Prestwick Golf Club: Cradle of The Open Championship
Historic Prestwick Golf Club, birthplace of The Open Championship and a timeless links challenge on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast.
Founded in 1851, Prestwick Golf Club is one of the oldest and most historically significant golf clubs in the world. Located in Prestwick, Scotland, it is renowned as the birthplace of The Open Championship, the world’s oldest major golf tournament. The club’s original 12-hole layout was designed by Old Tom Morris, a pioneering figure in golf course architecture. Prestwick remains a revered links course, blending rich heritage with a challenging playing experience.
A brief summary to Prestwick Golf Club
- 2-4 Links Rd, Prestwick, KA9 1QH, GB
- +441292477404
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Explore the stone cairn marking the first Open Championship tee shot, a key historic landmark on the course.
- Visit the clubhouse to see original 19th-century lockers and memorabilia celebrating Prestwick’s rich golfing heritage.
- Experience the unique challenge of Prestwick’s blind shots and natural dunes, requiring strategic play and skill.
- Check the club’s schedule for special events when the original 12-hole layout is occasionally reinstated for celebrations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to Prestwick Town Station from Glasgow or Ayr, with journey times ranging from 40 to 60 minutes. From the station, a taxi or local bus can reach Prestwick Golf Club in about 10 minutes. Train tickets cost approximately £8-£15 one way, depending on the departure point. Service frequency is regular but check schedules for weekends and holidays.
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Bus
Local bus services connect Prestwick Golf Club with Ayr and surrounding towns. Travel times vary between 20 and 40 minutes depending on the route. Buses run hourly during weekdays with reduced frequency on weekends. A single fare typically costs around £3-£5. Note that some routes may require a short walk on uneven terrain.
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Car
Driving to Prestwick Golf Club via the A79 or A77 takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Ayr or 45 minutes from Glasgow. Limited parking is available on-site, so early arrival is recommended, especially on weekends. Parking is free but spaces can fill quickly during events.
Prestwick Golf Club location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Prestwick Golf Club
Origins of a Golfing Landmark
Prestwick Golf Club was established on 2 July 1851 when 57 gentlemen gathered at the Red Lion Inn in Prestwick to form a formal golf club. Prior to this, golf was played informally on the links bordering the Ayrshire coast. The club’s first Captain was the 13th Earl of Eglinton. Prestwick’s creation marked a pivotal moment in golf history, formalizing play in a region that had long been a cradle for the sport. Two cottages opposite the inn were purchased; one became the clubhouse, and the other was given to Old Tom Morris, who became the Keeper of the Green and club and ball maker for the club.Old Tom Morris and Course Design
Old Tom Morris, a legendary figure in golf, was tasked with designing Prestwick’s original course. His approach was pioneering for the time, using natural features and terrain to define the 12-hole layout. Without modern earthmoving equipment, Morris selected sites for greens using feathers for markers, creating a course that challenged players to navigate sand dunes, humps, and hollows. This design philosophy emphasized skill and strategy, traits that remain central to Prestwick’s character. In 1882, the course was expanded to 18 holes, retaining many of Morris’s original holes and greens.The Birthplace of The Open Championship
Prestwick Golf Club is famously known as the birthplace of The Open Championship. The inaugural tournament was held on 17 October 1860, following the death of Allan Robertson, the era’s leading golfer. Eight professionals competed over three rounds of the 12-hole course for the Red Morocco Belt, a prize funded by club members. Willie Park Sr. won the first Open, setting a precedent for what would become golf’s oldest major championship. Prestwick hosted the Open 24 times, with the last championship held there in 1925. A stone cairn near the clubhouse marks the spot of the first tee shot, commemorating this historic event.Course Character and Legacy
Prestwick’s links course is renowned for its unique challenges, including blind shots and natural obstacles that test even experienced golfers. Each hole has a distinctive name, such as Railway, Cardinal, and Himalayas, reflecting the course’s rich heritage. The club has preserved many original features, including 19th-century lockers still in use. Prestwick’s historical significance is matched by its warm welcome and charismatic atmosphere, making it a pilgrimage site for golf enthusiasts worldwide.Modern Developments and Celebrations
The clubhouse has undergone several expansions since its initial construction in 1868, including a major redevelopment in 1999 that enhanced its position overlooking key holes. Prestwick continues to celebrate its heritage, occasionally recreating the original 12-hole layout for special events. The club maintains a strong connection to its roots, honoring figures like Old Tom Morris and commemorating milestones such as the 150th Open Championship.Prestwick’s Place in Golf History
Prestwick Golf Club's influence extends beyond its links. It played a critical role in shaping competitive golf and course design. The club’s archives hold treasured artifacts, including original scorecards documenting historic achievements like the first hole-in-one and albatross. Prestwick remains a symbol of golf’s origins and enduring traditions, embodying the spirit and challenge of the game’s earliest days.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ayr Citadel
4.4 km
Explore Ayr Citadel, a 17th-century hexagonal fortress by the sea, rich in history and coastal charm.
