Arran

Overview

Dubbed 'Scotland in miniature', Arran regularly astounds visitors with an incredible variety of scenery unbefitting its relatively small size.

Mountains and woodlands, beaches and outlying islands present many outdoor activity options and heritage sites. The Highland-Lowland dividing line goes right through the middle of Arran, dividing into the wild, unspoilt, mountainous north, dominated by the peak of Goat Fell, and the forest, farmland and resorts of the south.

The capital of Arran is Brodick, where Brodick Castle, once the ancient seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, houses a glorious collection of furniture, with some pieces dating as far back as the 17th century. The garden, created in 1923 by the Duchess of Montrose, has been lovingly restored and the grounds contain numerous paths offering great views of the island, and the chance of seeing red squirrels. Spectacular Lochranza also has a ruined castle, sitting in a bay framed by mountains.

Arran is a popular place to visit for lovers of walking, wildlife, golf, geology and getting away from it all. There are seven golf courses on the island, including the only 12-hole course in the world at Shiskine