travel around arran

4-Day Isle Of Arran Itinerary

Categories Ayrshire & Arran , Scottish Islands

For a breathtaking and unique holiday experience, consider visiting the Isle of Arran off Scotland’s West Coast. This Scottish Island, just off the mainland, boasts a wealth of natural beauty and adventure.

Table of Contents

With four days off from work, you’ll have the perfect amount of time to explore and experience all the island has to offer.

From scenic hikes to quaint villages and stunning beaches, we have put together an itinerary that has got you covered.

Therefore, get ready to embark on a journey and prepare your bags and camera, as I guide you through our four-day trip to the striking Isle of Arran!

Jamie from Love Arran has created this unique Isle of Arran itinerary, showing you how to best spend an extended weekend on the island.

Love Arran is a free online guide to the ‘Gem of the Clyde’, ‘Scotland in Miniature’, and arguably the most beautiful island in Europe, the Isle of Arran.

Drive the circuit around Arran

Once you roll off the ferry and arrive in Brodick , your adventure on the island truly begins. To begin your Arran adventure, I recommend taking a leisurely trip up the East Coast to North Arran .

The scenic drive up the east coast takes you past Glen Rosa and the majestic Brodick Castle , which sits on a hilltop surrounded by lush greenery.

As you continue the drive you pass through Corrie and then Sannox Bay . We stopped here for a picnic and a walk along the sandy beach.

As you continue along the east coast road it winds up and over to the hamlet of Lochranza which is surrounded by rugged hills and glistening water.

In the centre of Lochranza is the iconic castle ruin . It’s a great spot to pause and take in the glorious surroundings.

Take your time making your way around the island; there is a lot to see and do. Allow at least 5 hours for this activity, however, you can easily make this activity last a full day!

Walk with the animals at Arran Alpacas

Begin your day with a visit to Balmichael Farm and one of the Island’s most recent attractions, Arran Alpacas .

Arran Alpacas offer trekking and farm experiences, where you to get up close and personal with these gentle creatures.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by one of the friendly staff and learnt about the history and care of the alpacas. We then got introduced to each alpaca personally.

We were assigned an alpaca, and participated in a truly unique experience: walking the alpacas through the lush Arran countryside.

The Alpacas are well-behaved and docile, making the walk a relaxed and peaceful experience (apart from a few grass-eating diversions).

As we strolled along I was amazed at the bond you build with these fascinating creatures and by the end, I felt like I had made a lifelong friend.

The visit to Arran Alpacas was an unforgettable experience for my kids and is the perfect activity for animal lovers.

Read more: A Dog-Friendly Guide To The Isle of Arran

Lochranza Distillery Tour

For our afternoon activity, we headed to the Lochranza Distillery for a whisky distillery tour.

Before we got started we enjoyed a delicious lunch at the café, featuring local and seasonal ingredients. Delicious!

After lunch, we embarked on a tour of the distillery, learning about the production process and the history of whisky making in Scotland.

We saw the copper stills, the malt barn, and the ageing warehouses- where the whisky is matured to perfection.

A tour of this distillery is essential for anyone interested in learning about the production of whiskey and the local culture.

For more information on booking a distillery tour, visit the Isle of Arran Distillery website .

Make time to relax

After a busy day of exploring, there’s nothing like returning to your accommodation to relax.

An important aspect of visiting Scotland’s islands is making time to slow down and just be. We took a relaxing stroll along the rocky beach and enjoyed the exquisite views over the Sound of Kilbrannan .

This peaceful stroll was a great way to wind down after a busy day and appreciate the beauty of the Isle of Arran.

Later in the evening, we decided to treat ourselves to a delicious meal at the Lighthouse Restaurant in Pirnmill .

With its charming atmosphere and mouth-watering menu, the Lighthouse Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a delicious meal of the finest Scottish fare. This restaurant is family-run and it’s also BYO.

After the meal, we returned to the cottage and finished off the night with a dram of whisky in front of the open fire.

For details and ideas of other places to eat on the island check out these recommended restaurants on Arran .

Arran Brewery Tour

For the afternoon, I signed up for the award-winning Isle of Arran Brewery Tour.

For this element of the trip, I had to leave my wife and kids exploring the grounds of the castle as the tour is strictly for over 18s only.

The tour takes you behind the scenes of the island’s most popular brewery, where you’ll learn all about the brewing process, the history of the brewery, and the secrets behind the signature flavours of their beers.

During the tour, I got to see the brewery’s equipment up close and learnt about the different ingredients and techniques used to make each beer. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who is passionate about beer and the brewing process and he was able to answer all my questions.

Should you wish, you can also sample a selection of their beers, so you can taste the difference between the various styles and see what you like best.

Lunch at Little Rock Café Brodick

The Little Rock Cafe in Brodick is an Arran staple. Located close to the shore with views of the coast and north Arran mountain range, this cafe is worth stopping by for lunch.

Little Rock Cafe offer a variety of delectable dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re craving a hearty meal, a fresh salad, or a warm bowl of soup, there is something for everyone’s palate.

We opted for a takeaway and found a peaceful bench with a view of the bay, Brodick Castle , and Goatfell . This serene setting, surrounded by nature and the sound of the waves, was the perfect spot to enjoy our meal.

Glenashdale Falls Walk

There are many lovely walks and hikes on Arran to enjoy. One I recommend is the walk to Glenashdale Falls in Whiting Bay.

This walking trail is surrounded by towering trees in places and leads you through the lush forests of Arran. The well-defined path makes it a suitable hike for individuals of all ages and abilities.

As we got closer to the falls, the sound of rushing water became more pronounced, and upon arrival, we were greeted with a stunning sight. The Glenashdale Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into a clear and rocky pool. The mist from the falls creates an enchanting atmosphere and the sound of the water is incredibly peaceful.

We recommend a visit and take a moment to savour the view. Don’t forget to capture it with your camera, as this is a moment worth cherishing forever.

Kilmory, Fairy Trail Walk

After a leisurely breakfast and packing up the car we took a trip to Kilmory in South Arran to find the Kilmory Fairy Trail. This was a charming but short trail through the magical fairy woods of Kilmory.

This walk is great for families with children, as they can search for hidden fairy features and let their imaginations run wild.

We extended the walk to the Torrylin Cairn and the local beach, where we strolled alongside the waves and took a moment to reflect on all of the amazing experiences we had during our visit to the Isle of Arran.

Brodick Castle and Gardens

Brodick Castle was re-built sometime during the 16th-century and further extended in 1843 to form the castle as we see it now. There was a fortress onsite centuries prior to the 16th-century.

You can take a tour of the castle to learn about its fascinating past and see the many antique furnishings and works of art. The castle also has a wonderful collection of paintings and tapestries, as well as a beautiful Victorian garden.

We took a stroll through the gardens, where you’ll see a huge variety of flowers, trees and shrubs that bloom throughout the year. Several walking trails take you through the gardens, offering stunning angles of the castle and the surrounding countryside.

My kids loved the huge adventure playground, where they let their imaginations run wild. We enjoyed our lunch at the picnic area in the centre of the play area and enjoyed a cup of coffee whilst the kids ran off and explored the giant wooden fort.

This trip to Brodick Castle and Gardens will leave you feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready to continue your adventures on the Isle of Arran.

For details and ideas of activities to do on the island check out these activities on Arran .

How To Get To The Isle of Arran

To get to the Isle of Arran, you must catch the ferry. The ferry operator is Caledonian MacBrayne ( CalMac for short) and you can purchase your tickets online . You can take a car across on the ferry, and dogs can travel on the ferry too! It’s advisable to purchase your tickets in advance, particularly if you are taking a car, because they can sell out.

There are two routes that you can take to get to Arran:

• Ardrossan to Brodick (55 minutes)
• Claonaig to Lochranza (30 minutes)

Ardrossan to Brodick is traditionally the more popular route. It takes approximately 2 hours to get to the Ardrossan ferry terminal from Edinburgh , and 45 minutes from Glasgow .

If you are travelling by public transport, there are excellent links to reach the Ardrossan ferry terminal by bus and train. CalMac has public transport information on their website.

The ferry is equipped with all the necessary amenities to make the journey comfortable and enjoyable. Grab a bacon roll at the café and enjoy the views as you sail towards Arran!

Accommodation on Arran

For this trip, we stayed in a self-catering cottage in the small village of Pirnmill , located on the northwest side of the island. The views from the property were spectacular with the rocky Pirnmill beach and the Kintyre Peninsula across the water in the distance.

There are some great self-catering options on Arran , as well as hotels, bed and breakfasts, and glamping.

If you go with a self-catering option, there is a Scotmid (supermarket) in Brodick where you can get your food supplies. You can also eat like a local and pick up some ingredients from the Arran Cheese Shop .

For even more information on the Isle of Arran and to plan your next visit, be sure to check out Love Arran .

Related posts

• Scottish Isles

The beautiful Isle of Arran in Scotland has the perfect combination of everything you want from a holiday destination. You can experience a gorgeous coastline with sandy beaches, hike up dramatic mountains, and even attend local festivals. There’s no doubt that there are an extraordinary amount of things to do in Arran.

The isle is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and is often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature” because many of the beautiful landscapes of the Scottish Mainland can all be found on Arran.

In This Post

Things to do in Arran

There are so many things to do in Arran, Scotland, that it’s daunting deciding how exactly you should plan your holiday there. Our comprehensive list of the top things to do in Arran will help you plan your trip!

Caledonian MacBrayne

Getting to the Island of Arran is an easy venture thanks to the public transport and ferry terminal operated by Caledonian MacBrayne.

Whoever said travel is the worst part of your vacation has never been on one of the beautiful ferry rides offered by Caledonian MacBrayne. Gorgeous views of Machrie Bay and Brodick Bay greet you as you make your way to Arran’s north and south shore.

Enjoy a splendid ride aboard public transport as you have never experienced before when you travel to the island of Arran.

Brodick Castle and Country Park

One of the most famed attractions on the north side of Arran is Brodick Castle and Country Park. This magnificent Castle is surrounded by gardens, waterfalls, and expansive woodlands, which make it of the most beautiful places to visit while on Arran.

The Castle is owned by the National Trust of Scotland and holds a collection of artefacts that would delight any keen historian.

You can venture into the Castle and enjoy the enhanced visitor experience with mood lighting, visual exhibits, and a Victorian arcade! History buffs will enjoy browsing through the history of the Castle’s period furniture, silverware, and paintings.

This quintessential Castle makes for a great day with the family while you’re on the Isle of Arran. You will get sucked into its detailed past in no time.

Island Cheese Company

A visit to the Island Cheese Company on the Isle of Arran will awaken your inner turophile and make you want to taste all of the Company’s finest cheddars and relishes.

This shop is situated on a former dairy farm and creates almost 1500 cheeses daily with a diligent hand-made process that creates only the most high-quality cheese.

You won’t want to stop trying the tasty local produce you can only experience while visiting the Island Cheese Company on the Isle of Arran.

Brodick Bay

Enjoy an afternoon on the east coast on the Isle of Arran when you visit the sublime Brodick Bay, a serene bay with stunning views of Goatfell, gently rolling waves, and sounds of nature.

Come to Brodick Bay to spend some time watching the sun across the sky as you soak in its rays and experience peace away from the bustling towns of Scotland.

This beautiful bay is flanked by Brodick Castle at its north end and the pretty village of Brodick on its south end, making it the perfect picnic spot on your journey between attractions.

You won’t regret including this bay in your day trips. It’s the best way to get the whole family together for a calming day in the sun!

Lochranza Distillery

The Lochranza Distillery, or Arran Distillery, has been brewing some of the finest Scotch single malt whisky right on the northern half of the Isle of Arran since 1995.

This Lochranza Distillery uses water filtered naturally over several waterfalls, the best grain from the Scottish islands, and a thorough ageing process that treats the senses unlike anywhere else in Mainland Scotland.

The Lochranza Distillery offers informative tours for small groups at their world-class facilities and an engaging selection of whisky tastings at their cafe during the festive season.

As you’re heading north, a visit to Lochranza Distillery is what the doctor ordered for whisky enthusiasts or anyone who wants a deeper look into the distilling process.

Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

Founded in 1976, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is one of the best ways to learn about the history, archaeology, genealogy, and fascinating geology of the Isle of Arran.

Explore the grand displays from the Bronze age, trace your Scottish heritage, or see recreated exhibits of early island life. At the same time, you visit this amazing location that prides itself on maintaining the rich history of the Isle of Arran.

Don’t miss out on this authentic look into the area’s deep heritage as you travel around the beautiful island of Arran in Scotland.

Kildonan Beach

You’ll find the picturesque Kildonan Beach right on the end of the southern half of Arran. Considered by many visitors to be one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, you can enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Scottish islands, the Kintyre Peninsula, and the coast beyond it.

When the sea level is low, the waves recede and give you ample room to explore the low tide pools and make the most of the dazzling sunlight. You may be lucky enough to be graced with the presence of local seals who love to lounge on the beach just as much as you do!

With other spectacular scenery in the area, like Kildonan Castle, and luxury self-catering accommodation, Kildonan Beach in South Arran is the perfect way to end a long day of travel.

Machrie Moor Standing Stones

Near the west coast of Arran, a visit to the Machrie Moor stone circles will no doubt fill you with curiosity and intrigue as you marvel at these over 6000-year-old stone circles.

It’s theorised that this particular attraction was the centre of many rituals in the Neolithic period, but no one truly knows the purpose of the Machrie moor standing stones for certain.

Don’t miss out on one of the most peculiar attractions on the west coast of Arran, whose mystery will draw you in and make you wonder what secrets it hides.

Lamlash Golf Club

One of Lamlash’s foremost attractions, the Lamlash Golf Club offers you the opportunity to tee off at one of the best golf courses on the Isle of Arran.

Lamlash is considered the largest village on Arran and holds a golf course that offers stunning views of the nearby Kintyre Peninsula and the north shore of Mainland Scotland.