Wallace's Monument, Ayrshire “Burnweil”
6.6 km
A proud Ayrshire landmark honoring William Wallace, Scotland’s legendary hero of independence and bravery.
Trinity Church (Former)
12.9 km
A majestic Gothic Revival landmark showcasing Victorian ecclesiastical architecture and Irvine’s rich religious heritage.
Spirit of Scotland Monument
28.6 km
A towering steel silhouette honoring William Wallace and Scotland’s historic battles at Loudoun Hill, embodying the nation’s enduring spirit.
Kingscross Viking Fort
29.3 km
Discover the ancient Viking fort and burial mound at Kingscross Point, where history meets breathtaking coastal vistas on the Isle of Arran.
Wee Al's Bench
32.5 km
Breathtaking coastal vantage point where Arran's natural beauty meets centuries of island heritage.
Kelburn Castle and Estate
33.1 km
Discover the charm of Kelburn Castle and Estate, a historic Scottish gem with stunning gardens, vibrant art, and family-friendly adventures.
Lamlash Stone Circle
33.7 km
Ancient Neolithic gathering place where stone and sky converge on Arran's moorland.
Loch Doon Castle
33.9 km
A 13th-century island castle, dismantled and rebuilt on the shore of Loch Doon, with Bruce connections and stunning lochside views in Galloway Forest Park.
VisitScotland Brodick iCentre
34.0 km
Explore Arran's stunning landscapes and rich heritage from the VisitScotland Brodick iCentre, your gateway to unforgettable adventures on the Isle of Arran.
Original site of Loch Doon Castle
34.3 km
Discover the relocated medieval stronghold of Loch Doon Castle, a polygonal fortress with deep ties to Robert the Bruce and Scottish history.
Kenmure Hill Temple
34.4 km
Explore the tranquil Kenmure Hill Temple, a historical landmark offering stunning views of Castle Semple Loch and the surrounding beauty.
Largs Pencil Monument
34.5 km
Discover the Largs Pencil Monument, a towering tribute to Scottish heritage with stunning views of the Firth of Clyde and rich historical significance.
Clochoderick Stone
35.1 km
Discover the ancient Clochoderick Stone, a towering glacial erratic steeped in history and Scottish folklore near Johnstone.
Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park
35.2 km
Explore the historical splendor of Brodick Castle, surrounded by enchanting gardens and breathtaking landscapes on the Isle of Arran.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ayr River Estuary
4.0 km
Discover the tranquil Ayr River Estuary where rich wildlife, scenic coastal views, and historic Scottish heritage converge in a peaceful natural setting.
Carnegie Library
4.0 km
Historic Edwardian Renaissance library in Ayr, blending rich heritage with vibrant community learning and cultural activities.
Fullarton Fairy Trail
4.1 km
Discover the enchanting Fullarton Fairy Trail in Troon—a magical woodland walk filled with fairy doors, wooden carvings, and family-friendly play areas.
Craigie Park
4.1 km
A serene and vibrant green haven in Ayr, Craigie Park invites you to unwind amidst nature and community spirit.
Loudoun Hall
4.2 km
Discover Ayr’s oldest house, a beautifully preserved 16th-century merchant’s townhouse with royal history and stunning medieval architecture.
Auld Kirk Of Ayr
4.4 km
Discover Ayr’s historic Auld Kirk, a living church steeped in centuries of Scottish history and rich cultural heritage.
High St
4.4 km
Ayr’s High Street blends historic charm with vibrant shopping and dining, set against a stunning seaside backdrop.
The Wallace Tower
4.5 km
Discover the majestic Wallace Tower in Ayr, a historical monument celebrating Scotland's hero, Sir William Wallace, with stunning views and rich heritage.
Venue38
4.5 km
Ayr’s largest inclusive live music venue, where local talent shines and communities unite in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
Ayr Central
4.7 km
Ayr Central blends top fashion brands, speciality shops, and cosy cafes under one canopy roof in the heart of Ayr’s vibrant town centre.
Pirate Petes Scotland
4.8 km
A vibrant pirate-themed indoor playcentre in Ayr offering multi-level slides, climbing adventures, and family-friendly dining by the beach.
Robert Burns Statue
4.9 km
Ayr’s iconic Robert Burns Statue stands as a proud tribute to Scotland’s national poet, celebrating his lasting legacy in the heart of the town.
