Close Attractions

Brodick Castle is one of the Isle of Arran’s most iconic landmarks, steeped in centuries of Scottish history. Situated near Brodick on the island’s eastern coast, this stately baronial castle was once the seat of the Dukes of Hamilton and later became part of the National Trust for Scotland. Its strategic location has made it a focal point of power for centuries, particularly during Scotland’s turbulent medieval period.

Today, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved rooms, filled with antique furniture, silverware, and paintings that reflect the grandeur of its aristocratic past. Each room tells a different story—from the opulent drawing rooms to the servant quarters—giving insight into both noble and domestic life over the centuries. Special exhibits often explore Arran’s history, natural environment, and the castle’s royal connections.

Surrounding the castle is a stunning formal garden and a wider estate featuring miles of woodland trails, waterfalls, and wildlife. The gardens, with rhododendrons, azaleas, and herbaceous borders, are a highlight, especially in spring and early summer. Families will enjoy the play area and the Fairy Trail, a themed walk that captivates younger visitors.

The estate also offers panoramic views of Goatfell, Arran’s highest mountain, making it a popular stop for photographers and nature lovers. Guided tours, seasonal events, and wildlife spotting opportunities—including red squirrels and deer—enhance the visitor experience.

Whether you're a history buff, a gardener, or just seeking a peaceful walk through nature, Brodick Castle offers a rich, multifaceted experience. Its blend of cultural heritage, landscaped beauty, and family-friendly attractions makes it a must-visit destination on the Isle of Arran.

Standing at 874 meters (2,867 feet), Goatfell is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran and a favorite for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Dominating the northern part of the island, this rugged granite mountain offers one of the most rewarding climbs in Scotland, with panoramic views across Arran and over to the mainland on a clear day.

The most popular route begins near Brodick Castle, offering a well-marked path that gradually ascends through forests and open moorland before reaching the rocky summit. The walk takes around 4 to 6 hours round trip, depending on fitness level and weather conditions. For more experienced hikers, alternative routes such as the ascent from Corrie or the ridge walk from North Goatfell offer a greater challenge and even more dramatic vistas.

Goatfell is part of a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Along the trail, it’s common to encounter red deer, golden eagles, and even the elusive adder basking in the sun. The changing landscape—from woodland to heath and then alpine terrain—adds to the sense of adventure.

Climbing Goatfell isn’t just about the physical challenge; it's also a chance to connect with the island's natural heart. The summit offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding sea, the Firth of Clyde, and on clear days, distant peaks such as Ben Lomond or the Paps of Jura.

A symbol of Arran’s wild beauty, Goatfell is accessible enough for adventurous families and thrilling enough for seasoned hillwalkers. Proper footwear and weather planning are essential, but those who make the climb are richly rewarded. It’s an unforgettable highlight of any trip to the Isle of Arran.

Machrie Moor is one of Scotland’s most atmospheric prehistoric sites, located on the west coast of the Isle of Arran near the village of Machrie. This expansive moorland is home to a series of Neolithic and Bronze Age stone circles and standing stones that date back over 4,000 years, offering a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into ancient ritual life.

The site consists of six stone circles, each with varying shapes, sizes, and arrangements. Some of the stones are over 5 meters tall, creating a dramatic contrast against the wide open landscape of the moor. What makes Machrie Moor particularly fascinating is the variety of megalithic structures, from solitary monoliths to complex stone rings and burial cairns.

To reach the site, visitors must walk approximately a mile along a scenic footpath that crosses farmland and open moorland. The walk itself sets the tone for the experience, offering expansive views of Arran’s rolling hills and the sound of skylarks overhead. Interpretive signage helps to explain the significance of the stones and the theories surrounding their use—ranging from astronomical alignment to religious or ceremonial functions.

Despite its archaeological importance, Machrie Moor remains a tranquil and uncrowded site, allowing for peaceful reflection and an intimate experience with history. The remoteness adds to its mystique, especially during misty mornings or golden sunset hours when the stones cast long, eerie shadows across the landscape.

Machrie Moor is a must-visit for anyone interested in ancient history, archaeology, or simply enjoying Arran’s wild natural beauty. The site captures the imagination and offers a tangible link to the island’s distant past, making it one of the most unforgettable attractions on Arran.

