Home Report Arran

The Isle of Arran is the largest island in the Firth of Clyde and the seventh-largest Scottish island. Population wise it stands at roughly 5,000 residents with Lamlash being the largest village on the island at over 1000 residents. Brodick, however, has a smaller population but has the ferry terminal as well as most of the shops and hotels on the island.

Often referred to as “Scotland in Miniature” with good reason, the island is divided into highland and lowland areas by the Highland Boundary Fault. The history of Arran is as complex as its geology. A changing coastline, spectacular mountains, beaches, thick forests, all intertwined with a rich culture and history stemming from the Gaelic, Viking, English and Scottish Clan inhabitants (and invaders) from its past.

Thankfully today, the island is a far more peaceful and serene place. It is connected to the Scottish mainland by two ferry routes, one from Brodick to Ardrossan, and another from Lochranza to Claonaig. Regular ferry sailings transformed Arran into a holiday destination and as such the main industry of the island today is tourism. With many leisure complexes, golf courses, amenities, scenery, wildlife and fantastic local produce, the island packs a punch relatively higher than its size would suggest. Brodick Castle with its expansive gardens is a particular draw to the island, formerly a seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, now owned by the National Trust for Scotland. Another big attraction is the Isle of Arran Distillery, the only working distillery on Arran since the 1800s.

There are seven primary schools and one high school serving Arran. The island schools have a strong community focus and teachers and school staff know the children well. Arran High School has a strong track record of academic success and is currently a Sport Scotland Gold School Sport Award holder.

There is also a strong musical tradition on the island and Primary children across the island can play a range of musical instruments from Primary 5 onwards depending on the school, from pipes and drums, to fiddle and brass.

Overall, the beautiful scenery, amenities, welcoming people, schools and good transport links to the mainland makes Arran a wonderful place to call home and raise a family.