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Isle of Arran
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
Arran is a small island, 20 miles long and 56 miles round, located off the south-west coast of Scotland. Palm trees grow here in the mild climate thanks to the Gulf Stream and it has many picturesque villages.
The island is cut in half by the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological division which makes the north rugged and hilly, whereas the south is more gentle and lower lying. In fact it is often called 'Scotland in miniature' for its range and wealth of scenery. All this is within easy reach of Glasgow, making it an ideal holiday destination.
It has history (castles and ancient monuments), wildlife (birds, seals and deer) and leisure opportunities (hill walking, tennis, golf, yachting, pony trekking, bowling, cycling). Something for everyone. Of the island's 5000 inhabitants, over 1000 live in the main port Brodick.
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How to get to Arran
Two vehicle ferries run from the Scottish mainland to the Isle of Arran. Most people reach the island via Ardrossan which has a
direct rail service from Glasgow.
These ferries are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne - tel: 01475 650 100 / fax: 01475 635 235
or for vehicle reservations telephone 08705 650000.
The official Caledonian Macbrayne website lists the current timetables in detail.
Vehicle ferry: Ardrossan-Brodick
A large ferry leaves Ardrossan which is nearly 40 miles by road from Glasgow (allow 1 and a half hours to drive) or one hour by train. The boat takes you to Arran's main town Brodick.
In the summer there are 5 or 6 daily sailings from Monday to Saturday and 4 sailings on Sundays. Fewer sailings operate over the winter (October - early April). Journey time: 55 minutes.
The Caledonian MacBrayne brochure states that vehicle reservation is required but this might only be really necessary at peak times during the holidays.
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
Vehicle ferry: Claonaig-Lochranza
A small vehicle ferry leaves Claonaig, a tiny spot on the Kintyre Peninsula (110 miles from Glasgow) and in 30 minutes takes you over to Lochranza on the northern tip of Arran. From late March - late October there are about 10 crossings every day, so you just turn up and hope to get on the next one. No vehicle reservations possible. You can get Early Bird Savers or Day Savers which work out slightly cheaper if you have a car and up to 4 passengers.
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Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service.
Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.
Springside B&B is just 10 miles from the ferry at Claonaig on the mainland. This traditional cottage overlooks Tarbert harbour between Loch Fyne and the Mull of Kintyre. Ideal for an overnight stop if you are leaving Arran and heading for the ferry to
Islay or to stay longer if you wish to explore the historic Kintyre Peninsula and Kilmartin.
Travellers' Tips:
The island has an excellent local bus service operated from Brodick including
the north circular route, the south circular route and a route across
the middle along the so-called String Road. You can buy a day-ticket
and hop on and off as many times as you like.
Check local bus times with Strathclyde Transport - tel: 0141 332 7133 or Argyll and Bute Council - tel: 01546 604 695.
Also see travelinescotland.com
There is also the Post Bus run by the Royal Mail. It delivers mail around
the island and has room to take a few passengers. Its route includes the Ross Road which runs from just south of Lamlash to the south-western corner of the island.
Many of the islanders will pick up hitch-hikers and give you a lift.
Car hire is available from Arran Transport Ltd. at Brodick pier - tel: 01770 302 121.
Also try Whiting Bay Garage - telephone/fax: 01770 700 345 and Blackwaterfoot Garage - telephone: 01770 860 277.
A nationwide car hire company is Arnold Clark Ltd. which has a branch at 97-99 Main Street, Prestwick on the mainland - telephone: 1292 470 545 / fax: 01292 671 735.
Scotland Made Easy can plan a customised itinerary for a self-drive tour to suit your interests, budget and time available. They will book you into recommended accommodation where you are assured of quality, comfort and hospitality - usually in 4 star B&Bs in Scottish homes. Optional 'specials' include a night in a castle, church, lighthouse, country mansion, etc.
Whether you have already decided which places you want to visit
or if you haven't a clue where to start,
Scotland Made Easy
will advise and take care of all the planning for you.
My travellers' tips file may also be useful if you
are planning a trip to Scotland. It covers airlines, national car hire, train information,
accommodation web sites, etc.
Free tourist map of Arran (downloadable PDF courtesy of The Oban Times).
View of Arran from Goatfell
Image copyright Colin Palmer stock photo library (purchase prints and posters online)
Activities
The Isle of Arran Coastal Way
follows a continuous 100-km path around the island which can be split into 7 different walks. Guide book available.
The seven golf courses of Arran:
The Arran Golf Pass is useful (tel 01770 860226) as it offers a discount when playing all 7 courses.
Bike hire is available from:
- Arran Adventure Company (tel: 01770 302244) on Shore Road, Brodick (300 metres from the ferry terminal).
- Brodick Cycles (tel: 01770 302 460) opposite the village hall.
- Brodick Boathouse - putting green by the beach where you can hire bikes, boats and deck chairs (summer only) - tel: 01770 302868.
- Mini Golf & Cycles - tel: 01770 302 272. Only 400 yards from Brodick pier.
