Travelling from Glasgow to Arran: Exploring Scotland in Miniature
Nestled in the Firth of Clyde, off the west coast of Scotland, lies the picturesque Isle of Arran. With rugged mountains, white sandy beaches and ancient woodlands, visitors to the island soon understand why it’s known as “Scotland in miniature.”
Whether you are visiting Arran for a day trip from Glasgow or planning to stay a little longer, set sail and leave the hustle and bustle of city life behind.
How to get from Glasgow to Arran?
Well, there's no need to worry about booking a flight – Arran doesn't have an airport. As it’s an island, the only way to get here is by ferry. All visitors to Arran must catch one of the regular ferry crossings from Ardrossan or Troon. The crossing takes 55 minutes from Ardrossan to Brodick and 1 hour 20 minutes from Troon to Brodick.
The ferry operator is Calmac, and you can book your tickets online. Reservations are recommended. Make sure you check the service status before you set off, as severe weather can affect sailing times or even cause cancellations.
Keep your camera close at hand on deck as the views back towards Scotland on approaching Arran can be breathtaking, especially on a clear day. You can spot porpoises, dolphins, and even the occasional minke whale in the Firth of Clyde.
Travelling to Ardrossan via car
Take the direct route along the M77, arriving at the ferry port of Ardrossan in around 45 minutes, or instead, head south on the more scenic A737, which may take a few minutes longer.
Travelling to Ardrossan via train
By public transport, Scotrail operates a 45-minute train direct from Glasgow to Ardrossan South Beach Station.
Things to do on the Isle of Arran
You’ve made it to the beautiful Isle of Arran. Welcome - or “fàilte” as local Gaelic speakers might say. On the island, there are endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Food and drink
If you’ve built up an appetite on your journey, you’ll find a range of options in the port town of Brodick, just minutes from disembarking from the ferry. This quaint town is home to a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the island.
The Little Rock Café serves delicious sandwiches, coffee, and cake to eat in or takeaway - there’s even a deli where you can pick up snacks for later in the day! Further along the promenade is Le Truffe Noir, promising fine dining from its award-winning chef.
For a seaside setting with excellent food, consider The Pierhead Tavern in Lamlash, or the Kildonan Hotel at the southern tip of the hotel - both offer stunning views.
Cheese lovers are in for a treat at the Arran Cheese Company, where you can sample and purchase a variety of handcrafted cheeses. If you have a sweet tooth, the Arran Chocolate Factory is a must visit for its tempting selection of artisan chocolates.
Retail therapy
No trip to Arran is complete without a visit to Arran Sense of Scotland HQ (formerly Arran Aromatics), where the team has been distilling the scents of this magical island into soaps and skincare since 1989. Their flagship store is just a three-minute drive north of Brodick.
Looking to update your wardrobe with some quality knitwear? Pop into The Old Byre Visitor Centre in Machrie, where you’ll find a showroom packed with knitwear, home accessories, and a dedicated shoe shop. It also has its own cafe and a fantastic play park for children.
History and Culture
The most iconic historical site is undoubtedly Brodick Castle, a magnificent red sandstone fortress overlooking Brodick Bay. Now managed by the National Trust for Scotland, this 19th-century baronial castle will entertain you for hours with an interactive visitor experience, landscaped gardens and extensive woodland trails.
For a journey further back in time, explore the enigmatic Machrie Moor Standing Stones. These Bronze Age stone circles are a powerful reminder of Arran's ancient past and are set against a dramatic moorland backdrop. Nearby, the King's Cave at Blackwaterfoot is steeped in legend; said to be where Robert the Bruce found inspiration from a spider during his exile.
Next on the itinerary is the Arran Heritage Museum, which costs £5 for adults and provides a glimpse into the island's social, archaeological, and geological history.
Out and about
The Isle of Arran is a paradise for walkers, with hundreds of trails to explore. If you have a week to spare, you could walk the island's entire coastline along the Arran Coastal Way, but there are a range of easier forest trails and low-level walks for the less intrepid. One of the best views is from Goat Fell, the highest point on Arran, but you’ll need to burn a few calories on the 2,867 ft ascent. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Arran's seven golf courses - 9 and 18-hole options - will delight golf enthusiasts, many offering spectacular sea views. Other outdoor activities include mountain biking, horse riding, gorge walking, and even alpaca trekking.
Where to stay?
Arran offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget, from luxurious hotels to self-catering cottages.
Brodick is the main hub on the island; here you’ll find a variety of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering apartments, with easy access to the ferry terminal. The Auchrannie Resort in Brodick is a popular choice. It boasts luxury hotel rooms, lodges and a spa.
Lochranza, a village at the north of the island, also has a range of accommodation options. The recently reopened Lochranza Country Inn offers newly renovated en-suite bedrooms, a bar, and a dining room with beautiful loch views. For those seeking a budget-friendly option or a base for outdoor pursuits, the Lochranza Youth Hostel provides comfortable private rooms and shared dorms.
If you prefer camping in style, stay at King’s Caves Glamping in Machrie, which offers lodges with all the mod-cons and easy access to the coastal caves nearby.
Before you go
Finally, it would be remiss of us not to suggest a trip to Lagg Distillery to sample our single malt peated whisky, made in our award-winning distillery.
Book a tour of the distillery, where you’ll discover what happens in the whisky making process from grain to glass, and sample our core and limited edition expressions.
After your tour and tasting experience, take a seat in our cafe or whisky bar for lunch and enjoy the views of Ailsa Craig and the lighthouse that sits atop.
So if you’re looking to escape the mainland, why not embark on a journey to the Isle of Arran? With its breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and warm hospitality, it's the perfect destination for a rejuvenating break.