Things To See And Do On Arran

Located in the Firth of Clyde’s mouth Arran (Isle of) is commonly referred to as “Scotland in miniature”.  Similar to the country of Scotland the Isle of Arran has and incredibly varied scenery and a richly diverse range of flora and fauna, the island features moors, sandy beaches, rocky coves, lochs, glens and even has a highlands and lowlands region. Completing the likeness the Isle of Arran also features standing stones, a distillery, castles, a brewery, museums and high-quality local crafts and produce. Arran is a superb vacation destination, especially for people who enjoy rambling or similar. In the following article I take a look at Isle of Arran local attractions and a quick look at hotels on the Isle of Arran.

Brodick Castle

Brodick Castle is an commanding red sandstone structure which in the past was owned by the dukes of Hamilton. Located some distance from the port of Brodick, surrounded by extremely pleasant parks and gardens Brodick Castle occupies the site of an ancient Viking fortress. Visiting the castle is a superb family day out kids will enjoy the adventure playground while older members of the family will enjoy the castle’s impressive collection of porcelain, paintings and silver. You should allow about two hours to explore the castle.

Arran Heritage Museum

Arran Heritage Museum is found, on the site of a school, in Brodick and is open from April-Oct from half past ten in the morning to half past four in the afternoon. Consisting of a selection buildings; a farmhouse, smiddy, croft (small farmstead) and cottage as well as milk house, stable, laundry, coach house and harness room and more. Exhibits reflect the social history, archaeology and geology of Arran.

Isle of Arran Distillery

Wherever you are situated in Scotland it seems as though are never far from something to do with the whisky industry such as a whisky distillery. The Isle of Arran Distillery employs traditional methods in Scotland’s newest distillery. The distillery is open to visitors from April-Oct and it has a visitor centre and restaurant.

Isle of Arran Brewery

The Isle of Arran Brewery is situated next to entrance to Brodick Country Park.  Visitors can watch the brewing process from observation windows and a viewing gallery as well as getting a taste of the end product. The small brewery utilises modern high-tech equipment to brew an ale using natural ingredients without adding artificial preservatives and additives.

Lochranza Castle

The final Arran attraction I wish to introduce is Lochranza Castle on the North coast. On first looks all you can see is a ruined sixteenth century towerhouse but it is possible to gain access to the interior using keys from the Post Office/local shop. Once you are inside the L-plan tower you begin to see hints of a grand structure.

Arran Accommodation

Finding the best accommodation on Arran should not be a huge task as Isle of Arran hotels can be found in most of the main villages/towns (Blackwaterfoot, Lamlash and Brodick all have the minimum of one hotel as well as guesthouse accommodation). Establishments to look out for include the Glenisle Hotel and the Lamlash Bay Hotel (in Lamlash), the Auchrannie Spa Resort (in Brodrick,) and the Best Western Kinloch Hotel (in Blackwaterfoot) which all have an excellent reputation.