The larder of Scotland in miniature
The range of fine foods and drink that is produced here on Arran is as varied and diverse as the wonderful island landscapes.
The cheese, whisky, gin, beer, meat, fish, chocolates, bread, coffee and even ice cream and dog biscuits are all handmade on this tiny island and every single one of these locally created products are available all year long.
The producers are united by a common commitment to quality and taste and all share a passion for their craft, as well as this beautiful island. From internationally renowned companies, to small artisan producers, the main aim of each one is to delight you with the true taste of Arran. Most of the restaurants on the island serve a selection of local produce, Thursday 2nd September sees Crofters Arran offering a Taster and Wine Pairing Evening and on Sunday 5th September why not visit Bellevue farm for the Farmers’ Market showcasing some of the best the island has to offer!
The Arran Butcher
Anyone looking for top quality meats their first stop should be The Arran Butcher shop in Blackwaterfoot. Run by David McKinnon, the family butchers has been supplying homes and businesses on the Arran for over 55 years.
As well as their extensive selection of quality meats including traditional cuts of naturally reared beef, pork and lamb and wild Arran venison they have some delicious homemade speciality sausages, burgers, chicken kiev, pies, black pudding and haggis.
What is not so well known is that they also stock a fantastic selection of fresh fish and can pretty much get anything you ask for such as tuna steak, sea bream, sea bass, salmon (fillets and whole sides), trout, lemon sole, haddock, smoked haddock, kippers, scallops and even skate wings!
The shop also stocks a range of products, cold meats, cheese and ice cream. If you can’t get to the shop on the west coast they also have a mobile shop which can come to you and they deliver free of charge across the island. Look out too for the fortnightly Facebook specials. You can also find their products in the Co-op stores and at local shops around the island. And when you’re out for a bite to eat, why not look out for their products on the menu.
Arran Chocolate Factory
The Arran Chocolate Factory and its mouth-watering array of handmade truffles, fudges and chocolates has become one of the island’s great food experiences. James McChlery first began making chocolates over 20 years ago and since then he has continued to experiment with flavours and fillings to create one of the country’s finest