BETA: The search and map are new features with further enhancements planned. VisitScotland is not responsible for the content of external links and accepts no liability for any reliance on these.
Kildonan Beach, Arran
© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group
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.
Great things to do on Arran
A short break on Arran is perfect all year round; this island is a great place to escape busy city life.
Arran outdoor adventures
Stunning landscapes or adrenaline pumping adventures, there’s something for everyone.
Isle of Arran Geopark
Find information about the Isle of Arran Geopark, part of Scotland’s UNESCO Trail, including why Arran is so special, the local area and more.
Cycling on Arran
Explore Arran by bike on a two-wheeled island adventure.
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.
Top days out ideas
Find somewhere new to discover on the Isle of Arran, with ancient sites, family attractions, Arran's oldest distillery and more.
Arran Snorkel Trail
Check out the Arran Snorkel Trail and see lots of marine life up close. From dolphins and whales to basking sharks.
Flying Fever Paragliding
Have an adventure of a lifetime as you soar the skies of Arran.
Brodick Castle
Steeped in history and beautiful scenery, get ready for the perfect family day out at Brodick Castle.
Machrie Moor Standing Stones
Experience the magic of the Machrie Moor Stone Circles on the west side of Arran.
Lochranza Distillery
Have a dram on the Isle of Arran's first distillery.
Lochranza Castle
Lochranza Castle is situated on a peninsula extending into beautiful Loch Ranza in the north of Arran.
Inspiring routes, trails & itineraries
The King's Cave, Isle of Arran
Follow a route
Check out our ideas for short breaks in Arran with things to see and do. Follow a walking, art or heritage trail around the island, or discover longer routes on Arran and beyond.
See what's on in Arran
Sunset over the Isle of Arran viewed from Ayr Beach
Events
Keep up to date with the latest events, festivals and things to do on Arran.
Map of Arran
Explore Isle of Arran
Loading
Javascript is needed to show this map.
Javascript is needed to show this map.
How to travel to and around Arran
Getting to Arran
Ferry
Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) operates three car ferry services connecting the island to the mainland. Routes and sailings vary seasonally, so it’s advised to check timetables in advance.
- Ardrossan to Brodick is the main route linking the island with Ayrshire and takes around 55 minutes. Ardrossan Harbour is accessible by road and by train from Glasgow.
- Troon to Brodick is a crossing which takes around 55 minutes. Troon is around 40 minutes from Glasgow and can be reached by both car and public transport.
- Claonaig to Lochranza serves the north of the island from Claonaig on the Kintyre Peninsula with a crossing time of around 30 minutes. Useful for those travelling via the west of Scotland.
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.
You can also catch the train from Glasgow Central Station to Troon which takes around 40 minutes, before taking the ferry over to Arran.
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. Car 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!
The Douglas Hotel, Isle of Arran
© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Places to stay on Arran
Get inspired and explore accommodation options on the Isle of Arran.
Lochranza Distillery, Isle of Arran
© Aildh Beaton Ridgeline Prints
Places to eat on Arran
Taste your way around Arran as you try tasty cheeses, refreshing beers, traditional oatcakes, tempting chocolates and delicious ice cream.
The beach at Brodick Bay with a view beyond to Goat Fell, Isle Of Arran
Scottish Island Adventures podcast - Arran
Looking to plan a trip to Scotland’s most accessible island? Join Coinneach MacLeod with special guest Kirsty Wark as they uncover the magic of Arran on the very first episode of the Scottish Island Adventures podcast.
Find out more about Arran
Get ready to explore more of Arran with these fantastic locations. You'll find lots of things to see and do for the whole family.
Other things you might like
Ayrshire & Arran
Scottish islands & island hopping
Getting around Scotland by ferry
Outer Hebrides
Join our Newsletter Clan
Get Scotland inspiration direct to your inbox. Don't miss the inside track from our Scotland experts on exciting trip ideas, unique attractions and hidden gems loved by locals.