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Interest in properties in Prestwick has rocketed (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo) Along the rugged coastline of Scotland, nestled between the sweeping shores and the bustle of Ayrshire towns, Prestwick is more than a picturesque seaside retreat. At the heart of this town lies its celebrated high street — an eclectic blend of independent shops, cosy cafés, and unique eateries that encapsulate it’s enduring charm and economic vitality. In 2019, Prestwick earned the title of ‘Scottish Champion’ in the Great British High Street Awards. This success is deeply rooted in the distinctiveness of its independent boutiques and welcoming social spaces, which invite both locals and visitors to linger. But the town’s high street is not just a collection of retail outlets; it is a thriving social hub that has garnered acclaim for its vitality and community focus. Comment nowHave you been to Prestwick? Tell us what you think of itComment Now Inside Prestwick’s high street Daytime brings a gentle bustle, particularly attractive to older generations enjoying leisurely shopping and social chats at the high street’s numerous cafés. As dusk falls, the dynamic shifts — the street transforms into a lively nexus where younger crowds gather in vibrant pubs and restaurants, filling the air with conviviality and warmth. A key driver behind Prestwick’s celebrated high street is its deliberate avoidance of large department stores, fostering an environment where affordable rents enable small businesses to prosper. However, all is not without challenge. Increasing vacancy rates have raised concerns, as has the influx of vape and American sweet shops, reflecting changing retail dynamics. Prestwick’s independent businesses are a core part of the town (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo) The shadow of online shopping looms large as well, with local business owners worried about the palpable decline in footfall. In response to these pressures, the town has embraced strategies to sustain visitor engagement and support its high street. For example, free local parking for residents is a simple yet effective incentive to draw shoppers, underlining the delicate balance between convenience and community engagement required for small-town high streets to flourish. And beyond the hustle of retail and real estate, Prestwick invests deeply in its cultural fabric. The Broadway Cinema stands as a jewel of Art Deco architecture, a cherished landmark dating back to 1935. Recently acquired by a local community group dedicated to its restoration, the cinema represents the town’s wider commitment to safeguarding heritage while promoting social engagement and local pride. The town is famed for its golfing history (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo) Property prices in Prestwick Interest in moving to Prestwick has exploded in recent years. According to Rightmove, in 2023 Prestwick was among the fastest-selling house markets in the UK, with the average time to find a buyer just 14 days. The previous year, buyer enquiries for homes in Prestwick increased by a staggering 116%. Currently, the average house price in Prestwick hovers at £210,783 (according to Rightmove), significantly below the UK average of £273,000. And the town retains pockets of opportunity for discerning buyers. A prime example is a two-bedroom flat currently on the market for £90,000 on Newdykes Road, offering an accessible entry point into Prestwick’s attractive seaside lifestyle. This blend of rising values and affordable prospects continues to draw newcomers seeking a balance between charm, community, and economic value. Prestwick Beach is one of the town’s main attractions (Picture: Alamy Stock Photo) Other things to do in Prestwick The town’s most prominent natural attraction, Prestwick Beach, features a broad, golden stretch of sand ideal for leisurely walks and picnics. Visitors are treated to panoramic views of the Firth of Clyde and nearby islands that add to the tranquil seaside ambience. During the warmer months, the beach becomes a hub for water sports such as kite surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking, drawing thrill-seekers and marine enthusiasts alike. Meanwhile, Prestwick is renowned as the birthplace of the Open Championship, with Prestwick Golf Club attracting golf enthusiasts worldwide. Established in 1851, it is one of the oldest golf courses globally and has hosted multiple Open tournaments. Visitors can enjoy a round on its historic links course, walk the renowned fairways, or simply soak in its storied atmosphere from the clubhouse. For those seeking to explore further afield, Prestwick serves as an ideal base. The historic Ayr offers theatres, museums, and bustling shopping districts, while Culzean Castle, approximately 15 miles south, boasts stunning cliff-top gardens, stately halls, and woodland walks. The Isle of Arran, reached via ferry from nearby Ardrossan, is famed as ‘Scotland in Miniature’, offering rugged landscapes, castles, and charming villages. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@Metro.co.uk.
