WHY STAY WITH US?
Our aim is simple: we strive to make our cottages feel like somewhere we would want to go on holiday!
Cozy, comfortable, stylish and in keeping with the natural surroundings. No unloved, out-of-date second homes that are rented out through an agency. We personally manage every aspect of the business, and we live nearby, so if anything goes wrong, we're always available to help get it sorted.
Essentially, we want to provide you with the sort of holiday we'd pay to go on ourselves: high quality, handpicked and hassle-free.
ABOUT US
Fiona and Matt
Matt and I moved to Arran in 2019 to take over Hamilton Cottages from my parents.
I love trail running, wild swimming and spending too much time on Pinterest and Instagram! Matt is mountain bike obsessed and runs Ride Arran MTB Guiding. Our children go to the local school and we love island life!
Family Business
Our 2 children Rachel and Rory and my parents, Jim and Kate, who did all the hard graft converting the cottages from the old outdoor center before we took the reins. They still live next door to us and are our Chief Babysitters!
THE HISTORY OF HAMILTON COTTAGES
Hamilton Cottages is a family run business which was established in 2006 by my parent's Jim and Kate.
My mum's family have connections to Arran as far back as we can trace our family history and all my childhood holidays were spent at my Grandparent's cottage in Brodick.
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In 2003 the Outdoor centre in Shiskine came up for sale and despite skepticism from various quarters, including a surveyor who advised them to 'run a mile' they couldn't resit the challenge of transforming the buildings into beautiful holiday cottages.
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Most of the buildings on the site were originally part of the Hamilton Arms Hotel, an establishment dating back to the 1800's when the String road opened. The structure now divided into the 3 cottages was originally the stable block for the hotel.
On the grounds where our chickens and bees now reside, a grain mill once stood, and local lore hints at the presence of an illicit whisky still.
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In 2019, with the arrival of our daughter, Matt and I assumed the reins of Hamilton Cottages, relocating to Arran to oversee its daily operations. My parents had initially envisioned a peaceful retirement, but we soon added another grandchild to their lives, ensuring they wouldn't have too much leisure time on their hands!
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO ON ARRAN
We love living on Arran and making the most of the incredible landscapes, nature and food on offer. If you are looking for any ideas of places to go and things to do during your stay we're always happy to give our suggestions!
For more information about things to do on Arran and an up to date 'What's on' Guide head to the VisitArran website
