Isle Of Arran Hotels

History

The Isle of Arran has been colonised by Bronze Age tribes, Gaels, Vikings and Scots, giving it a staggering amount of historical heritage to sift through. To experience some of the oldest remains of human civilisation, head to Machrie Moor and marvel at the six stone circles, some reaching five metres in height. If you travel to Blackwaterfoot you'll be able to find the King's Cave, said to have been a hiding place for Robert the Bruce during the 14th century. No trip to Scotland is complete without seeing a castle, and Brodick Castle is certainly an impressive specimen with a history dating back to the 13th century. As well as offering a chance to dive into history, the castle has expansive grounds to stroll through.

Walking

The Isle of Arran is a paradise for ramblers, walkers, trekkers and hikers. The rugged landscape is a joy to wander through, and there are paths for walkers of all abilities. Overlooking Brodick Castle is Goatfell, the highest point on the island with a peak of 874-metres. A great choice for hikers with a bit of experience, the view from the top offers spectacular views of not only the entirety of the island but also Jura, Ben Lomond and the coast of Ireland. The Arran Coastal Way is another challenging walk, stretching over 105km around the coast of the island. If you're not up for such an epic trek, the walk can be broken down and tackled in smaller sections.

Golf

Another classic Scottish pastime can be enjoyed on the Isle of Arran – golf. Where better to practice your swing then on a course surrounded by such exceptional natural beauty? There are seven courses on the island in total, as well as a driving range. The courses include the 9-hole Machrie Bay Golf Course, ideal for families, the 9-hole Lochranza Golf Course on the northwest of the island, and the Lamlash Golf Club that features breathtaking views of Goatfell.

Watersports

The amount of things to do on the land is matched by the activities you can enjoy in the sea. Whether you want to sail around the Kilbrannan Sound, learn to kayak around the coast or try your hand at windsurfing, there are plenty of watersports to enjoy. Lamlash Harbour is an ideal starting point for sailing trips, and the Lochranza anchorage has boating facilities as well as restaurants and pubs.

Where to stay in the Isle of Arran

Brodick: The heart of the island

Brodick is the bustling hub of the Isle of Arran and the perfect spot for those new to the island. Its convenient location near the ferry terminal makes travelling to and from the mainland a breeze. With a variety of shops and restaurants on hand, visitors can indulge in local cuisine or pick up a keepsake. This area offers a lively atmosphere without losing its charming island vibe, making it an ideal base for first-time visitors.

Lamlash: Tranquil coastal views

For those looking to unwind with a view, Lamlash offers scenic waterfront accommodation that promises relaxation. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a quiet escape, and the proximity to the enchanting Holy Isle adds an element of adventure. It's a spot where one can truly switch off and soak in the serene beauty of the coast.

Lochranza: A nature lover's paradise

Nestled in a picturesque valley, Lochranza is a dream for nature enthusiasts. It's a fantastic location for hiking and wildlife spotting, with trails that lead to stunning vistas. The presence of the nearby Lochranza Castle adds a touch of history and intrigue. It's a place where the natural world takes centre stage, offering a tranquil escape from modern life.

Blackwaterfoot: Best for beach access

If sandy toes and sea breezes are calling, Blackwaterfoot is the place to be. Known for its family-friendly sandy beaches, it's an ideal spot for those travelling with kids. The local golf course and attractions provide plenty of entertainment, all within the peaceful and scenic surroundings that make this area so special.

Whiting Bay: Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts

Whiting Bay is a hotspot for those who love the great outdoors. With easy access to walking trails and picturesque waterfalls, it's a paradise for hikers. The coastal views are spectacular, and there's plenty of opportunity for fishing. The vibrant local community adds a welcoming touch, making it a lively yet laid-back place to stay.

Kildonan: Secluded coastal retreat

For couples seeking privacy, Kildonan offers a secluded retreat with stunning sea views and breathtaking sunsets. It's the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle, with beautiful beaches providing the ideal setting for a romantic getaway. It's all about peace and privacy in this hidden gem on the island's coastline.

Shiskine: A golfer's dream

Golf enthusiasts will feel right at home in Shiskine, with its proximity to the renowned Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club. The peaceful rural setting is complemented by the local charm and hospitality, making it a welcoming area to relax and enjoy a round or two. It's a golfer's paradise with a touch of local flair.

Corrie: Authentic island experience

For an authentic taste of island life, Corrie offers a traditional village feel with all the convenience of being close to Brodick. It's a great base for exploring the northern part of the island, with its charming streets and local character. Corrie provides a genuine island experience with the added benefit of nearby amenities.

