About Arran

Discover the Isle of Arran for yourself

The Isle of Arran, often referred to as ‘Scotland in Miniature’, is a small island that captures many aspects of the variety and beauty of Scotland. It has mountains and lochs in the north, and rolling hills and meadows in the south, surrounded by a stunning coastline.

Activities

On Arran you might visit the whiskey distilleries, The Brodick Castle or the Lochranza Castle, the brewery or the museum. There is such a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy – hiking, climbing, mountain biking, fishing, sailing, kloofing, golfing and kayaking to name but a few.
There is a whole network of hiking trails, suited for every level of experience and ranging from beach walks to forestry paths. Discover the beautiful Lamlash waterfalls with your family or ‘walk up’ our towering Goatfell for a more challenging experience.

There are seven golf courses on the island, Shiskine being one of the limited 12 hole golf courses in the world.

There are a few bars, some with live music, restaurants and an eclectic variety of shops, many specializing in high quality local arts and crafts and locally produced food like cheese and our famous ice cream.

Not detracting from this variety, the Isle of Arran offers a chance to relax and shake off that urban buildup of stress.

History

Arran’s history dates back so far that it has become tangled in Celtic myths and legends of Scotland’s past. From the strange standing stones on Machrie Moor to the controversial history of Brodick Castle, from the very cave where Robert the Bruce may have encountered the spider to the stories of the murderer’s grave, come and discover it’s past by exploring the island.

Brodick Castle

The castle offers 800 years of history. There is a fabulous collection of valuable artefacts and art. Visit the botanical castle gardens with stunning views over Brodick Bay. The tour guides are passionate about their charge and will regale you with many a tall story or scary tale.

Arran Distilleries

We have two on the island, both being home to the Arran single malt whisky. Guests enjoy interesting and informative tours and tastings, witness the production and learn the secrets of whisky making. The epitaph is of course, to taste the nectar of the angels.