The 18-hole golf course boasts splendid views of Lamlash Bay and the surrounding coast & wilderness, while the natural sloping terrain of Arran provides a great challenge to those that truly want to test their mettle.

Don’t miss out on the Club’s cafe and restaurant after spending a fruitful day lowering your handicap on some of the best golf courses on Arran.

Experience a one-of-a-kind golf course while you’re in Arran, only available at the Lamlash Golf Club.

The Drift Inn is one of the best places to enjoy a wide variety of excellent seafood and grill.

The Inn prides itself on using the freshest local produce, which ensures a rotating selection of the best fish from the coast of Arran, fruit & vegetables, and venison.

The Drift Inn is one of several restaurants and bars on the island’s south end. From its distinct blue benches, you can see the gorgeous views of the bay and the distant Holy Isle.

A quick trip to the Drift Inn is a must while on the Isle of Arran. It’s a dining experience you won’t soon forget.

North Sannox Pony Trekking

North Sannox Pony Trekking is a family-owned farm that offers one of the best ways to explore the countryside landscapes of Arran. Live out your ranger fantasies as you wander the green pasture trails of Arran while riding some of the most well-behaved horses & ponies on Arran.

You can choose to explore the wilderness for up to 2 hours and capture the many beautiful sights and vistas that are only able to be reached while on horseback.

You won’t regret spending some time with friends and family riding through Arran in Scotland when you visit North Sannox Pony Trekking.

Sannox Beach

One of the more tranquil and secluded beaches on the north-east side of the Island of Arran is Sannox Beach — a perfect place to appreciate the sandy shore, gently rolling waves, and picturesque horizon of the island.

Sannox Beach is easily accessible through a variety of footpaths that lead you to this hidden gem of Arran. Its location allows you and your family to enjoy a private day together away from the sights and sounds of the city.

While visiting the grand Sannox Bay, make some time for the beautiful Sannox Beach as well.

Stags Pavillion

For those who crave a hearty meal on their journey through Arran and Scotland, travel no further than the traditional Stags Pavillion in the heart of Lochranza.

This delectable restaurant venue boasts classic British and Scottish foods like lamb, soups, mussels, and venison. This is paired with a fine selection of local brews and impeccable service, so you’re likely to make more than one trip to this excellent culinary attraction.

Stags Pavillion is worth going out of your way for, but you’ll likely stop by while visiting the beautiful village of Lochranza, so make a reservation as soon as possible.

King’s Cave

As you head out to the west coast of Arran, be sure to stop by King’s Cave. This seafront cave was said to be used as a church in the 18th century and a refuge for King Robert the Bruce. It’s now one of the highlighted Arran destinations near Blackwaterfoot.

Within the cave’s iron-gated entrance, you can hear the amplified crashing waves of the ocean behind you. Within, legends mention that this was where Robert the Bruce swore to try and retake the throne after watching a spider succeed in connecting its thread to a cave wall after many failed attempts.

Take a quick detour while on Arran’s west coast and see one of the most fascinating historical sites while visiting the island.

Blackwaterfoot Beach

Nothing quite beats the sunset views of Blackwaterfoot Beach, an experience heralded as one of the most romantic while you’re on the west coast of Arran in Scotland.

The sandy beaches of Blackwaterfoot offer uncontested views of the ocean and beyond, which acts like a mirror that reflects the setting sun and forms a sun path that urges you to walk down it.

The village of Blackwaterfoot is also perfect to stay in while visiting Arran, with a tennis club, two hotels, and gorgeous coastal views!

This beach on the southwest coast of Arran is perfect for couples on holiday who want to spend some time together amidst beautiful landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere.

Sitting snuggly within Lamlash Bay on the east side of Arran, the Holy Isle is a special place to visit while travelling around the island. The holy island prides itself on being the centre for world peace and health, offering a variety of retreats and courses to those who want to set aside some time and regather their lost calm and serenity.

These retreats and courses promote Buddhism, meditation exercises, yoga, and mindfulness, which aim to rebalance the mind, soul, and body in a world that is adept at disrupting them.

You can even experience the wonders found in the Saint Molaise Cave, where the Christian saint was said to be hidden in the 6th century.

The Holy Island can be visited to take one of their excellent retreats and courses, but it’s said that simply visiting the beautiful holy island is enough to calm and reassure you while you’re on holiday.

The staggering Goatfell is the tallest mountain in all of Arran. It is part of a mountain range that dominates the northern half of Arran, towering at nearly a kilometre tall.

For budding hikers, climbing this summit takes about 2 to 5 hours, so you should set aside an entire morning. Be sure to take short breaks. The views from the top of the summit are sublime and make the hiking and climbing to reach it worth every single step.

You can experience a wide range of wildlife as you climb, from walking amongst red squirrels to watching golden eagles soar near the beautiful summit of Goatfell.

The name comes from the Scottish word for Goat Mountains, but there is no amusing folktale of how a goat fell off these mountains to entertain guests by the fireside.

Nevertheless, Goatfell is one of the most visited destinations in Arran and allows for a view of the entire island once you make the trek up its sides.

Arran Art Gallery

If you fell in love with the Isle of Arran while on holiday, a trip to the Arran Art Gallery is the perfect place to take something home to remember your journey.

The Gallery has a collection of Arran’s beautiful moments on canvas by highly talented artists from the Island. Your purchase funds the growth of artistry in Arran and is an excellent cause to support while browsing through the many fine artworks.

Speak to the small friendly team of art appreciators who run the gallery about what you’re looking for and ask about anything else about the beautiful artwork on display.

The Arran Art Gallery is the perfect way to commemorate your journey through this beautiful south Scottish island.

COAST Marine Discovery Centre

A perfect outing with the family, the COAST (Community of Arran Seabed Trust) Centre found in Lamlash provides the best combination of learning and entertainment your child could ever want.

At the Centre, you can explore the amazing sea life of the Island of Arran, even with the option to touch a number of the flora and smaller fauna in certain exhibits.

The COAST Centre is the perfect location to enjoy with family and friends and offers an opportunity to discover the incredible wildlife hidden in the ocean surrounding the island of Arran in south Scotland.

If you want an expert guiding your route through Arran and the ability to traverse even the rockiest terrain the island has to offer, look no further than the Mogabout. This large offroad vehicle-based tour takes you all over Arran in the most exciting way possible.

The Mogabout tour team is a crew of guides that will give you the hidden knowledge of sights in the north and south of Arran that only a local would know. Learn about the fascinating history, Gaelic culture, and intriguing geology while you summit hills and rugged coastline in their offroad behemoth of a vehicle.

You will likely never get the opportunity to experience north and south Arran like you will aboard the Mogabout, so don’t miss your chance.

Arran Outdoor Centre

You can find the amazing Arran Outdoor Centre in Lamlash, East Arran, with its unique and eye-catching built-for-purpose facilities.

The Centre offers incredible ways to experience the outdoors: hiking trails, abseiling, sailing, canoeing, team-based challenges, and even more exhilarating activities!

You’ll find a supportive community at the Outdoor Centre, with experienced people that will guide you every single step of the way through the outdoor activities you will face throughout your time at the outdoor centre.

If you’re feeling adventurous, come and visit the Arran Outdoor Centre in Lamlash.

Taste of Arran

For premium tasty local produce, look no further than a visit to the Taste of Arran. Savour the finest collection of cheeses, chocolates, cold cuts, and ice cream, all with a local twist.

When you experience the big tastes from this small Scottish island, you’ll no doubt want to take a few samples with you wherever you’re heading next.

The Taste of Arran is part of a collective of shops along with Arran Butcher and more, so you’re always in good hands on the island’s north or south side!

The ingredients used in each of the amazing selections that Taste of Arran offers are collected from the island’s produce, livestock, and farms and made passionately by local artisans.

While you’re visiting the Island of Arran, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not seeing and sampling one of the lovely Taste of Arran shops in Scotland. We highly recommend the delectable Torrylinn Creamery!

One of the most popular walking trails on the Isle of Arran is Glen Rosa, a 5-mile loop that takes you through some of the most stunning views of the mountain ranges around Arran, including the towering Goatfell.

You’ll want to carve out an entire morning or evening for this spectacular route since the guided walks can take between two to three hours to traverse. It’s well worth the endeavour as, along with the sights of the trail, you will also see the beautiful Blue Pool & Waterfall, a popular destination to take a swim in after the long trail.

If you’re in the mood for more entrancing walks after Glen Rosa, you should try the hidden Glen Iorsa near Goatfell.

Glen Rosa shows off the natural beauty of the rugged Arran island terrain in a way that you can’t experience anywhere else on the island.

Giants’ Graves

Just above Whiting Bay in south Arran is one of the most fascinating Neolithic cairns known as the Giants’ Graves. These massive ancient tombs evoke imagery of slumbering giants laid to rest in their stone beds.

You can admire these bits of south Arran’s ancient history as you explore the woodland forests on marked paths, which give stunning views of Whiting Bay and the natural beauty that Arran offers.

The Giants’ Graves mark a side of history that is rarely seen on the island, along with a mythical twist, and should be one of your must-see destinations while you’re here.

Eas Mor is one of the most dramatic waterfalls you’ll see, dropping from a staggering height into the pool below. This is one attraction that you won’t want to miss while you’re on Arran.

The walking trail up to Eas More (sometimes called Paradise Falls) is easy and perfect for visitors who are more interested in seeing sights rather than being bogged down by travel.

Travelling and seeing the beauty of Paradise Falls is one of the highlights of the natural beauty found on Arran, so make sure to spend some time revelling in these sights.

Kingcross Viking Fort

If you want to immerse yourself in the bygone era of Vikings and conquest, look no further than the Kingcross Viking Fort near Lamlash Bay.

This viewpoint grants amazing views of Lamlash, Whiting Bay, and Holy Isle while offering you an insight into the tactical advantages such a place could’ve given Vikings.

Marked by a burial cairn, the viewpoint also boasts traditional Viking burial mounds and teaches those who come across this hidden gem a little bit about how the Vikings laid claim throughout the Isle of Arran.

This Viking Fort is one of the hidden Island of Arran destinations, so consider yourself one of the lucky few who can experience its magical atmosphere when you visit the Fort.

Rosa Burn Ducks

Near Brodick Castle is an incredible opportunity to spend time with the local ducks, geese, red squirrels, and swans of Arran. This attraction is easy to miss, so keep an eye out while you’re in the area for an unforgettable experience.

The ducks populate the ponds and woodlands year-round, with other seasonal visitors like swans and geese appearing at specific parts of the year.

The Rosa Burn Ducks are the perfect attraction to enjoy with children and are sure to brighten up your day for whatever you tackle next!

Whiting Bay Beach

If you’re in the mood for a beach day while vacationing on the small island of Arran, look no further than Whiting Bay Beach. This beautiful sandy beach offers a little something for everyone who visits. Surfing, walking, and swimming are all fantastic ways to spend time here at Bay Beach.

You can stop by and enjoy the expansive shallow bay at one of the cafes near the beach, or bring a picnic basket yourself and have a day out with the whole family. The Bay also offers a look into the wildlife of Arran, such as the beautiful golden eagles.

Whiting Bay Beach is the perfect destination to enjoy the gorgeous sunny days that the island of Arran offers, so don’t miss out on this sublime experience when the sun is out.

Other Things To Do in Scottish Isles

• Things to do in Brodick
• Things to do in Harris
• Things to do in Islay
• Things to do in Isle of Lewis
• Things to do in Isle of Mull
• Things to do in Isle of Skye
• Things to do in Kirkwall
• Things to do in North & South Uist
• Things to do in Orkney
• Things to do in Portree
• Things to do in Shetland
• Things to do in Stornoway

Graham Grieve

Support this blog 💙.

Arran Coastal Way & A841 Visitor Guide

The Arran Coastal Way is a circular, long-distance route around the Isle of Arran on Scotland’s west coast. Though challenging, this 65-mile (105 km) trail rewards visitors with stunning views from start to finish, and there are plenty of opportunities to visit nearby attractions as you make your way around the island.

Those attempting the Arran Coastal Way are free to join the route wherever they choose, but the most popular starting point is the A841 near the ferry terminal at Brodick. The route is broken into 8 separate sections, each of which is between 5 and 10 miles in length and comprises terrain that varies from beach to pavement and forest track.

Arran is one of Scotland’s most popular tourist destinations, and with good reason. The island lies on the west coast of Scotland in the Firth of Clyde, so it’s easily reached from Glasgow, with a drive from the city centre to the ferry terminal at Ardrossan taking less than one hour outside of rush hour.

Arran is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde at 167 square miles, and it’s a popular destination for both cyclists and hikers due to the Highland Boundary Fault which runs from the southwest to the northeast. The fault line is the reason why the north side is mountainous and the south side is flat, making a visit to Arran perfect for visiotrs looking for a varied mix of scenery.

In my opinion, the best way to explore the island is to follow the Arran Coastal Way , which combines the best of both the ring road and the island’s off-road trails on a circular route that covers a challenging but rewarding 65 miles. While the route doesn’t head into the mountain range, you’ll be able to explore the stunning coastline as well as take occasional diversions inland to enjoy the island’s beautiful forests.

There are two main start and end points for the Arran Coastal Way: Brodick and Lochranza , which are the departure points for ferry services that operate between the mainland and the northern and eastern sides of the island. You’re obviously free to join the route at any point, but due to the fact that Brodick is the most-used port, it also tends to be the starting point for the majority of cyclists and walkers.

Signage is good at every stage of the trail, and there are a number of maps available online, but to be honest, Arran isn’t exactly the biggest island in Scotland, so there’s practically no chance of getting lost.

The Arran Coastal Way is broken down into 8 separate sections between 5 and 10 miles in length, each of which follows a variety of paths that vary from flat pavements to steep, rocky scrambles around the coastline. The majority of people shouldn’t have any problems following these trails, but for anyone who isn’t confident walking long distances, I suggest sticking to the sections on the A841 ring road.

Just be aware that outside of the villages there are very few pavements, so care must be taken to avoid traffic. That being said, there are grass verges along the roadside that can be stepped onto, and the road is dual-lane, so passing vehicles should have plenty of room to veer around you.