Must-sees in Arran

Nestled in the Firth of Clyde, the idyllic Isle of Arran lies just a short ferry ride away from the city of Glasgow. This picturesque island is often referred to as "Scotland in Miniature" due to its diverse landscape and rich history. From rugged mountains and golden beaches to tiny villages and ancient castles, Arran has something for everyone.

For nature lovers, the Isle of Arran offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes in all of Scotland. The jewel in its crown is undoubtedly Goat Fell, the highest peak on the island at 874 metres. A challenging yet rewarding hike to the summit rewards intrepid visitors with stunning views of the island and its surrounding seas. On a clear day, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the Mull of Kintyre and the Ayrshire coast. For a more leisurely stroll, head to the Machrie Moor Standing Stones, a mysterious Neolithic site surrounded by rolling green hills.

Visitors to the Isle of Arran should keep an eye out for its diverse wildlife, from red deer and golden eagles to seals and otters. And lucky nature enthusiasts may even spot a pod of dolphins or a basking shark in the surrounding waters. For a closer look at the island's marine life, take a boat tour from Brodick to take in the rugged coastline and its inhabitants.

History buffs will be in their element on Arran, with numerous ancient sites dotted across the island. The most iconic of these is the Brodick Castle, a grand 19th-century castle with a rich history dating back to the Vikings. Take a tour of the castle and its beautifully manicured gardens, or simply relax with a picnic on the estate grounds. Nearby, the Arran Heritage Museum is to be found, which offers a fascinating insight into the island's past through its collections of artefacts and exhibitions.

No trip to Arran is complete without a visit to one of its many small villages. Lamlash, with its picturesque seafront and independent shops, is a must-see. Stop by the famous Arran Art Gallery near Whiting Bay for a taste of the island's vibrant art scene. The village of Brodick, the largest on the island, is home to the Arran Brewery, where visitors can take a tour and sample some of their award-winning beers. And for a taste of traditional island life, head to the village of Blackwaterfoot and explore its unspoiled beaches and traditional local pubs.

One of the highlights of Arran is its delicious produce, which is showcased in its many farm shops and restaurants. The island is famous for its cheese, with the Arran Cheese Shop offering a variety of flavours to tantalise every cheese-lover’s taste buds. For a stronger tipple head to the Lochranza Distillery, which produces a range of hand-crafted whiskies using locally sourced ingredients.

Party and nightlife in Arran

Arran, often referred to as Scotland in Miniature, offers a variety of nightlife experiences that stand testimony to its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Night time activity thrives in places like Brodick and Lamlash, both of which are worth a visit when exploring Arran after sundown.

The nightlife scene of Brodick holds an indomitable charm. The gathering spot is the Ormidale Hotel, known for its live music sessions featuring a mix of talented artists and bands. An interesting collection of cocktails and Scottish beers add another layer of appeal to this venue.

In close proximity, one may also stumble upon the Wineport, a well-established joint famous for its range of malt whiskeys and fine ales. The warm, inviting ambiance pairs well with the stunning views of Arran's scenic coastline that can be enjoyed from the comfort of the outdoor seating area.

Lamlash, another vibrant night-time location, houses the popular Drift Inn. Known for its sporting events and the occasional live music session, the Drift Inn provides a casual space for patrons to relax and unwind. The establishment aims to showcase the distinctive character of Arran by offering a selection of locally brewed drinks that are sure to enhance the overall experience.

The Isle of Arran Brewery, located in the scenic locale of Cladach, near Brodick, is another night-time favourite. It boasts a refined selection of local ales, along with an accommodating atmosphere for those interested in delving deeper into Arran's beer culture. Offering tours and tastings, Arran Brewery presents an engaging experience of Scotland’s brewing art.

In addition to the pubs and inns, the nightlife in Arran includes year-round events such as music festivals, art gatherings and food festivals. The Arran Folk Festival, held annually in Brodick, is a notable event where one can experience traditional Scottish music.

Go shopping in Arran

Shopping in Arran gives visitors an insight into the local culture of this island on the west coast of Scotland. Local products and handicrafts form an integral part of Arran's shopping offering. Traditional Scottish tartan items such as scarves and kilts, crafted from locally sourced wool, constitute a large fraction of the souvenir market. Ceramics and pottery, handmade soaps and locally brewed ales and whiskies are other popular revenue-generating products from the local crafts market.

The Isle of Arran Cheese Shop, located close to the ferry terminal in Brodick, is especially renowned for its array of delicious artisanal cheeses. ARRAN Sense of Scotland, a brand famous for its luxury bath and beauty products, is also based on this island, with goods produced using natural ingredients unique to the region. The offerings of this store make for a perfect memento of the visit to Arran.