Unearth the Isle of Arran
Arran is saturated with historical significance, showcasing iron age settlements and impressive castles that date back through the ages. In addition, the island provides a habitat for a diverse range of animals, features diverse geology, and is also home to a unique tree species.
Arran, in all its glory
Historic Arran
Steeped in human history, Arran has been used as a home since the Iron Age, with settlements throughout the ages found across the Isle.
A 2019 survey revealed over 1,000 ancient sites including the Machrie Moor Standing Stones and the Giants’ Graves. To see these sites, getting around Arran is easy.
Castles
Like many areas of Scotland, Arran has been owned by various incumbents in the past and is now home to three, fine castles.
Brodick Castle, built around the 13th century, overseeing those who arrive on Arran from the east, today standing over those arriving via the ferry and open to the public via the National Trust.
Lochranza Castle, built in the 16th century stands in the north and is used to oversee those approaching from the Scottish mainland, this castle is also open to the public via Historic Environment Scotland. The final castle, Kildonan sits in the south and is closed to the public, but you can spot the looming tower from Kildonan beach.
Shops & Attractions
Today, Arran is home to a flourishing tourism industry with popular attractions like Lochranza Distillery and Lagg Distillery, the Corrie Golf Club, Arran Heritage Museum or The Arran Brewery, other local stores produce hand-made items such as ARRAN Sense of Scotland, luxury toiletries and candles, Arran Dairies, James’s Chocolates, Wooley’s of Arran and the Arran Cheese Shop.
Walks & Nature
Seeing the sights
One of the main attractions of Arran is its stunning walks and hikes, offering breathtaking views of the island’s landscape, waterfalls, and caves. Be sure to pack suitable gear for all weather conditions, as the climate can change rapidly, and plan your route ahead of time.
The Sannox Loop, accessible from the north of the hotel, is a popular choice, while the High Corrie Loop and Three Burns Walk can be found in the south of the village. Goat Fell, accessed from Corrie, provides striking views across Arran’s hills. Other recommended walks include North Glen Sannox and Glenashdale for stunning waterfalls, Glen Catacol and Glen Rosa for peaceful strolls, and Kings Caves for fascinating caves.
Animals and fauna on the isle
The island teems with wildlife, offering glimpses of otters along the shoreline in the early morning, seals basking on the beaches between the hotel and Sannox, and red deer roaming the hills behind the hotel.
Birdwatchers will delight in the variety of species found on Arran, including gannets, oyster catchers, shags, cormorants, and golden eagles. Keep a lookout for dolphins, porpoises, and basking sharks in the seas around the island.
Escape to Arran