A guide to cycle routes on the island is provided by the Arran Bike Club
The Arran Adventure Company offers a selection of outdoor activities for individuals or groups including climbing, abseiling, gorge walking, mountain biking, power boating, sea kayaking expeditions. Indoor climbing wall. Bike hire and kayak hire available from their shop in Brodick.
Glencloy Adventure Park with mountain boarding, downhill mountain biking, archery, frisbee golf, walking trails, paintball & laserquest for groups, 4x4 rides, etc. Tel: 01770 302244.
Go Paragliding with Flying Fever
Based in Kildonan. Tel: 01770 820292 / Mob: 07984356192.
On the String Road which cuts across the island is the Balmichael Visitor Centre (tel: 01770 860 430) with coffee shop,
adventure playground, indoor playbarn, quad bikes, etc.
Open 7 days during the summer, closed Monday & Tuesday during the winter.
Helicopter rides are available from here.
Events
Annual events include the Brodick Highland Games (early August). There are also various hill races (Goatfell in mid-May, Glen Rosa in mid-June and Urie Loch in mid-July). In addition to these, there are alsorts of other events taking place. The local tourist office will have up-to-date details when you arrive or you can search events listings online.
The Isle of Arran Wildlife Festival
is held in May in conjunction with RSPB Scotland, Scottish Natural Heritage and Destination Arran.
For detailed and searchable maps, visit
Streetmap.co.uk
and UK Multimap.com
What to see
The following places can be accessed on a circular trip anticlockwise around the island.
BRODICK (on the east coast of Arran)
The name Brodick comes from the Norse words, meaning 'broad bay'.
Arran means 'peaked island' in Gaelic.
The island's main town has lots of places where visitors can stay,
eat and shop. You can buy fish and chips to eat on the beach, get a sandwich from the baker or buy food, drink and newspapers from the general store or the Co-op supermarket. There are also lots of hotels where you can get meals.
The Good Food Shop on Auchrannie Road sells home baking, vegetarian & health foods and has a cafe serving light meals.
Open Tuesday to Saturday. Tel: 01770 302427.
You can buy gifts, crafts, maps, books, cards, clothes and general hardware in various places in Brodick.
Look out for Bilslands gift shop and restaurant, and James’ chocolate shop.
You will find a branch of the Bank of Scotland here and a chemist (pharmacy), plus the main Post Office. Public telephones are located near the Post Office. Internet access is available in the library which is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday mornings.
Also available are tennis courts, bowling green, putting green and mini-golf.
To see what Brodick looks like today, visit the Brodick webcam provided by Arran Hideaways.
Brodick Bay and Goatfell.
Photo courtesy of Ann Hall
Brodick's attractions include the Arran Heritage Museum (on the way to Rosaburn) which shows Arran as it was up to the 1920s, the castle and the golf course. Open daily April - October.
Seals can be spotted in Brodick Bay, not far from the main vehicle entrance to the castle and also from the Old Quay.
Also to be visited just north of Brodick is the visitor centre for Arran Aromatics at Home Farm. Open 7 days a week all year round from 9.30am - 5.30pm (hours may vary in winter). Island Cheese Co. is also situated at Home Farm. Gift shop open 9am - 5.30pm Monday - Saturday.
Creelers Restaurant specialises in seafood and is open from Easter to October (Tel: 01770 302797). They also have a smokehouse and shop.
For more foodie places, visit the web site for The Isle of Arran Taste Trail.
Cladach Visitors' Centre (just north of Brodick) includes
the Wineport Bar and Bistro, MacKenzie Leather workshop,
Isle of Arran Brewery (with tours and shop), plus an entry point to Brodick Castle Gardens.
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BRODICK CASTLE
This red sandstone castle nestles in dark trees at the foot of Goatfell mountain 1.5 miles out of Brodick.
The site has been occupied by a stronghold of some kind since the fifth century, when an ancient Irish tribe came over and founded the kingdom of Dalriada.
It was probably destroyed and rebuilt many times during its turbulent history.
In 1503 the castle and the Earldom of Arran were granted by James IV to his cousin, Lord Hamilton. That structure was demolished in 1544.
Parts of the present castle date from the 1588 during the ownership of the 2nd Earl of Arran who was the guardian and regent of Queen Mary.
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As the home of the Dukes of Hamilton, the castle was occupied by Cromwellian troops after the first Duke was executed during the Civil War in 1648 and the second died in battle just three years later.
Brodick Castle eventually passed into the hands of Mary, Duchess of Montrose (daughter of the 12th Duke of Hamilton) who revitalised the gardens.
Since her death in 1957 it has been owned by the National Trust for Scotland.
Inside are paintings, porcelain and furniture from the various owners.
It is also home to the art collection of 18th century author William Beckford of Fonthill whose daughter married the 10th Duke of Hamilton.
One of the rooms is known as 'Bruce's Room' but since the castle was all but destroyed in 1455 and 1544, it is unlikely that Robert the Bruce actually stayed in it.
