The Glasgow, Paisley, Kilmarnock and Ayr Railway opened its main line in stages.

That between Irvine and an "Ayr" station (at the site of the present-day Newton-on-Ayr) was opened on 5 August 1839.

[1][2] Monkton station was opened on the line from the outset, although probably spelt Monckton initially.

[3] It was located about a mile north of the present-day Prestwick International station, at the place where an overbridge carries a road to Monkton House.

[3] Reference to satellite images shows aviation fuel tank wagons in a siding at the former station, serving Prestwick airport.