Our Top Things to do on Arran with Kids

If you're looking for things to do on Arran with a toddler or young children, let us be your guides! As a family living on the island with a 3 and 5-year-old, we've compiled a list of our favorite places on the island that keep our whole family entertained for hours. Whether it's exploring castles, discovering hidden caves, or enjoying luxurious resorts, we've got the inside scoop on making your family getaway to Arran a blast. Let's turn your trip into a memory-making adventure for the little one

Exploring the Plant Hunter's Trail at Brodick Castle

Machrie Moor standing stones

Explore Brodick Castle and Gardens:

We can easily spend an entire day here! Our top advice to make the most of your visit is to pick a reasonable weather day as there are so many brilliant trails plus the amazing adventure playground so whilst of course there is the castle itself to visit it's the outdoor spaces that really entertain our children.

TOP TIP: Follow the Plant Hunter's Trail which has an amazing network of bridges, steps, boardwalks and even wooden loungers to enjoy some forest bathing.

Walks for little legs to Machrie Moor Standing Stones, King's Caves and Eas Mor:

Delve into Arran's ancient past with a family-friendly walk to the Machrie Moor Standing Stones. These mysterious monoliths provide a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric life on the island. Plus there's lots of sheep along the path to keep everyone amused! Continue your outdoor adventure with a stroll to King's Caves where we'd advise taking a torch to explore the darkest corners and writing on the cae walls. Conclude your trio of scenic walks with a visit to Eas Mor, a waterfall that offers breathtaking views towards Pladda and Ailsa Craig as well as the secret library where you can add your own words of 'wisdom' to the walls!

Auchrannie Resort & Spa:

Soft play at Auchrannie

A synonym for luxury on Arran, you don't need to stay at Auchrannie Resort & Spa to make the most of it's fantastic facilities as they are also open to the public. There's swimming pools, spa treatments, sports hall and soft-play all on offer as well as multiple restaurants to sample. This is a brilliant option for those not-so-great weather days.

Arran Alpacas:

Feeding alpacas at Arran Alpacas

Because who doesn't love an alpaca?! From treks where you can walk your own alpaca to 'feed and play' sessions which are idea for the youngest visitors there's an option to suit all animal lovers. Alpaca keeper Tom will do his best to answer any questions you can think of about his fluffy flock!

Bellevue Farm:

Highland Coo at Bellevue Farm

This working farm has been in the hands of the Currie family for generations. You can join an organised farm tour where you'll meet all the animal characters on the farm or do a self-guided tour. Look out for pop-up events like their seasonal farmers markets which are always a hugely popular.

The Old Byre and Cafe Thyme

Delicious food at Cafe Thyme

Shop, play and eat all in one space! Our children love the brilliant playpark and on a nice day you can sit at one of the picnic tables next to the play area and enjoy fabulous food and drinks from the cafe whilst the kids entertain themselves. The shops have a wide selection of sustainable, stylish and ethical knitwear, clothing and shoes.

Island Beaches:

Fun in the sun at Blackwaterfoot beach

No family holiday on Arran is complete without a day at the beach. We might be

biased but we think our local beach at Blackwaterfoot is definitely one of the best on the island with wide stretches of golden sands and views over to Kintyre. The Harbour Shop and the Golf Club pro shop both sell Arran Ice cream which is the perfect accompaniment to sun, sea and sand!