The colourful gardens which feature lots of rhododendrons, include:
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the walled garden,
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the "Ice House" where they used to pack ice in the winter in a hole in the ground and then store it ready for the summer,
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the Bavarian Summer House, a hexagonal wooden structure built in 1845 and decorated with elaborate arrangements of fir cones.
Once you are inside the castle grounds, you can also take advantage
of several walking trails, including one leading up Goatfell mountain
(874 metres) and another to the intriguingly named "Duchesses'
Bathing Pool". There's an adventure playground to amuse the children and a Ranger Service covering the 600-acre estate. I believe that weather information is given at their hut.
The castle is open daily from April to October 11am - 4.30pm.
The Country Park is open all year round every day from 9.30am until sunset.
Telephone: +44 1770 302202 / Fax: +44 1770 302312. There's a licensed restaurant and souvenir shop. Weddings available.
The National Trust for Scotland has more details.
Those without transport can either take the north circular bus which runs past the entrance or walk (part road and part footpath).
CORRIE (about 5 miles north of Brodick)
Heading north out of Brodick, this is the first village you reach.
The Corrie Hotel serves good food. (tel: 01770 810273). Jim and Shauna Lees run a craft and antique shop here,
whilst Three Dimensions sells jewellery, pictures and such like (open end March - end October).
It is not advisable to venture into the local 'caves' as they are
old limestone mines and unsafe.
Just south of the village a track leads up to Goatfell.
SANNOX (about 7 miles north of Brodick)
A pretty village with palm trees, a very good beach and a 9-hole golf course (confusingly
called the Corrie Golf Course). There are old barite mines in Glen Sannox above the village.
Popular area for hill walking. Two very good walks start from Sannox - one up Glen Sannox
and down Glen Rosa, and the other round to Laggan Twine, the Cock of Arran, Lochranza,
with a hitch back over the Boguillie.
North Sannox Pony Trekking - contact 01770 810 222.
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
LOCHRANZA (14-15 miles north of Brodick)
This village on the northern tip of Arran is overlooked on several sides by hills where you may see deer.
It features the picturesque ruins of a 14th century castle, a former hunting lodge of the Scottish Kings.
More photos of Lochranza Castle
There's a golf course, campsite, hotel, studio gallery, craft shop, post office.
The Loch Ranza Field Studies Centre offers residential courses for school groups.
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A small vehicle ferry (seasonally operated by CalMac) takes you from here over to Claonaig on the Kintyre Peninsula on the mainland opposite (journey time: 30 minutes).
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland
A whisky distillery opened by Lochcranza in 1995 - look out for the copper pagodas when you approach the village from the south. Guided tours daily between 10am and 6pm. Gift shop. Restaurant open throughout the day. Evening meals served from 7pm - 10pm (closed Monday evenings) - booking advisable. Reduced opening hours between 1 November and 31 March. Telephone 01770 830 264 or visit their web site for more details.
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
CATACOL
A few miles up the road from Lochranza is the village of Catacol,
home of the Twelve Apostles: a row of identical white cottages sitting on the seafront. The local hotel serves food.
WHITEFARLAND AND IMACHAR
These two places lie about halfway between Catacol and Machrie.
Whitefarland has a very interesting graveyard on the left of the road, going south. Just south
is Imachar, where the palm trees are really spectacular.
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MACHRIE BAY
The Machrie Bay Golf Course and Tearoom
has a 9 hole golf course, a tennis court and a putting green. Tel: 01770 840 329.
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MACHRIE MOOR STANDING STONES (on the west coast of Arran)
Not far from the road, a small ancient circle is protected by a stone wall. Continue on the footpath and you will reach the main site, three-quarters of a mile across the fields.
In 1993 I visited the two groups of small white boulders which lie to the right of the path, then further down on the left several beautifully mysterious tall, red stones. An information notice explains what little is known about them.
Robert Pollock has produced an excellent guide with diagrams which details these and other circles on this site.
When I was there in May, I saw curlews.
At Auchencar Farm, Machrie, you can visit The Old Byre Showroom which sells a variety of Scottish knitwear, sheepskin rugs, tartan rugs, etc. The owners also have a holiday cottage to rent - check our their web site. Tel/Fax: 01770 840 227.
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Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
BLACKWATERFOOT (on the west coast of Arran)
General store, bakery, butcher's shop, post office. Tennis courts, bowling green, Shiskine golf course,
pony trekking. A leisure centre in the Kinloch Hotel including snooker, sauna, swimming pool,
etc. is open to non-residents.
Blackwaterfoot Lodge - hotel and restaurant - just
50 yards from the harbour and 5 minutes walk from the beach bordering the golf course.
Open from Easter - October. Tel: 01770 860 202. Self catering accommodation also available.
Other self catering accommodation near Shiskine is provided at Hamilton Cottages.
Photo copyright The Internet Guide to Scotland |
The footpath to the King's Cave starts off parallel to the beach, then cuts through the golf
course and along the hill top. Here is a standing stone, said to mark the grave of Fingal's
daughter, and also the remains of an old fort. The path then leads down a steep cliff and
across some rocks to the place where it is said that Robert the Bruce was inspired by the
spider struggling up its thread. The other caves are known as his Kitchen, Cellar and Stable.
