Shaw Monument
26 minute walk from Prestwick International Airport station · South West
The Shaw Monument is a round, 20-meter-high 18th-century structure located on rising ground in South Ayrshire. Interpreted as a folly, this category B listed building is constructed of mortared rubble masonry and is distinctive for its "crown-like" top.
The tower was likely built before 1775 as an observation point for hunting. One theory suggests a keen falconer built it to follow the sport from the top in his old age; a worn panel on the base appears to show a man holding a bird of prey. Alternatively, it may have been built for a local lady to view the chase in comfort.
Visitors can view this prominent monument from its elevated position overlooking the local area. While the internal spiral staircase is inaccessible, you can see the tower's cylindrical base, machicolated eaves, and the faint portrait panel.
Visitor information
- Place type
- Monument
- Good for
- Architecture, Historic monuments, Scenic viewpoints
- Characteristics
- Georgian, Hilltop, Listed
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- Not step-free
- Region
- South West
Stations within walking distance
- Prestwick International Airport station — 26 min walk, 2.2 km
- Prestwick Town station — 27 min walk, 2.1 km
Other places near Prestwick International Airport
- St Nicholas Church — 16 min walk from the station
- Prestwick St. Nicholas Golf Club — 31 min walk from the station
- Prestwick St. Cuthbert Golf Club — 32 min walk from the station
- Macrae's Monument — 43 min walk from the station