Something for Everyone....

One of the most southerly Scottish islands, Arran’s history is rooted in Celtic myths and legends.Visit Brodick Castle and its turbulent past, explore the standing stones on Machrie Moor or find the cave where local legend suggests Robert the Bruce famously encountered the spider.

Or you could eat your way round the island – Arran is fast becoming a foodie destination with a reputation for excellent local produce. Take to the Arran Taste Trail and learn about traditional production techniques as well as sampling the malts, cheeses, beers and chocolates on offer.

Go horse-riding, play golf on one of the island’s 7 golf courses or get your boots on and climb Goatfell. Whether you choose to spend your day browsing craft shops or paragliding, Arran really does have something for everyone.

Walking in Arran

The Arran Coastal Way is an easy-going coastal walking trail that delivers the very best of Scottish island life to you.
The trail follows the perimeter of the beautiful Isle of Arran, often referred to as Scotland in miniature due to the variety of landscapes and attractions that it encompasses.
It covers 64 miles and can be walked over 4,5, 6 or 7 days. The walking is remarkably varied and highlights include the stunning coastal scenery, abundant bird and sea life, secluded coastal villages and a huge number of ancient and modern historical sites.
Developed by the local community The Arran Coastal Way is a relatively new walking trail and looks set to become one of the classic long distance walks in Scotland. A week on Arran will leave you invigorated and completely refreshed, having enjoyed a fascinating journey through this wonderful island.
* Visit the Tourist Information Centre in Brodick or the Ranger Centre at Brodick Castle for more information on walks around Arran.

Arran abounds in wildlife...

Interesting, diverse, flora and fauna, or, as an estate agent might say – there’s a wealth of wildlife. It’s an ornithologist’s paradise, a botanist’s heaven, a biologist’s nirvana.
The distinct geology, of course, provides many habitats for many species; Golden Eagles and Red Deer in the rugged mountainous North. The South of the island is more gentle with its topography, there is more farmland and more woodland providing shelter for Red Squirrels (there are no Grey Squirrels on Arran), Otters and Barn Owls; and Hen Harriers on Machrie Moor and at the top of the Ross Road, in fact, the largest population of Hen Harriers in the Kingdom. There are no foxes on the island, which might account for the rich variety of over 200 species of birds, although predatory feral mink and cats do some damage to the bird population. On the crossing from Ardrossan you’ll have the chance to see about 30 different kinds of seabirds. Keep your eyes peeled both on and off the ferry and you’ll see some (or perhaps all!) of the species pictured opposite, amongst many more.