Tradition says that they were also used by the legendary Fingal. Coincidentally, the cliffs
have basaltic pillars which resemble those on Staffa (site of the famous Fingal's Cave).
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SLIDDERY
Near here is the start of the Ross Road which cuts across the island
to Lamlash on the east coast. Part of this road runs almost alongside Sliddery Water.
One theory about the derivation of the name Sliddery is that it comes from the Gaelic meaning 'field of slaughter' because it was here that a marauding band of Vikings met a sticky end, when they decided that Sliddery Water valley looked like a good place to settle. Nowadays the tiny hamlet sits on the hill above the estuary, about half a mile from the shore. A lane leads down to coastal meadows below the old cliff line and a fascinating pebble beach.
LAGG
There are various cairns here on either side of the river. You can reach one by a
signposted forest footpath near the bridge which takes you along the riverbank towards the
sea. Chambered cairns and a cumulus are to be found on the other side of the river (perhaps
there is a footpath near the excellent hotel, I am not sure - check the map).
SHANNOCHIE
Alistair Hamilton recommends taking a look at Shannochie Post Office - a tiny end of a thatched house.
He told me that the nearby Smithy is the highest house on the island. It has a bit missing in the middle, neatly removed by a bomb dropped by a passing aircraft during the war.
KILDONAN
Kildonan Castle, now in ruins, was used as the hunting seat of the Scottish Kings when
Arran was a Crown property. Offshore is the tiny island of Pladda around which you might
see seals. On a clear day you can see Ailsa Craig - a mountainous island set in the sea.
Alistair Hamilton who grew up here told me that the coast of Ireland (the Antrim Plateau) can
be seen from Kildonan, as can Sanda Island off Kintyre, which is locally known as Spoon Island due to the fact that it looks like a spoon lying in the water.
Glen Ashdale waterfall |
WHITING BAY (8 miles south of Brodick)
Several walks start here. Look for the signposts to the Glen Ashdale waterfall and the Giants' Graves.
The village has several seaside-type shops (one of which boasts
the island's only candy floss machine) and a nice tearoom where
you can recuperate after climbing up the nearby hills. For meals,
there are several hotels and a restaurant. Also a grocery and hardware shop.
Ardshiel Gallery can be found at Smiddy Brae. Tel: 01770 700249.
Self catering accommodation is available in Strathconon Cottage.
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Boats can be hired here and there are trips over to Holy Isle a couple of miles offshore.
Tennis court, putting green, golf course and bowling green.
LAMLASH (4 miles south of Brodick)
Ferry service over to Holy Isle in a small boat (every hour during the summer, phone 01770 600 998 or mobile 07860 235 086). Sea angling trips can also be arranged. Two hotels, grocers, bank. Tennis courts, bowling green, putting green, golf course.
Lilybank Guest House offers 4 star B&B accommodation on the shores of Lamlash Bay.
Kinneil Holiday Apartments also in Lamlash offer self-catering accommodation for 2 - 6 people overlooking Holy Isle.
You can visit the factory shop of Arran Fine Foods at the old mill. They specialise in mustards, preserves, dips and marmalades. Tel: 01770 600 606 / Fax: 01770 600 225.
The Arran Art Store in Lamlash
sells professional and student quality art and craft supplies including childrens’ fun kits. There is a gallery specialising in landscape paintings of the Island by a range of artists including Pat McDonald, David Aitcheson and Demay. This is a good place to find out about art exhibitions, classes and workshops running during your visit.
Tel: 01770 600 627 / 07789 035 351
The Drift Inn in Lamlash offers good food and drink, plus regular live music. Tel: 01770 600270.
At the southern end of the bay is Kings Cross Point (the nearest point to Holy Isle) where
it is said Robert the Bruce embarked for the mainland when he received the assumed signal
from Turnberry.
Holy Isle - buy photo at AllPosters.com
HOLY ISLE
This small island lies a mile off the Arran coast and rises a
thousand feet out of the sea. It was the site of an early Christian
monastery, but today it is the home of a Buddhist retreat. In
1263 before the Battle of Largs, the Norse king Haakon anchored
his fleet in Lamlash Bay. The cave of Saint Molaise has Viking
inscriptions which may have been made by sailors at this time.
Featured Accommodation
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Auchrannie House Hotel & Spa Resort
Brodick
Isle of Arran KA27 8BZ
Tel: +44 (0)1770 302234
Fax. +44 (0)1770 302812
Email: hotel@auchrannie.co.uk
5 star self catering available
in 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom lodges.
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Auchrannie House Hotel & Spa Resort
4 star hotel nestling in landscaped gardens at Glencloy,
just a short drive from Brodick (ferry port).
Choice of accommodation and dining
with friendly and efficient service.
Leisure club with 20 metre indoor swimming pool,
children's pool, sauna, steam room, solarium,
turbo spa, fitness suite and snooker room.
Games hall for tennis, badminton, table tennis,
indoor bowls, football, basketball, volleyball.
Spa with beauty treatments, massage & alternative therapies.
