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Arran Brewery

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The Isle of Arran Brewery: Brewed and Bottled on Arran

The independent Arran Brewery, located on the picturesque Isle of Arran just off Scotland’s West coast, offers a unique and authentic experience for beer lovers.  The brewery, nestled between the island’s largest mountain, Goatfell, and Brodick Castle, has been crafting award-winning beers and ales for over two decades using traditional methods, the island’s unique water, and the finest natural ingredients. 

With a wide selection of beers to choose from, visitors are sure to find a brew that suits their taste. A visit to the Isle of Arran Brewery is a must for any beer enthusiast visiting Scotland.

Visit the Arran Brewery's Website

General Information

Address:

Isle of Arran Brewery,

Cladach,

Brodick,

Isle of Arran

KA27 8DE

Telephone:

01770302353

Website:

www.arranbrewery.co.uk 

TRIP ADVISOR LINK

A Unique Location for a Unique Beer Experience

Arran is known for its rugged beauty, with towering mountains, rolling hills, and pristine beaches. This natural beauty provides inspiration for the Isle of Arran Brewers to create beers that truly capture the essence of the island. 

Situated in the village of Claddach at the foot of the Island’s highest mountain “Goatfell”  the brewery is focused on the use of the finest ingredients and traditional brewing methods to develop its unique and now well-established selection.

External Brewery

Tour the Brewery and Learn about the Brewing Process

Explore the brewing process and discover the history of brewing on Arran through a guided tour and tasting session led by the brewery’s expert staff.

The tour will take you through the various stages of brewing, from mashing and fermentation to packaging and distribution. You’ll also get to sample some of the brewery’s beers and learn about the different styles of beer that are produced.

The tour includes a complimentary branded Arran Brewery half-pint glass for you to take home as a souvenir at the end.

Be warned that participants must be 18 years or older and may be required to provide identification if they appear under 25.

Also, it is recommended that you call in advance to book a space on the tours as they are only available at selected times when the brewing process is ongoing and space can be limited.

inside the brewery

Beer Tasting

If you do not fancy the full tour you can discover the flavours of Arran Brewery’s high-quality ales with a guided tasting led by one of the experienced brewery staff. 

As with the tour above the cost of the tasting includes a complimentary Arran Brewery half-pint glass for you to take home as a souvenir. 

Again please note that the brewery is only able to accommodate individuals who are over 18 years old and identification may be requested.

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On-site Shop and Visitor Centre

After the tour, visitors can stop by the brewery’s on-site shop, where they can purchase a wide range of beers, merchandise, and gifts.

The shop is a great place to pick up a souvenir or two, such as a bottle of the brewery’s signature beer, Arran Blonde.

The Brewery’s Range of Beers.

The Isle of Arran Brewery’s beer selection is diverse and offers something to suit everyone’s taste. 

Isle of Arran Blonde Premium Beer is a true reflection of the island's natural beauty and traditional values. This premium beer boasts a distinct combination of boldness and liveliness, making it a remarkable and refreshing choice. It is carefully crafted using only the purest water and natural ingredients, free of any artificial additives or preservatives, resulting in a truly high-quality and authentic beer. With its light and refreshing taste, subtle sweetness and a touch of citrus, it is the ideal brew for those warm summer days on the island.

Arran Blonde: ABV 5.0%

Isle of Arran Blonde Premium Beer is a true reflection of the island’s natural beauty and traditional values. This premium beer boasts a distinct combination of boldness and liveliness, making it a remarkable and refreshing choice. It is carefully crafted using only the purest water and natural ingredients, free of any artificial additives or preservatives, resulting in a truly high-quality and authentic beer. With its light and refreshing taste, subtle sweetness and a touch of citrus, it is the ideal brew for those warm summer days on the island.
A dark beer with a rich, complex flavour profile, it is a perfect pairing with strong cheeses and dark chocolate. The dark colour comes from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a medium-bodied mouthfeel and a moderate alcohol content. The rich, complex flavour profile comes from the use of a blend of different malts, which gives it a unique character. Roasted barley and chocolate malt impart prominent chocolate and coffee notes with a hint of caramel, making it a perfect sipping beer.

