Things to do on the Isle of Arran

Hiking

Arran is a perfect location for hiking, with a huge variety of walks: from gentle country strolls, to waterfall trails and pre-historic sites, through dramatic hill walking (Arran has four Corbetts: Goatfell, Cir Mhor, Caisteal Abhail and Beinn Tarsuinn all over 2,500 feet).

Click here for more information about walking on Arran.

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Mountain Biking on Arran

Arran is a paradise for mountain biking enthusiasts. With various trails ranging from easy to technical, you can explore the island's rugged terrain. Arran Bike Hire provides bike rentals and guided tours to help you make the most of your biking adventure 

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Paddle Boarding and Kayaking

Explore Arran's beautiful coastline and enjoy the serene waters around the island. 

 

Arran Active in Brodick provide paddleboard and kayak rentals. For guided sea kayaking adventures,  Otters Tail Adventures offers tours suitable for all skill levels, showcasing Arran’s marine wildlife and dramatic coastal views. Kayak Arran also offer full and half day sea kayak tours of the Isle of Arran coast.

 

Swimming

Arran is full of amazing spots for open water swimming (both in the sea and inland), along with an excellent public swimming pool at the Auchrannie resort in Brodick. For more information, please see our swimming page.

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Diving

Discover the underwater world around Arran with Dive Arran. They offer a range of PADI courses and guided dives, allowing you to explore the rich marine life and unique underwater landscapes 

 

Snorkel Trail

Arran boasts a fantastic snorkel trail developed by the Community of Arran Seabed Trust (COAST). This self-led trail features some of the island's most beautiful bays and beaches, perfect for both beginner and advanced snorkellers 

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Sauna

The perfect way to warm up after a swim, snorkel or hike on the island. There are a few choices for places to sauna on the island including the mobile Green Goddess Wild Sauna (in a converted Fire Service lorry); the wood-fired Stones Throw mobile sauna (based in Whiting Bay and Lamlash); or the Sauna and Steam room at Auchrannie Spa in Brodick (attached to the hotel swimming pool, spa complex and gym).

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Geopark

Arran has long been a popular destination for Geology field trips and in 2025, the entire Isle of Arran was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark.  Arran offers a half-billion-year journey through Earth's history with world-class geological sites, breathtaking landscapes and diverse habitats. The Arran Geopark website has links to signposted walks where you can see many of Arran's unique geological sites. 

 

Distilleries

Arran has two whisky distilleries, both owned by Arran Whisky - one in Lochranza and a new distillery in Kilmory. Both distilleries offer tours and have a cafe and shop. 

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Arran Gin do not offer distillery tours, but you can enjoy a drink at their beach bar in Brodick.

 

Arran Brewery

Arran has two breweries - one in Brodick and one in Lamlash:

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Arran Brewery is based in the north end of Brodick near the castle and the footpath to Goatfell. They offer both tours and tastings from the brewery shop (as well as beer to take home).

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Seagate Brewery in Lamlash launched in 2020 and produce Belgian style beers with a few Scottish stouts and ales. Seagate claims to be the UK's smallest registered and licensed Commercial Brewery.

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Brodick Castle

Visit Brodick Castle, a grand baronial castle with beautiful gardens, woodland trails, and interactive exhibits. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, it offers a perfect family day out 

 

Heritage Museum

The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum in Brodick showcases the island's social history, archaeology, and geology. The museum includes a smiddy, farmhouse, cottage, and more, providing a fascinating glimpse into Arran's past 

 

Fishing

Arran offers excellent fishing opportunities, including sea, inland, and river fishing. The Arran Angling Association manages several fishing spots, offering permits for visitors to enjoy fishing for trout, salmon, and more 

 

Holy Isle and Ferry

Take a ferry from Lamlash to Holy Isle, a place of spiritual retreat and natural beauty. Lamlash Cruises offers day trips and excursions to Holy Isle, providing a unique experience of Arran's coastline .