Games zone and soft play area for children.
Internet room. Free Wi-Fi.
Choice of dining:
Elegant restaurant with 2 AA Rosettes
and a silver EatScotland award.
Brasserie with informal atmosphere.
Spacious Café Bar in the Spa Resort.
Facilities for conferences and weddings.
Auchrannie House Hotel:
28 ensuite bedrooms in country house style.
Auchrannie Spa Resort:
36 ensuite contemporary style bedrooms
(each sleeping 2 adults & 2 children).
All bedrooms have satellite TV, telephone,
self monitoring baby listening, fridge,
hairdryer, tea/coffee, ironing facilities.
Ground floor bedrooms available for disabled guests.
Hotel rates - B&B from £109 per room (2 adults).
Spa Resort rates - B&B from £95 per room (2 adults).
Child rates available.
10% discounts for 5 nights or more.
Check web site for latest special offers.
Special packages for Christmas and New Year.
Click here for online brochure
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The Lagg Hotel
Kilmory
Isle of Arran KA27 8PQ
Tel: +44 (0)1770870 255
Fax. +44 (0)1770870250
Email: info@lagghotel.com
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The Lagg Hotel
Small, family run hotel. Former coaching inn dating from 1791.
Picturesque & peaceful setting with palm trees growing in the grounds.
Just a short walk from Bluebell Wood and the seashore.
16 miles south of Brodick.
Collection from the ferry terminal by prior arrangement.
Ideal for touring, relaxing, golf, walking, etc.
13 bedrooms (single, twin, double and family rooms
plus a four-poster bedroom)
each with bathroom/shower room, TV, hairdryer, etc.
Sun lounge overlooking the river and garden.
Residents' lounge with log fire.
Lunch and dinner served in the lounge bar and dining room.
Public bar with TV, pool table and darts board.
Function room available for weddings or private functions.
B&B from £40 per person per night.
Dinner, B&B from £75 per person per night.
Discounts for group or week bookings.
Child rates.
No smoking. Pets welcome by arrangement.
Open from March to October.
Click here for online brochure
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Kilmichael Country House Hotel
Glen Cloy
by Brodick
Isle of Arran KA 27 8BY
Tel: +44 (0)1770 302219
Fax: +44 (0)1770 302068
2 self-catering cottages also available:
Scottish Tourist Board 5 Stars
Both with 1 twin bedroom and
a 4-poster double bedroom with spa bath.
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Kilmichael Country House Hotel
A small, elegant and friendly hotel in a secluded location
just outside Brodick.
Believed to be the oldest house on Arran.
Scottish Tourist Board 5 Stars ('exceptional, world class').
Featured in the AA's Premier Collection of 'Britain's Best Hotels'.
AA 2 red stars & 2 red rosettes.
Award-winning restaurant with daily changing menu.
Runner up for The Scottish Hotel Quality Award 2004.
'Very Highly Commended' in the Scottish Country House Hotel of the Year 2005 award.
Luxury accommodation in 4 spacious bedrooms and 3 suites.
All have bath and shower en suite,
plus telephone, TV, hairdryer, iron,
fresh flowers, fruit, whisky, toiletries, books, map, etc.
Some bedrooms have 4-poster bed, whirlpool bath and fireplace.
B&B prices from £75 per person per night.
Special deals for 3 or 7 nights.
Ferry packages available.
Sorry no children under 12.
Open Easter - end September.
Click here for online brochure
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Bed and Breakfast / Guest Houses
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Roger & Alison Garratt
6 The Keys
Kildonan
Isle of Arran KA27 8SA
Tel: 01770 820375
Email: info@mare-arran.co.uk
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Maré
Scottish Tourist Board 4 Stars.
Arran's only member of Scotland's Best B&Bs.
Newly built house just 50 yards from the beach
with stunning views of Pladda & Ailsa Craig,
the Scottish mainland and the southern end of The Mull of Kintyre.
Situated in the village of Kildonan (renowned for its beaches & seal colony).
Good eating facilities within walking distance.
Guest lounge with stunning views.
Choice of 2 double rooms:
1 with ensuite shower room and
1 with adjacent private bathroom (shower over bath).
Both rooms have a king size bed with
white Egyptian cotton sheets, hair dryer, TV,
locally produced toiletries & tea tray with fresh chilled milk.
Breakfast features fresh & local produce where possible
including organic porridge, smoked haddock & a full traditional option.
Vegetarian & special diets catered for with prior notice.
B&B prices from £32 per person (2 sharing).
Single supplements apply.
No smoking. No pets.
Open March - October.
Click here for online brochure
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The Glenartney
Mayish Road
Brodick
Isle of Arran KA27 8BX
Tel / Fax: +44 (0)1770 302220
Email: info@glenartney-arran.co.uk
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The Glenartney
Family-run guest house with glorious views of Goat Fell.
Situated closed to the centre of Brodick.
5 minutes walk from Brodick Golf Course.
10 minutes walk from the ferry.
Scottish Tourist Board 3 Stars.