The 8 sections of the Arran Coastal Way are broken down into the sections listed in the table below which will give you an indication of distances and terrain types. I won’t go into further details, as you’ll find more information on the Arran Coastal Way website and the Walk Highlands website . Both are good resources, but the latter has accompanying photos of each stage, which are useful to help you get your bearings.

The Highlights

1: The Arran Coastal Way is a 65-mile (105 km) trek that offers an incredible array of natural sights. As walkers travel around the island, they can expect to see rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and sheltered bays. While some sections can be cycled, much of the Arran Coastal Way is best enjoyed on foot over the course of several days.

2: The coastline on the south of the island is exceptionally pretty, but the north isn’t far behind, especially around Sannox and Lochranza . This section of the coastline is one of the nicest parts of the island as it deviates from the ring road and gives an opportunity to see some amazing marine wildlife, including dolphins and basking sharks.

3: Arran is steeped in history, and along the Coastal Way, hikers will encounter ancient standing stones and burial cairns, as well as Brodick Castle, a 13th-century fortress with beautiful gardens.

Visiting Tips

1: My personal recommendation is to take it slow and follow the route over several days so you can make the most of the scenery. There’s no right or wrong direction, but I started the route from Brodick to Lochranza, which heads past the two biggest highlights of the island: Brodick Castle and Goatfell .

2: If it’s your first time on the island, I highly recommend picking up an Arran Coastal Way map and guidebook (Amazon link) before leaving home, as there are dozens of attractions that are worth visiting as you follow the route.

3: Arran is an ideal destination for cyclists thanks to the ferries at Ardrossan and Claonaig on the mainland, which sail into Brodick. Day tickets are around £10 for foot passengers with a bike, so for a memorable ride, you might consider starting at Brodick, heading south, and then pedalling back up around the west coast to Lochranza to catch a ferry and continue around the Campbeltown peninsula.

Tourist Information

The scenery at every stage of the A841 is stunning, and while I couldn’t really place one section above another, if I were pushed, I’d probably say the southern coastline is a wee bit nicer than the north. The south of the island was one of the first marine conservation areas in Europe, so the sea is absolutely crystal clear down there, which means there’s a very good chance of seeing otters and other marine wildlife as you make your way around the coastline.

Arran’s beaches are mostly shingle, so I’d leave your bucket and spade at home, but you might consider packing your swimming gear if the weather is warm enough. Lamlash Bay, which is a few miles south of Brodick and protected from the Firth of Clyde by the Holy Isle, is an ideal spot for swimming, though it’s best to keep near the shore as there are strong currents further out.

If you’re visiting Arran as a day tripper, you might like to ride around the ring road rather than walk the Arran Coastal Way, as the entire perimeter of the island can be completed in under six hours on two wheels. Those looking for a slightly longer adventure can add more miles to the route by cutting across ‘The String’, which bisects the middle of the island from east to west, and cycling a figure-eight circuit instead of following the A841’s oval.

Alternatively, you could separately tackle the north and south sections of the trail over a couple of days, which would give you more time to enjoy attractions like the Machrie Moor standing stones on the west coast and Brodick Castle on the east.

Be aware, though, that the east coast from Brodick towards Lochranza is quite steep, so you’ll need to plan extra time to complete that section. Once at Lochranza, I recommend walking around the eastern coastline to follow the Lochranza Coastal Trail which leads to the Fairy Dell, a stunning setting at the foot of a hill that sees few tourists.

If you have a mountain bike, meanwhile, I recommend heading to the south of the island, mainly for the trails that run into Glenashdale Wood, west of Whiting Bay. The coniferous forest there is vast and is (at least when I visited) almost entirely tourist-free, so it makes a nice diversion away from the camper vans on the A841.

Things to Do

Visit Brodick Castle: As you leave Brodick you might like to take a detour to see the castle, a historic landmark nestled amongst stunning gardens and woodland. The castle boasts a rich history, with artefacts dating back to the Vikings.

Admire Goatfell Mountain: At 874 meters, Goatfell is the highest point on the island, offering breathtaking views across Arran and the Firth of Clyde. You’ll see the mountain as you follow the route on the northeast side of Arran.

Wildlife Watching at Lochranza: Lochranza, located on the northernmost point of Arran, is renowned for its wildlife-watching opportunities where visitors can see red deer, seals, and an array of bird species. You might even spot golden eagles soaring overhead.

Explore the Machrie Moor Stones: Walk back in time with a detour to the Machrie Moor Stone Circles. These Bronze Age standing stones offer a fascinating insight into the island’s ancient past, set amidst a dramatic landscape of moorland and rolling hills.

Relax at Kildonan Beach. Kildonan Beach is the perfect place to take a break from the Arran Coastal Way. Its golden sands, clear waters, and views of Pladda Island create a peaceful atmosphere. It’s also a great spot for seal-watching, adding a touch of wildlife adventure to your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the arran coastal way.

The Arran Coastal Way is a 65-mile (105-kilometre) circular route that runs around the perimeter of the Isle of Arran.

How long does it take to walk around Arran?

Walking the Arran Coastal Way will take between 6 and 8 days, depending on fitness levels. The 56-mile circular ring road around Arran will take road cyclists of reasonable fitness levels around six hours to complete. In about 2 hours, a car can complete the same route.

What is the route around the Arran Coastal Way?

Brodick to Sannox: 12 km/7.5 miles. Sannox to Lochranza: 15.5 km/9.5 miles. Lochranza to Imachar: 14.5 km (9 miles). Imachar to Blackwaterfoot: 16 km/10 miles. Blackwaterfoot to Lagg: 11 km (7 miles). Lagg to Whiting Bay: 15 km/9.5 miles. Whiting Bay to Lamlash: 9 km/5.5 miles. Lamlash to Brodick: 8 km (5 miles).

How hard is the Arran Coastal Way?

The Arran Coastal Way is considered moderate to challenging. It’s approximately 65 miles long and can be completed in 7 days. It involves a variety of terrain, including forest paths, beach walking, and some rocky sections.

Some parts of the route may require scrambling skills, especially in the southern half of the island. The weather can also add to the challenge. It’s crucial to be well-prepared with the right equipment, maps, and knowledge of the route.

Related Posts

Brodick Visitor Guide

Isle of Arran Forests Visitor Guide

Holy Isle Visitor Guide

Brodick Castle Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Guide to Scotland’s Isle of Arran

Love Arran aims to be “The Ultimate Guide to Scotland’s Isle of Arran”, written by Jamie Allan to provide you with comprehensive information and insider tips for your perfect Arran adventure.

HELPING WANDERERS FIND JOY ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLE OF ARRAN!

LATEST ARTICLES

Blackwater Bakehouse: Experience Baked Excellence in Blackwaterfoot

Petrol Stations on Arran: Your Ultimate Guide

Tides Reach, Lamlash: Discover Lamlash’s Coastal Comforts

Discover Arandel Manse Road, Brodick: Your Ultimate Isle of Arran Retreat

WHAT IS LOVE ARRAN? AND WHO IS IT FOR?

Love Arran (lovearran.com) is a free guide to the ‘Gem of the Clyde’, ‘Scotland in Miniature’, arguably the most beautiful island in Europe, the Isle of Arran.

Love Arran is brought to you by Jamie Allan a blogger with over 20 years of experience visiting and enjoying the best the Island has to offer.

The Isle of Arran has of many wonderful landscapes from stunning highland areas with towering mountain peaks and sweeping moorland to peaceful woodland glens and lowland areas with rolling hills and farmland.

If you are looking to find out more about the Isle of Arran or are planning a visit and need some ideas on things to do and places to visit, then please enjoy this unique guide.

Jamie will help you find places to stay, shop and eat as well as advise you on the best walks, rides, and activities to undertake during your stay.

READERS FAVOURITES

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit: 23 Thrilling Things to Experience on the Enchanting Isle of Arran

Glenashdale Falls and Giants Graves, Walk, Whiting Bay

Island Porcelain Arran: Where Nature and Craftsmanship Converge

The Wineport Bar and Bistro: A Triumph of Culinary Delights at the Gateway of Goatfell

Who is jamie allan.

Jamie is a blogger based in Edinburgh who one day woke up and decided to write a blog.

An engineer by trade but a wanderer by nature. Jamie has taken it upon himself to share his love of the Isle of Arran with you!

Jamie has a passion for exploring, hiking and mountain bike riding and so decided to base the Love Arran website around these.

Love Arran has grown and now covers all things Arran.

Things to do, where to go, places to eat, you will find them all at lovearran.com.

“In the heart of the waves, where the sea meets the sky, lies the Isle of Arran — a sanctuary Scotland’s of rugged beauty and timeless grace. Embrace the echoes of its ancient hills, dance with the whispers of its winds, for on this enchanted isle, dreams take flight and resilience finds its shore.”

Anonymous 2023

HOW IT WORKS!

Love Arran offers an in-depth look at what this great island has to offer.

The guide is split into the following sections:

From basic campsites to luxury hotels find the best places to stay when visiting the island.

Find everything you require to make your stay on the island the best. From groceries to souvenirs we have got you covered.

ACTIVITIES   ARRAN

Need some inspiration about where to go and what to see? Find some of the island’s highlights here.

Find your new favourite restaurant for an extravagant night out or a lovely café to enjoy the food and spend some time.

Find the best walks and hiking trails on the island and get exploring the great outdoors.

Take your bike and enjoy the best rides on the island, circumnavigate Arran or take a cross-country route the choice is yours.

OK, LET’S GET STARTED PLANNING YOUR TRIP.

FIRST THINGS FIRST, 

HOW DO WE GET TO THE ISLAND?… 

Travelling to the Picturesque Isle of Arran

Arriving by train:.

If you are making your way to the Isle of Arran by rail there are excellent rail links east, west, north and south between Glasgow and most parts of the UK.

 Once you get to Glasgow there are direct and frequent train services between Glasgow Central and Ardrossan Harbour.

For the best prices on rail travel in the UK we recommend that you check out trainline.com to help you book and plan your journey:  www.thetrainline.com .

Once you get to Ardrossan Harbour you are just a ferry away from reaching Brodick on the Isle of Arran.  To the calmac ferry….

Arriving by air:

If you are travelling to the Isle of Arran, Scotland by air, internationally, we suggest that you fly into one of Glasgow’s two main airport’s 

Glasgow International Airport (GLA) or  Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK)

Upon arrival in Scotland train services are available to take you to the ferry terminal in Ardrossan.

Shuttle buses can take you from Glasgow International Airport directly to Paisley Gilmour Street Train Station, where you can take a train to at Ardrossan.

Glasgow Prestwick (PIK) Airport has its own rail station with services to the station at Kilwinning, where you can change train for Ardrossan.

From Ardrossan Harbour Train Station you are just a short bus ride away from the port. 

Alternatively, taxis are readily available to take you to directly to Ardrossan Harbour (although this may be more expensive)

Once you get to Ardrossan Harbour you are just a ferry crossing away from reaching Brodick on the Isle of Arran.  To the ferry….

Arriving by car:

The UK’s network of motorways, and other major roads means that Ardrossan can easily be reached by car, possibly via the M6/M74 (from London to Glasgow) and M77/A77 (from Glasgow to Ardrossan).

For road travel we recommend the use of Google Maps  to help you plan your journey.

Once you get to Ardrossan you are just a ferry crossing away from reaching Brodick on the Isle of Arran.  To the CalMac ferry….

The Ferry to the Arran:

The ferry from Ardrossan to Brodick on the Arran is provided by Caledonian MacBrayne, Hebridean and Clyde (Calmac Ferries) and a ticket can be bought directly from their site:

www.calmac.co.uk/destinations/arran

Leaving the Ardrossan ferry terminal the crossing over to the island takes approximately an hour with a destination of Arran Ferry Terminal in Brodick.

It is recommended that you book in advance with CalMac Ferries –  www.calmac.co.uk  

Calmac ferries offer its service in both the winter and summer months and the winter and summer timetables are available on the website.

The ferry service from Ardrossan serves foot passengers as well as being a car ferry.

Note: YOU MUST BOOK IN ADVANCE IF YOU ARE PLANNING TO BRING YOUR CAR!

Also, ensure that you have your route map planned well in advance to ensure that you are at Ardrossan ferry terminal in plenty of time to check in for your departure.

As an alternative, there are two ferries operated by CalMac that go to Arran on two routes the Ardrossan ferry and another ferry that sail from Claonaig in Kintyre, on the mainland, and sails to Lochranza on the north end of the Island. 

RIGHT, NOW YOU ARE ON THE ISLAND , 

HOW DO WE GET AROUND?… 

TRANSPORT ON ARRAN

Travel by bus:.

Uncover details of Isle of Arran’s bus service, linking stunning landscapes and historic sites. Our guide ensures an optimal experience when exploring the island’s wonders.

Travel by Taxi:

Arran’s taxi services offer convenient and customizable transportation. Our guide simplifies your taxi options, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience on the Isle of Arran.

Travel by car:

If you prefer the freedom of driving your own car or the convenience, you may bring it on the ferry or hire one once you arrive.  Arran offers both options to explore the island.

Travel by Bike:

Want to explore the Isle of Arran on two wheels, whether you bring your own bike or opt to hire one on the island? Take a trip along the fantastic cycling routes and stunning scenery.

VILLAGES ON THE ISLAND

The Isle of Arran is home to some of the most charming and picturesque villages in Scotland. Each village has its own unique personality and offers visitors a chance to experience the best of Scottish culture, history, and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll on the beach, a challenging hike in the hills or a taste of local delicacies, the villages of Arran have got you covered.

Nestled on the shore of the Isle of Arran, lies the picturesque town of Lamlash. Its natural beauty is truly breath-taking, the sea and the coastal landscape provide a perfect habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. But it’s not just the natural surroundings that make this town special, the community here is warm and welcoming.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities including swimming, walking and cycling along the coastline, as well as exploring the local shops, restaurants and pubs. In Lamlash, one can truly immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Scotland and experience the unique culture and traditions of this charming town.