Arran Dark ABV 4.3%

A dark beer with a rich, complex flavour profile, it is a perfect pairing with strong cheeses and dark chocolate. The dark colour comes from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a medium-bodied mouthfeel and a moderate alcohol content. The rich, complex flavour profile comes from the use of a blend of different malts, which gives it a unique character. Roasted barley and chocolate malt impart prominent chocolate and coffee notes with a hint of caramel, making it a perfect sipping beer.
The Coffee Imperial Stout represents a pinnacle in the conclusion of the 2021 yeast batch. Carefully crafted with coffee sourced from the Isle of Arran Coffee Company, this beer showcases a bouquet of dark chocolate, a bold coffee profile punctuated by notes of sweetness and sharpness, and culminates in a smooth dark chocolate finish.

Valhalla: ABV 7.7%

The Coffee Imperial Stout represents a pinnacle in the conclusion of the 2021 yeast batch. Carefully crafted with coffee sourced from the Isle of Arran Coffee Company, this beer showcases a bouquet of dark chocolate, a bold coffee profile punctuated by notes of sweetness and sharpness, and culminates in a smooth dark chocolate finish.
An amber-hued session ale that boasts a delicate balance of malt and fruit flavours, with a dry hop finish.  Unlike typical Scottish ales, this ale is more like a traditional bitter, with a lack of the nutty flavour found in the Red Squirrel Ale. This beer is a perfect pairing with spicy or sweet and sour dishes, like BBQ or spicy sausages, as well as tangy cheeses such as mature cheddar or sour and salty hard cheeses.

Guid Ale: ABV 3.8%

An amber-hued session ale that boasts a delicate balance of malt and fruit flavours, with a dry hop finish.  Unlike typical Scottish ales, this ale is more like a traditional bitter, with a lack of the nutty flavour found in the Red Squirrel Ale. This beer is a perfect pairing with spicy or sweet and sour dishes, like BBQ or spicy sausages, as well as tangy cheeses such as mature cheddar or sour and salty hard cheeses.
A light, refreshing beer with a fruity aroma and a smooth finish, it's perfect for a warm summer day or for pairing with seafood. It has a light golden colour and a low alcohol content, which makes it a very easy-drinking beer. The fruity aroma comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. It has a crisp and clean taste, which makes it a perfect thirst quencher..

Arran Sunset: ABV 4.4%

A light, refreshing beer with a fruity aroma and a smooth finish, it’s perfect for a warm summer day or for pairing with seafood. It has a light golden colour and a low alcohol content, which makes it a very easy-drinking beer. The fruity aroma comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. It has a crisp and clean taste, which makes it a perfect thirst quencher..
A dark ale with a strong coffee and chocolate flavour, inspired by the steamboats of the Clyde, it's perfect for pairing with chocolate desserts or strong cheeses. The coffee and chocolate flavours come from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a dark brown colour and a medium-bodied mouthfeel. It has a high alcohol content, which makes it a perfect sipping beer.

Clyde Puffer: ABV 4.5%

A dark ale with a strong coffee and chocolate flavour, inspired by the steamboats of the Clyde, it’s perfect for pairing with chocolate desserts or strong cheeses. The coffee and chocolate flavours come from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a dark brown colour and a medium-bodied mouthfeel. It has a high alcohol content, which makes it a perfect sipping beer.
A ruby-red ale with a fruity aroma and a hint of sweetness, it's perfect for pairing with spicy dishes or grilled meats. The ruby-red colour comes from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a medium-bodied mouthfeel and a moderate alcohol content. The fruity aroma comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. The hint of sweetness comes from the use of caramel malts, which gives it a balanced taste.

Red Squirrel: ABV 3.9%

A ruby-red ale with a fruity aroma and a hint of sweetness, it’s perfect for pairing with spicy dishes or grilled meats. The ruby-red colour comes from the use of speciality malts, which gives it a unique character. It has a medium-bodied mouthfeel and a moderate alcohol content. The fruity aroma comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. The hint of sweetness comes from the use of caramel malts, which gives it a balanced taste.
A strong, malty ale with a complex flavour and a long finish, it's perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or for pairing with rich, hearty meals. It has a deep amber colour and a full-bodied mouthfeel. It has a high alcohol content, which makes it a perfect sipping beer. The complex flavour comes from the use of a blend of different malts, which gives it a unique character. The long finish comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a balanced taste.

Arran Milestone: ABV 6.0%

A strong, malty ale with a complex flavour and a long finish, it’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter night or for pairing with rich, hearty meals. It has a deep amber colour and a full-bodied mouthfeel. It has a high alcohol content, which makes it a perfect sipping beer. The complex flavour comes from the use of a blend of different malts, which gives it a unique character. The long finish comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a balanced taste.
A light, refreshing beer with a crisp, clean taste, it's perfect for a hot summer day or for pairing with fish and chips. It has a light golden / marmalade colour and a low alcohol content, which makes it a very easy-drinking beer. The crisp, clean taste comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. The light, refreshing character makes it a perfect thirst quencher.