12 bedrooms: 4 twin, 6 double, 1 family, 1 single.
Cosy guest lounge and residents-only bar.
Famous for hearty breakfasts.
Green Tourism Gold award.
Ideal for walkers & cyclists.
Drying room available. Packed lunches on request.
Lockable store for bicycles and golf equipment.
Well behaved dogs welcome (extra charge).
B&B prices:
from £35 per person (sharing double/twin)
or single from £42.
includes full breakfast.
Family room rates also available.
Click here for online brochure
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Colin & June Richardson
Lilybank Guest House
Lamlash
Isle of Arran KA27 8LS
Tel/Fax: +44 (0)1770 600230
Email: colin369.richardson@virgin.net
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Lilybank Guest House
Scottish Tourist Board 4 Star Guest House.
Situated on the shores of Lamlash Bay overlooking Holy Isle.
Built in the late 18th century, now tastefully renovated and refurbished.
Choice of 7 double/twin bedrooms (6 ensuite).
All with TV, hairdryer, central heating and hospitality tray.
Four bedrooms with sea views.
Two twin rooms are on the ground floor
(and one is suitable for guests with mobility difficulties).
Sitting room and dining room overlooking the bay.
Sun lounge overlooking the garden.
Breakfasts feature local produce. Vegetarians welcome.
B&B prices from £30 per person (2 sharing)
Enquire about single occupancy rates.
3-NIGHT SPECIAL OFFER: OCTOBER 2008
No smoking. No pets.
Private car park.
Click here for online brochure
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Heather and Terry Raeside
Alltan
Knowe Road
Brodick
Isle of Arran KA27 8BY
Telephone: +44 (0)1770 302937
Email: alltanarran@yahoo.co.uk
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Alltan B&B
Scottish Tourist Board 4 Stars.
Situated 200 yards from the first tee of Brodick Golf Club.
Within walking distance of Brodick Castle and the ferry terminal.
Green Tourism Business Scheme - Silver award.
Walkers & Cyclists & Golfers Welcome.
Guest sitting room with TV, DVDs and videos.
A large raised wooden deck with garden chairs overlooks the stream.
Home cooking.
Choice of 3 bedrooms all furnished to a high standard:
2 ensuite double & 1 twin with large private bathroom.
B&B prices from £34 - £38 per person (2 sharing)
No smoking. No pets. No children under 10.
Click here for online brochure
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Belvedere Guest House
Alma Road
Brodick
Isle of Arran KA27 8AZ
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Belvedere Guest House
Scottish Tourist Board 3 Star Guest House.
Centrally situated in Brodick.
5 minutes walk from the ferry terminal.
Views across Brodick Bay towards Goat Fell.
Choice of 5 bedrooms (double, twin, single).
All with TV, radio, hairdryer, free Wi-Fi access.
Residents' lounge with piano, home cinema, hi-fi, etc
Vegetarians welcome.
B&B prices from £33 per person.
No smoking.
Click here for online booking
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Glencloy Farm Guesthouse
Glencloy Road
Brodick
Isle of Arran KA27 8DA
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Glencloy Farm Guesthouse B&B
Quiet farmhouse B&B in a peaceful glen.
Just outside the village of Brodick.
Complimentary collection from Brodick ferry can be arranged.
Choice of 5 bedrooms (double, twin, family).
All with views of the glen, TV/Video, hospitality tray.
Drawing room overlooking the gardens
includes digital TV, books, games, DVDs.
Breakfast can include eggs from the free range hens.
B&B prices from £35 per person (2 sharing)
No smoking.
Click here for online booking
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Self Catering Accommodation
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Contact: Mrs Margaret Tait
Ivy Cottage
Sliddery
Isle of Arran KA27 8PB
Tel: 01770 870295
Email: enquiries@arran-far-horizons.co.uk
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Far Horizons Holiday Cottages
Choice of 2 delightful stone-built cottages
located on one of Arran's traditional sea-farms
offering a secluded base in a tranquil rural setting.
4 miles south of Blackwaterfoot
on the Sliddery/Corriecravie boundary.
Ideal for birdwatching, golf, families, etc.
Scottish Tourist Board 3 Stars.
Member of The Association of Scottish Self Caterers.
Each cottage has:
2 bedrooms (1 twin and 1 double)
Bathroom with bath and shower.
Lounge/dining area, kitchen, spiral staircase.
Facilities include Freeview digital TV,
gas hob, electric oven, fridge,
washer / tumble drier, dishwasher, microwave.
Patio area with barbecue.
Hayshed Cottage has a VCR.
Ploughman's Bothy has a DVD player.
The cottages face their own separate courtyard
for access and parking,
with a short flight of steps leading up
from the parking area to each balustraded patio.
Prices range from £325 to £400 per week.
10% discount for two-week bookings.
Short breaks: £60 per night (min 3 nights).
Online availability calendars.
Open from March to the end of October.
No smoking.