Brodick is a charming seaside town located on the Isle of Arran, off the west coast of Scotland. Known for its stunning views and rich history, Brodick has something to offer everyone. The town is home to the impressive Brodick Castle and Country Park, which offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the region and enjoy the beautiful gardens. Visitors can also explore the local shops and restaurants, which offer a wide range of local specialities and delicacies. For those looking for outdoor activities, Brodick is a popular destination for hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching. The nearby Goat fell mountain is a must-see for hikers and offers panoramic views of the island. Overall, Brodick is a unique and exciting destination that visitors will not want to miss.

Kildonan is a small, historic village located on the south coast of the Isle of Arran. Known for its stunning coastal views, Kildonan has a rich history dating back to the early medieval period. Visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient Kildonan Chapel, which dates back to the 12th century, and learn about the area’s rich religious and cultural history. For outdoor enthusiasts, Kildonan is a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching, with the nearby Kildonan Hills offering beautiful panoramic views of the island. The village is also home to a beautiful sandy beach and a small harbour, where visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing and boating. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Kildonan has a couple of local pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy local specialities and socialize with the friendly locals. Overall, Kildonan is a peaceful, secluded destination that offers a unique and memorable experience.

Corrie is a quaint, coastal village tucked away on the North-East corner of the Isle of Arran. Known for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views, Corrie is the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The village is home to many outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, and the nearby Corrie Hills offer some of the best panoramic views of the island. Visitors can also explore the local shops and restaurants, which offer an array of local delicacies and specialities. With its peaceful and secluded atmosphere, Corrie is a destination that offers visitors a truly unique and unforgettable experience.  

BLACKWATERFOOT

Blackwaterfoot is a charming seaside village located on the west coast of the Isle of Arran. Known for its picturesque views and friendly community, Blackwaterfoot has a rich history and plenty of activities to offer visitors. The village boasts a lovely beach, perfect for a refreshing swim or a relaxing stroll, as well as a variety of outdoor pursuits such as hiking and cycling. Visitors can also explore the local shops, restaurants, and pubs where they can enjoy local specialties and socialize with the friendly locals. For history buffs, Blackwaterfoot has a unique history with an old golf course and an ancient standing stone, which date back to the early 18th century. Overall, Blackwaterfoot is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and enjoyable Scottish experience, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the island and experience the local culture.

Lochranza is a quaint village located on the north coast of the Isle of Arran. Known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere, Lochranza is a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in nature. The village is home to a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, with the nearby Lochranza Hills offering beautiful panoramic views of the island. Visitors can also explore the local shops, restaurants, and pubs where they can enjoy local specialties and socialize with the friendly locals. For history buffs, Lochranza is home to the ruins of the Lochranza Castle, which dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about the area’s rich history. Additionally, Lochranza is known for its whisky distillery, where visitors can take a tour and learn about the whisky-making process. Overall, Lochranza is a peaceful and secluded destination that offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience, where visitors can explore both nature and history.

Holy Isle is a small, peaceful island located just off the coast of the Isle of Arran, Scotland. Known for its stunning natural beauty and rich spiritual history, Holy Isle is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique and meaningful experience. The island is home to a Buddhist Centre and visitors can participate in meditation retreats, attend teachings and lectures, and explore the beautiful surroundings. The island also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and swimming. Visitors can also explore the local shops, which offer a wide range of local specialities and delicacies. For history buffs, Holy Isle has a rich history dating back to the early medieval period, and visitors can explore the ruins of the ancient monastery, which dates back to the 5th century. Overall, Holy Isle is a destination that offers visitors a unique combination of natural beauty, spiritual contemplation, and historical exploration.

Shiskine is a hidden gem, located in the southwest of the Isle of Arran. Surrounded by nature, this small village boasts breathtaking coastal views and a serene atmosphere that makes it the perfect getaway from the daily grind. Visitors can immerse themselves in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife watching, taking in the panoramic views from the nearby Shiskine Hills. The village also offers a variety of local shops and restaurants, where visitors can indulge in delicious local specialities and delicacies. Though small, Shiskine holds a rich history dating back to medieval times, making it a unique and unforgettable destination for those interested in exploring the past. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Shiskine has something for everyone.

30+ Best things to do on Arran

The Isle of Arran off the west coast of Scotland is an ideal weekend getaway from Glasgow. Home to. the mountain of Goatfell , beautiful glens like Glen Rosa and lots of beautiful Arran beaches , this island is most definitely picturesque and it also has a certain quietness to it.

Oh, and there are so many awesome things to do on Arran too making it a great place to visit Scotland.

On a recent trip to visit friends living in Glasgow , we headed out to the Isle of Arran for hiking and adventure. Then, while we were living in Scotland as part of our year in travel we returned to Arran with (thankfully) nicer weather, to explore further.

The Isle of Arran is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde. It’s often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature” since so many of the beautiful Scottish landscapes you can see can also be found on the Isle of Arran itself.

With an ever-changing coastline, rugged mountains, and a great local food scene, what more could you ask for?

If you’re looking for things to do on Arran and things to do on Arran without a car, then check out this travel guide to the Isle of Arran.

Table of Contents

Map of what to do on Arran Scotland

Below you’ll find a map of all my favorite things to do Arran has to offer. From castles to beaches, hikes, and more, you’ll find it all on the map below.

Simply click on the image ( or here ) and it’ll load up into a Google Map which you can use on your phone or laptop. as you’re planning your trip.

Best things to do on Arran

When it comes to what to do in Arran the best things are outdoors while enjoying the beautiful surroundings on this island. However, there are also some great historical sites on Arran and food.

Below is the complete list of my recommendations for the best things to do on Isle of Arran.

1. Hike Goatfell on Arran

We hiked Goatfell on our trip to Arran with friends and came back down through Glen Rosa (see more below) for the full Arran experience.

Goatfell is the highest peak on Arran at 874 m high. The most common way to walk up Goatfell on Arran is to start from Brodick Castle and the round trip can take about 6 hours since there’s a fair bit of elevation and it’s quite a long way.

You can read more about hiking Goatfell Arran here – I think it’s definitely one of the best things to do on the Isle of Arran!

2. Visit the standing stones, Arran

The Machrie Moor Standing Stones on Arran are six stone circles in amongst the moorland which are said to hold the secrets of the past. Dating back to 3500 – 1500 BC, the tallest standing stone reaches 5 m high!

The original stone circles were made of timber but have since been replaced with these stone slabs that stand upright.

While we can never be 100% certain of how these circles got here and why they were erected, it’s known that they have been used for religious rituals and burials.

The walk to Machrie Moor Standing Stones takes about 25 minutes each way and entrance is free. The car park for the standing stones on Arran is north of Blackwaterfoot on the western coast of Arran. You can also get the bus here from the ferry terminal and that takes about an hour.

3. Lochranza Castle

Lochranza Castle is in a truly beautiful area that’s a skinny peninsula on the northern part of Arran which is particularly mountainous.

The castle was once used as a royal hunting lodge and dates back to the 13th Century. In the 1500s it was converted into an L-shaped tower house and then abandoned in the 18th Century. Now it’s owned by Historic Environment Scotland.

• Entrance fees : Free
• Opening hours: 9.30 am to 5:30 pm, 1 April to 30 September

4. Brodick Castle and Country Park

There’s another great castle on Arran and Brodick Castle is perhaps even more impressive than Lochranza Castle in part due to its backdrop of Goatfell.

Brodick Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions on Arran and it’s easy to spend most of your day on Arran here.

Brodick as you see it today was constructed in 1844 and there’s plenty to explore during your trip to Arran.

There’s an opulent interior full of Victorian artefacts as well as beautiful gardens and even an adventure playground if you’re visiting Arran with kids.

Make sure you visit the Summer House which has a ceiling made of pine cones!

• Entrance fees: Adult: £14.50, Child: £8.50, Family: £38.50,
• Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm, daily
• Top tip: This is a National Trust Property and if you’re a member of the National Trust (in England, Scotland or Wales) entrance is free!

5. Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

Learn about the history, geology, and the island’s way of life at the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum .

The museum building itself used to be a croft and a smiddy, and now there are various displays about the island, personal items from history, and even a model Viking galley.

If you have family history from the Isle of Arran you can even trace your ancestry in the Genealogy section.

• Entrance fees: Adults £5, children £3.
• Opening hours: 10:30 am – 4:30 pm from 15th March to the end of October. Closed over winter.

Explore more hikes on Arran

While Goatfell is the tallest mountain on Arran, there are plenty of other hikes and walks on Arran to explore.

The walking trails are generally well-marked and easy to follow (even easier with one of these hiking apps !) and there are mountain peaks, beaches, beautiful pools, and moors to discover.

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

6. Glen Sannox Walk

Glenn Sannox will have you mesmerized by the mountains surrounding it.

The walk through the glen is about 5 km miles long and takes an hour or less to do. It’s pretty easy without any big elevation gain and so it’s great for a family walk on Arran.

The Glen Sannox walk starts from the bus stop in Sannox from where you’ll cross the road and follow the trail until you reach a crossing with large stones. Have fun crossing the stones and then head back to the trailhead.

7. Giants’ Grave and Glenashadale Falls (Eas a’ Chrannaig)

On the southern tip of the island is Eas Mor Falls (or Glenashdale Falls or Eas a’ Chrannaig Falls) which is a great walk with some impressive waterfalls to see too! The waterfalls are 45 m high making them one of the highest waterfalls in the UK!

Visiting these waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Arran on a sunny day and you can take a circular walk of about 5 km or 1 – 2 hours.

Along the way, you’ll walk through the woods and come across several viewing platforms from which you can view the waterfalls from various different angles. The last one has the best views!

You can also combine the falls with a circular walk to the Giant’s Graves. The Giants’ Graves are what’s left of two Neolithic chambered tombs. Local legend says the giants buried the bodies of their victims here!

There’s a bit of a climb on this 5 km hike and you get views of both Glenashadale Falls and Holy Isle (see below).

Start at Whiting Bay and park at Ashdale Bridge and make your way uphill through woodland towards a viewpoint of the falls. To continue up to the Giants Graves site from the falls, make a left at the waterfall viewpoint.

8. Coire Fhionn Lochan

Coire Fhionn Lochan is one of the most picturesque spots on the isle of Arran and is a beautiful loch nestled in the mountains yet near the sea.

The walk to Coire Fhionn Lochan starts in Thunderguy and it’s quite steep in places but the views are beautiful and well worth the effort.

The water in the loch is very clear and perfect for a refreshing dip!

9. Discover beaches on Arran

There are so many beautiful beaches on Arran and they’re one of the main reasons people visit Arran, especially in the summer.

All the beaches on Arran are different and some have mountain backdrops which (in my view) make them even more impressive.

Some of the best beaches on Arran are:

• Sannox Bay: Amazing pink(ish) sand.
• Blackwaterfoot Beach
• Whiting Bay
• Catacol: translucent water and smooth pebbles which are great for skimming and cute fishermen cottages known as The Twelves Apostles.
• Imachar: Unusual rock formations and beautiful blue water
• Brodick Bay: Great for spotting seals and views of Goatfell and one of the best things to do in Brodick.
• Lamlash Beach
• Kildonan Beach: right at the southern tip with pale sands and a lighthouse!

10. Visit Holy Isle near Arran

Holy Isle is a unique place. It’s said St Molaise lived on the island near the end of the 6th century and the island holds a rich, spiritual heritage.

Today the island is home to The Centre which is a ‘centre for world peace and health’.

The Centre is a project led by a Tibetan Buddhist meditation master which holds workshops and retreats throughout the year.

You can also stay here independently but there are no shops on the Holy Island so you’ll need to take everything you need for your stay with you.

One of the best things to do on the Holy Isle is to walk to the summit of Mullach Mor. You might see Eriskay ponies, sheep and goats along the way! You can also walk the Holy Island walk which goes all the way around the island and it’s just under 7 km long.

The ferry to Holy Isle goes from Lamlash and should be booked in advance.

11. Try SUP or kayaking on Arran

The water around Arran is pretty tempting since it’s so clear! If you’re visiting Arran during the summer then I’d definitely recommend getting out onto the water!

There are full and half-day sea kayaking trips offered with Kayak Arran , Arran Outdoor Centre , and Otter’s Tail Adventures in Lamlash Bay.

You could even kayak over to Holy Isle (above)!

12. Shop at Arran Sense of Scotland

Arran Sense of Scotland is a great shop on the Isle of Arran that sells goods that make perfect souvenirs.

Arran Aromatics has cruelty-free bath and body lotions and home fragrances. Getting a scented good from Arran Sense of Scotland is the ideal way to remember your getaway to Arran!

13. Go wild swimming on Arran

If you’re looking for the best wild swimming spots in the UK , then check out the Blue Pool in Glen Rosa!

Glen Rosa is absolutely beautiful (we saw some rutting stags there in September) and this swimming spot is gorgeous.

To get there is pretty easy and you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountains all around.

Enjoy taking a dip in this natural plunge pool which is definitely refreshing!

14. Visit the King’s Caves

One of the more unusual things to do on Arran is to visit the King’s Caves. I mean, where else are you going to find this as an activity?!

You can take an easy 2-hour walk out to the seafront King’s Caves on Arran near Blackwaterfoot.

You’ll start by going down through the forest and navigating some steep sections before coming out at a series of caves in the sandstone cliffs.

The “King’s cave” has a huge iron gate there which was put there to protect the pre-Christian carvings found but it’s now open to explore.

15. Wander through Glen Rosa

Mentioned earlier as both a return loop from Goatfell and a place to go wild swimming, Glen Rosa is well worth visiting on Arran.

It’s an easy hike that can be done as an 8.5 km walk that starts at the Cladash Visitor Centre. You’ll start on the Goatfell path, then walk through a forest before coming out into the moorlands of Glen Rosa.

The whole loop can take 3-4 hours to complete so make sure you pack snacks and/or lunch, and a towel if you’re planning on wild swimming in the Blue Pool!