Brewery Dug: ABV 5.5%

A light, refreshing beer with a crisp, clean taste, it’s perfect for a hot summer day or for pairing with fish and chips. It has a light golden / marmalade colour and a low alcohol content, which makes it a very easy-drinking beer. The crisp, clean taste comes from the use of a blend of different hops, which gives it a unique character. The light, refreshing character makes it a perfect thirst quencher.
Discover the unique taste of Arran's Black IPA, "id," a 6% ABV beer that combines the dark and roasted malt characteristics of a porter or stout with the drinkability of a pale ale, the smokiness of a German Black Lager, and the intense hop aroma of an American IPA. Originally an American beer style, the Black IPA, also known as a "Cascadian Dark Ale," is a combination of seemingly conflicting characteristics. The name "id" is a play on the beer being an Indian Dark, but also references the unconscious, dark, and instinctive part of our personality as described by Freud's theory of the id. Let your id indulge in the pure pleasure of this unique brew.

Id: ABV 6%

Discover the unique taste of Arran’s Black IPA, “id,” a 6% ABV beer that combines the dark and roasted malt characteristics of a porter or stout with the drinkability of a pale ale, the smokiness of a German Black Lager, and the intense hop aroma of an American IPA. Originally an American beer style, the Black IPA, also known as a “Cascadian Dark Ale,” is a combination of seemingly conflicting characteristics. The name “id” is a play on the beer being an Indian Dark, but also references the unconscious, dark, and instinctive part of our personality as described by Freud’s theory of the id. Let your id indulge in the pure pleasure of this unique brew.
Experience the bold hop character of our American Style IPA. With a light golden colour and medium body, this beer features dazzling aromas of grapefruit, pine needles, and citrus from the use of US hops. The moderate alcohol content and long bitter finish make it perfect to pair with spicy dishes or grilled meats. The unique character of this beer is achieved by using a blend of different hops that provide a balance with the sweetness of the malt. This beer is a perfect choice for those looking for a strong hop character in their beer.

Ego: ABV 3.8%

Experience the bold hop character of our American Style IPA. With a light golden colour and medium body, this beer features dazzling aromas of grapefruit, pine needles, and citrus from the use of US hops. The moderate alcohol content and long bitter finish make it perfect to pair with spicy dishes or grilled meats. The unique character of this beer is achieved by using a blend of different hops that provide a balance with the sweetness of the malt. This beer is a perfect choice for those looking for a strong hop character in their beer.
The Sleeping Warrior can be seen in the outline of the mountain ranges on the Isle of Arran and it also gives its name to this dark red hue of this barley wine. With a high alcohol content, this brew is ideal for sipping and savouring. Its nose is dominated by the scent of vanilla ice cream, golden syrup, almonds, and brandy-soaked prunes, leading to a palate of caramel, raisins, clove, dark chocolate, cherry liquor truffles, and grapefruit. The finish is warm and has notes of ginger tea. This beer offers a toffee nose, and a sweet molasses finish, and complements desserts, making it a unique alternative to traditional dessert wines.

Sleeping Warrior: ABV 8.3%

The Sleeping Warrior can be seen in the outline of the mountain ranges on the Isle of Arran and it also gives its name to this dark red hue of this barley wine. With a high alcohol content, this brew is ideal for sipping and savouring. Its nose is dominated by the scent of vanilla ice cream, golden syrup, almonds, and brandy-soaked prunes, leading to a palate of caramel, raisins, clove, dark chocolate, cherry liquor truffles, and grapefruit. The finish is warm and has notes of ginger tea. This beer offers a toffee nose, and a sweet molasses finish, and complements desserts, making it a unique alternative to traditional dessert wines.
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The Habit of Winning: Arran Brewery’s Awards

Arran Brewery has been consistently recognised for its outstanding beers, receiving multiple awards each year.

In recent years, the brewery has earned recognition from the SIBA Independent Beer Awards and World Beer Awards, with its beers winning silver and bronze in categories such as Scotland Keg Strong Bitters & Pale Ales, Cask IPA, and British Dark Beers. 

In 2020 and 2021, Arran Blonde was awarded the title of World’s Best Pale Golden Ale by the World Beer Awards. 

Additionally, in 2022, Arran Dark received a Scotland Silver Medal for Mild in the Dark Beer Category and Sleeping Warrior won the UK Gold Medal for Barley Wine in the Dark Beer Category.

