The Best Things to do in Lochranza
Nestled in the northwestern corner of the Isle of Arran, Lochranza is a charming village known for its stunning views and fantastic wildlife spotting opportunities. Whether you are an avid hiker, history enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this quaint village has something for everyone.
Here’s our guide to five of the best things to do in Lochranza.
1. Visit Lochranza Castle
Standing on a peninsula of land extending out into Loch Ranza, Lochranza Castle offers an intriguing glimpse into Arran’s past. Originally thought to be a tower house dating back to the 1500’s, the castle has in fact been re-developed from a much earlier hall-house built in the late 1200’s or early 1300’s, when it was owned by the MacSweens.
As you walk around the castle you may be re-tracing the footsteps of some famous historical figures. It is believed that Robert the Bruce landed at Lochranza in 1306 on his return from Ireland; during the 1490’s it was used as a base by James IV from which to attack the Lord of the Isles; in 1614 it was occupied by the King; and Cromwell and his troops stayed here in the 1650’s.
2. Discover the local wildlife
Arran is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The island is a natural environment for a diverse array of animals and is home to all of Scotland’s ‘Big Five’: golden eagle, red squirrel, red deer, common seal and otter. Whilst there is a good chance of spotting any of these animals all over the island, you might be lucky enough to see them all at once in Lochranza. The Fairy Dell walk is a 3-mile circular route starting along Newton Road that takes you along the shoreline of the loch, part way along the Arran Coastal Way, around Newton Point and back to Lochranza. Scotland’s Big Five are all commonly sighted along this route so keep your eyes peeled.
3. Play a round at Lochranza Golf Course
This 11-hole course - which can be extended to 18 holes - is set against a stunning backdrop of rolling mountains, providing a serene and scenic environment for a round of golf. The course is relatively short but challenging, with natural obstacles like burns and trees adding to the fun. You may also be accompanied by the occasional red deer or two, which roam the course freely. The golf course also has a bespoke 18-hole putting green.
Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Lochranza Golf Course offers a delightful way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
4. Embrace the great outdoors
For anyone in search of an adrenaline rush, look no further than the Lochranza Field Study Centre. The Centre offers activities including abseiling, gorge walking, paddle sports, archery and canoeing.
If you prefer to enjoy the outdoors at a more serene pace, the Centre also offers educational courses and guided walks, where you can learn more about the natural environment, geology and wildlife of Arran. It's a great place for families and school groups to engage in hands-on learning.
5. Take a tour of Lochranza Distillery
No trip to Lochranza would be complete without a visit to Lochranza distillery. Opened in 1995, we’ve been producing some of Scotland’s finest single malts for nearly 30 years, as well as rare and unusual limited edition whiskies. Come along for a guided tour and find out all about our whisky-making process, from malting to maturation. As well as a tour of the distillery, we also offer a range of whisky tasting experiences, where you can sample our Arran single malts and iconic whiskies from the archives. Our CASKS Cafe is also open 6 days a week, serving a delicious selection of hot and cold beverages and home baked goods.