The Arran: Forgotten Past

Explore Arran's ties to its neolithic and medieval past

This tour is 70 miles long, please allow at least 2 hours 45 minutes to complete it, excluding the time taken to enjoy the destinations along the way.

Arran is remarkable for its many historical associations, ranging from Neolithic burial chambers to Bronze Age fortresses and 13th century castles traditionally linked with King Robert the Bruce. This route takes in the imposing Machrie Moor Standing Stones and the Giants' Graves at Whiting Bay, as well as the beautiful ruins of Lochranza Castle and the Kings Cave at Blackwaterfoot. It is in this cave that legend tells of Bruce’s encounter with a spider, which inspired him to persevere in the fight for Scotland’s freedom from English rule, while Lochranza Castle is rumoured to have been another place of refuge upon Bruce’s return to Scotland from exile in Ireland. Brodick Castle is an all-round resort with something for every member of the family to enjoy, from the authentic Victorian games arcade to the formal gardens and woodland trails. There’s a little bit of history around every corner on the Forgotten Past route!