Arran Brewery Awards

Why Visit the Isle of Arran Brewery?

The Isle of Arran Brewery is a top destination for beer enthusiasts visiting Scotland’s Isle of Arran. 

It provides a unique and authentic experience, seamlessly blending the natural beauty of Arran with the craft brewing culture. 

The brewery’s location at the foot of Goatfell and next to Brodick Castle along with its wide range of beers, and the offerings of tours and tasting events make it a perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway (just remember to book in advance). From our experience, there was nothing better than stopping off for a refreshing celebratory brew on the return from summiting Goatfell.  

With its variety of beers, including the popular Arran Blonde, the robust Arran Dark, the distinctive Clyde Puffer, and the hoppy Sleeping Warrior, visitors are sure to find a brew that suits their taste. 

So, plan your trip and head to the Isle of Arran for this unforgettable beer experience.

Brodick Castle on a Grey Day, Brodick, Isle of Arran

Brodick Castle

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Brodick Castle, Brodick

Description:  Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park is a stunning site on the Isle of Arran in Scotland. The castle, which dates back centuries, sits overlooking the picturesque Brodick bay below. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, with terraced lawns, flowerbeds and a variety of trees and shrubs. There is also a children’s play area and a picnic area. The country park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including deer, red squirrels and birds of prey. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike as there are also several walking and cycling trails. 

Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park is a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Scotland.      

Details

Address:

Brodick KA27 8HY, Scotland

Telephone:

+44 1770 302202

Website:

https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/brodick-castle


About:

Brodick Castle is an imposing building that has stood on the Isle of Arran since the 16th century. Today, it is considered one of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, attracting visitors from all over the world. The castle was originally built as a Royal fortress, but it has been transformed over the years into a luxurious country estate. The gardens are particularly beautiful, and they are home to a wide variety of plant life. The Country Park is also a great place to take a walk or go for a picnic. There are few places in Scotland that offer such a unique combination of history, culture, and natural beauty. Brodick Castle is truly a special place.

Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park is one of the most beautiful places in Scotland. The castle, which is set on a cliff overlooking the sea, has been beautifully restored and the gardens are simply stunning. The country park is also home to an array of wildlife, including red deer, 12 species of birds of prey and red squirrels. In addition to its natural beauty, Brodick Castle is also steeped in history. It was once home to the Earls of Arran and played a key role in the country’s politics. 


Highlights:

Castle

Brodick Castle is brought to life with several interactive activities, combined with special lighting and audio. You can race a horse on our roll-a-derby or play other traditional Victorian games in our Victorian arcade. These activities help create an immersive experience that transports you back in time. Our state-of-the-art lighting and audio system enhances the experience, making it feel like you are truly stepping into another era. Whether you are exploring the castle on your own or joining one of our guided tours, you will be sure to have a unique and memorable experience.

Garden

Brodick Castle’s gardens are a must-see for any nature lover. The Silver Garden Trail is a great way to explore the different plants and flowers on offer, and the Plant Hunters’ Walk is perfect for those who want to learn all about horticulture. The walled garden is a beautiful example of early gardening history, and the new border design is simply stunning. The views from the garden over Brodick Bay are breathtaking, and the sundial centrepiece is a lovely addition. There is also a new Fairies and Legends Trail for those who want to explore the folklore of the area, and it’s definitely worth taking some time to enjoy all that the gardens have to offer.



Country Park

Brodick Castle is set in the stunning country park on the Isle of Arran. With over 10 miles of waymarked trails, it is a paradise for people that love to explore the great outdoors. The trails wind their way through woodland, past waterfalls and bathing pools, all of which contribute to the island’s unique charm.

Arran is also a haven for wildlife lovers. It is home to Scotland’s “Big 5” – red squirrels, seals, otters, red deer and golden eagles – and there is even a new Red Squirrel Hide where visitors can watch these endangered creatures feed and play. Whether you are looking for a peaceful stroll or an exciting wildlife adventure, Brodick Castle is the perfect place to visit.

Food:

At the shop located in Brodick Castle, you can find different types of chocolates. The Cranachan White Chocolate with Raspberries, Whisky & Oats is a smooth and creamy white chocolate with a Scottish twist. The Roaring Stag Espresso Coffee Chocolate Bar is a dark chocolate bar made with rich espresso coffee. The Dark Chocolate Bar is a smooth and intense dark chocolate with a high cocoa content. The Isle of Skye Sea Salted Caramel Crunch Chocolate Bar is a deliciously sweet and salty caramel chocolate. You can also find drinks such as Schiltron Single Malt Whisky, which is a smooth and mellow whisky with notes of honey and citrus. There is also a selection of other drinks available, including non-alcoholic options. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or a tasty beverage, the shop at Brodick Castle has something for everyone.