Ayr Beach
5.7 km
Ayr Beach offers family-friendly sandy shores with stunning island views, historic charm, and vibrant seaside fun on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast.
Barassie Beach
6.8 km
A peaceful sandy beach north of Troon with stunning views, watersports, and a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowds.
Rozelle Estate
7.2 km
A historic Ayr estate blending Georgian elegance, woodland serenity, and vibrant cultural treasures in a scenic public park.
Essential places to dine
The Vine
0.5 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Prestwick, serving seasonal dishes and cocktails from day to late night.
The ClockTower
4.2 km
A charming restaurant nestled in historic Auchincruive Estate, offering hearty meals and a cozy atmosphere in Ayr’s scenic countryside.
Arthur Street Kitchen (ASK)
4.5 km
A vibrant British cuisine restaurant in Ayr offering hearty dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great selection of wines and cocktails at moderate prices.
The Tree House
4.5 km
A vibrant modern British restaurant and bar in Ayr’s heart, featuring fresh local dishes and a hidden urban garden terrace.
Vista Bar & Restaurant
4.5 km
Contemporary dining with panoramic sea views and classic Scottish dishes at Ayr’s Horizon Hotel.
Stage Door Cafe
4.6 km
Cozy modern European cafe by Ayr’s Gaiety Theatre, serving fresh breakfasts and casual meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Tam O'Shanter Inn
4.6 km
Ayr’s oldest pub blending historic Scottish charm with hearty traditional fare, live music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Cecchini’s Italian restaurant
4.6 km
Authentic Tuscan flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Ayr at Cecchini’s Italian Restaurant.
Helen's Restaurant
4.7 km
Cozy Ayr eatery serving traditional British comfort food with friendly service and a welcoming, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Meridian Bier Cafe & Restaurant
4.9 km
A vibrant Ayr venue blending casual breakfasts, hearty pub fare, and world beers in a lively, welcoming atmosphere from dawn till midnight.
The Kylestrome Hotel & Restaurant
4.9 km
A modern, comfortable hotel with a celebrated restaurant in the heart of Ayr, offering easy access to local attractions and scenic riverside walks.
Mr Basrai's World Cuisine Ayr
5.0 km
A vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet in Ayr serving diverse global cuisines in a family-friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
The Drunken Coo
5.0 km
Savor expertly crafted steaks and western comfort food in a cozy, stylish setting at The Drunken Coo, Ayr’s beloved steakhouse.
The Fox & Willow
5.6 km
A stylish gastropub and boutique hotel in Ayr offering unique dome dining, creative cocktails, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Swan Restaurant - Troon
5.6 km
A welcoming British restaurant in Troon known for hearty classics, generous portions, and a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Emporium Boutique
0.4 km
Affordable, stylish womenswear in a relaxed, independent boutique on Prestwick’s Main Street – perfect for everyday looks and special occasions.
The Keekin' Glass
0.4 km
Discover quirky gifts and cheeky charm at The Keekin' Glass, Prestwick’s beloved boutique for unique treasures and joyful surprises.
Hidden Treasures
0.5 km
A charming boutique in Prestwick offering stylish ladies’ clothing, hats, and accessories in a warm, welcoming setting.
In The Mix
0.5 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local crafts at In The Mix, Prestwick’s charming boutique on Main Street.
Honeyman Boutique
4.3 km
Discover timeless bridal elegance at Diane Honeyman Boutique, Ayr’s premier destination for designer wedding gowns and accessories.
Om Store UK
4.3 km
Discover a serene metaphysical sanctuary in Ayr’s High Street, offering crystals, incense, and spiritual treasures for mindful living.
Branded Outlet Store
4.4 km
Explore unbeatable fashion deals at Branded Outlet Store in Ayr, where quality meets affordability for every style enthusiast.
I Do Ayr
4.4 km
A welcoming bridal boutique in Ayr offering inclusive, elegant wedding dresses and haute couture fashion with exceptional personal service.
Beau Beau Boutique
4.4 km
Discover unique, elegant dresses and personalized service at Beau Beau Boutique, a charming fashion gem in Ayr’s historic Sandgate district.
Keepsake Scotland
4.5 km
Ayr’s charming gift shop packed with Scottish souvenirs, quirky homewares, and unique keepsakes on the historic High Street.
Bonmarché
4.6 km
Discover stylish, affordable women's fashion with friendly service in the heart of Ayr's vibrant High Street shopping district.
BOOM!
4.6 km
Ayr’s vibrant gift and collectibles shop, packed with pop culture treasures from Harry Potter, Star Wars, Marvel, DC, and more.
