Things To Do in Isle of Arran

After the ferry docks at Brodick, you may want to head for Arran's major sights, Brodick Castle and the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum.

The most intriguing walks on the island are signposted. But if you're really serious about hiking, buy one of two detailed guides at the tourist office -- Seventy Walks in Arran for £3 and My Walks in Arran for £2.50. While at the office, ask about any guided walks the Forestry Commission might be conducting. They are scheduled frequently in summer and range from 2 to 5 hours, costing £5 to £10.

South from Brodick is the village/resort of Lamlash, on Lamlash Bay. From here, a ferry takes you over to Holy Island with its 303m (994-ft.) peak. A disciple of St. Columba founded a church on this island. In the north, Lochranza is a village with unique appeal. It opens onto a bay of pebbles and sand, and in the background lie the ruins of a castle that was reputedly the hunting seat of Robert the Bruce.

Down a Lovely Glen with a Picnic in Hand -- The best way to discover the island's beauty is to stroll around. Right beyond the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, at the point where String Road divides the island, you can follow the signs to a beauty spot called Glen Rosa. This is the island's loveliest glen, and you might want to pick up the makings of a picnic lunch before setting out. Another great walk is to the village of Corriegills, which is signposted along A841 south of Brodick. As you stroll, you'll be treated with the finest views of Brodick Bay.

Divided into three businesses, the Duchess Court Shops, Home Farm, Brodick (tel. 01770/302-831), comprises the Home Farm Kitchen, selling locally produced chutneys, jams, and marmalades; the Nature Shop, dealing in books, jewelry, wood carvings, T-shirts, and other assorted goods; and an unusual teddy bear shop. Something Special and Inspirations of Arran are other retail outlets associated with the Court shops.

About 10km (6 miles) north of Brodick in Corrie, Corriecraft & Antiques, Hotel Square (tel. 01770/810-661), sells small Arran antiques and pottery. In Lamlash, Patterson Arran Ltd., The Old Mill (tel. 01770/600-606), offers chutneys, mustards, preserves, and other locally produced condiments.

The Old Byre Showroom, Auchencar Farm (tel. 01770/840-227), 8km (5 miles) north of Blackwaterfoot along the coastal road in Machrie, sells sheepskin, leather, and tweeds, but its biggest draw is the large selection of locally produced wool sweaters.

Regulars gather in Brodick's pubs to talk, argue, and drink. The Brodick Bar, in the center but without a street address (tel. 01770/302-169), is an old wooden pub open Monday to Saturday 11am to midnight. Drop in for some real Scottish ale and a bar meal of local seafood (meals are served Mon-Sat noon-2:30pm and 5:30-10pm). Featuring wood-and-leather chairs and walls hung with old photographs and riding gear, Mack's Bar, also in the center but with no street address (tel. 01770/302-531), keeps the same hours and serves real cask ales and lagers. Meals, available daily noon to 2pm and 5:30 to 8pm, always include a roast and seafood items.