The best hotels in Arran

What are the best hotels in Arran?

The Isle of Arran, sitting off Scotland’s west coast in the Firth of Clyde, is a little island with lots going for it. Think dramatic mountain scenery, rolling green hills, sandy beaches and pretty seaside villages, all packed into one rather lovely corner of Scotland. There’s plenty to keep you busy, from walking and golf to wildlife spotting and exploring the local food and drink scene. When it comes to places to stay, you’ll find everything from cosy B&Bs to stylish country house hotels, but Auchrannie House Hotel is our pick of the bunch for its facilities, setting and all-round appeal.

Whether you fancy putting on your walking boots, spending a lazy afternoon on the beach or simply exploring the island’s pretty villages, there’s lots to do on Arran. Brodick is a great base, with its impressive 13th century castle, beautiful gardens and easy access to the climb up Goat Fell, Arran’s highest peak, where the views are well worth the effort. Elsewhere, you’ll find lovely sandy beaches at Whiting Bay, coastal scenery around Lamlash and wonderful walks along the 107km Arran Coastal Way. Make time for the island’s distillery, local brewery and excellent seafood restaurants, too.

Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Arran or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in Ayrshire.

The Best Places to Stay in Arran

For Families

• Auchrannie House Hotel is an 84 room property, converted from an elegant manor house, set on a beautifully sprawling estate close to Brodick. There are accommodations to suit most families (including luxury lodges which can sleep up to eight), plus an extensive list of activities and facilities on offer, a large spa, tennis courts and archery fields. There’s also excellent mountain biking infrastructure in place, and great walking routes leaving from the hotel. Dogs are welcome too, and offered their own fluffy towels and doggy treats at check in.

For Romantics

• Glenisle Hotel is a peaceful pick in a pretty Lamlash, overlooking the Holy Isle and the Firth of Clyde. It has just 13 rooms and suites, well equipped and decorated with classic hotel charm, and a cheerful colour palette. Our favourite rooms have sea views. The bistro specialises in seafood, and has sea views too, and outside there’s a walled garden. Convenient for golfers too.

For a B&B

• Cruickshanks Boutique B&B is a three room B&B in a picturesque spot, surrounded by mature gardens, and overlooking the coastline and the water. The decor is peacefully stylish, and has retained this elegant house's best original features. The lounge is cosy, with pleasantly soft lighting and an iron stove fire. The breakfasts are indulgent. Adults only.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

• If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Despite being an island, the Isle of Arran doesn’t have its own airport, the closest being Glasgow Airport, which is about an hour away, first by train to Ardrossan, then ferry to Arran. For some people the connections into Edinburgh International Airport will be better, and from there it’s about three hours and a half hours onward journey by train and then ferry. If you’re coming via London, you can catch the train all the way up to Glasgow, and on to Ardrossan in about six hours, travelling direct from Euston, where trains run relatively frequently.
• If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
• Scotland’s unpredictable weather is well known, and the Isle of Arran is subject to all the usual recommendations about packing wet weather gear whatever the season. The up-side is that during the summer months, many Scottish destinations enjoy long days with plenty of light. There’s a big Folk Festival in June, so come, or avoid, depending on your taste in music. Summers are the most popular time to visit, offering the easiest crossings and the best weather. Obviously the best deals for accommodation are in the cooler months.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to our recommendations for the best places to stay in Scotland’s Highlands and Islands or in Dumfries and Galloway,
• Consider the best places to stay on the Isle of Islay or nearby Troon,
• Or, contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.