The Isle of Arran is situated off the West Coast of Scotland and forms a part of North Ayrshire. It is known as “Scotland in Miniature” and is particularly picturesque during the winter months, when the sky is clear blue (it is sometimes you know!), and the hills of Arran are covered in Snow. I can see the Isle of Arran from my bedroom window, and it is visible from most of Ayrshire. I never tire of looking at it. The name Arran, means “Peaked Island” in Gaelic.
Getting There ----------------- Arran can be reached from the port of Ardrossan, and the crossing takes just under 1hr. The ferry is a reasonably large one, and can accommodate many cars. However if you are going for the day only, you are probably better to go as a foot passenger and rely on public transport around Arran, as this is relatively inexpensive whereas taking the car will set you back approximately £60 or so.
If you go in summer, or on a public holiday, there will be large queues for boarding the last ferry back to the mainland, so make sure you arrive back to the terminal early, unless you don’t mind sleeping on the beach.
Brodick --------- This is the main town on the Island and where the ferry lands. You can get about relatively easy on foot, although it will be about 2-3 miles walk to the Castle and Gardens, and further still to the point at Goat fell if you plan to make the ascent.
The Castle itself dates back to the 13th century and it has great setting, with Goat fell as its backdrop. The property is a National Trust Scotland property, and if you have annual membership, then you save the £7 entry fee. The Gardens include a walled and woodland garden, and are internationally acclaimed. And of course there is a café for the obligatory cup of coffee and shortbread biscuit.
If you fancy some more vigorous walking, then a climb of Goat Fell is a must, standing 955m above sea level. You will need to allow several hours to ascend and descend, but make sure you have a glass of Arran Ale as a treat once you have descended.
Stop at Arran Brewery and try a bottle of Arran Blonde, perhaps enjoying it on the lawn outside.
Other must visit places include Arran Aromatics, for fantastic toiletries, sample the cheeses from the Island Cheese Company, and visit the heritage museum. Oh and stop at the fudge shop on the left hand side as you walk to the castle area, and try the fudge with chili..it’s got a great kick!
If it is Golf you are after, there are seven courses on Arran, including the 18 hoel Brodick course. Other courses include Lamlash and Lochranza, however Shiskine has got to be worth a round. This 12 hole course is par 42, and there are some challenging holes with great views.
If you plan to stay longer, there are a plethora of small B & B establishments where you could stay, and the Visit Scotland website or call centre should be able to assist you. In the summer it is best to book early, so you don’t end up somewhere which is not of the standard you require. The Auchrannie Spa Resort is definitely worth trying, and is about 1.5 miles from the port, so an easy stroll.
At Lochranza you can visit the Isle of Arran distillery centre and learn all about the making of whisky on the Island.
To sum up, there are lots of attractions on Arran, and there should be something for everyone, but its also a great place to unwind and relax. Go over as a foot passenger, and hop on a bus around the Island. The coastal road is 60 miles in total, and with most of the action in Brodick, it is easy to find yourself a secluded corner for walking, fishing, bird watching, and relaxing. As this is Scotland’s most accessible Island, you cannot afford to miss out.
For Further reference visit www.arran.uk.com www.calmac.co.uk www.ayrshire-arran.com www.visitscotland.com
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