Discover the Charm of Lochranza Country Inn on the Isle of Arran
Welcome to the Isle of Arran, a place of awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Today, we are looking at the Lochranza Country Inn, a historic 120-year-old property nestled in the heart of the designated “North Arran National Scenic Area.”
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General Information
Address:
Lochranza, Isle of Arran KA27 8HL
Telephone:
(+44) 01770 830223
Email:
Website:
Table of Contents:
A Historic Inn with a Community Spirit
What makes this inn truly unique is its ownership by the North Arran Community Benefit Society, a local charity formed to preserve and promote the traditions and survival of the island’s way of life. The residents and friends of the villages of Catacol, Lochranza, and Pirnmill banded together to prevent the possible sale of the last remaining hostelry in North Arran as another large holiday home. This inn is not only a place to stay but a symbol of the community’s commitment to preserving their cultural heritage.
A Place to Stay in Arran with Stunning Views
The Lochranza Country Inn offers breathtaking views of Lochranza and Kilbrannan Sound towards Skipness. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing drink in the fully licensed bar and beer garden while admiring the stunning natural scenery. The inn has a 30-seat restaurant open to residents and visitors, serving delicious food made with local produce wherever possible. You can dine while taking in the panoramic views of the beautiful surroundings. With nine en-suite bedrooms accommodating up to 22 guests, the inn is the perfect place to stay in Arran if you want to experience the island’s natural beauty and relax in a peaceful and comfortable setting.
The Story of the Inn’s Reopening
The Lochranza Country Inn’s reopening is a testament to the community’s love for their cultural heritage. After a three-year closure, the Lochranza & Catacol Community Association approved a vision to prevent the possible sale of the last remaining hostelry in North Arran as another large holiday home. The North Arran Community Benefit Society was formed, and grant funding was secured to purchase the inn for the benefit of the community. The newly incorporated Lochranza Community Inn Ltd (LCI) signed a lease agreement to operate the inn on December 22, 2022, and plans to offer a range of activities to celebrate the community’s cultural heritage.
What to Expect When You Visit
The Boguille Bar, the only fully licensed premises on the 25-mile coastal road between Corrie and Blackwaterfoot, offers bar meals and will be open from noon until 11:00 pm in the main summer months, with reduced hours through the remainder of the year. The Lochview Restaurant, which will be open from April 01, serves locally sourced food, with dinner served until 9:00 pm, and lunch available at weekends. The Coffee Lounge is a perfect place to unwind with a freshly brewed tea or coffee, open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily from April 01.
A Program of Improvement and Refurbishment
The Lochranza Country Inn requires some remedial work to meet environmental standards, having lain empty for three years. The process of recruiting and appointing qualified management and staff is currently underway, with plans to open the bar by Easter weekend and the restaurant and accommodation in late May. An ongoing program of improvement and refurbishment, with a five-year cycle, is envisaged each winter to enhance the inn’s facilities continually.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lochranza Country Inn is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the beautiful Isle of Arran while enjoying the comfort of a cosy and welcoming inn owned by the local community. It’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty and experience the rich cultural heritage of the North Arran community.
