Frequently referred to as ‘Scotland in Miniature’, the Isle of Arran has some seriously impressive geography and geology. Half is dramatically mountainous and sparsely populated, and half is lush green and flat. And the coastline is spectacular. Arran also has a diversity of flora and fauna that includes a tree native only to the island! While Arran doesn’t have its own airport, it does have its own brewery and distillery, and an excellent collection of places to eat and drink, many of them specialising in local produce and freshly landed seafood. The best places to stay on Arran all offer magical views, whether they’re a B&B or a converted country mansion.

The Isle of Arran is culturally similar to the Hebrides, and people come here for similar reasons as they visist in the Hebrides: they come to play golf — the island has several courses — enjoy some fabulous walking (the Arran Coastal Way circumnavigates the island’s 107kms, and a hike to the summit of Goat Fell, which, at 874m, is she highest peak on the island, and will offer views of Bute and Jura), plus enjoy the gorgeous beaches. Arran also has a number of National Trust properties, the best known probably being Brodick Castle. It was built in the 13th century, then converted into a more comfortable stately home to be used by the Dukes of Hamilton into the 50s — expect deer heads and horse ’n’ hounds paintings.

The best places to stay on Arran are scattered around the island, in Lamlash, opposite Holy Isle; Whiting Bay, which has a lovely white, sandy beach; and Brodick.

The Best Places to Stay in Arran

For Families

• The Auchrannie House Hotel is an 84 room property, converted from an elegant manor house, set on a beautifully sprawling estate close to Brodick. There are accommodations to suit most families (including luxury lodges which can sleep up to eight), plus an extensive list of activities and facilities on offer, a large spa, tennis courts and archery fields. There’s also excellent mountain biking infrastructure in place, and great walking routes leaving from the hotel. Dogs are welcome too, and offered their own fluffy towels and doggy treats at check in.

For Romantics

• The Glenisle Hotel is a peaceful pick in a pretty Lamlash, overlooking the Holy Isle and the Firth of Clyde. It has just 13 rooms and suites, well equipped and decorated with classic hotel charm, and a cheerful colour palette. Our favourite rooms have sea views. The bistro specialises in seafood, and has sea views too, and outside there’s a walled garden. Convenient for golfers too.

Best B&Bs

• Cruickshanks Boutique B&B is a three room B&B in a picturesque spot, surrounded by mature gardens, and overlooking the coastline and the water. The decor is peacefully stylish, and has retained this elegant house's best original features. The lounge is cosy, with pleasantly soft lighting and an iron stove fire. The breakfasts are indulgent. Adults only.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Despite being an island, the Isle of Arran doesn’t have its own airport, the closest being Glasgow Airport, which is about an hour away, first by train to Ardrossan, then ferry to Arran. For some people the connections into Edinburgh International Airport will be better, and from there it’s about three hours and a half hours onward journey by train and then ferry. If you’re coming via London, you can catch the train all the way up to Glasgow, and on to Ardrossan in about six hours, travelling direct from Euston, where trains run relatively frequently.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Scotland’s unpredictable weather is well known, and the Isle of Arran is subject to all the usual recommendations about packing wet weather gear whatever the season. The up-side is that during the summer months, many Scottish destinations enjoy long days with plenty of light. There’s a big Folk Festival in June, so come, or avoid, depending on your taste in music. Summers are the most popular time to visit, offering the easiest crossings and the best weather. Obviously the best deals for accommodation are in the cooler months.

Still not sure where to stay?

• Expand your search to our Gurus’ recommendations for the best places to stay in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands or in Dumfries and Galloway
• Consider the best places to stay on the Isle of Islay or nearby Troon
• Or you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.