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Isle of Arran
The Isle of Arran is a place where you can find a little bit of everything you'd ever want from a Scottish island. It has an ever-changing coastline, dramatic mountain peaks, sheltered beaches, verdant forests, great cultural festivals and a wealth of tasty local produce.
Things to do on Arran
A short break on Arran is perfect all year round, this island is a great location to escape busy city life.
Cycling on Arran
Explore Arran by bike on a two-wheeled island adventure.
Arran outdoor adventures
Stunning landscapes or adrenaline pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Relax with Arran wellness experiences
Relax and restore in the calming natural land and seascapes of the island.
Creative workshops and experiences on Arran
Unleash your inner creative on Arran and find inspiration from island life.
Inspiration for Arran Breaks
Places to stay
Get inspired and explore accommodation options on the Isle of Arran.
Tours, routes & trails
Check out our ideas for short breaks in Arran with things to see and do.
Unique experiences
Discover another side of Arran with these unusual experiences and hidden gems.
Map of Arran
Explore Isle of Arran
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How to travel to and around Arran
Getting to Arran
Ferry
Two car ferry services, operated by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac), serve the island.
- The Ardrossan to Brodick service is the more popular of the two routes, connecting the island with the region of Ayrshire on the mainland. Ardrossan is only a 45 minute journey from Glasgow, and is accessible by car or public transport.
- Lochranza in the north of the island is served by a ferry from Claonaig, a small port on the Kintyre Peninsula in Argyll.
The cost of the Ardrossan to Brodick ferry service is very reasonable, but booking in advance and staying up to date with sailings is advised.
Train
The train from Glasgow Central Station to Ardrossan Harbour takes about 45 minutes, where you can then catch the ferry over to the island.
Getting around Arran
Cycling
Arran offers 9 road routes for exploring the island by bike, as well as having cycle hire available across the island.
Bus and coach
There are three main bus routes covering north Arran, south Arran and "the String" which generally tie in with the ferry timetables. In the summer, additional seasonal bus operators run tours which are a great way to take in the sights.
Driving
The road networks skirt the island's coastline, with a road dissecting the centre of the island, known locally as "the String". Some of the roads are single track, with plenty of passing places. Care hire and taxis are also available on the island.
Check the VisitArran website for more details
Walking
There are all kinds of walking routes on Arran, from beaches to glens and mountain trails. It's a great way to get around!
Places to eat on Arran
Food & drink
Taste your way around Arran as you try tasty cheeses, refreshing beers, traditional oatcakes, tempting chocolates and delicious ice cream.
A tip from your local expert
Open all year, Auchrannie Resort is a treat for residents and non-residents alike, and you will get a warm welcome. You can enjoy their superb restaurants and extensive leisure facilities, including swimming pools and playbarn.
Nines
VisitScotland
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