Unique
4.6 km
Explore Unique in Ayr: Your go-to clothing shop for stylish, local fashion treasures.
Next
4.7 km
Next Ayr offers stylish, family-friendly fashion and accessories in the heart of Ayr Central, blending quality and convenience for all ages.
The Original Factory Shop (Ayr)
4.7 km
Affordable shopping for fashion, beauty, and home essentials in the heart of Ayr with unbeatable discounts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wee Mans Bar
3.8 km
Experience authentic Ayrshire hospitality and local flavors at The Wee Mans Bar, a cozy and historic pub in the heart of Ayr.
The Black Bull
4.1 km
Ayr’s oldest riverside pub, The Black Bull blends historic charm with lively entertainment and friendly local spirit.
Smugglers
4.2 km
Traditional Scottish pub with rustic charm, lively entertainment, and a welcoming atmosphere on Ayr’s historic harbourfront.
Anchor Bar
4.2 km
A welcoming, traditional seaside pub in Ayr offering hearty food, great drinks, and scenic harbor views at an affordable price.
The Fort Bar
4.2 km
A welcoming harbourside pub in Ayr offering friendly service, great drinks, and a cozy atmosphere steeped in Scottish tradition.
Willie Wastles Sports Bar & Restaurant
4.2 km
Lively sports bar and restaurant in Ayr with over 30 TVs, family and dog friendly, serving hearty meals and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Smoking Goat bar and grill
4.3 km
A vibrant basement bar and grill in Ayr offering award-winning ambiance, live entertainment, and diverse, inclusive dining options.
Billy Bridges Bar
4.3 km
Experience authentic Ayr nightlife with local ales, friendly vibes, and lively events at Billy Bridges Bar, your cozy Scottish pub retreat.
Wee Windaes
4.4 km
A cozy, traditional Scottish pub in Ayr offering warm hospitality, authentic atmosphere, and a welcoming local vibe.
Harleys Ayr
4.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming bar on Ayr’s High Street, perfect for lively nights and social gatherings with a modern, inviting atmosphere.
Christina's Bar
4.4 km
A friendly and affordable Scottish pub on Ayr’s Mill Street, offering hearty meals and a warm local atmosphere.
Mulligan's Ayr
4.5 km
A vibrant Irish sports bar in Ayr offering lively music, extensive drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages and tastes.
Tbar
4.5 km
A quirky and lively pub in Ayr offering excellent cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Smiths Bar
4.7 km
A lively Scottish pub and restaurant in Ayr offering home-cooked meals, premium drinks, live sports, and a spacious beer garden for all ages and dog lovers.
Wellingtons Lounge Bar
4.7 km
Step into Wellingtons Lounge Bar for handcrafted cocktails, live music, and a cozy 1920s vibe in the heart of Ayr’s vibrant social scene.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ayr Ex-Services Club
4.3 km
A friendly and lively social club in Ayrshire offering great music, community spirit, and vibrant weekend nights.
Printhouse Ayr
4.4 km
Experience Ayrshire’s vibrant nightlife and live music scene at Printhouse Ayr, where music and atmosphere unite for unforgettable nights.
Notion Ayr
4.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Notion Ayr, an exceptional events venue in the heart of Ayr, perfect for unforgettable social experiences.
Pitchers Bar and Nightclub
13.0 km
A vibrant and inclusive nightclub in Irvine’s heart, offering lively music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere until the early hours.
The Club
14.1 km
A vibrant nightlife hotspot in the heart of Kilmarnock, offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Skye Nightclub & Lounge
39.8 km
Energetic nightclub and lounge in East Kilbride offering vibrant nightlife, music, and drinks in a stylish setting.
Vienna's Nightclub
39.9 km
Experience Paisley’s vibrant nightlife at Vienna's Nightclub, where energetic music and lively crowds come alive every weekend.
Fantoosh
39.9 km
A lively, intimate nightclub in Paisley’s heart, perfect for energetic nights with friends and local beats.
Downtown Nightclub
39.9 km
Experience East Kilbride’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Downtown Nightclub, a hub of music, dancing, and late-night energy in the town centre.
Club 69 Paisley
40.6 km
Dive into Paisley’s legendary underground techno scene at Club 69, where pulsating beats and vibrant vibes keep the night alive.
The Shed
42.3 km
Dive into Shawlands' glitzy two-floor nightclub where chart bangers, R&B, hip-hop, and 80s cheese anthems fuel unpretentious Southside partying till the early hours.
Sub Club
45.6 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
45.6 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
45.6 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Club Tropicana & Venga
45.8 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
