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Isle of Arran Coast Guide The Isle of Arran lies around 20 miles to the west of Ayr on the west coast of Scotland in the Firth of Clyde. It is a fairly large island being around 15 miles long and 10 miles wide at the widest point, it is also hilly with the highest point being Goat Fell at 873 metres (2866 feet). The population is around 5,000 and it is a popular year round holiday destination. A car ferry runs from Ardrossan to Brodick all year round.
The main village on the island is Brodick on the east coast with a population of around 650 and this is where the ferry docks; there are also several hotels and shops as well. However the largest village is Lamlash with around 1010 people which lies 3 miles to the south. The island has a periphery road which circles the island along the coast which makes it ideal for cycle touring. As well as Goat Fell there are three other peaks above 700 metres which make for good hiking. There are several good beaches on the island, mostly on the east coast including at Brodick (see photo). The major attraction on Arran is undoubtedly Brodick Castle which was the ancestral home of the Dukes of Hamilton but is now owned by the National Trust. There has been a fortification on the site since the 5th century and numerous structures have been built and destroyed by invaders (English and French) over the years. The current castle dates mostly from 1844 when the 11th Duke tripled the size of the building; there are also extensive gardens. The castle is open daily from the beginning of April until the end of October.
Brodick Castle (source wikipedia) Lochranza
Places to visit on Arran Brodick Castle - owned by the National Trust for Scotland - the castle is open in the summer months and the grounds year round. Phone: 0844 493 2152 for details. Arran Distillery - produce range of single malt and blended whiskeys. Beaches - there are around 10 beaches on Arran Golf - there are some seven golf courses on the island. There are also opportunities for sailing, rib riding and other adventure activities on Arran. Map of Arran area View Larger Map
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Ukcoastguide
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Ukcoastguide 2019 |