One of the many things people have missed during lockdown is travelling: sandy beaches, the sound of waves crashing on the shore, and the sun beating down from above.
Luckily, Scots won’t have to travel too far to find (almost) all of that once restrictions are lifted.
One such place many are excited to get back to is the Isle of Arran. Jam-packed with hills, trails, fairways, and history, there truly is something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are ten things to see and do on Arran once restrictions are lifted:
Goat Fell
Standing at 2,886ft, Goat Fell is the highest point in the region.
The hill is perfect for walkers who want to immerse themselves in raw, Scottish landscape – something we have been deprived of during periods of restriction.
The peak offers panoramic views of Ayrshire, making the hike worth every step.
Isle of Arran Brewery
For those interested in beer and brewing, this one is a must.
The Isle of Arran Brewery has been producing award-winning beers since it was founded in 2000.
Beer tasting experiences led by experienced staff members are on offer at the site, as well as tours of the Brewery itself.
There are also opportunities to take part in ‘Brewery Days’ in which you can experience the process firsthand.
Brodick Castle and Country Gardens
Located on the island’s east side, Brodick Castle is steeped in history and surrounded by beauty.
The seat belonged to the Dukes of Hamilton, with the current structure having stood since 1844.
The castle’s grounds feature gardens, woodland, and waterfalls, with a ‘Isle Be Wild’ adventure play park for children to enjoy.
The site is also the only island country park in Britain.
Machrie Moor Stone Circles
Dating back to 3500BC, these stone circles are found on the Arran’s western side.
There are six stone circles in total, all of which can be reached as part of an hour-long walk.
As well as the stones, the moor - which was used for religious rituals - is home to a number of burial cairns.
You can have an online tour of the walkway by visiting the Walk Highlands website here.
Arran Outdoor Education Centre
Arran Outdoor Education Centre is the perfect retreat for those who enjoy getting on the water or amongst the hills.
Activities include kayaking, sailing, hillwalking, mountain biking and gorge walking.
The centre is based at Lamlash, with residential and non-residential packages available at the purpose-built complex.
Tailored family breaks and packages are also available.
Flying Fever Paragliding
For those feeling particularly daring, Flying Fever offers people the opportunity to fly with its paragliding courses.
The school allows people to learn how to paraglide or fly tandem with an instructor.
Visitors can try out ‘funday solo training’ which will count towards any further training if they decide to continue.
Isle of Arran Distillery
For both the whisky lovers and those who are new to the spirit – a tour of one of Arran’s distillery is sure to provide a great day out.
Production began at the original Lochranza site in 1995, with a second distillery at Lagg opening last year.
Both distilleries have visitor centres offering tours and tasting experiences.
Visit
Lochranza Golf Club
Renowned for its natural features, the Lochranza course replicates the rugged nature of original Scottish seaside courses.
All day, 3-day, weekly and seasonal passes are available for golf lovers keen to test themselves on this course’s stunning fairways.
To find out more about this fantastic golfclub, go to the Visit Scotland page here.
King’s Cave
Believed to be where Robert the Bruce had his famous encounter with a spider, King’s Cave is a coastal walk featuring range of caves in the sandstone cliffs.
The walk can be joined from the forestry car park, or from the beach if coming from Blackwaterfoot.
The walk is around five kilometres in total and takes roughly an hour and a half to complete.
Isle of Arran Heritage Museum
Founded in 1976, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum reflects the island’s social history, archaeology and geology.
The museum buildings include a farmhouse, cottage, bothy and stable.
There is also a café on site, with space for picnic in the riverside gardens.
The gardens are also great for children, with a play hut and tractor to sit on.
You can read more about the Heritage Museum here.
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