Arran — Scotland in miniature
Highland mountains, Lowland coast, whisky, wildlife, prehistory, and exceptional seafood — all on one island.
A world unto itself
Arran packs an extraordinary amount into its 167 square miles. Dramatic mountains in the north, gentle farmland and sandy beaches in the south, and an extraordinary concentration of prehistoric monuments, wildlife, food, and whisky all year round.
The island is easily reached by car ferry — either via the short crossing from Kintyre into Lochranza to the north, or via the main ferries from Ardrossan and Troon Harbours on Scotland's Ayrshire coast into Brodick.
From Woodside, you're perfectly placed to explore — the glen and beach are at your door, and everywhere else on the island is within easy reach.
From Woodside's doorstep
Climb Goatfell
Arran's highest peak at 874m. The classic route from Brodick is a full day's hill walk with views on a clear day to Mull, Kintyre, and across to Ireland. One of Scotland's great summit walks.
Walk Glen Sannox
The dramatic glen directly behind the cottage. The path leads up into the heart of the Arran ridge past old barytes mines and waterfalls, with extraordinary views back down to the sea.
Brodick Castle & Gardens
Former seat of the Dukes of Hamilton, now a National Trust for Scotland property. Magnificent gardens in full colour in summer, a country park, and one of Scotland's finest red squirrel habitats.
Lochranza Distillery
Home of the Isle of Arran Single Malt. Set in a beautiful glen with red deer often wandering the grounds. Guided tours, tutored tastings, and a fine restaurant. One of Scotland's most scenic distilleries.
Pony Trekking
Cairnhouse Riding Centre and other local stables offer guided rides for all abilities — from quiet shore walks to longer hill treks. A wonderful way to see the island, especially for families.
Machrie Moor Standing Stones
Six prehistoric stone circles dating back 4,000 years, set on an atmospheric moorland on the west coast. One of Scotland's most significant prehistoric sites — quietly extraordinary on a misty morning.
Sannox Beach & Rock Pools
The beach directly at the cottage gate. Rock-pooling, skimming stones, sea glass collecting. Watch the CalMac ferries cross to Kintyre. Quieter and wilder than the Brodick beaches.
Arran Golf
Seven courses on the island, ranging from the quirky 12-hole Shiskine to the challenging Brodick course. The Arran Golf Pass gives access to multiple courses at a reduced combined rate.
Local Food & Farmers' Markets
Arran cheese, oatcakes, smoked salmon, fresh-caught langoustines. Brodick has a wonderful farmers' market. The Corrie Tea Room and Corrie Golf Club are both a short walk from the cottage.
Wildlife Watching
Red deer, red squirrel, golden eagle, peregrine, otter, harbour seal and common seal all call Arran home. The coast road north from Sannox is one of the best places to spot otters at dawn and dusk.
Nearest to Woodside
Corrie Hotel
The charming village of Corrie has a hotel, craft shop, and one of Arran's prettiest harbours. Perfect for a casual dinner or a pint by the water.
Corrie Tea Room
A friendly local tearoom — excellent for post-walk cake and a hot drink, and a lovely spot to stop with children or dogs.
Corrie Golf Club
A scenic nine-hole course at the very end of the lane from the cottage. Not the most challenging, but one of the most beautiful settings for a round in Scotland.
Sannox Beach & Glen
The cottage garden leads directly to the beach. The start of the Glen Sannox path is a ten-minute walk from the front gate.
Lochranza Castle
A 14th-century ruined castle on a promontory in Lochranza bay, close to the distillery. Often with red deer grazing around it. Free to visit.
Brodick Town
The island's main town — ferry terminal, shops, cafes, restaurants, a spa, and the island's main supermarket. About 20 minutes by car from Woodside.