Click here for online brochure
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Contact: Jim & Kate Mackintosh
Hamilton Cottages
Hamilton House
Shiskine
Isle of Arran KA27 8EW
Tel: +44 (0)1770 860711
Email: info@hamiltoncottages.co.uk
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Hamilton Cottages
Choice of 2 stylish holiday cottages (newly renovated)
on the edge of Shiskine village.
Lovely views across open countryside to the hills beyond.
1.5 miles from the Balmichael Centre (outdoor activities, coffee shop, etc.)
Less than 2 miles from Blackwaterfoot (golf, restaurant, pool, etc).
Less than 10 miles from Brodick. 17 miles from Lochranza.
Each cottage has:
2 shower rooms.
Lounge with TV, DVD player, hi-fi & pull down double futon.
Kitchen with cooker, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, microwave, etc.
Designed for wheelchair access.
Large shared garden with patios & garden furniture (BBQ available).
An acre of woodland at the rear of the property.
Rosa Cottage (sleeps 4 - 6)
2 bedrooms (1 king size double & 1 twin)
Shurig Cottage (sleeps 6 - 8)
3 bedrooms (1 king size double & 2 twin)
Prices range from £320 to £545 per week
includes electricity, bed linen and towels.
3 night short breaks from £195.
Pets arrangement only. Strictly no smoking.
Click here for online brochure
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Contact: Ute Locatelli / Saba Lambert
Kinneil
Lamlash
Isle of Arran KA27 8JT
Tel: +44 (0)1770 600307
Email: kinneil@btinternet.com
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Kinneil Holiday Apartments
4 self-contained apartments
of different sizes sleeping 2 - 5 people.
Located in a large house in Lamlash.
With panoramic views across the bay to Holy Isle.
Near to beach, pier, golf, tennis courts, etc.
5 minutes drive from the ferry at Brodick.
Car hire can be arranged.
Web site includes 360 degree virtual tour of rooms.
Mountain bikes, croquet, golf clubs
are available for guests' use.
Groceries can be pre-ordered.
Linen and towels provided.
No smoking. No pets.
Prices range from £295 to £625 per week
depending on time of year and size of apartment.
Short Breaks available from £35 per person per night
(minimum 3 nights)
Click here for online brochure
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Contact: Mrs. Moira Finlayson
'Strathconon'
Glenashdale
Whiting Bay
Isle of Arran KA27 8QW
Tel: +44 (0)1586 830323
Email: enquiries@arranselfcatering.com
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Strathconon
Modern luxury self catering cottage.
Sleeps 8 - 10 (4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, plus 2 cots)
Set in a secluded location on the outskirts of Whiting Bay.
8 miles from Brodick. 1 mile from Glenashdale waterfall.
Scottish Tourist Board 4 Stars.
Ideal for families or groups of friends (golf, fishing, etc.).
1 kingsize double with ensuite shower room,
2 bedrooms each with zip and link mattresses
(can be used either as twin beds or a double bed).
1 double bedroom downstairs with ensuite shower room
which has Category 3 disabled access.
Plus a sofa bed and a Z bed.
1 family bathroom with shower over the bath.
Web site includes virtual tours.
Fully equipped deluxe kitchen with double oven,
microwave, fridge freezer and dishwasher. Dining room.
Lounge with TV, DVD player, VCR, hi-fi & Playstation 2.
Patio with outdoor seating.
Oil fired central heating. No smoking.
Pets welcome by arrangement.
Prices range from £550 per week
includes heating, electricity, towels, bed linen
and complimentary wine, teas and coffees.
Short breaks (min 3 nights) and late deals available.
Check web site for special offers. Online booking.
Discounts sometimes available for smaller groups.
Click here for online brochure
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Booking Hotline: 0870 192 1956
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Cottage at Pirnmill
Spacious cottage just 15 yards from the sea.
Panoramic views. Sleeps 5 - 7.
Situated in the village of Pirnmill on the west coast.
Furnished and decorated to 4 star standard.
Lounge with open fire, dining room, kitchen, conservatory.
3 bedrooms (1 double, 1 twin, 1 single) plus sofa bed
Facilities include TV, VCR, DVD, radio,
washing machine, dishwasher, freezer, microwave,
Enclosed garden with patio.
Prices from £350 per week
includes bedlinen, fuel and electricity.
Pets welcome. Online booking.
Click here for online brochure
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Booking Hotline: 0870 192 1956
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Villa at Kildonan
Detached villa sleeping up to 8.
Situated in the south of the island in the village of Kildonan
100 yards from the beach.
3 star quality accommodation comprising:
4 bedrooms (1 double & 3 twin), 2 bathrooms,
lounge/diner and kitchen. Facilities include
TV, VCR, washing machine, dishwasher, freezer, microwave.
Patio with garden furniture and BBQ.
Prices from £350 per week
includes bedlinen, fuel and electricity.
Pets welcome. Online booking.
Click here for online brochure
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Miscellaneous accommodation listings:
Arran Hideaways
are booking agents for a wide range of holiday accommodation
including self catering properties (including last minute deals) and B&Bs/guest houses.
Visit their web site for full details and listings.
ArranLand advertises bunkhouse accommodation and a variety of self-catering properties.
