Isle of Arran information

The Isle of Arran



The Isle of Arran is often referred to as 'Scotland in Miniature', as many aspects of Scotland's landscape as a whole are encapsulated by the island. Arran is 20 miles long and 56 miles round and is located off the south-west coast of Scotland. Palm trees grow here in the mild climate thanks to the Gulf Stream and it has many picturesque villages. The island is cut in half by the Highland Boundary Fault, a geological division which makes the north rugged and hilly, whereas the south is more gentle and lower lying. In fact it is often called 'Scotland in miniature' for its range and wealth of scenery. All this is within easy reach of Glasgow, making it an ideal holiday destination. It has history (castles and ancient monuments), wildlife (birds, seals and deer) and leisure facilities (tennis, golf, yachting, pony trekking, bowling, cycling). Something for everyone.	The impressive and magnificent Glenashadale Falls ...leave your car in the car park and take a short walk from Viewbank House.

The wildlife is outstanding, with Red Deer, pheasant, otter and Golden Eagles readily seen in the mountains. There are over 200 species of birds.
There are large colonies of Common and Grey Seals near coastal caves, trails and pathways to mysterious Bronze Age Stone Circles, and many relaxing
angling hours to be enjoyed by inland streams, lochs or the sea.

Dolphins, Porpoises, Basking Sharks, Minke and Killer Whales are also occasional visitors to the waters surrounding Arran, and pods of Dolphins
can often be seen in Whiting bay itself

Whiting Bay has a wealth of places to eat, overlooking the
sea towards Troon on the Ayrshire Coast and the very southern
portion of Scotland. There are some interesting and well-known
forest walks in this area, particularly to Glenashdale Falls, the
island’s most impressive waterfall only 3/4 of a mile from
Viewbank House.

Along the shoreline, the beach is a mixture of pebble, rock-pool
and sand. There are good services in the area - a selection of
grocery stores, craft studios and coffee shops.

The island activities are numerous. Arran has 7 golf courses (including 2 Links).
Whiting Bay Golf course is a mere 200 yards walk from Viewbank House where visitors find
a warm welcome and your game is duly tested.

For non-golfers (or as a change) the island offers Pony-trekking, Mountain-bike hire, Walking, Mountain
Climbing, Paragliding, Fishing, Off-road-cart driving and many more exhausting or relaxing activities.

Brodick Castle is also open for visitors as is the well stocked Heritage Museum.
Many shops invite you to look, admire and buy local crafts.