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Holy Island is owned and managed by a Buddhist retreat centre and worth a visit to hike and explore the island. The island is home to wild Eriskay ponies, Saanen goats, Soay sheep and the rare Rock Whitebeam tree. The island is named after the 6th century monk St Molaise and was historically known as "Eilean MoLaise" - giving the village of Lamlash it's name. The island has a small cave associated with St Molaise and containing runic writing.

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Boat Trips

Experience the thrill of a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) tour around Arran. Lamlash Cruises offers exciting RIB trips that allow you to explore the island's coastline and spot wildlife. Or, for a more sedate journey, they also offer a ferry service to

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The COAST explorer offers research and diving boat charters, as well as sea science and nature tours.

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Mogabout Tours

For a unique off-road adventure, join a Mogabout Tour. These 4WD tours take you into some of the most remote and pristine areas of Arran, offering stunning views and a chance to see the island's wildlife up close 

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Auchrannie Spa

Relax and unwind at the Auchrannie Spa. This luxurious spa offers a range of treatments and facilities, including pools, saunas, and steam rooms, providing the perfect way to rejuvenate after a day of exploring

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Coast Visitor Centre

Perfect for children with interesting tanks full of marine life, the Coast Visitor Centre in Lamlash provides information about marine conservation work and the Lamlash No Take Zone. 

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Horse Riding

Cairnhouse Riding Centre is a family run riding centre based in Blackwaterfoot. They offer a range of activities from pony trekking for beginners/novice riders to hacking for experienced riders. Group and private lessons are available.

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Arran adventures with Otters Tail

Explore the stunning landscapes of Arran with Otters Tail Adventures. They offer sea kayaking, gorge walking, and hillwalking experiences that cater to all levels of adventurers.

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Golf on the Isle of Arran – Scotland’s Golfing Paradise

Arran is a dream destination for golf lovers, boasting seven unique golf courses that showcase the island’s stunning landscapes and rich sporting heritage. From traditional links to hillside parkland, each course offers a distinct challenge and unforgettable views. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a curious beginner, Arran’s courses promise variety, charm, and a warm welcome.

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Top Tip: Consider the Arran Golf Pass, which offers discounted access to all seven courses and is valid for 12 months – perfect for repeat visits or a week-long golf tour of the island. At the time of writing, the Arran Golf Pass costs £175

 

Shiskine Golf and Tennis Club

Famed for its quirky and scenic 12-hole layout, Shiskine is one of Scotland’s most iconic short courses. Set on the island’s west coast, it offers dramatic views over the Kilbrannan Sound and Mull of Kintyre. Expect blind shots, undulating fairways, and a truly memorable round.

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Brodick Golf Club

Located near the ferry terminal, Brodick is a classic 18-hole links course with panoramic views of Goatfell and the Firth of Clyde. It’s a great introduction to island golf, with a mix of open fairways and tricky greens.

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Lamlash Golf Club

Set on a hillside above Lamlash Bay, this 18-hole parkland course is known for its tight fairways and elevation changes. The views across to Holy Isle are breathtaking, and the course offers a serious challenge for golfers of all levels.

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Whiting Bay Golf Club

Another 18-hole gem, Whiting Bay is a scenic course with a relaxed atmosphere. It winds through wooded terrain and open hillside, offering a mix of short par 3s and longer holes with sea views.

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Machrie Bay Golf Club

This charming 9-hole course on the west coast is perfect for a quick round. It’s flat, friendly, and ideal for families or those new to the game. The adjacent tearoom is a local favourite.

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Corrie Golf Club

Nestled on the island’s east coast, Corrie is a 9-hole course with a big personality. It’s known for its welcoming vibe, sea views, and a few surprises along the way. A great stop for casual play.

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Lochranza Golf Course

This 11-hole par-3 course is part of the Lochranza Centre and is ideal for beginners or those looking to sharpen their short game. Surrounded by hills and red deer, it’s a peaceful and picturesque spot.​​​​