subject: Places To Visit On Arran [print this page] Situated at the Firth of Clyde's mouth the island of Arran is oftentimes referred to as "Scotland in miniature". Similar to the country of Scotland Arran has a very diverse flora, fauna and varied scenery, Arran features sandy beaches, moors, rocky coves, lochs, glens and even features a lowlands and highlands region. Further increasing the likeness the Isle of Arran also has stone circles, a brewery, castles, a distillery, museums and superb local produce and crafts. The Isle of Arran is a superior vacation destination, especially for people who enjoy walking or similar. In the following article I write about Isle of Arran visitor attractions and a quick examination of Isle of Arran hotel accommodation.
Brodick Castle
Brodick Castle is an commanding structure of red sandstone which at one time was the property of the dukes of Hamilton. Located some distance from Brodick, enclosed by beautiful gardens and parks the castle occupies the site of an old Viking fortress. Visiting Brodick Castle is a superb day out for all of the family children will thoroughly enjoy the adventure playground while older family members will enjoy the castle's superb collection of paintings, porcelain and silver. Two hours should be sufficient for a quick visit.
Arran Heritage Museum
Arran Heritage Museum is found, on the site of a school, in Brodick and is open from April-Oct from 10:30am to 4:30pm. Featuring various buildings; a croft, smiddy (blacksmith), cottage and farmhouse plus stable, laundry, milk house, coach house and harness room and more. Exhibits reflect the geology, social history and archaeology of the Isle of Arran.
Isle of Arran Distillery
Wherever you are situated in Scotland it seems as though are never any great distance from something to do with the whisky industry such as a whisky distillery. The Isle of Arran Distillery employs traditional processes in the newest distillery in the country. The distillery is open to the public from April-October and it features a restaurant and visitor centre.
Isle of Arran Brewery
The Isle of Arran Brewery is situated next to main entrance to Brodick Country Park. People can watch the brewing process from observation windows and a viewing gallery as well as getting a taste of the end product. The micro-brewery uses high-tech equipment to brew an ale using natural ingredients without adding artificial preservatives and additives.
Lochranza Castle
The final Isle of Arran tourist attraction I want to discuss is Lochranza Castle situated on the North Coast. On first looks it appears little more than a ruined sixteenth century towerhouse but you can get to the interior using keys from the local shop and Post Office. Once you are inside the L-plan tower you begin to see hints of a grand structure.
Isle of Arran Accommodation
Finding the best Arran accommodation shouldn't be too difficult as hotel accommodation on the Isle of Arran can be found in the majority of the main villages and towns (Brodick, Lamlash and Blackwaterfoot all feature the minimum of one hotel as well as guest house accommodation). Establishments to look out for include the Glenisle Hotel and the Lamlash Bay Hotel (in Lamlash), the Auchrannie Spa Resort (in Brodrick,) and the Best Western Kinloch Hotel (in Blackwaterfoot) which all have a superb reputation.
