Sam
The Isle of Arran off the West Coast of Scotland is the perfect place for a family holiday. Even more so if you are an outdoor family, as there are so many activities you can do whilst on the island. We have recently returned from a long weekend on the Island and thought I would share why we think Arran is perfect for families. You never know it may give you some inspiration for your own holiday on Arran.
Exploring The Isle Of Arran With Kids
Contents
Great Location
It is the perfect getaway for us as it is only 1.5 hours drive from our house to the ferry port at Ardrossan. Then from there, you take the Calmac ferry over to Brodick (it is about 1 hour on the ferry). You can get some great views as you get closer to the island so make sure you walk around the ferry so you get the best views.
The Isle of Arran is also known as “Scotland in Miniature” which once you have set foot on the island you will understand why. You certainly don’t want to forget your camera.
Great Selection of Accommodation
From B&B’s, hotels, to self-catering you are spoiled for choice. You can find them all over the island, which means you can either stay in the main town (Brodick) when you arrive, or head off around the Island to another town/village to stay in. We normally stay in Brodick and have stayed in Orwin House and also Rowanbank Holiday Cottages.
Castles
In Brodick, you will find Brodick Castle. It was closed on our last visit, but we have been before and it is great to explore. They also have a new adventure playground which will keep the kids entertained…and hopefully tire them out. You can also explore the ruins of Lochranza Castle. The boys had a blast exploring the ruins and used a torch to go inside the prison. Me, on the other hand, refused to go in such a dark space!! Also on the other side of the island, there is Kildonan Castle which is also a ruin.
Outdoor Activities
I normally head to Arran for the hiking, and you will have loads to keep you going. I have walked the Arran Coastal Way and many of the walks around the Brodick area. Once I have these written up, I will edit and post the links in so you can see which ones may be suitable for your family. You can also cycle (on the road or mountain biking). If you didn’t want to bring your bikes then there are hire places in Brodick. Although best checking in advance if they have the correct sizes. You don’t want to go all that way and find there are none available.
On top of the cycling and walking you can also do the following:
- Horse Riding
- Golf
- Football
- Archery
- Gorge Scrambling
- Sea Kayaking
- and more!
If your children are into hiking then you could even tackle Goat Fell; the highest peak on the Island.
Endless Attractions
From the Arran Distillery to the Arran Heritage Museum, there are plenty of places to go on the island to visit. You could also visit Kings Cave and the Machrie Stone Circles to learn some of the histories of the area. For some indoor fun then you can head to the Auchrannie Resort for the soft play. I’m sure there is also a pool for non-residents too!
There you have it! Will you be packing your bags and heading to the Isle of Arran? It is one of our favourite places to visit and I’m sure it will be one of yours once you have visited!
Let me know in the comments below if you have visited before.
We love outdoor activities, and especially ones that seem a little off the beaten track like this place does. I don’t know when we will ever make it to Scotland but when we do, tthe Isle of Arran is on the list. Coming from #MondayEscapes
Yes, it is the perfect place for outdoor activities. You will be sure to enjoy it!
I’d love to explore more of Scotland with our two boys and the Isle of Arran looks like the perfect start! #mondayescapes
Yes, Scotland has so many hidden gems!
Oh, I’m dying to visit some of the Scottish islands, and Arran is possibly my first port of call (bar Orkney, which I’m also desperate to get to). It sounds like quite a diverse place, with plenty for families to do. I’m looking forward to reading your post on the coastal path. #MondayEscapes
We haven’t been to Orkney but we love Arran. Islay is also very nice and is even more remote x
I totally agree that Arran is a great place for kids. My SIL had a place up there but we haven’t been for ages. Would love to return. Thanks for linking up to #Mondayescapes
Yes, you should go back. Your girls would love it x
Two of my boys were born in Scotland but have never been back (since they were babies!). We’ve already booked to visit the Isle of Skye next easter but looking for some other islands to discover too. Arran sounds perfect #familytraveltips
Skye will be lovely to explore. If you have time try fit in Arran. You will love it.
I’ve never visited Scotland but really would like to do the isles. Castle looks fantastic #fearlessfamtrav
You should visit, Scotland is a great place to explore.
Arran looks like a great way to spend some time together exploring nature as a family. Beautiful! #familytraveltips
It really is! So much wildlife to see as well.
This looks beautiful, I would like to visit one day! #familytraveltips
You should do, its a great place for families.
Oh Sam, Arran look picture perfect. Exactly how I see Scotland- wild and rugged and breathtakingly beautiful. The Brodick Castle is perfect for imaginary play for me as well as the kids!!! Thanks for linking up to #familytraveltips
It is so beautiful there. You can see why it is known as Scotland in Miniature as the landscape is amazing!
Oh it’s beautiful! Firmly on my list of places to visit in Scotland. I love how many outdoor activities there are there, I would love to go horse riding there! Thanks for linking up to #familytraveltips
Nat.x
There is so much to see and do that you wouldnt believe its only a small island! x
Sounds like it is a fab spot for families. At the same time it looks picturesque and a beautiful destination for a break as a couple. I’m tempted to take my girlfriend there!
Lovely write up and we’re heading back there in a couple of weeks, some nicevideas and thoughts
Thank you Kim. We love Arran, so enjoy your time there!