FAQs

Did you know?

If you've got a question about your trip to Arran, then the frequently asked questions might help you. If not, just drop us an email and we can assist.

On the Water & Fishing

Q. Are there any boat tours?
Lamlash Cruises offer various cruises and boat tours April-October – contact directly: 07904 846765 lamlashcruises@gmail.com

Q.Can we hire a SUP?
Yes, Arran Active offer SUP hire. NB There are no boat hire facilities on Arran.

Q.Can I fish anywhere?
You may be required to purchase a permit and information can be found on where to fish and permits, any restrictions etc from COAST, Dougarie Estate and Arran Angling Association.

Buses, Tours & Transport

Q.Where can we get a bus timetable?
Buses tend to link in with ferries (though not always!). The 324 travels North via Lochranza to Blackwaterfoot; the 323 travels south via Whiting Bay to Blackwaterfoot and the 322 travels across the island directly to Blackwaterfoot. Timetables can be found here

Q.Does anyone do round-island coach tours?
There are no round-Arran coach tours. You can however, catch the 324 bus north and then change at Blackwaterfoot to the 323. All bus times can be found here or see next question!

Q. Can I book a private tour round the island?
You can book a private tour. Visit our Tours page to find out more.

Q. Where are the EV Charging points?
There are some at Brodick Pier, along Brodick front, at Auchrannie Resort (Brodick), Glenisle Hotel (Lamlash) and Kinloch Hotel (Blackwaterfoot).

Q. Where can I buy petrol?
There are filling stations in Brodick, Blackwaterfoot and Whiting Bay.

Left Luggage

Is there anywhere I can leave my luggage? Left Luggage may be dropped off at The Old Post Office in Brodick. They also do laundry!

ArranCard

Q. What is an ArranCard?
This is a pre-paid gift card. To find out more visit the website www.ArranCard.com

Accessibility & Toilets

Q. Can you hire mobility scooters on Arran?
No, but if you try Thistle Help in Ayrshire they may be able to assist.

Q. How do I know if I have booked accessible accommodation? Check the listings section on this website.

Q. Are there public toilets on Arran?
Yes, in Brodick, Lamlash, Whiting Bay, Kildonan Hall, Kilmory Hall, Blackwaterfoot, Lochranza, Corre & Sannox. Many businesses may also allow you to use their facilities in return for a donation to a local charity.

Weather & Midges

Q. When’s the best time to visit Arran?
Anytime – check out our tips for the seasons here.

Q. Does the boat cancel if it’s very windy? Sometimes…it depends on the wind direction, and we are an island after all! Check CalMac Service Status if you are concerned.

Q. What are midges?
Midges are wee beasties that come out in still, warm, damp weather and give you little bites (well, the female ones do…!). They’re pests, but we’re not overrun with them on Arran – wear a good repellent such as Smidge, cover up or stay indoors at dusk and dawn when they are most prevalent. Citronella and Lavender are also natural repellents.

In Summer

Walking - Climb Goatfell

This is the island’s highest (and possibly easiest) peak. Go up the path from Cladach, and reward yourself with an Arran ice Cream once you’re back down. If you’re fit you can probably do this up and down in under 4 hrs. Find out more here

Heritage - Brodick Castle

The castle offers a great insight into the Hamilton dynasty that used to own all of Arran. Arran Heritage Museum offers the social history of Arran and her people. Both compliment each other and are highly recommended.

Food & Drink

Visit Arran Botanicals at The Beach house at Cladach.


Activity – Kayaking!

In Autumn

Walking – sections of Arran Coastal Way
Heritage - visit Machrie Standing Stones
Activity – play Mini golf or enjoy an Arran Alpaca trek
Food & Drink – Brewery visit

In Spring

Walking – Giants’ Graves and Glenashdale
Heritage – Arran Geopark hubs
Activity – Bellevue Farm Tours
Food & Drink – a picnic from Arran’s Cheese Shop, Wooleys of Arran and Arran Milk

In Winter

Walking – Glen Rosa
Natural Heritage – COAST Marine Interpretation Centre
Activity – Segway at Auchrannie
Food & Drink - Visit Arran or Lagg Distilleries for a wee winter warmer!

Quirky Island Fact

#3 - Arran has eight schools in total
There are seven primary schools around Arran, in Brodick, Lamlash, Whiting Bay, Kilmory, Shiskine, Pirnmill and Corrie. All feed in to one secondary school in Lamlash (Arran High). There’s also an Argyll College in the same campus as the high school, and this is part of the University of the Highlands & Islands, so islanders can study to degree level without ever leaving Arran!

Quirky Island Fact

#3 - Arran has eight schools in total
There are seven primary schools around Arran, in Brodick, Lamlash, Whiting Bay, Kilmory, Shiskine, Pirnmill and Corrie. All feed in to one secondary school in Lamlash (Arran High). There’s also an Argyll College in the same campus as the high school, and this is part of the University of the Highlands & Islands, so islanders can study to degree level without ever leaving Arran!

Quirky Island Fact

#3 - Arran has eight schools in total
There are seven primary schools around Arran, in Brodick, Lamlash, Whiting Bay, Kilmory, Shiskine, Pirnmill and Corrie. All feed in to one secondary school in Lamlash (Arran High). There’s also an Argyll College in the same campus as the high school, and this is part of the University of the Highlands & Islands, so islanders can study to degree level without ever leaving Arran!