16. Walk the Coastal Way on Arran

The Arran Coastal Way is an epic walking route of 105 km that follows the beautiful coastline the whole way around Arran.

You can take on the Coastal Way over the course of a week, or just do sections of it each time you visit Arran.

There is a bus service that goes around the island and can drop you (or pick you up) at the chosen spots for hiking in sections. Some of the recommended shorter options are:

• Brodick to Sannox via Goatfell (15.5 km – 6 to 8 hours)
• Sannox to Lochranza (15.75 km – 5 to 6 hours)
• Whiting Bay to Brodick (19.25 km – 6 to 7 hours)
• Blackwaterfoot to Lagg (12.25 km – 4 to 5 hours)

17. Mountain biking on Arran

Besides road cycling in Arran, mountain biking on Arran is becoming more and more popular.

There are so many trails to explore on two wheels and it can be an exhilarating way to explore.

If you have your own mountain bike, don’t forget to bring it with you on the ferry to Arran. Otherwise, you can take a half-day or full-day mountain biking session with Arran Outdoor Centre . This saves you from having to figure out which trail is best for you since your guide will take your skills into account to plan something fun for you.

18. Arran Art Gallery

Take home a piece of Arran to hang on your wall after your visit to the Arran Art Gallery .

Inside the gallery, you can find pieces from many of the artists who live on the island.

You can find glasswork, sculptures, and jewellery amongst other mediums at the art gallery too.

It’s a great option for what to do on Isle of Arran in the rain as there’s a cute cafe there too.

• Opening hours: 10 am – 5 pm (Thurs-Mon only over winter)

19. Kingcross Viking Fort

Another cool thing to do on Arran is to visit the Kingcross Viking Fort viewpoint.

From the Viking Fort, you’ll get great views of Holy Isle and Lamlash and be able to imagine you’re a Viking yourself looking out for invaders.

The viewpoint is marked by a burial cairn (stack of stones) and there are also burial mounds here as well as informational signs to learn more.

20. Go pony trekking on Arran

North Sannox pony trekking is a family-run horse trekking center on the northeast of the Isle of Arran.

If you’re not much of a hiker but still want to explore the outdoors (or just like ponies!) then going pony trekking on Arran is a fun way to see the trails on the island.

You can go on 30-minute treks to 1 and 2-hour treks through the countryside surrounding the farm and the views are beautiful!

21. Visit The Library on Arran at the Forest of Falls

This was one of the most unique places to visit in Isle of Arran that we came across and also one of the coolest.

The Forest of Falls has some great walking trails where you’ll go through a beautiful forested area, see some tall waterfalls and come across The Library.

This isn’t just any library, it’s a hut in the woods where the walls are covered in drawings, notes, and poems from people who’ve visited before. Add your own or just spend some time reading others’.

Where to drink and eat on Arran

Arran is known for its local produce and there are plenty of local businesses on Arran that showcase the island’s ingredients in the form of tasty food.

Some of these places are listed below as the best places to eat on Arran.

22. Arran Ice Cream

Arran Ice Cream can be found in eateries across the island.

The milk for the ice cream comes from the dairy in Brodick so it’s super local. The flavours are unique and include Scottish Tablet, Arran Gold Blent with the local distillery’s cream liqueur, and all the classics too.

I’m not a fan of whisky usually, but it was really good in ice cream!

The Parlour in Brodick has the full range on display!

23. Isle of Arran Distillery

The Isle of Arran is also home to a single malt distillery using water from the island. Lochranza distillery was founded in 1995 and there’s not a second distillery on the Isle of Arran at Lagg in the south.

It’s an award-winning brand and is one of the few independently owned distilleries in Scotland.

You can head into the distillery to buy a bottle or enjoy a whisky tasting at both their locations. Tastings must be booked in advance .

• Cost of tasting: £20 per person
• Times : 11.00 and 13.00 Tuesday to Sunday
• Duration : 1 hour 15

24. The Sandwich Station, Lochranza

The Sandwich Station in Lochranza is another Arran must-do.

At this sandwich shop, you get a choice of bread from George Grassie of Blackwater Bakehouse where the bread is handmade then choose your filling!

Fillings include 5-spice pork shoulder, smoked mackerel, goat’s cheese and more.

The cafe is only open in the summer months and it makes the perfect picnic for a hike in the hills!

25. Mara Fish Bar & Deli, Corrie 

The Mara Fish Bar in Corrie sources sustainable fish all from the Isle of Arran or elsewhere in Scotland.

They do both hot and cold dishes and you can get them in takeaway boxes to enjoy by the sea. You can get mac and cheese with Skipness smoked whiting, mussels, Thai fish curry, tacos and more.

26. The Old Pier Tearoom, Lamlash

If you need a warm drink and some lunch or a scone after a walk, head to The Old Pier Tearoom in Lamlash. They do some of the best cinnamon buns which we’re a big fan of after a hike after several months spent in Norway!

27. Arran Brewery

At the foot of Goatfell is the Arran brewery that has been brewing since 2000 and won many awards in that time. You can get a bottle to take home from the shop, take a tour or learn more about their beers in the visitor’s centre.

If you take a tour you get to try some of their beers too. It’s best to book the tours in advance here.

28. Cafe Thyme, Machrie 

Perhaps unexpectedly, you can find some delicious Turkish food on the Isle of Arran. Cafe Thyme in Machrie is one of the best restaurants on Arran and they serve a mix of both Scottish and Turkish food.

You can get traditional Turkish pide (a boat-shaped pizza) with a variety of toppings, including haggis. The salads and herbs available are all homegrown too!

29. The Drift Inn, Lamlash

The Drift Inn is another great place for lunch. Their ethos is ‘eat local. eat fresh. eat responsibly, and there are chalkboards above the bar that detail where on the island their ingredients come from. It’s a great business to support!

30. Visit Arran cheese shop

The Isle of Arran cheese shop at Home Farm in Brodick is a must-visit for cheese lovers.

You can watch the fresh cheese packaged and have the chance to try free samples too.

They make flavoured cheeses including smoked garlic and chive. There’s also blue cheese and they sell Wooley’s of Arran oatcakes and chutneys and relishes made on the island; all of which are the perfect accompaniment to the cheese.

A visit to the Arran cheese shop is one of the best things to do in Isle of Arran.

31. Blackwater Bakehouse

The Blackwater Bakehouse is one of the best places on the island for pastries and bread products.

However, you have to go early as they sell out.

This isn’t a cafe or restaurant, but a proper bakery where everything is made fresh. it’s then kept in a self-service style box outside where you can go and pick up what you want from that day’s selection.

You’ll find bread, focaccias, and some sweet treats but you’ll never quite know what’s on offer in advance.

How to get to the Isle of Arran

To get to the Isle of Arran you’ll need to take the ferry. There are two ferries to Arran, one between Ardrossan and Brodick and another between Claonaig and Lochranza.

Both ferries take vehicles and it’s best to pre-book, especially if you’re traveling in summer.

Alternatively, you can go on the ferry as a foot passenger which is cheaper and there’s a decent bus service on Arran for you to get around the island.

I’ve included links to the ferry times from Ardrossan to Arran and Claonig to Lochranza below too.

The ferries actually serve pretty good meals, so if you’ve had an early start or are traveling over dinner, then check out the food.

Top tip: Travel by train and get a rail and sail ticket for £24.50 from Glasgow to Brodick! Just put Brodick as the destination.

Ferries to Arrain: Ardrossan to Brodick

The main ferry to Isle of Arran, one of the CalMac ferries, travels between Ardrossan and Brodick.

This Ardrossan to Arran ferry is the one we took as foot passengers. It takes just under an hour to go from Ardrossan to Brodick on Arran.

On the ferry from Ardrossan to Arran, car spaces pretty much always sell out during peak times such as during summer and at weekends.

If you’re a foot passenger you don’t need to pre-book.

Getting to Ardrossan from central Glasgow is pretty easy and so you can do the whole trip from Glasgow to Arran car-free! The journey from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan takes about 40 minutes and costs around £9. You can get it for even less if you book in advance or have a rail card!

Ferry timetables to Arran from Ardrossan can be viewed here .

Ferry to Arran: Claonaig to Lochranza

The Claonaig to Lochranza ferry is smaller than the Ardrossan ferry and takes only 30 minutes. There’s no pre-booking and it works on a first-come, first-served basis so if you’re traveling over summer or weekends you should arrive early or be prepared to wait.

Claonaig is further away from Glasgow and not accessible by public transport so you’ll need a car for this one!

You can see ferry times to Arran here .

Getting around Arran

There’s a good bus service that goes around Arran to the main sites and is near enough to the main trailheads. This means that most people don’t need to take their car on the ferry which is great since you’ll save money as a car passenger!

You can get an Arran Three-Day Rover Ticket, or Arran Megarider for one week of travel if you’re staying on Arran for a while and plan to travel by bus.

There are just three main bus routes here are three main routes: 324, 323, and 322. Most of the routes coincide with ferry times from Brodick.

Bus timetables in Arran are available on the  website.

Best accommodation on Arran

If you’re planning on staying on Arran for a night or longer, here are some of the best options for accommodation in Arran.

Camping in Isle of Arran

Thanks to Scotland’s rule of ‘Right to Roam’ you can camp anywhere on Arran as long as you act responsibly. It’s actually one of my suggestions for what to do on the Isle of Arran too!

If wild camping isn’t your thing, here are some other places to camp on Arran.

Scotland’s Right to Roam – Scottish Outdoor Access Code. In Scotland, you can go on to most land to enjoy the outdoors – as long as you behave responsibly, care for the environment and respect the interests of others. You can learn more about the Scotland Outdoor Access Code, and what it means for your activities here .

Lochranza Campsite

If wild camping isn’t quite your thing, you can also camp amongst the deer at Lochranza campsite.

The Lochranza campsite is just across from the distillery on Arran and offers glamping from £35 a night, plus £2 a night per car. You get a wooden camping pod with electricity, lighting and heating but you still need to bring your sleeping gear.

You can also park your campervan here from £18 a night, or camp here in a tent from £10 a night with an additional £2 per car.

Hotels on Arran

Kinloch Hotel on Arran : The Kinloch Hotel has a pool, restaurant, and leisure centre and offers a great breakfast for all overnight guests.

Auchrannie Resort: For a luxurious stay on Arran, stay at the Auchrannie Resort which has hotel rooms and luxury lodges as well as three restaurants and a spa.

The Douglas Hotel: The Douglas Hotel, Arran is in Brodick Bay has stunning sea views from many rooms. There’s an on-site restaurant and bar and you’re just a short walk from the ferry so it’s perfect if you’re visiting Arran car-free!

FAQs about the best things to do on Arran

Where is the isle of arran.

The Isle of Arran is an island in the Firth of Clyde just off the West Coast of Scotland. It’s about 2.5 hours from the centre of Glasgow which means a day trip to Arran is a great idea and it’s also ideal as a weekend getaway.

When is the best time to visit Arran?

The best time to visit Arran is from April to the end of September. This is when the weather is usually better (though it is Scotland!) and businesses and Arran attractions are open. Many of the businesses including restaurants and cafes, are shut from October to April so for the full experience it’s best to go outside of those months. If you’re just visiting for a hike or to enjoy a cosy weekend then any time is a good time to visScottishn!

Best things to do in Arran when it rains?

Do as a true Scot does and put your waterproof gear on and get outside still! If that doesn’t sound good, then pay a visit to the Arran distillery and the shops in Broddick.

Final thoughts on these Isle of Arran things to do

If you’re wondering what to do on Arran Scotland then hopefully this list has given you plenty of inspiration.

From beautiful Arran beaches to delicious local produce such as cheese, seafood, and whisky, there are loads of great things to do on the beautiful Scottish Island.

If you’re looking for more islands off the Ayrshire Coast, then be sure to check out this guide to the best things to do on Cumbrae and how to get from Largs to Millport .

Last Updated on August 21, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

How to plan a weekend on Scotland's wild Isle of Arran

Situated just 15 miles from the Scottish mainland, the Isle of Arran is closer than you might think — ideal for a weekend getaway.

Given its plethora of landscapes, it’s easy to see why Arran, the largest island in the Firth of Clyde, is regarded as a sort of Scotland in miniature. From fog-wreathed peaks to scenic coastal paths, it has something for everyone. And with Scotland’s ‘Big Five’ (seals, otters, red deer, golden eagles and red squirrels) all in residence, its wildlife is no less diverse. But there’s more to this jagged isle than crumbling cliffs and rare birds of prey — the Isle of Arran is also something of a gastronomical hub, boasting a proud community of artisans, restaurateurs and brewers. With a single A-road forming a loop around the island, a weekend getaway gives you the chance to experience everything Arran has to offer.

Travelling by ferry from the port of Ardrossan on the mainland takes just 55 minutes. You can hire a car near the ferry terminal, but to get a sense of the island before exploring on your own, visit the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum , a short walk from the terminal. Among its highlights, there’s a Bronze Age grave and a replica of a Viking ship, which was constructed on the island in the 13th century.  

There’s an excellent lunch to be had at the Mara Fish and Deli (look out for the barbecue on Saturdays) where the owners source as much of their produce as possible from the waters surrounding Arran. From there, head south and around the island to the west coast, stopping for the short hike to the beautiful Glenashdale Falls en route.  

Base yourself around Blackwaterfoot to see sensational sunsets dipping below Kintyre to the west. The walk from the village to Drumadoon Point is especially scenic at this time of day. The stand-out accommodation on this side of the island is the Kinloch .  

Have an early start to get around Arran’s north coast and complete the circumnavigation of the island, perhaps stopping for a hearty brunch at Café Thyme near Machrie. From there, if you want to complete the loop of the island, it’ll be time to push on and all the way back round to Brodick Castle.  

If the weather is fair, climbing Goat Fell is one of the most popular activities on the island. At 874 metres, it’s just short of being one of Scotland’s famous Munros, but is nonetheless one of the tallest mountains in southern Scotland and offers magnificent views across the Firth of Clyde from its peak.

