Arran, Scotland in Miniature 551

Arran, Scotland in Miniature 551

1,378 Views
5 Days From

$1955

Arran, Scotland in Miniature 551

5 Days Starting in Ardrossan, UK and ending in United Kingdom

Visiting: Isle of Arran, Isle of Gigha, Brodick, Ardrossan

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BARR

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

6 - 25

Physical rating:

Gentle

Age range:

1-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Please contact Brightwater with any specific dietary requirements

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1955

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey to Arran, often referred to as "Scotland in Miniature," with this enchanting tour. Begin your adventure by sailing across the Firth of Clyde, where the majestic mountains of Arran beckon. Experience a scenic circular tour of the island, visiting charming villages and the renowned Isle of Arran Distillery for a tour and tasting. Delight in the stunning setting and vibrant gardens of Brodick Castle, and enjoy the option to explore Achamore Gardens on the tranquil Isle of Gigha. Stay at the comfortable Kinloch Hotel, perfectly situated on the island's picturesque "sunset side." With professional tour management, comfortable coach travel, and ferry crossings included, this tour offers a seamless and memorable exploration of Scotland's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights

  • Sailing across the Firth of Clyde with views of Arran's mountains.

  • Highly scenic circular tour of the Isle of Arran.

  • Distillery tour and tasting at the Isle of Arran Distillery.

  • Exploring the colourful gardens and setting of Brodick Castle.

  • Optional excursion to Achamore Gardens on the tranquil Isle of Gigha.

  • Visiting the picturesque villages around Arran's coastline.

  • Admiring the views from Goat Fell and other mountains on Arran.

Places You'll See

Arran, Scotland In Miniature 551

Arran, Scotland In Miniature 551

Arran, Scotland In Miniature 551

Arran, Scotland In Miniature 551

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1

Location: Isle of Arran

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Kinloch Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

We depart from our designated pick up points and head for Ardrossan in time to catch the afternoon ferry to Brodick. On arrival on Arran our coach will transfer us to Blackwaterfoot where our accommodation has been organised for the next four nights at the Kinloch Hotel.
Dinner will be served in the evening.

Day 2

Location: Isle of Arran

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Kinloch Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today following breakfast we have a circular tour of the island of Arran.  Only 56 miles around its coastline, the small villages are compared to ‘jewels on a necklace’ strung out like pearls around the island.
From Blackwaterfoot we will visit Whiting Bay, Lamlash, Brodick – the capital of Arran; Corrie and Sannox under the shadow of Goat Fell and other mountains, and then down the west coast to Catacol and Pirnmill with its ’12 Apostles’.
Also included today is a visit to the Isle of Arran Distillery, where we will have an opportunity for lunch (not included), followed by a tour of the distillery and a taste of the finished product.
We return to our hotel in time for dinner.

Day 3

Location: Isle of Gigha

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Kinloch Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today will be free to relax in the hotel and its surroundings. Alternatively for those who wish we have organised an optional excursion to the little Hebridean island of Gigha (not included).  Nestling close to the mainland just off the Kintyre peninsula, this is a gem of an island often overlooked by the island hopper.  We will visit Achamore Gardens, the former home of the Horlick family. Sir James Horlick (of bedtime drink fame) came here in 1944 and started to create a woodland garden.  A light lunch is served at the Gigha Hotel before we have a wander around the gardens. The mild climate combined with high levels of rainfall means that there is always something in bloom. We return to the Kinloch Hotel for dinner.

Day 4

Location: Brodick

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Best Western Kinloch Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning we have included a visit to the Brodick Castle and Gardens. Brodick Castle occupies a splendid position, well protected from westerly winds and looking east across the Firth of Clyde.  The present garden dates from 1932 when the Duchess of Montrose started an ambitious woodland garden with a collection of rhododendrons. From the castle, paths wind downhill towards the seashore, and in a shady place there is a fernery and a delightful Bavarian summer house embellished with rustic work and lovely inlaid panels of pinecones. A walled garden, dating from 1710, has been restored and mixed borders on three sides retain the gardener’s interest throughout the year.
The afternoon will be free in Brodick. We will return to our hotel for dinner.

Day 5

Location: Ardrossan

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sadly today we must head for home. This morning, following breakfast, we will travel to the ferry port in time for the crossing to Ardrossan where we expect to arrive early afternoon. Thereafter we will return to our original pick up points to arrive late afternoon/early evening – your driver will be able to confirm a more precise return time en route home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included to enhance your travel experience.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • Ferry crossings

    Ferry crossings are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

    Tipping and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Optional excursion to Achamore Gardens and the Isle of Gigha

    The optional excursion to Achamore Gardens and the Isle of Gigha is not included in the tour package.

  • Lunch at the Isle of Arran Distillery

    Lunch at the Isle of Arran Distillery is not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Enjoy comfortable coach travel throughout the tour, with ferry crossings included to and from the Isle of Arran, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey across the Firth of Clyde.

Accommodation

Stay at the comfortable Best Western Kinloch Hotel, located on the 'sunset side' of the Isle of Arran, offering a relaxing retreat with scenic views and convenient access to the island's attractions.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The accommodation provided during the tour is at the Best Western Kinloch Hotel, located in Blackwaterfoot on the Isle of Arran.

  • Is there an opportunity to taste local products during the tour?

    Yes, there is an opportunity to taste local products during the tour. On Day 2, you will visit the Isle of Arran Distillery, where you can enjoy a tour and a tasting of the finished product.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Meals are included as per the itinerary. Dinner is provided on the first day, and breakfast and dinner are included on subsequent days.

  • Is there an optional excursion available during the tour?

    Yes, on Day 3, there is an optional excursion to the Isle of Gigha, where you can visit Achamore Gardens and enjoy a light lunch at the Gigha Hotel.

  • What is the main activity on Day 4 of the tour?

    On Day 4, the main activity is a visit to Brodick Castle and Gardens, where you can explore the castle's grounds and enjoy the beautiful gardens.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

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May 19, 2025 - May 23, 2025
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Prices last published on 20-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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