Perched dramatically on a narrow spit of land extending into Loch Ranza, Lochranza Castle is one of Arran’s most photogenic and historically rich sites. Built in the 13th century, the castle began as a fortified residence for the MacSweens and later became a royal hunting lodge for Robert the Bruce, giving it a central place in Scottish medieval history.

The castle's most iconic feature is its location, surrounded on three sides by water with a mountainous backdrop. It’s an ideal spot for photographers, with reflections in the loch and the atmospheric ruins creating a classic Scottish scene. While the castle is now unroofed, visitors can still explore the remains and get a sense of the building’s original layout, including towers, stairways, and domestic chambers.

In the 1500s, the castle was expanded by the Hamilton family and continued to be a stronghold until it was abandoned in the 18th century. Today, it is managed by Historic Environment Scotland and remains accessible year-round, though without staffed facilities.

Lochranza itself is a charming village that adds to the appeal, with opportunities for wildlife spotting—particularly red deer, seals, and otters—as well as boat tours and whisky tasting at the nearby Arran Distillery. The castle's setting makes it an ideal picnic location, especially at sunset when the loch glows with warm hues and the air is filled with birdsong.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a casual explorer, or a romantic at heart, Lochranza Castle offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and medieval heritage. Its evocative ruins tell tales of kings, clans, and centuries of island life, making it an essential stop on the Isle of Arran.

Located in the picturesque village of Lochranza, the Isle of Arran Distillery is a celebrated whisky destination that captures the spirit and flavor of the island. Established in 1995, it was the first legal distillery on Arran in over 150 years and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality single malts using traditional methods and locally sourced ingredients.

The distillery’s setting at the foot of Glen Easan Biorach adds to its charm, with mountain views and an abundance of local wildlife. A guided tour of the facility offers a behind-the-scenes look at the whisky-making process, from malting and mashing to fermentation, distillation, and maturation in oak casks. Enthusiastic guides share fascinating insights into Arran’s whisky history and the unique characteristics that define their expressions.

Visitors can sample a variety of whiskies, including the popular 10-Year-Old Single Malt and limited-edition bottlings. The distillery also produces cask-strength, peated, and wine-cask-finished whiskies, offering something for every palate. A well-stocked shop allows enthusiasts to take a taste of Arran home with them.

In addition to tours and tastings, the on-site café serves locally inspired meals and snacks, ideal for refueling after a visit. The distillery often hosts special events, including tasting nights, food pairings, and even whisky-making workshops for enthusiasts who want a deeper dive into the craft.

More than just a distillery, it’s a cultural experience that ties together tradition, landscape, and the warmth of island hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky drinker or new to the world of Scotch, a visit to the Isle of Arran Distillery is a flavorful journey into the heart of the island.

Holy Isle is a small but spiritually significant island located just off the east coast of Arran, accessible via boat from the village of Lamlash. Rich in history and natural beauty, Holy Isle has served as a sacred site for centuries, from early Christian hermitages to its current incarnation as a center for peace and interfaith dialogue.

The island’s earliest known inhabitant was St. Molaise, a 6th-century monk whose cave hermitage still exists and can be visited along walking trails. The Christian history of the island later gave way to its modern spiritual purpose when it was purchased by a Tibetan Buddhist organization in the 1990s. Today, the Centre for World Peace and Health offers residential retreats, mindfulness courses, and welcomes day visitors to explore the island respectfully.

Holy Isle is not just a spiritual retreat—it is also a haven for wildlife. The island has been ecologically restored and is now home to rare Eriskay ponies, Soay sheep, Saanen goats, and numerous seabirds. Its varied habitats include wildflower meadows, rocky shores, and peaceful woodlands, providing scenic walks and peaceful spots for meditation or contemplation.

Visitors can enjoy a series of well-marked paths, including a climb to the summit of Mullach Mòr, which offers breathtaking views over the Firth of Clyde and back to Arran. The absence of cars and commercial noise adds to the serene atmosphere.

Whether you visit for reflection, a nature walk, or historical curiosity, Holy Isle offers a unique and memorable experience. Its combination of natural tranquility and spiritual depth makes it one of the most distinctive attractions in the region.