Self catering:
- Bracklinn House in Blackwaterfoot provides self catering accommodation with sea views, 3 bedrooms, kitchen, lounge, garden.
Large traditional Villa retaining all of its original features. 2 minutes walk from Shiskine Golf Course.
- Burnside House is a spacious property sleeping 7-8 in 4 bedrooms.
Located in Dippin, about 2 miles south of Whiting Bay.
- Hazelwood Farm provides self catering accommodation for up to 7 people in a wing of the 100-year old farmhouse on a working sheep farm in Imachar (near Pirnmill).
- Tim's Barn (sleeps 2) and Croc cottage (sleeps 2 - 7) are individual self catering properties near Lamlash.
Bunkhouse accommodation:
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Kilmory Lodge Bunkhouse is a modern, well equipped and comfortable bunkhouse with rooms sleeping 3, 4, 8 and 8. Budget accommodation mainly for groups of 15 people
minimum up to a maximum of 23. Bedlinen supplied.
Extra meeting rooms and games hall / auditorium available. Please ask for
details.Contact the Hall Manager, Kilmory Public Hall and Lodge, Kilmory, Isle of Arran, KA27 8PQ.
Tel/Fax 01770 870345. Email kilmory.bunkhouse@btinternet.com
Youth Hostels (see the Scottish Youth Hostels Assocation site):
- Lochranza - open February to December - 70 beds - telephone 01770 830631
- Whiting Bay - open March to October - 60 beds - telephone 01770
700339
For camping - visit ScottishCamping.com
- Glen Rosa Farm Site (2 miles from Brodick): for tents only (no motor homes or caravans). Basic facilities. Tel: 01770 302 380. Open all year.
- Lochranza Caravan and Camping site (by Lochranza golf course) - telephone: 01770 830 273. Open April - October. Space for 60 touring caravans, motor caravans or tents.
- Middleton Caravan and Camping Park (near Lamlash) - telephone: 01770 600251/600255. Open April - October. 60 pitches for motorhomes, caravans and tents.
- Seal Shore Camping and Touring Site - next to the hotel in Kildonan (12 miles south of Brodick). 20 pitches. 4 star facilities. Open April - October. Tel: 01770 820320.
There are lots of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and guest houses on the island. Here's just a sample:
- Argentine Guest House has 5 bedrooms.
Situated in Whiting Bay with sea views across to Holy Island. Tel: 01770 700 662.
Spaghetti Fun every Saturday and Sunday evening.
- The Barn is a 3 star B&B in Brodick with 2 bedrooms (family/double). Contact Philip & Kath De Courcy. Tel: 01770 303615.
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Blackwaterfoot Lodge - hotel and restaurant.
Open from Easter until the end of September. Tel: 01770 860 202. Self catering accommodation also available.
- Burlington Hotel & Restaurant - 3 star small hotel with 8 bedrooms in Whiting Bay. Tel: 01770 700255.
- Carrick Lodge is a 3 star guest house in Brodick. Contact Faith Robertson. Tel: 01770 302 550.
- Castlekirk is a converted 19th century church providing B&B and art breaks, situated opposite Lochcranza castle. Rooms: 1 single, 1 double, 2 twin. Open February-November. Contact Vicki Hudson. Tel: 01770 830202.
- Glenisle Hotel in Lamlash has 13 bedrooms, a restaurant and lounge bar. Scottish Tourist Board 3 stars. Tel: 01770 600559.
- Riverbank Bed and Breakfast is a 5 minute walk from the centre of Lamlash. 1 ensuite double and 1 ensuite twin. Buffet breakfast served in your room. Tel: 01770 600458.
- The Royal Arran Hotel overlooking Whiting Bay
offers 4 ensuite bedrooms (including one with a four-poster bed). Tel: 01770 700286.
- Viewbank House is a 3 star guest house with views over Whiting Bay. 7 bedrooms. Self catering caravan also available. Contact Mal & Julie Barker. Tel: 01770 700326
Springside B&B on the mainland
is just 10 miles from the Claonaig ferry which takes you to Lochranza on Arran.
This traditional cottage overlooks Tarbert harbour between Loch Fyne and the Mull of Kintyre. Ideal for an overnight stop if you are taking this ferry and then heading for the ferry to Islay. 4 bedrooms. B&B from £27.50 or room only for £25 per person. Tel: 01880 820 413.
Useful Books and Maps
Tourist Information Centres
The Pier
Brodick
Isle of Arran
Ayrshire and Arran Tourist Board official web site
Links to other related external sites:
VisitArran.com
The Arran Taste Trail (restaurants, recipes, shops, etc.)
VisitArran.net
Arran.net
arransites.co.uk
The Isle of Arran Tourism Directory
arranart.co.uk (local artwork, photos & crafts)
Photos of Arran by
Colin Palmer
Arran Banner - local newspaper
Arran Voice - local newspaper
Arran Estate Agents - properties for sale
Free tourist map of Arran (downloadable PDF courtesy of The Oban Times)
Accommodation in Arran B&Bs
- Arran Hotels - Arran Self Catering Cottages
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