B is for Brodick & Brewery

Keeping to my theme of 'Arran in Focus' day 2 is relatively easy as the main town on the Isle of Arran is called Brodick.  For the majority of visitors, this is where they will disembark from the ferry (a second ferry services the north of the island in summer) and where most of the shops can be found.  Apart form the supermarket all the shops independent and have some unique gift ideas along with some amazing Arran food products.  Sitting on the east side of the island, Brodick meanders along the promenade giving fabulous views of Goatfell (weather permitting) and across the bay towards Brodick Castle.

Overlooking Brodick Bay

For those wandering to the outskirts of Brodick past the golf course, the castle has superb grounds with an amazing collection of rhododendrons, including some giant species. This is also where Arran Brewery can be found; my favourite is Arran Blonde.

Brodick Castle

There are a huge variety of walks around Brodick, showing off the diversity of this small area.  Red squirrels can frequently be seen in the forest and woodland around the castle, seals on the coast and many varieties of birds. Also dotted around are several standing stones - most unmarked and just part of Arran's landscape.

For those wanting food, be warned there are no chains here (Costa Coffee, Macdonalds etc.), most food outlets pride themselves on using local produce and seasonal foods.  The Auchrannie has just revamped it's 1869 restaurant and is now serving a tapas style menu, and the Douglas has a lovely bistro style bar.  Not forgetting the new Fiddlers bar, Brodick Bar, Cafe in Bilslands, Arran on a Plate and a little cafe at Duchess Court.

There is so much more but some of the fun is finding out for yourself - keep reading as I work through the Alphabet of Arran.