Review:

Our visit to Brodick Castle, Garden and Country Park was absolutely amazing! The castle itself is stunning, and the grounds are beautifully kept. The gardens are especially lovely, with a wide variety of flowers and plants. 

I also enjoyed exploring the country park. There are plenty of beautiful walking trails to follow, and the views are breathtaking. 

Overall, I had a wonderful day out at Brodick Castle. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fun and informative day trip.



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Visit the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum

Arran Heritage Museum

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Arran Heritage Museum, Brodick

Description: The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is more than just a collection of historical artifacts. It is a living, breathing tribute to the island’s rich past. Founded in 1976 by the late Miss Bess MacMillan, the Museum is situated in the picturesque village of Rosaburn, just north of Brodick. The Museum houses an impressive array of artifacts donated by the people of Arran or those with Arran connections. Visitors can step back in time and explore the island’s rich history through the exhibits on display. From ancient fossils to war memorabilia, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum has something for everyone. Even if you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique day out, be sure to pay a visit to this hidden gem on Scotland’s stunning Isle of Arran.       

Details

Address:

Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, Rosaburn, Brodick, Isle of Arran, KA27 8DP Scotland, UK

Telephone:

+44 (0) 1770 302636

Website:

https://www.arranmuseum.co.uk/

Trip Advisor Link:

https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attraction_Review-g551754-d536478-Reviews-Isle_of_Arran_Heritage_Museum-Brodick_Isle_of_Arran_Scotland.html

About:

The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of this beautiful island. The museum is located in Rosaburn, just north of Brodick, and features a variety of buildings that were once part of a small school, including a croft, smiddy, cottage, farmhouse, milk house cottage, stable, coach house as well as a harness room. The exhibits thoroughly reflect the social history, archaeology and geology of the island, and provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who have called Arran home over the centuries. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is sure to give you a new appreciation for the rich history of this Scottish island.

Highlights:

Rich Heritage

The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich culture and history of the island. The museum houses an impressive collection of displays from Social History, Archaeology, Geology, and Genealogy, as well as a state-of-the-art computer lab with microfiche readers to help visitors trace their family history. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to answer any questions, and the Museum shop stocks a range of books, souvenirs, and local crafts. With its diverse array of exhibits, the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is a fascinating window into the past – and a great day out for all the family.

Riverside Gardens

The Isle of Arran Heritage Museum is home to many highlights, but one of the most beautiful is the riverside gardens. These gardens were designed to display the natural beauty of the island, and they feature a variety of native plants and flowers. In addition to being visually stunning, the gardens are also a great place to learn about the island’s history and culture. The museum staff regularly offer guided tours of the gardens, and they are always happy to answerall queries and questions that visitors may have. Whether you’re looking to relax in a peaceful setting or learn more about the Isle of Arran, the riverside gardens at the Heritage Museum are definitely worth a visit.

Café Rosaburn

Café Rosaburn is a cozy little café located inside the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum. The café offers a selection of light meals and snacks, as well as a delicious variety of hot and cold beverages. The perfect place to take a break from exploring the museum, Café Rosaburn also has a selection of books and games for visitors to enjoy. The cafe is named after the nearby Rosaburn Chapel, which was built in the early 1800s. The chapel is now used as a meeting space for local organizations and events. Café Rosaburn is a lovely place to enjoy a cup of tea and a scone while surrounded by history.

Food:

Café Rosaburn is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and step into a world of history and intrigue. The café is located inside the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum, which provides the perfect setting for enjoying a leisurely meal or snack. The menu offers a wide variety of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as a selection of hot and cold beverages. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely meal, Café Rosaburn has something to suit your needs. So come on in and enjoy a taste of history!

Review:

I recently had the great pleasure of visiting the Isle of Arran Heritage Museum and I was truly impressed. The museum is small but it packs a lot of punch, with an excellent collection of artefacts and exhibits that tell the story of the island and its people. I particularly enjoyed the exhibit on the island’s prehistoric past, which included a life-size replica of a Bronze Age burial chamber. However, the highlight of the museum for me was the interactive display on the Battle of Arran, which allows visitors to relive this key moment in Scottish history. Overall, I would highly recommend a visit to this wonderful museum.

 

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