Getting to Arran

Arran is easily accessed by frequent ferry services from Ardrossan (North Ayrshire), which is ideally situated only a short drive from both Glasgow International and Glasgow Prestwick Airport.

Regular train services are available from both airports.  At Glasgow Airport, a shuttle bus links to train services leaving from Paisley Gilmour Street bound for Ardrossan Harbour.  Alternatively, a taxi transfer to Paisley which is only a few miles away is relatively inexpensive and taxi’s readily available.  Glasgow Prestwick Airport has it’s own rail station with services linking to Ardrossan Harbour. 

There is also a direct train service to Ardrossan Harbour from Glasgow Central station.

• Arran train services

• Driving directions to Arran and maps

The ferry crossing by car ferry from Ardrossan is served by the large and modern, MV Caledonian Isles, which has a range of on board facilities including a café serving meals, snacks, teas & coffees, a licensed bar, shop, soft play area and various comfortable lounges.  The crossing from Ardrossan to Brodick takes 55 minutes and it is advisable to book your crossing in advance if you are planning to bring a car to the island.

Alternatively, during the summer months, you can also sail from Claonaig (Kintyre) to Lochranza in the north of the Island.  The shorter crossing takes only 30 minutes, however, the smaller ferry whilst pleasant and efficient has no catering facilities on board.  During the winter months, there is a reduced service which sails to Tarbert (Kintyre) taking approximately 1.5 hours.

Ferry Services are operated by Caledonian MacBrayne. 

information please see our Arran Travel Directory.

Planning Your Journey

Arriving in Arran