TRAIN
Travelling to Ardrossan Harbour:
From Glasgow Central, ScotRail operates regular services on the Ayrshire Coast Line to Ardrossan Harbour station, which is adjacent to the ferry terminal for Arran. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Some services may require a transfer at Kilwinning station, so it’s advisable to check the specific train schedules for direct routes.
Traveling to Troon:
Similarly, ScotRail provides frequent services from Glasgow Central to Troon station on the Ayrshire Coast Line, with journey times of approximately 35 to 45 minutes. The Troon ferry terminal is about 0.8 miles from the train station, roughly a 15-minute walk. Caledonian MacBrayne operates a ferry service from Troon to Brodick on Arran multiple times each day, with the MV Alfred catamaran and MV Glen Sannox. Bus transfers operate from the station to the ferry at ferry times.
FERRIES
As of 2025, ferries to the Isle of Arran are available from both Ardrossan Harbour and Troon, with some temporary changes in place.
Ardrossan to Brodick: This is the main ferry route to Arran, services are currently suspended until at least mid-April 2025 due to ongoing repairs on MV Caledonian Isles. Once repairs are complete, this route will resume as the primary link to the island.
Troon to Brodick: The new MV Glen Sannox is now operating up to three return sailings per day, and MV Alfred, which has been running since 2024, will continue to provide additional sailings until May 2025.
- In addition to the Ardrossan and Troon routes, there are ferry services connecting Lochranza on the Isle of Arran with the Kintyre peninsula, specifically the terminals at Claonaig and Tarbert (Loch Fyne). These services offer flexibility for travelers coming from different parts of Scotland.
For the latest ferry timetables and updates, check CalMac’s website before you travel.
BUS ON ARRAN
The Isle of Arran has a reliable bus service operated by Stagecoach, making it easy to get around without a car.
To reach Lochranza from Brodick, you can take the 324 bus operated by Stagecoach. The bus departs from Brodick Ferry Terminal (Stance 5).
The journey to Lochranza takes approximately 40 minutes, with stops including Brodick Golf Course, Home Farm Visitor Centre, the Wineport, Brodick Castle Entrance, Corrie, and Sannox before reaching Lochranza.
For the most accurate and up-to-date timetables, especially during weekends or public holidays, please visit the Stagecoach website or contact their customer service.