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A mini guide to
Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west: tips and FAQs
Local know-how and common questions
Local know-how
Tips for visiting
Machrie Moor is a walk
The stone circles are spread across the moor along a farm track, so wear boots and allow time.
Lochranza Castle opening
Historic Scotland lists opening days for Lochranza Castle; check before you go, as it is not always open.
Distillery tours
Both Arran distilleries, at Lochranza and Lagg, run tours and tastings; book ahead on their websites.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Where is Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west?
Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west is in Isle of Arran, North Ayrshire, Scotland. Lochranza Castle and distillery, Machrie Moor stone circles and the King's Cave. Nearby stops and stations include Lochranza ferry slipway, Coast road buses, String Road (B880).
How long do I need in Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west?
A day by car or bus, longer on foot. Allow longer if you plan to eat out or visit several attractions.
What are the highlights?
Highlights include Lochranza Castle, Arran Distillery, Machrie Moor Standing Stones. See the Things to do page for more.
How do I get there?
Nearby: Lochranza ferry slipway (CalMac from Claonaig on Kintyre (30 minutes)); Coast road buses (Buses round north and south Arran); String Road (B880) (Road across the island from Brodick). The Getting there page links to the official timetables and journey planners.
Where can I eat and drink?
We list 4 places to eat and drink in and around Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west, with filters to help you choose.
Where should I stay?
We list 6 hotels and other places to stay nearby. Check availability and prices with each property.
Is Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west accessible?
Accessibility varies by street, building and venue. Check each attraction or operator’s access information before you travel.
While you are here
Things to see in Lochranza, Machrie and the south-west
A few of the sights in the area. The Things to do page lists them all, with directions and official links.
Machrie Moor Standing Stones
Stone circles, standing stones and cairns dating from 3500 to 1500 BC, scattered across open moorland.
Moss Farm Road Stone Circle
Looks like a stone circle but is a burial cairn, at the start of the farm road across Machrie Moor.
Auchagallon Stone Circle
Neolithic or Bronze Age burial cairn ringed by fifteen stones, near Machrie.
Photo credits
- Arran Distillery: paul birrell, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Machrie Moor Standing Stones: Colin, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
- Moss Farm Road Stone Circle: David Baird, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Auchagallon Stone Circle: David Baird, CC BY-SA 2.0, source
- Brodick, Lamlash and Whiting Bay: Sir Gawain, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under the licences shown. All photo credits
Keep exploring Isle of Arran