Produce on Arran has been winning awards for several years now, but after a long, hard hike up and down Goat Fell, the ones you’ll perhaps crave are made in the local brewery — Isle of Arran beers are available around the country these days, but this is their home. For non-beer fans, nearby Arran Botanical Drinks will have you covered for gin and cassis.  

FREE BONUS ISSUE

Related topics.

• HISTORY AND CIVILIZATION
• LIVING HISTORY

You May Also Like

10 whimsical ways to experience Scotland

How to plan a weekend in Biscay, where mythology meets beaches in Spain's Basque Country

How to plan a weekend in South Moravia, Czech wine country

How to spend a weekend on Islay, Scotland's wild whisky isle

A city guide to Oslo — hot dogs, harbour regeneration and Nordic fjord life

• Environment
• Paid Content

History & Culture

• History & Culture
• History Magazine
• Mind, Body, Wonder
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Two Together

Isle of Arran Travel Guide: Things to do on Arran

Last updated on

Misty mountains, wooded glens, and soft, sandy beaches serenade the traveller on this enchanting island. On Arran, you can hike Goatfell, explore Viking ruins, wander flower-filled glens, swim in glassy bays, savour seafood, or stroll charming villages. Whether seeking outdoor adventure, historical intrigue, or island serenity, Arran’s magic awaits. In our car-free Arran travel guide, we share with you the best things to do on Arran and the best places to eat on Arran.

Isle of Arran | Scotland

The chiaroscuro of light and colour left us speechless! We watched the turquoise waters of the Firth of Clyde sparkle as the ferry approached Arran. Where the fleeting clouds cast their shadow, the water was darker: almost as purple as a bruise. Elsewhere, it appeared jade and cerulean, countless shades of blue changing with the light. Before us, the Isle of Arran appeared to float on the water, on a ring of hazy light. It is mesmerising and nothing like the greyness usually associated with Scotland. The scenery, all shimmery in sunlight, reminds us of the tropical islands, of the time we spent on Langkawi .

Located in the Firth of Clyde on the west coast of Scotland, the Isle of Arran in the Firth of Clyde is Scotland’s seventh largest island. It is often called Scotland in miniature for the Highland Boundary Fault slices through the island and splits it into lofty highlands and rolling lowlands. When researching things to do on Arran, we found that despite its size– Arran is just twenty miles long and ten miles wide– Arran has something for everyone. There are ancient castles and standing stones, misty mountains and gorgeous beaches, quirky guesthouses and fishing cottages, delicious seafood and single-malt whisky– we were spoilt for choice! In summer when the heather blooms, swathes of mountains are blanketed in purple. Now, the bright yellow gorse was ruling the roost. As we ride the bus towards Lochranza, we keep our eyes peeled for seals, deer and golden eagles. Birds, they are everywhere: hopping on branches and boughs, bobbing on the water, soaring in the sunlit sky.

• Why Visit Arran

Because Arran is gorgeous!

Accessibility // Located off the coast of Ayr, Arran is one of the most accessible Scottish islands! A 40 min train from Glasgow to the ferry port in Ardossan, then a 50 min ferry ride and you are on Arran. Yes, it is that simple!

Public Transport // On Arran, it is not difficult to travel without a car. Buses run along the main roads which makes it easy to access almost all of the attractions. Taxi services are also available.

Wildlife // Arran has an incredible wealth of wildlife. Want to see birds? There is an endless list of birds on this isle, including the famed golden eagles. Sea creatures? Seals and dolphins! Deer? Sheep? Red squirrels? You can see them all and more! I have never seen such a load of wildlife before, ever.

Scenery // Arran is picturesque. Period.

Things to do on Arran

How to reach arran by public transport, public transport on the isle of arran, when to visit arran, ride the bus around the island, enjoy a day at the beach, walk walk walk, climb goatfell, visit the arran heritage museum, taste arran whisky, see the stone circles at machrie moor, explore arran’s geoparks, visit holy isle, go castle-hopping, where to eat on arran, where to stay on arran.

Booking your trip via the links on this page will earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for your support – Mohana & Aninda.

Arran is easily accessible by public transport which makes it a great option if you are looking for car-free holidays in Scotland. There are two ferries that connect the Isle of Arran to the mainland and both are run by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac):

• Ardrossan to Brodick ferry
• Claonaig to Lochranza ferry

The former is the more popular route and is served by a larger vessel. You can book a seat on the CalMac website . If you are travelling by train, Scotrail sells Rail and Sail tickets to Brodick via Ardrossan. The Ardrossan Harbour railway station is a 5 min walk from the ferry terminal.

The Claonaig to Lochranza ferry is not bookable. You turn up in time for the sailing you want and the vehicle queueing areas at both ends are marked out with numbered boxes. Simply park in the next available numbered box and from there proceed onto the ferry once it has arrived.

NOTE : ScotRail’s Rail and Sail tickets are open tickets and do not guarantee you a seat on the ferry. On our way to Arran, we had to wait 3 hours for the next ferry because it was Easter weekend and all seats were booked (a smaller ferry was in operation). On the way back, we showed our Rail and Sail tickets at the ferry terminal in Brodick and reserved seats at no extra cost to avoid another wait.

You do not need a car to explore Arran. Stagecoach runs three buses on the Isle of Arran:

• Route 324 serves the northern half of the island, including the settlements of Lochranza, Catacol, Auchagallon, Machrie, and Blackwaterfoot. This service connects to ferry timings at Brodick and there are 4-5 services a day.
• Route 322 connects Brodick and Blackwaterfoot via The String.
• Route 323 serves the southern half of the island. If you are visiting Lamlash, Whiting Bay, or Kildonan, this is the bus to take. This service is more frequent. Hourly services connect to Whiting Bay.

Note that Sunday services are limited; so, plan ahead if you are travelling on that day. It is best to buy a day ticket (£7.20, 2023) to explore the island. You can pay cash or by contactless on the bus or buy your tickets online. If you are planning to stay longer, the Arran 7-day megarider ticket is £22.30 (adult, 2023).

Taxi services are also available on the Isle of Arran.

Also read : Use our car-free guide to Loch Ness to plan an environment-friendly trip to Nessie’s homeland.

There are things to do on Arran year-round. Every season is different on Arran and the best time to visit Arran depends on what you want to see and do.

Summer is when the heather blooms and the crowds arrive. It is gorgeous, really, the blue, shimmering waters reflecting a blue sky. Book in advance, though, as Arran’s easy accessibility makes it a very busy destination.

Winter is, obviously, grey and drab but if you want solitude, this is your season. Many places are closed but with a wee bit of searching, you can stumble upon some great accommodation deals. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot flocks of wintering birds in this season.

The shoulder seasons, spring and autumn, are our favourite times to visit Arran; spring for its flowers, and autumn for its colours. These are also the best seasons to spot Arran’s birds of prey and also its herds of red deer.

TIP : As everywhere else on the British Isles, note that the weather can be moody all year round, so pack accordingly.

Things to Do On Arran

Most of the things to do on Arran are accessible by bus. Here are our favourites:

Absolutely one of the best things to do on Arran if you are not driving! There are two main roads on Arran: one around the island, one slashing right through it, and both offer spectacular views.

From Brodick, take bus 324 to Blackwaterfoot . On the way, see the bright blue waters of Corrie, the mountainous scenery of the north– slopes covered with heather and dotted with sheep, ponies, and occasionally, deer–, the sea loch called Loch Ranza that gives its name to Arran’s northernmost town named Lochranza , and its castle reflecting in the waters, the fishermen’s cottages of Catacol , the stretch of blue, blue waters from Pirnmill to your last stoppage. En route, keep an eye out for seals and birds; we spotted seals at Corrie and Auchagallon , and plenty of birds from curlews to oystercatchers and pheasants to seagulls along the way.

Stop for a bite at Blackwaterfoot Bakery, say hello to the swans lazying at the harbour, then board bus 323 back to Brodick . Gorgeous views of Kintyre and verdant farms dotted with sheep will accompany you on this route. The bus goes through Sliddery and Lagg , then to Kildonan from where you can see Pladda Lighthouse , then to Whiting Bay and Lamlash from where you can see the majestic Holy Isle, and then back to Brodick. It is a breathtaking bus ride and you shouldn’t miss it!

Bus 322 will take you right through the mountainous landscape from Brodick to Blackwaterfoot and though you really can’t see the sea on this trip, it is very scenic and feels like a journey through the Highlands.

TIP : If you are going clockwise around the island, sit on the left. If you are going anti-clockwise, sit on the right for the most beautiful views of the water.

Arran has some spectacular beaches and each one is unique in its own way. Sannox Bay with its backdrop of misty mountains has pinkish sand. In Catacol , the clear water sparkles over smooth pebbles that form the beach. Right next to the beach in Catacol are the Twelve Apostles , a row of quaint cottages with a differently shaped upstairs window. Further north is Imachar where you can see rock formations. On a sunny day, the water is bright blue. In the south of the island, there is Blackwaterfoot Beach with its soft golden sand and resident swans. Kildonan Beach is also a sandy beach and offers lovely views of the Pladda Lighthouse. The crescent beach at Brodick is a great place for a picnic and offers beautiful views of Goatfell and Brodick Castle.

Like everywhere else in this country, the Isle of Arran has some gorgeous walks. Here are some of the most loved ones. The starting point for all of these walks can be reached by bus.

Fairy Dell Walk, Lochranza

This is a must-do walk if you like breathtaking views, birds, seals, red squirrels, gorse, more wild things, and a geology class. On this walk, you can spot Hutton’s Non-conformity. The walk starts near the golf course, then goes around the coast, then climbs back uphill and descends back to Lochranza. There are gorgeous views of the Sound of Bute and Kintyre all along the way. Starting point: Lochranza, bus 324.

Glenashdale Falls Walk

Walk through a wooded glen to gaze upon one of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls, a double cascade called Glenashdale Falls. The starting point is on the bus 323 route.

Glen Rosa Walk

The circular walk through Glen Rosa offers excellent views of the craggy peaks of the Goatfell range. The trail goes along Glenrosa waters and past the Blue Pool, a popular wild swimming spot, and continues up the valley from where you can gaze upon the lofty Cir Mhor, framed by the steep sides of Beinn a’ Chliabhain to the left and Goatfell to the right. The starting point can be reached by bus 324 or 322.

Glen Sannox Walk

Our favourite walk in Lochranza is the Glen Sannox Walk. It is a short and easy walk along the Sannox Burn but the views are absolutely mesmerising! The skies were just beginning to darken when we started the walk late one afternoon. At the viewpoint, we sat down and opened a miniature bottle of Arran 35 that we had bought that morning from Arran distillery and made a toast to nature and drank. The peaks were cloaked in swirling mist, the wind was clean and cold, and the first droplets of rain had just begun to fall. There was not a single soul in sight; just the sound of the wind, the Sannox Burn gurgling gently by, and birdsong. It was perfect. Starting point is on the bus 324 route.

Arran Coastal Walk

If you are up for it, one of the best things to do on Arran is walking around Arran along the coast! We will do it someday and write about it but for now, read Dawn-Marie’s superb posts .

Also read : Looking for more coastal walks? Read about our walks in Northumberland for inspiration: Craster to Alnmouth Walk and Dunstanburgh Castle Walk .

Climbing Goatfell ranks high on the list of things to do on Arran. At 874 m (2876 ft), Goatfell is a beloved peak for climbers. You can either take the route from Brodick Castle or Corrie . The climb to the summit is strenuous but you are rewarded by breathtaking views of the island and the surrounding sea. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Ireland! Occasionally, walkers spot buzzards and golden eagles soaring high in the sky. We did not climb Goatfell but we met a fellow camper who said that they didn’t realize it would be that tough but pressed on inspired by the many elderly but unbelievably fit folks summiting it!

If you are into birding, visit Arran! There’s an abundance of birds on Arran like we have never seen before. We didn’t see the famed golden eagle but we spotted curlews, pheasants, oystercatchers, sparrows, a whole host of finches and tits, thrushes, blackbirds, and robins. Flying ducks and elegant herons. Birds we don’t know the names of. Birds that mesmerised us. On this island, there is birdsong everywhere. It was a symphony like we have never known.

One of the best things to do on Arran is visit the Arran Heritage Museum to learn about the history of Arran. Artefacts include an early Bronze Age grave, the sculpted head of the Clachaig Man, a replica of a Viking ship, and more. Tickets are £5 (adults, 2023).

There are two distilleries on Arran and both offer whisky tastings and distillery tours. One is the Arran Distillery in Lochranza (bus 324) and the other one is a newer distillery at Lagg (bus 323).

Machrie Moor is described as a “particularly well-preserved landscape of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments”. Standing next to the Stone Circles at Machrie Moor was atmospheric. Not a lot is known about why these stones were erected in the middle of a wind-swept moor on an island or why they were abandoned but it is thought that they were associated with religious and ceremonial activities. You can read more about the history of the Macrie Moor stones on Historic Scotland . Bus 324 will drop you at the car park. It’s a 2 km walk from here.

Did you know that the stone circle known as ‘Fingal’s Cauldron Seat’ is named after Fingal – a mythic hero probably derived from the Irish Fionn Mac Cumhail? One of the stones in the outer ring has a hole in it. It is said that Fingal tethered his dog Bran there while he ate a meal in the inner ring.

Arran has six geoparks . On Kildonan Shore, you can see the best examples of a dyke swarm in the world! There is also a “dinosaur” footprint here that is said to have been left by a giant reptile related to crocodiles that lived during the same time as the dinosaurs. On the Fairy Dell Walk in Lochranza, you can see Hutton’s Unconformity that changed established perceptions around the age of the earth. King’s Cave on Drumadoon is another popular attraction. According to local legends, Robert the Bruce sheltered in this cave before the Battle of Bannockburn – or saw the famous spider.

