Scottish Tour Guide's Blog

Goat Fell, Arran, Scotland

This evening, I am focusing on Goat Fell on the Isle of Arran. This is the tallest peak on Arran with height of 818 M. Very popular with hikers and climbers.

Fell (Old Norse fjall) means hill and it appears likely that Goat Fell is derived from geita fjiall or ‘goat hill’ . In this context it should be remembered that, in common with many west coast islands, Arran was under Norse control for a few hundred years, up until the mid 13th century.

From a climber’s perspective, the ascent usually starts at Brodick Castle and then rises up via Stacach Ridge to the top and resultant stunning seaward views.

• Probably not a late medieval tower house.
• Likely the work of the Montgomeries who acquired possession of north Arran in 1452 and then adapted a pre-existing structure the result of which is similar to to their previous castle at Skipness across the Kilbrannan Sound in Kintyre.
• Identity of builder unknown but one possibility is Dugald MacSween of Skipness

Lochranza Castle, Arran, Scotland

 

Lochranza Castle is reasonably well preserved and enhances the local landscape.

Lamlash, Isle of Arran, Scotland

• Lamlash is the main administrative centre for the island.
• Offers a sheltered bay  protected by Holy Island.
• Now a focus for yachting and leisure activities.
• Offers a good choice of hotels and lodgings.
• Home to a par 64, 18 hole golf course.
• Site of Scotland’s first No-Take Zone which was established in 2008 to protect precious underwater beds of maerl, a coral like seaweed and important habitat for wildlife including scallops, young cod and haddock fry.
• On hiking and cycling routes.

Lamlash impresses as a relatively quiet location albeit with many options for the visitor.