Introduction
The Isle of Arran (pop. 5000) is a very popular holiday destination which is located off Scotland’s west coast in the Firth (estuary) of Clyde.
Arran is often described as ‘Scotland in miniature’ because of the diversity of its landscape.
Until the mid-13th century Arran was, in common with the large tracts of the west of Scotland, under Norwegian control. This fact is reflected in some place names such as Brodick (meaning ‘broad bay).
Visiting Arran
To reach Arran entails a ferry trip from either Ardrossan on the mainland or Claonaig Bay on Kintyre (also the mainland). The Ardrossan-Brodick route is the most popular, taking just under an hour.
Arran is well endowed with accommodation to suit all budgets. Booking ahead is recommended, especially to cover visits during the peak, summer season.
Places to visit on Arran
Important places of interest are listed below.
Brodick Castle: This castle was formerly the seat of the Dukes of Hamilton and latterly Duke of Montrose. The interior comprises a magnificent residence with fine paintings, antique furniture and the famous Beckford silver collection. Adjacent to the castle are stunning gardens. Here are a formal walled garden, woodland walks, three national collections of rhododendron, a Bavarian summer-house and an ice house.
Machrie Moor Prehistoric Site: This is one of the most important such sites in Western Europe. At Machrie Moor can be seen ruins of chambered tombs, hut circles and megalithic rings all sited on a low-lying triangle of flat, sandy land or ‘machair’. The stones date from around 2900 BC. The site is located 2.25 miles NNE of Blackwaterfoot on the west of the island. Access entails a walk along a rough track for about 1 mile.
Isle of Arran Distillery: This distillery is located at Lochranza in the north of the island, about fourteen miles from Brodick. Spirit output is about 1.2m litres p.a. There is a visitor centre from where tours and tastings are provided. A sister distillery has recently been opened at Lagg in the south of Arran.
For the active: There are multiple opportunities for hiking and climbing with latter including Goatfell (2867 feet). A twelve hole, links golf course can be found at Shiskine. It is possible to cycle round the perimeter of Arran in course of one day, although other options are available. In summer bathing in the sea is feasible. Both pony trekking and horse riding are available.
Ancestry Research
Family History Research: In the past, Arran was subject of extensive emigration. Today, visitors can undertake ancestry research at the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, Brodick.
Geology on Arran
Geology: Arran’s variety of rocks and structures rank the island as a world-class geological location. Dr. James Hutton, the ‘Father of Geology’ undertook fieldwork here in 1787 to support his Theory of the Earth which holds good today. On Arran, near Lochranza, can be found Hutton’s Unconformity (rocks of different periods meeting at a discordant angle).
Summary
Overall, Arran has much to offer the visitor, whether contemplating a short, within –the–day trip or an extended sojourn lasting a week or longer.
For more information on Arran, other Scottish islands and sightseeing in Scotland please refer to the Visitors’ Guide to Scotland, ISBN 978-1-9161332-0-4