Arran And Things To See And Do
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Situated at the mouth of the Firth of Clyde the Isle of Arran is often called "Scotland in miniature". Similar to Scotland the island of Arran has varied scenery and a diverse range of flora and fauna, Arran features sandy beaches, glens, rocky coves, lochs, moors and even has a lowlands and highlands region. Further increasing the likeness the Isle of Arran also features standing stone circles, castles, a distillery, a brewery, museums and excellent local produce and crafts. The Isle of Arran is a great destination for a vacation, especially for tourist who enjoy hill-walking or similar. In the article below I take a look at Isle of Arran local attractions and a brief look at Isle of Arran hotels.
Brodick Castle
Brodick Castle is an grand structure of red sandstone which once was owned by the dukes of Hamilton. Located a distance from Brodick, enclosed by extremely pleasant gardens and parks Brodick Castle sits on the site of an old Viking fortress. Visiting the castle is a superb day out for all of the family kids will thoroughly enjoy the adventure playground while older family members will be pleased by the castle's fascinating collection of porcelain, silver and fine art. For a brief visit allow two hours.
Arran Heritage Museum
Arran Heritage Museum is located, on the site of a small school, in Rosaburn, Brodick and open during the months of April-Oct from 10:30am to 4:30pm. Featuring a selection buildings; a farmhouse, smiddy, croft (small farmstead) and cottage as well as laundry, stable, milk house, coach house and harness room and more. Exhibits reflect the geology, archaeology and social history of Arran.
Isle of Arran Distillery
Wherever you go in Scotland it appears that are rarely far away from something to do with the whisky industry such as a whisky distillery. The Isle of Arran Distillery uses traditional processes in the newest working distillery in Scotland. The distillery is open to visitors from April to October and it features a visitor centre and restaurant.
Isle of Arran Brewery
The Isle of Arran Brewery is located at the entrance to Brodick Country Park. People can view the brewing process via observation windows and a viewing gallery as well as getting a sample of the produce. The brewery uses modern high-tech equipment to produce an ale using natural ingredients without adding artificial additives.
Lochranza Castle
The final Isle of Arran visitor attraction I wish to introduce is Lochranza Castle on the North coast. On first look it appears as ruins sixteenth century towerhouse but you can get inside using keys from the Post Office/local shop. Once you are inside the L-plan tower you begin to see hints of a grand structure.
Isle of Arran Accommodation
Finding the most suitable Arran accommodation shouldn't be much of a problem as Arran hotel accommodation are found in the majority of the largest villages (Lamlash, Brodick and Blackwaterfoot all feature at least one hotel as well as guest house accommodation). Establishments to look out for include the Glenisle Hotel and the Lamlash Bay Hotel (in Lamlash), the Auchrannie Spa Resort (in Brodrick,) and the Best Western Kinloch Hotel (in Blackwaterfoot) all of which have a superb reputation.
If you are planning a vacation of the Isle of Arran please take a look at our listings of Arran hotels and other accommodation on the Isle of Arran
