Things to book in advance for your trip to Arran

Here’s things you could book ahead of time. Including local restaurants, spa treatments and adventurous activities on Arran.

Restaurants and takeaways in Whiting Bay

Arran Simply Thai

Take a gentle stroll along the beach to the centre of the village where you can pick up a takeaway and find a seat nearby or dine in the restaurant.

Check out the menu and opening hours on the Arran Simply Thai website or phone 07424 701783.

Robin Gray Island Gourmet

An experienced chef, Robin also grows his own produce on a small farm by the sea. 

He caters to small groups and offers a takeaway from his kitchen by the farm. Head down towards the beach on the small road to the left of the playing fields, cross over a bridge and you will find Robin’s place a few minutes walk along the track.

Takeaway fish and chips and seasonal specials available every day in the main season and at weekends in quieter months.  Our tip: take some bottles of beer or soft drinks and dine on the benches overlooking the beach. 

Advance orders are essential.  To place your order, send a text to 07427 507031, Tel. 01770 700756 or find his Facebook page Robin Gray’s Island Gourmet.

Kai Restaurant at The Burlington Hotel

Small plates dining with great options for carnivores and vegetarians. Open Mon-Tues, Fri, Sat & Sun 4.30pm-8pm. Find Kai on Facebook or phone 01770 700255.

The Shack and Grill

Handmade beef, chicken and veggie burgers with sides. 
A silver airstream food trailer – and a finalist in the ‘Scotsman Scran Awards 2025’. 
It goes between Brodick, Lamlash and Whiting Bay.  Pre-book on the Shack’s Facebook page or call 07929 411484. 

Tours, activities and rental

If you’re looking for adventure try:

• paddleboards, kayaks for hire – Arran Active, Brodick
• guided activities & tours – kayaking, gorge walking, hill walking – book on the Otter’s Tail website or phone 07824 166942
• powerboat tours & day trips to Holy Isle – book on the Lamlash Cruises website or phone 07904 846765 
• Mogabout tours – book a seat on an Arran safari in the 16-seater 4×4 
• Arran Bike Hire, Shore Road, Brodick.  2 hours from £10. Electric bikes available from £45/day. Helmet & lock included in the rental. Book online on the Arran Bike Hire website or call 07951342274.
• bike hire @ Auchrannie Resort: book online on the Auchrannie website or phone 01770 302 234
• visiting Holy Isle – book your passage with Lamlash Cruises.  There are options for a hillwalk, up and over Mulloch Mor (approx. 2.5-3 hours), or a gentle stroll along the coastline to see the rock carvings and the lighthouse. Take a picnic (from the Pier Head Cafe). There are toilets and a tea house run by volunteers. There are no cars on the island, so it is very peaceful.  An interesting trip for a fair weather day.

Fitness, leisure & wellness

Auchrannie Resort, Brodick

Luxury indoor swimming pool with sauna and steam suite open to non-residents from 10am to 3pm and from 6pm to 8pm daily. (No need to book – just keep in mind!)                                                                                      

A range of spa & beauty treatments. You can book them in advance on the Auchrannie website or phone 01770 302234.  

Heather Lodge, Brodick

A range of holistic therapies including a range of massages. You can see what’s available and book on the Heather Lodge website.

Mobile sauna

Based in Whiting Bay around a 5-minute walk from the huts.

The sauna parks up at the beach in a secluded location where you have the option of a sea dip to heighten the senses.

Social sauna sessions for up to 8 people or book a private session. 

£14/person for one hour for a social seat and £100/hour for a private session. Check availability and book your seat on the Stonesthrow website.

Golf

There are 7 courses on Arran and visitors are welcome. 

You can play one round or all 7 (2 rounds at Machrie Bay and Corrie) at a discounted rate with the Arran Golf Pass. Find out more on the Golf Arran website.

Horse riding    

There are 2 stables on the island:

• Cairnhouse Riding Centre in Blackwaterfoot (phone: 07721 347756)
• Sannox Trekking Centre in the foothills of North Glen Sannox (phone: 01770 810222)

Book a stay with us

Check out our huts and book a stay. Arran has so much to offer!