During the second world war, Lamlash held the anchorage to its naval services and today is home to an exclusive yachting outfit in Arran. Kildonan is located in the southeast corner and gives the most gorgeous views and peaceful atmosphere. Blackwaterfoot is the most populated area on the western side of Arran and is home to the Shiskine Golf Club.

Pirnmill is a tranquil and soothingly calm village with rocky shores and beautiful sandy beaches. The region of Corrie can boast of its two quaint, small harbors and is home to a very small village. Lastly but not least is the region of Sannox. During the time of the Vikings, this region was known as “sand-vik” which means sandy bar. This region also gives breathtaking views and has a nice nine hole course of golf.

No matter what region of the Isle of Arran you find yourself in, it will prove to be memorable since all the island’s regions have a rich background in culture and diversity. The Isle of Arran and its regions have a mystical feel to them that takes you back to times of many years past. Wildlife in any region of the Isle of Arran is abundant on land and in the sea.

Some of the regions, moreso than others, house more shops, restaurants and accommodations for visitors. You will notice that there are many bed and breakfast nooks in the places where you can’t find a hotel or larger outfit of lodging. A bed and breakfast is great if you want to experience the life and people up close and personal. They are also great for letting you experience a more laid-back island stay. All of these regions offer something for everyone. While staying there you can easily visit them all using the ferry and speed boats that are readily available to take people on board for a little island hopping.

After the Gaels had been there in the tenth century, Norse influence came upon the small Scottish island while it was under the nominal rule of the King of Norway. The castle’s position and the strategic advantage of that position made it a sought-after stronghold through the ages. By the 1200’s, the Isle of Arran had become very popular even as the Scots and the Norse battled for control of it. In 1266, after several attempts by Scottish kings to take back control of the island, they finally succeeded. Then, around the year 1295, the English gained control of the castle.

In 1307, the Scots regained control of the castle but in 1406 the castle sustained severe damage inflicted by English forces. Further destruction of the castle occurred in 1455 by John of Islay. Rebuilt in 1510 by the Earl of Arran, Brodick castle was again attacked by English forces during “Rough Wooing” of Mary Queen of Scots.

Besides the warring countries, Brodick Castle has also been in the thick of many religious battles. Through the 1600’s, several religious communities wanted to lay claim to the castle. Changing hands between the Episcopals and the Presbyterians, Brodick Castle was finally returned back into the hands of James Hamilton in 1643 at the beginning of the Scottish Civil War.

After its storied history between countries and religions, the castle began life as a hunting estate for the Duke of Hamilton. In the years following this, it was mainly used for sporting and hunting. In the nineteenth century it was primarily used as the residence of the oldest son the the 10th Duke. Through the years the title of the castle has passed through several generations of Dukes and was finally acquired by the National Trust for Scotland in 1958.

It is likely that, before the Gaels came and brought their own language and customs, Arran was the home of a people called the Brythonic. Later in the history of the island, it came under rule by the Norwegians and they also brought their language and culture to the Isle. In fact, the Norse influence is still evident in the names of many towns and villages. Besides the Norwegian influences in the names, you can also see some Irish connotations. Places such as Fingal’s Cauldran show the Irish connection, as well as other places around the Isle.

Arran is littered with caves, and some of these take prominent places in history. Two of which are the 110 foot cave where it is said that Robert the Bruce sough refuge and the caves beneath Keil Point contain slabs that may have been ancient altars. Many storied peoples have crossed through the Isle of Arran through to the mainland. This evidence is seen in stone pillars, cave paintings, and artifacts found along the rocky shoreline.

The Isle has been in the possession of many countries and peoples. Following the rule of the Gaels, the island was under Norse rule. After that, the Scots took control only to lose it to the English. After some time, the Scots were able to take back their islands and continue to control it to this day.

Mostly a tourism area, the Isle of Arran, does have some businesses and residences. Scattered across the Isle are a several hotels and complexes for the tourists and several residences for the workers of the businesses and resorts. Famed Scottish playwright, Robert McLellan, one of the island’s more famous inhabitants, wrote many of his successful plays and poems there.