Archery Website

Situated at the mouth of the Firth of Clyde the island of Arran is frequently called “Scotland in miniature”.  Like Scotland the Isle of Arran has varied scenery and a diverse range of flora and fauna, the island has sandy beaches, glens, lochs, moors, rocky coves and even has a lowlands and highlands region. To complete the likeness the island of Arran also features standing stones, a distillery, castles, a brewery, museums and high-quality local crafts and produce. Arran is a great vacation destination, especially for tourist who enjoy hill-walking and the likes. In the following article I describe Isle of Arran attractions and a brief examination of hotel accommodation on Arran.

Brodick Castle

Brodick Castle is an commanding red sandstone building which at one time was the property of the dukes of Hamilton. Found outside the town of Brodick, surrounded by picturesque gardens and parks Brodick Castle is built upon 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 members of the family will enjoy the castle’s superb collection of porcelain, paintings and silver. You should allow a minimum of 2 hours to explore the castle.

Arran Heritage Museum

Arran Heritage Museum is located, on the site of a small school, in Brodick and opens from April-Oct from half past ten in the morning to half past four in the afternoon. Consisting of a selection buildings; a smiddy, croft (small farmstead), farmhouse and cottage as well as milk house, laundry, stable, coach house and harness room and more. Exhibits reflect the geology, social history and archaeology of the island.

Isle of Arran Distillery

Wherever you find yourself in Scotland it appears that are rarely any great distance away from something associated with the whisky industry such as a distillery. The Isle of Arran Distillery employs traditional processes in the newest working distillery in Scotland. The distillery is open to tourists from April-October and it features a restaurant and visitor centre.

Isle of Arran Brewery

The Isle of Arran Brewery is situated at the entrance to Brodick Country Park.  Visitors can view the process of brewing from viewing gallery and observation windows as well as getting a taste of the produce. The micro-brewery utilises the latest high-tech equipment to brew an ale using natural ingredients without using artificial preservatives or additives.

Lochranza Castle

The final Isle of Arran visitor attraction I wish to talk about is Lochranza Castle located on the North coast. On first looks all you see is ruins sixteenth century tower-house but you can get to the interior using keys from the local shop/Post Office. Once you are inside the L-plan tower you begin to see evidence of a grand structure.

Accommodation On The Isle of Arran

Finding the best accommodation on Arran should not be a huge task as Isle of Arran hotels can be found in most of the largest towns and villages (Lamlash, Brodick and Blackwaterfoot all feature at least 1 hotel as well as guesthouse 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 reputation of excellence.