On the reverse of the British pound note is an illustration of Brodick Castle. It began its illustrious history as a fortress built in the early fifth century. Located outside of the port of Brodick on the Scotland’s Isle of Arran, Brodick Castle has had its share of inhabitants. Beginning in the fifth century with Gaelic invaders, Brodick Castle has played a big part of history in that region of Europe.

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. Read the full story

On the Isle of Arran, there are many small villages. Some larger than others of course, and each has their own unique appeal to the traveller and tourist. The island contains 18 individual villages for everyone’s visiting pleasure. Following is a list of the villages, along with a few more details on some of the noticeably sized villages or ones in which specific events of note occurred.

Blackwaterfoot, Brodick, Catacol, Cladach, Corrie, Kildonan, Kilmory, Lagg, Lamlash, Lochranza, Machrie, Pirnmill, Sannox, Shiskine, Sliddery, Whitefraland, and Whiting Bay. As is evidenced by that list, there are many quaint and comprehensive little places to journey to. Read the full story