A beautiful & remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views

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Banlicken Farmhouse on Isle of Arran with wonderful views across the sea

Banlicken Arran Farmhouse, croft and outbuildings

Aerial view of Banlicken Farmhouse, beach below & coastal views

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Exceptional

Popular amenities

Parking available

Pet-friendly

Kitchen

Free WiFi

Explore the area

Brodick, Isle of Arran

Machrie Moor Stone Circles

18 min drive

King's Cave

19 min drive

Carradale Point

223 min drive

Campbeltown (CAL)

205 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 12)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 3

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

Bedroom 4

1 King Bed and 3 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Kitchen

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

Banlicken Arran Farmhouse is an idyllic, romantic and remote self catering holiday house. It is situated on the side of a heathery hill, perfect for families, friends or romantic couple.

Beautifully decorated combining comfortable and contemporary with outstanding sea views. 4 lovely bedrooms all with sea views and 3 bathrooms, large well equipped open plan kitchen and dining area overlooking the sea and a cosy sitting room with open fire, TV, Sky & DVD. A games room with table tennis and outside patio area for 'al fresco' dining.

From the house there is easy access to the beach below & coastal walks for spotting otters, dolphins, porpoises and seals. There is an easy climb up the hill that will reward you with breathtaking scenery, sea eagles and numerous species of birds or just sit and enjoy the beautiful sunsets overlooking the sea.

There are many local activities, wildlife and bird watching, hillwalking, hiking, climbing, 7 golf courses, fishing, boat trips, pony trekking, historic castles, standing stones, beaches and caves. Excellent local restaurants, convenience stores, shops and local produce.

Please be aware that check in days are ideally Thursdays & Sundays for both short breaks and week long stays. If yiu would like dates outside of these start days please let us know and we do what we can to accommodate you.

Property manager

Jenny Thomson

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Parking available

Similar properties

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 30

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

No stag or hen parties. When you leave take all rubbish to the bins at the bottom of the drive. Leave the house clean and tidy to help the housekeeper

Do not leave children unattended, do not allow in derelict buildings, keep playbarn tidy. Please look after our belongings. No fires on the grass

Small short haired well behaved dogs only. Do not allow on the furniture, upstairs or on beds. Clean up any dogs mess and do not leave unattended

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Isle of Arran

Located in Isle of Arran, this farm stay is in a rural area and by the sea. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Brodick Castle Country Park and King's Cave, while Secret Garden Gallery and Arran Heritage Museum are cultural highlights. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Brodick, Isle of Arran

What's nearby

Lochranza Distillery - 17 min drive
Isle of Arran Distillery - 18 min drive
Machrie Moor Stone Circles - 18 min drive
Auchrannie Leisure Centre - 29 min drive
Brodick Isle of Arran Ferry Terminal - 30 min drive

Getting around

Glasgow (PIK-Prestwick) - 124 min drive

Restaurants

‪Cafe Thyme - ‬10 min drive
‪The Lighthouse - ‬7 min drive
‪Dunvalanree - ‬129 min drive
‪Drumfearne Guesthouse & Tearoom - ‬220 min drive
‪Machrie Bay Tea Room - ‬9 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is A beautiful & remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet.

What time is check-in at A beautiful & remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at A beautiful & remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is A beautiful & remote farmhouse on the Isle of Arran with outstanding sea views located?

Located by the sea, this family-friendly farm stay is within 12 mi (20 km) of Machrie Moor Stone Circles, King's Cave and Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club. Secret Garden Gallery and Lochranza Castle are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Eric T.

14 August 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay on Arran!

The Banlicken Farmhouse on Arran was a great location for our family vacation. Off the beaten path, it offers amazing views, serenity, and the space for an entire family to spread out for quiet time. We’d encourage families looking for the complete Arran experience to consider Banlicken!

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter B., Atlanta, GA

28 June 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Breathtaking

A farmhouse type experience without the animals. Secluded, great views, and lots to see on Arran. Highly recommend.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Tony B.

