Fort. Vast Views of the Kyles of Bute.
Scottish Dark Sky Observatory ,Craigengillan, DALMELLINGTON (KA6 7PZ)
www.scottishdarkskyobservatory.co.uk
Set within a rare ‘Gold Tier’ Dark Sky Park, it boasts some of the darkest skies in the UK. Roll off roof observatory, dome-housed telescope, viewing deck and activity room.
Heads of Ayr Farm Park, ALLOWAY (KA7 4LD)
www.headsofayrfarmpark.co.uk
Outdoor and indoor play areas, quad bikes, trampolines, air pillows, café and picnic area. Critters, reptiles, primates and mammals - large and small! Open 10am to 5 pm.
FISHING, SAILING & SPORT
Local Fishing, Ayrshire Rivers Trust
www.ayrshireriverstrust.org
Fishing off of the harbour at Ayr with the locals or hire a fishing boat for the day. There are also a variety of fisheries in the local area.
Coyle Water Fishery, COYLTON (KA6 6LZ)
www.waterfrontfishery.co.uk
Two fully stocked Lochs. Family friendly fishing. The Smoke House and coffee shop.
Prestwick Sailing Club, 31 Grangemuir Road, PRESTWICK (KA9 1SN)
www.prestwicksailingclub.co.uk
Book a week sailing or wind surfing from beginners upwards. For the more serious check out the annual Regatta in June and National Championships in August.
Ayr Racecourse, AYR (KA8 OJE)
www.ayr-racecourse.co.uk
Scotland’s only Grade 1 track with Flat Racing and National Hunt racing since 1907. A large calendar of fixtures for all the family.
Northfield Bowling Championships, Hunters Avenue, AYR (KA8 9AL)
www.bowlsscotland.com
Major bowling championship on the Lawns calendar. The outdoor bowling championship is held annually at Ayr. The gates usually open from 10 am at The Northfield Bowling Complex.
Classic Motorcycle Show – AYR (KA8 0JE)
www.ayrclassicmc.com
Annual Motorcylce Show held at Ayr Racecourse in June (10am-4pm). Demonstration area, sales and classic parade.
The Scottish International Air Show, Prestwick Airport, PRESTWICK (KA92QH)
www.military-airshows.co.uk
Prestwick Airport hosts The Scottish Air Show in September - 10 am to 6 pm. The flights take place over the bay and can be viewed from the park. Activities for this event are held at ‘The Low Green’ in Ayr. Large selection of aircraft - past and present - including B25, Mustang, RAF Typhoon, LED planes, the Red Arrows and fireworks.
Scottish Paintball Centre, Rowallan, Kilmaurs Road, KILMARNOCK (KA3 6AY)
www.scottishpaintaballcentre.co.uk
50 acres of mixed woodland for the paint ball enthusiast to enjoy.
SHRED, AYR (KA8 9SN)
www.shredskatepark.co.uk
Ayrshire’s only indoor skate park. All ages and skill levels welcome. Equipment can be hired. View their videos on line, to be inspired!
KIDZ Play, PRESTWICK (KA9 1QG)
www.kidz-play.co.uk
Seaside themed indoor play park on Prestwick beach front. Café. Open 9am to 6 pm.
GOLF
Ayrshire is the birth place of The Open and the holiday park is set between two championship Golf Courses – Royal Troon and Old Prestwick. The Open was first held at Old Prestwick Racecourse in 1860 after a discussion in the local pub, ‘The Red Lion’, still serving beers today. Troon Golf Club was founded in 1878, with the original links comprising of 5 holes. The course was extended to 12 in 1883 and to 18 holes, by Willie Fernie in 1888.
The Open Championship was first held at Troon in 1923, then 1950, 1962, 1973, 1982, 1989, 1997, and 2004 and 2016. The world famous par 3 ‘postage stamp’ is the shortest hole on the Open Rota, whilst the 6th is the longest. The Club received the Royal Charter in 1978 - its centenary year.
Local Gold Courses
Old Prestwick (KA9 1QG); Royal Troon (KA10 6EP); Troon St Meddans (KA10 6NF); Dundonald Links (KA11 5BF); Turnberry (KA26 9LT); St Nicholas (KA9 1SN); St Cuthbert’s (KA9 2SX); Belleisle (KA7 4DU); Auchincruive (KA20 3HU); Dalmilling (KA8 0QY); Gailes (KA11 5AE) and Irvine (KA12 8SN)
WINDSURFING & BODYBOARDING
With the benefit of The Gulf Stream, the waters are slightly warmer. Good waves at Brassie Beach and at Prestwick Sailing Club for Wind Surfers. Body-boarding is safe for the kids at the wide, blond, sandy beach at Prestwick, a short walk from the holiday park. If you bring a wet suit this makes this an all-weather sport! Sand castles or ‘digging to Australia' are great fun too! Catch flanders, minos and crabs in the small stranded pools when the tide goes out. The sand dunes a perfect places to ‘coorie in’ and have a picnic.
CYCLING
The local cycle path runs across the entrance to the park. It is a safe route for cyclist and parents with young children, who could manage as far as Irvine, getting the train back to Prestwick Airport. Millport is a small Island, kids can hire bikes and cycle safely around the Island in an afternoon. The ferry crossing is from Largs and takes 11 minutes - a wee adventure! More power is required to cycle Arran. Take an early ferry to the island and power hard! The British Road Championship in 2016 made use of the undulating tarmac and open countryside locally.
STARGAZING
The Vikings gave the port of Ayr its name. AYR means ‘clear sky’. Prestwick Airport is in the shadow of Goatfell and is never affected by sea fog, rarely has ice on runway and receives very little snow. It’s the only airport in the country with a record like this. As a result, the holiday park is protected from many of these weather events. The park also has the benefit of being on the coast and adjacent to open land, therefore offering reasonably dark skies all year round. Of course, in Scotland you cannot guarantee the weather, but Scotland has some of the darkest skies in Europe and, due to our low lying location, you can see all 360 degrees of the night sky.
WILDLIFE
Red mullet shoals are often seen under the bridge. Honeybees buzz in the ivy, bunnies frolic at dusk, crickets sing and butterflies flutter in the long grasses as you walk to the beach. For the bird watcher we have swans, pheasants, curlew, pied wag-tails, magpies, waders, turns and robbins.
MONKS BAR
Monks Bar is right next to ‘The Monk’ - the 9th hole at Royal Troon Golf Course. The very cheerful Charles McGuire, the licence holder of Monks Bar, hosts a variety of acts throughout the season, on Friday and Saturday nights. Also BINGO on Friday (7-8pm), Saturday (7-8pm), and Sunday (4-5pm).
The bar was the ‘dance hall’ of the Mansion House and is hewn from the same red sandstone. With sprung flooring the ‘dance hall’ is very comfortable under foot, whilst the domed ceiling allows for excellent acoustics to support ‘every voice’. So do not be afraid to try out the karaoke! After a few of Charles’s cocktails we feel sure that you will sound amazing! Free WI FI, Sport on the television and coal fire blazing.
LOCAL FOOD
AYRSHIRE & ARRAN
Prestwick KA9 1JN
www.lido-prestwick.co.uk
Symington KA1 5QB
www.thewheatsheafsymington.co.uk
Ayr KA9 6EY
www.hollybushinn-ayrshire.co.uk
Arran KA27 8AJ
www.croftersmusicbar.com
Arran KA27 8AW
www.thedouglashotel.co.uk
PRESTWICK HOLIDAY PARK
PRESTWICK, AYRSHIRE SCOTLAND KA9 1UH |