Located off Arran’s east coast, Holy Isle is a centre of spirituality. Its history stretches back to the 6th century when St. Moloise arrived from Ireland; today it is a “centre for world peace and health” run by Lama Yeshe Rinpoche. The centre offers various courses and retreats year-round but in the summer, you can visit the island as a day visitor. There are beautiful walks on the island and you can Eriksay ponies, Saanen goats, and Soay sheep. Crossings are operated by Lamlash Cruises .

You can never be too far from a castle in Scotland and Arran has its own share of castles: Brodick Castle, Lochranza Castle, and Kildonan Castle but as our luck with castles goes, they were all closed when we visited.

Brodick Castle and Country Park

Brodick Castle was closed for repairs when we visited but we absolutely recommend exploring the country park and particularly walking the Plant Hunters’ Trail to see some of the species that the so-called plant hunters collected from countries that were colonized by Britain. Tickets are £15 (adult, 2023) or free for National Trust members.

One of the best things to do on Arran is eat: fresh seafood, locally foraged vegetables, island gourmet. This was a budget trip and we barely ate out. Instead, we used the microwave at our fantastic campsite to rustle up some quick meals. Arran has some fantastic restaurants and here are our recommendations:

The Sandwich Station, Lochranza

The most fabulous folks make the most fabulous sandwiches and we cannot recommend this place enough! They source their bread from Blackwaterfoot Bakery, cure their own meat, make their own kimchi and mustard and other condiments, and use local produce. If it is your lucky day, you can get the delicious hot smoked kippers that they source from Skipness Smokehouse! The menu changes daily to reflect what is available and vegan options are available.

The Sandwich Station was recommended to us by this wonderful lady who migrated to Arran from Edinburgh many moons ago. We met at a bus stop and chatted about Arran and island life, about our immigrant lives while waiting for the bus. And that’s another thing about Arran: friendly locals. We chatted with people at bus stops and shops, at ticket offices and campsite receptions, on walks, in pubs…a lovely bunch, the folks on Arran.

The Shack Seafood Trailer

We went all the way to Blackwaterfoot mainly to chomp on their soft-shelled crab tempura and I cannot forget how absolutely perfect it was. If you like seafood, track this food truck on their Instagram and show up and dig in. The menu changes daily.

Corrie Hotel

The couple at the table next to us was enjoying the Sunday Roast on Easter and it looked freaking fantastic. Those golden Yorkshire puddings looked delicious! Sadly, we were on a budget so had to make do with haggis bonbons (delightful) and some fabulous fries (with real flaky sea salt) and some local ales.

Blackwaterfoot Bakery

The apricot tart we had was memorable! Don’t miss this place and its assortment of cakes and bakes.

Mara Fish Bar and Deli, Corrie

We were unable to visit this but I haven’t heard a bad thing about this place. Fresh seafood, from the sea. It is as local as it gets.

Drift Inn, Lamlash

We did not visit but have read superb reviews of their locally sourced seafood and produce.

Machrie Bay Tea Room

Shout-out to this place that was serving a grand Sunday roast buffet for Easter in a heritage building with wood panelling, high ceilings, and large windows. It was like stepping back in time! We were just in for tea and cake– they also make sandwiches and pies– and we highly recommend their homemade cakes. We had the coffee cake and it reminded me of the cakes at Nahoum’s, a Jewish Bakery in Calcutta that is an institution loved by locals.

Also read : Not planning a trip anytime soon? Use our guide for some wonderful ideas to rediscover your hometown .

There is a wide variety of places to stay on Arran.

Lochranza Campsite // We stayed in a pod (£35 for 2 adults, April 2023) at the Lochranza campsite and highly recommend it. It is one of our favourite campsites in the UK. It’s a medium-sized campsite with a toilet and shower block. Other facilities include a dishwashing area and disposal facilities for campervans. But best of all, there’s a lounge with a microwave which is a boon for us backpackers because we could just heat pre-packaged food instead of having to carry a stove and all other cooking paraphernalia. And if a microwave isn’t enough to sway you, there is a distillery right across the road from the campsite!

Lochranza Hostel // Run by Hostelling, this hostel is a beloved backpackers’ haunt. It is located across from the Lochranza golf course and is ideal for deer spotting.

BnBs and Guest Houses // Arran has an extensive collection of BnBs and guest houses, particularly in Lamlash , Brodick , and Whiting Bay .

What are your favourite things to do on Arran?

Like it? Pin it!

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

Mohana & Aninda

Mohana and Aninda are travellers and advocates for car-free travel. Two-together is their travel blog where they document their travels to encourage and inspire readers to seek solace in new places, savour local cuisines, and relish both unique and everyday experiences. When they are not travelling, they are actively researching trip ideas and itineraries, obsessing over public transport timetables, reviewing travel budgets, and developing content for their blog. They are currently based in Edinburgh and exploring Scotland and beyond by public transport.

FEATURED POSTS

Moving to Scotland, UK: A Complete Guide

Edible souvenirs to bring home from india, best things to eat in malaysia: malaysia food guide, search posts here.

Latest Stories

Best Indian Restaurants in Edinburgh

Best places to see cherry blossoms in edinburgh, three reservoirs walk: pentland hills, best walks on gigha, things to do on gigha: complete travel guide, best places to eat in the east neuk of fife, 9 responses to “isle of arran travel guide: things to do on arran”.

I’ve spent a bit of time in Scotland but never made it to the islands. I will have to include a visit next time I get to the UK – the island looks beautiful.

Scotland’s islands are spectacular! Arran is one of the more accessible ones that you can visit on a short trip.

The island looks so beautiful. Appreciate how you have provided minute tips like where to sit while going clockwise or anti-clockwise around the island.

What a beautifully well-written post. I’ve been to Arran Island, took the bus, went to the distillery and love the memories you’ve rekindled.

Glad to rekindle happy holiday memories 🙂

What a lovely place. I have never heard of Arran prior to reading this but would love to explore now. I love your photos too 🙂

Thank you! Arran really is picturesque! If you want a quiet holiday and stunning scenery, it is the place for you.

Never heard of Arran but it sounds wonderful. Great pictures!

This region is still on my bucket list. Your photos are amazing. I got to make this happen soon.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Dunure Castle

Ayrshire & Arran

Ayrshire & Arran sits on the west coast of Scotland. Home to a vibrant island community, charming country towns and sandy shores, discover the region that gave us our National Bard, Robert Burns. Visit attractions connected to the iconic poet, ancient castles and places steeped in Viking heritage.  

Find experiences

JavaScript needs to be enabled to see this product search form. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Things to do in Ayrshire & Arran

Take a walk along the coast, find out more about our National Bard or taste a drop of whisky and see how it's made.

Sorry, something's gone wrong. We can't display this content at the moment.

JavaScript needs to be enabled to watch this video. You can turn this on in your browser settings.

Castles in Ayrshire & Arran

From spectacular stately mansions to historic ruins and edifices, discover castles in Ayrshire & Arran.

Beaches in Ayrshire & Arran

Find beautiful beaches in Ayrshire & Arran.

Arran outdoor adventures

Stunning landscapes or adrenaline pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone.

Attractions in Ayrshire & Arran

Explore a fantastic range of attractions in Ayrshire & Arran.

Inspiration for Ayrshire & Arran breaks

Auchrannie House Hotel, Spa Resort and Country Club

Places to stay

Explore a variety of great accommodation across Ayrshire & Arran. From cosy cottages, self-catering lodges, luxury hotels, and family-run B&Bs, to back-to-nature campsites, exlucisve-use venues, glamping pods and more.

The pools at Glen Rosa with a view of Goat Fell, Isle of Arran

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

Tours, Routes & Trails

From the gentle Burns' Trail to the sweeping River Ayr Way, discover great driving, cycling and walking routes in Ayrshire & Arran.

Unique experiences

Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere

Explore the biosphere and discover untouched coastlines and deep woodlands and forests, with a rich diversity of plants and wildlife.

Robert Burns

Discover Scotland's National Bard, Robert Burns, his colourful life, most famous works, and the ultimate guide to celebrating Burns Night.

Map of Ayrshire & Arran

Explore ayrshire & arran.

Get friendly and helpful advice for your trip at our iCentres.

Javascript is needed to show this map.

How to Travel to Ayrshire & Arran

Getting to ayrshire & arran, getting around ayrshire & arran.

You can drive from anywhere in Scotland to Ayrshire. From Glasgow or Edinburgh to Ayrshire the trip takes roughly 1hr and 2hrs, respectively. 

You can also travel to Ayrshire by train from across Scotland. From Edinburgh the trip takes roughly 3h30m or just 1h50m from Glasgow.

Once you're in Ayrshire, you can catch the Ardrossan to Brodick ferry across to the Isle of Arran.

If you choose to drive around Arran, there are three main routes you can follow; one circuitous road around the island, The String (B880) across, and the Ross Road (single track). 

Arran by bike is incredibly scenic and a great way to experience the island. Bike hire is available in Brodick, with e-bikes available for hire too.

Bus and coach

There are 3 bus routes on the Isle of Arran, the 322, 323, and 324, each covering the north, south and middle areas of the island.

Find out more about getting around Arran

What's On in Ayrshire & Arran

Largs Viking Festival

© Ayrshire and Arran Tourism Group

Take a look at some of the latest events and festivals taking place across the region. 

Places to eat in Ayrshire & Arran

The Arran cheeseboard platter

Food & Drink

Ayrshire & Arran is full of flavour, with fantastic eateries and an abundant natural larder of tasty delights.

Dundonald Links Golf Course located in the heart of Ayrshire

What is Ayrshire & Arran known for?

Ayrshire is one of the best golf destinations in the world, including three Open Championship venues. The region is also known for being the perfect place to slow down and relax.

A tip from your local expert

Kildonan Beach on The Isle of Arran with Ailsa Craig in the distance

The iCentre team have all really enjoyed our outings with Mogabout tours, a fabulous way to explore and enjoy the spectacular scenery that Arran has to offer. Alex knows the island so well and has many stories and interesting information to share.

Assistant iCentre Manager, Brodick

Other things you might like

Edinburgh & The Lothians

Greater Glasgow & The Clyde Valley

Argyll & The Isles

Dumfries & Galloway

Scottish Islands & Island Hopping

12 Peaceful Waterfall Walks in Scotland

9 Reasons to Take a Short Break in Scotland this March

South West Scotland for Families

Join our newsletter clan.

Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.

• Work With Me

• Travel to Scotland
• Travel to Roatan
• All Destinations
• House Sitting

Edinburgh Expat , Travel Tales

What it’s like visiting the isle of arran in scotland in 3 days.

This page may contain affiliate links, for which I could earn a small commission. You can review my full disclosure  here .

The Isle of Arran in Scotland is frequently called Scotland in Miniature, and for good reason. This tiny island boasts everything the mainland has, from ancient standing stones and beautiful castles to whisky distilleries, beaches, and highlands.

As my first Scottish island, visiting the Isle of Arran has officially set the bar very high for all others to come!

I was an American expat in Scotland for years and I loved exploring my adoptive home!

Our Visit to the Isle of Arran

We kind of didn’t mean to visit Arran at all! Except, I’m the type of person who likes to jump on random opportunities.

So when the ferry company, Caledonian MacBryne (CalMac) , offered a raffle for free foot passenger tickets, I obviously leapt at the chance!

I got two free tickets on the date of my choice to visit the Isle of Arran. I opted for late June, thinking that could be our best chance of (somewhat) decent weather without the crazy summer crowds.

Y’all. I could not have guessed better!!! We timed our visit to perfection. It was sunny the entire time (in Scotland… whaaaaat ?!) and it was also WARM.

This is unprecedented, so I’m just going to reiterate:

We visited a Scottish island when it was 75* and sunny and it was so perfect I just wanted to cry!

Why You Should Visit Arran

So, that’s how we ended up visiting Arran. But the why is so much more important.

The Isle of Arran offers everything that mainland Scotland offers, but within just a few hours’ total drive.

While I have a fully remote and flexible schedule , my other half does not. And so, to maximize our time away together, Arran seemed absolutely ideal!

In theory, Arran was perfect. In reality, Arran is perfect.

If you’re visiting Scotland and want to maximize your time, Arran provides you with the opportunity to see so much! I highly recommend a trip there, especially if you have a short timeframe here.

(Yes, I’m looking at all you Americans trying to see the entire country while jet-lagged on a 5-day trip!!)

Anyway, when I won those passenger tickets to Arran, we considered taking the train and using buses on the island. But we opted to take our car because we just wanted to be able to do it all on our own time.

While not completely necessary, I will say that having our own transport made our trip that much more fun!

We lucked out with Scotland’s ephemeral summer popping up for our visit. Is there anything better than having the windows down, sunglasses on, and cruising along a coastal road trying to spot seals?!

No. The answer is no.

We drove the entire island, which isn’t hard to do given it has essentially one road that follows the whole coast plus one road that cuts across the middle, called the string road.

Day 1 on the Isle of Arran

Driving off the ferry, we headed straight for our hotel, just 10 minutes down the road at Lamlash Bay.

Since the Irish-Colombian had been up since 5am to be at the gym, he dove into the bed and didn’t resurface for a few hours.

My own blissful hours ( not because he wasn’t there! ) were spent across the street with my toes in the sand. I read for a long while – a real, hardcover book!

I watched a girl frolicking around with her dog in the water. That same dog surprised me later with a sandy, salty shower as she shook off just inches from my side.

The beach stretched along the bay, boats filled the small marina area, and everyone seemed to be out and about.

They walked their dogs and babies, stopped to chat with neighbors, and everyone was in high spirits in the sunshine.

That sunshine carried on for our whole visit, and I truly cannot express how life-giving that was for me!

We stayed at Lamlash Bay Hotel and had a truly wonderful stay due to the super friendly staff, lovely location, and fantastic breakfasts.

We had a view of Holy Isle just across the bay, which is home to Buddhist monks and nuns.

You can visit the island by taking the ferry from the dock just down the street from Lamlash Bay Hotel.

We enjoyed a fabulous dinner at our hotel, followed by a stroll along the shore where we encountered quite a few characters making their way back to their boat in the marina.

A drink back at our hotel bar to cap off the night was the perfect end to a perfect first day in Arran.

Day 2 on the Isle of Arran

Our second day on Arran was filled with this island’s incredible scenery. We literally drove around the entire island!

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Standing Stones: Time Portals?

We drove the String Road that cuts across the island to the Machrie Moor Standing Stones.

If you’re not watching Outlander, you’re missing a ton of gorgeous Scotland footage ! But, also, you’ll miss this reference, so feel free to skip along…

Important Note: Never touch the standing stones! I did not touch a single one in any of these photos. There’s no need, all you’re doing is causing damage as a tourist .

Outlander fans, these are some of the easiest standing stones you can reach in Scotland! So, obviously, the Irish-Colombian tried to get creative and allow me to time travel.

What year is this?!

Did it work this time?

No. Although, this might be an actual time warp hahaha

Shop Locally in Arran

We headed back towards Brodick for things that smell great and stinky things that taste great!

Arran Aromatics is fabulous for candles, sprays, lotions, and soaps. Next door, we picked up some delicious local cheese from the Arran Cheese Shop . A picnic was to be had!

Heading north toward Lochranza, we stopped for a picnic lunch by the sea.

Just as we drove away, my other half spotted a cell phone on the road!

So we stopped to rescue it, found the owner, and returned it to her by the shore in Lochranza itself.

Driving the entire west coast, we stopped several times to look for seals, to say hello to peafowl, and to just marvel at the views.

We also considered just buying a home here, because why not?!

Given that both of us are freelancing, we could probably afford this one-walled remnant that’s surrounded by peacocks and peahens.

We rounded the southern tip of Arran and stopped at Kildonan beach to check out the Pladda Lighthouse and take a stroll along the sandy beach.

The views throughout our drive were just stunning.

Day 3 on the Isle of Arran

Our third day on Arran was our departure day, but we did pop over to COAST in Lamlash Bay first.

COAST (Community of Arran Seabed Trust) has been working in and around Arran waters since 1995 to protect and conserve the delicate natural environment.

You can visit COAST and check out their Octopus Centre , where their incredibly friendly volunteers and staff are happy to chat about local wildlife and conservation efforts.

While there, I also picked up a super handy seafood guide .

I’ve been making a sincere effort to choose my food better, so this has been consulted many times in the past month!

From the grocery store to restaurants, this comes with me everywhere now. You can download a PDF version here .

Planning a Visit to Arran in Scotland

I have the excellent luck and good fortune to be able to tap into the local knowledge of my friends and fellow Scotland bloggers any time I want.

They are an endless wealth of insights and I frequently use them!

If you don’t have so many Scottish friends to ask, I thought I could be your new friend!

I don’t know everything there is to know about Arran because I just visited for the first time recently.

But I have collated the information from many friends and fellow local bloggers into the following insights.

I hope they are helpful to you!

How to Get to Arran:

If you have a car, you can drive straight to the ferry terminal at Ardrossan.

Located about 50 minutes from Glasgow, the terminal is easy to find and very well managed.

You will drive right up, show your tickets, and get in line to board. Easy peasy!

If you do not have a car and you will be a foot passenger only, you can opt to take the train from Glasgow.

There is even a Rail and Sail Ticket available to combine your services! Take the train from Glasgow to Ardrossan.

You’ll exit the train station and board the ferry through the foot passenger entrance.

The ferry is operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) and runs multiple times a day every day.

Also note that there are other options for getting to the Isle of Arran via different ferry ports. These are all of the CalMac options:

*Note: The ferry is, of course, weather dependent! It cannot sail in terrible weather, so you should always have insurance if you are splashing out on a big international trip.

I recommend SafetyWing for excellent long-term plans as well as really affordable quick trip coverage, just in case.

Their Nomad Insurance offers travel coverage that includes travel delays. You can get up to $100 per day for up to 2 days of unplanned overnight stays, which can certainly happen as you’re waiting for Scottish weather to improve!

Better safe than sorry.

When to Go to Arran:

The Isle of Arran is busiest during the summer months, just like the rest of Scotland!

As the ferries run based on good weather, that’s the most reliable time to book a journey. However, that’s not to say you cannot visit at other times of the year.

If you go during the summer, definitely book everything in advance.

As this is a small island, there are limited options for accommodations and dining, as well as special tours.

Anything you really have your heart set on should be booked as early as possible.

As is the case everywhere in Scotland, be prepared for any and all kinds of weather. Be prepared for anything and maybe you’ll get lucky like we did!

What to know about visiting Arran:

Visiting the Isle of Arran is ideal for those seeking more of Scotland without hitting all the usual spots on an itinerary.

That being said, Arran is still popular!

Ferries book up, hotels book up, and dining might be restricted if you don’t have reservations in advance.

This island is not tiny, however! In fact, we compared it to our former island homes of Roatan and Malta and it beat both in size! According to good ole Wikipedia, here are the details:

• Roatan : 32 square miles
• Malta : 122 square miles
• Arran : 167 square miles

But then let’s compare the total population and population density, shall we?

• Roatan : Estimated total is 120,000; Density is 3,750/sq mi
• Malta : Estimated total is 475,700; Density is 3,899/sq mi
• Arran : 4,629 (as of 2014); Density is 27/sq mi

How adorable is Arran?! It has so much open, beautiful space that I simply couldn’t believe it.

From farmland to rolling hills covered in trees to deep glens filled with wild grasses and flowers…it was just gorgeous.

Should you visit Arran?

If you’re coming to Scotland from the US and you’re being a typical American planning a thousand things in just a few days, Arran is probably not at the top of your wishlist.

But, hear me out.

It should be.

If you really want to see and do it all while in Scotland, then I truly recommend you visit the Isle of Arran. Here’s what I propose:

If You Have One Week in Scotland

Fly into/out of Edinburgh or Glasgow, whichever is more convenient and cheaper for you.

Spend a few days in both of those cities to get a feel for Scotland. And then spend a few days on the Isle of Arran.

You can explore all the things that make Scotland famous without having to add multiple long bus or train journeys to get there.

From Glasgow, you can be on Arran in under 2 hours! That includes the train and ferry , so you don’t even need to worry about driving on the other side of the road.

In Arran, you can see the standing stones at Machrie, the castle at Brodick, the beaches along the south coast, and so much more.

The bus system is simple and reliable to get around. You also wouldn’t really spend a fortune in taxis, given how close everything is to each other!

Quick Tips for Visiting the Isle of Arran

Where we stayed:.

We stayed at Lamlash Bay Hotel and loved it! We highly recommend it or you can find your own perfect spot using booking.com:

What we did:

• Machrie Moor Standing Stones
• Arran Cheese Shop
• Arran Aromatics
• COAST Octopus Centre

Popular Things to Do in Arran:

Things we didn’t do but you might want to check out!

• Golf : Arran has 7 courses
• Brodick Castle
• Isle of Arran Distillery
• Lagg Distillery
• Arran Brewery (we drink their beers regularly!)
• Hike up Goatfell
• Visit Holy Isle

Helpful Links:

• Visit Arran
• Visit Scotland
• CalMac Ferry

Liked this post? Pin it!

Looking for more?

• Start with My Expat Timeline to see where I’ve lived
• Get all the Scotland expat info here
• And the Roatan expat info here
• See my travel destinations
• Get help with your digital content for your business
• Subscribe to my newsletters to stay in touch !

This article was originally published in 2019 and updated in 2022.

Amanda Walkins

Amanda Walkins was an expat for more than a decade and has been a travel and tourism professional since 2013, a fully remote worker since 2015, an international house and pet sitter since 2016, and a writer since she learned to read. Join her for whatever the next adventure may entail!

• Expat in Roatan
• Expat in Scotland
• Expat in Malta

Towns and villages to explore on your visit to the beautiful Isle of Arran

This tour is 70 miles long, please allow at least 2 hours 45 minutes to complete it, excluding the time taken to enjoy the destinations along the way.

Travelling around the beautiful island of Arran offers plentiful opportunities to uncover relics of Scotland’s Gaelic and Norse heritage. Many small villages are unexpected treasure troves for Neolithic burial sites which are part of the Clyde Cairns. Meanwhile, in coastal towns such as Lochranza and Kildonan you can combine a stroll on the beach with the exploration of ancient castle ruins. Aspects of Scotland’s rich cultural history present themselves at every turn on Arran, and a tour of the island’s many diverse towns and villages will showcase each one’s distinct character. Visitors can also enjoy Arran’s many modern delights, from golf to fishing and sailing, scenic walk and cycle routes, or dining out on delicious locally-sourced food.

What you'll see

Brodick - Isle of Arran

Towns & villages.

Brodick is the main village on the Isle of Arran, halfway along the east coast of the island.

03 The Arran

Lamlash - Isle of Arran

Lamlash is the Isle of Arran’s most populous village.

Whiting Bay - Isle of Arran

Whiting Bay is a popular tourist village located on the southern half of Arran, combining the best of modern and historical Scotland.

Kildonan - Isle of Arran

Kildonan is a small village situated on the southern coast of Arran. Its main attractions include Kildonan Beach and castle ruins.

Kilmory - Isle of Arran

Kilmory is a small village on the south coast of Arran, between Lagg and Kildonan.

Blackwaterfoot - Isle of Arran

Blackwaterfoot is a village on the South West of the Isle of Arran.

Pirnmill is a small village on the north-west coast of the Isle of Arran, Scotland.

lochranza - Isle of Arran

Lochranza, a village on the Isle of Arran, boasts a dramatic castle, a distillery and plenty of wildlife in the surrounding area.

Sannox - Isle of Arran

Sannox is a village on the east coast of Arran, with a curved beach and a striking mountainous backdrop with views of surrounding hills and glens.

Corporate Partners

Supporters and Associate Partners

Off the Unbeaten Track Edward Adrian-Vallance's travel site

• About Edward
• Country guides
• Overland Travel

View when driving from Yelisovo airport to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

The first myth I want to disprove is that getting to Kamchatka is extremely costly. It’s not. Going between February and April, a return flight from Moscow can be had for 11,000 roubles (US$380 / £220). Not bad for 18 hours total flying time. In summer the flights are more expensive but still, if you book them a few months in advance, can be got for 16,000 roubles return.

It’s true, many people will tell you that March and April are the worst months to visit because the snow is starting to melt and everything’s a bit sloshy and dirty in settlements. On the other hand, these are great months for the independent traveller! During winter zimniki (temporary winter roads made of compacted snow or simply frozen river surfaces) open up all over Kamchatka, granting access to communities that in summer are totally isolated. Hitch hiking is possible right from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the very north of the peninsula. Alternatively, vehicles can be hired in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from tour firms. Also in the winter or early spring months places can be reached that are away even from the zimniki, either by snowmobile or by the use of cross country skis. For example, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Eurasia’s largest active volcano, can be accessed from the village of Klyuchi without the need even for a guide by a traveller with a pair of cross country skis. Bears do not wake up until mid-April so this is not a danger, but bears almost never attack anyone anyway.

The main disadvantages of winter travel in Kamchatka are that it is cold, there is no greenery and there are no bears, which some people come here especially to see.

The second myth I’d like to dispel is that travel around the peninsula requires hiring a helicopter. As mentioned above, in winter you can get almost anywhere by hitch hiking. I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.

Throughout the year there are fairly expensive public helicopter flights to all settlements which are nevertheless much cheaper than hiring your own helicopter. There is also one permanent, year-round dirt road leading halfway up the peninsula. Some distance after the town of Milkovo, about 350km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , it forks. The right fork leads to Klyuchi , site of Eurasia’s largest active volcano, and further to the port town of Ust-Kamchatsk. The left fork leads to the indigenous Even villages of Anavgay and Esso. Daily buses go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Klyuchi , Anavgay and Esso, costing about 1000 roubles each way. In winter a zimnik passable by lorries heads north from Anavgay 36 hours to the otherwise isolated town of Palana. From Palana more zimniki head further north to yet more isolated settlements. From the peninsula’s very northernmost settlements there are even EXTREMELY irregular snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle connections with Magadan Oblast and Chukotka. Another zimnik, only passable by all-terrain vehicle, heads from Anavgay to the village of Ust-Khayryuzovo on Kamchatka’s west coast.

• Kamchatka’s Indigenous
• Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published.

Getting Here

Island time... in no time.

Arran is an island off the west coast of Scotland, and getting here is where the adventure begins. Island time... in no time.

By Air: Regular train services are available from both Glasgow airports. A shuttle bus from Glasgow International (GLA) Airport can take you directly to Paisley Gilmour Street train station, where trains will connect with the ferry terminal at Ardrossan or with the buslink at Troon (potentially from September 2022). Alternatively, taxis are relatively inexpensive and readily available. Glasgow Prestwick (PIK) Airport has its own rail station with services via Kilwinning, where you can change for Ardrossan Harbour. The same rail link takes you through Troon en route to Kilwinning.

By Train: There are excellent rail links east, west, north and south between Glasgow and most parts of the UK. There is a direct and frequent train service between Glasgow Central and Ardrossan Harbour and also Troon (potentially from Sept 2022), where a bus link will take you to the port. For further information contact Scotrail and Calmac For more travel details check out the Traveline Scotland journey planner

By Car: The UK’s network of motorways, and other major roads means that Ardrossan (or Troon) can easily be reached by car, possibly via the M6/M74 (from London to Glasgow) and M77/A77 (from Glasgow to Ardrossan/Troon). Remember if you are bringing a car over to the island, you must book in advance with Calmac - foot passengers are also advised to book.

Typical journey times by car to Ardrossan Harbour from:

• London – about 7.5 hours
• Birmingham – about 5.5 hours
• Manchester – about 4.5 hours
• Edinburgh – about 2 hours
• Glasgow – about 45 minutes
• Inverness – about 4 hours

Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish.

2018 Primetime Emmy & James Beard Award Winner

R&K Insider

Join our newsletter to get exclusives on where our correspondents travel, what they eat, where they stay. Free to sign up.

A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.