23 April 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful hideaway

Lovely stay in a gorgeous country house. Very tucked away with a off road driveway (which was perfect for us). Cosy rooms, great group kitchen and everything we needed. The natural water supply up the hill from the house needs a little looking after but not a problem with the amazing sunny week we had in April. Thoroughly recommend Banlicken Farmhouse.

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gillian I.

12 April 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Glorious

We had a wonderful stay . Thank you

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ilse V.

7 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful time at Banlicken

We had a wonderful time during our stay at Banlicken. The area and views are superb. It's such a beautiful spot, with an outstanding large garden and even a private source running through it. The house meant a very warm en comfortable place to us, we spent hours in the cosy kitchen. Thanks a lot, we're looking forward to come back!

Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jamie M., Cambridge

3 November 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great farmhouse in picturesque location.

Banlicken was perfect for our multigenerational family holiday. The external Byre and play barn enable everyone to do things at their own pace and the big kitchen/dining room means catering for a big party is easy. The location is spectacular with incredible views and completely isolated from the "main" road. The access road isn't that tricky - perhaps only a sports car would struggle with the ford. In summary a great place to stay.

Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nicole M.

19 September 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic spot

Our group of 9 adults had a great time at the property. Amazing kitchen space for cooking and socialising as a group. Loved the remoteness of the property as it meant we didn’t have to worry about disturbing anyone else. The grounds and views were stunning. I would definitely recommend this place to other friends and families.

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

9 August 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful but beware the track

Had a lovely week at Banlicken. It really is remote and the track up can be a little hairy in a full car but the views are wonderful and the house is spacious and well equipped with a very handy separate cottage /barn for a family. One bathroom in the main house can make it busy in the mornings and we didn't use the playbarn in the end. Would recommend a trip to the Lagg Distillery with a nice cafe and very friendly staff.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nicola R.

11 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Week at Banlicken

Beautiful position looking over the water. We had amazing weather all week which meant not much time spent in the house during the day. Cottage was great to give extra privacy. Real traditional farmhouse, only comment is an extra bathroom would be good oh and a trampoline would be perfect! Requested by my son. 4/4 is better for the track but no big deal. Saw a deer and red squirrels in the garden, seals on the beach, peacocks and pheasants too.

10/10 Excellent

Kim D.

20 September 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The drive is definitely worth it!

The property was beautiful, and in a fantastic position above the coast with complete privacy and amazing views. It was very easy to get around the island with lots of different activities available. Kayaking and wild swimming were particular highlights for us.

10/10 Excellent

antony b.

17 September 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Week in Arran

We had a lovely week at Banlicken. Stunning location and beautiful property. Loved the view, great for walking and seeing wildlife- golden eagles, red squirrels and seals.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Linda C.

14 September 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Remote and peaceful

We had a lovely time at Banlicken. It has a peaceful, remote and special feel to it. The accommodation adds to this and the rooms have a feeling of being lived in and special. The kitchen in particular is a great space for a group meal and we spent most evenings there. A lovely stay .

Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Colin T.

28 July 2020

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

One week stay in Arran

We had a great week at the property. Weather was up and down. We liked the secluded nature of the property. The drive up the track was always an adventure. Great size of kitchen and dinning area. Amazing views over to the west. We had a three year old with us and you have to be watching out, and following him around. As Jenny mentioned, the garden is on fairly uneven ground and you have to watch the smallest children around the burn . We all enjoyed playing table tennis and the play barn area. We all felt the week went very fast and would love to return in the future .

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2020

10/10 Excellent

Mary F.

23 September 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend trip to Arran

We stayed at the property for 3 nights over a September weekend. My husband, daughter and I were visiting from the states with my sister and family who are from Edinburgh and booked the property for a long weekend. It was located in a gorgeous setting and the atmosphere was relaxing, magical and private. We made great memories and truly enjoyed the unique opportunity to see a more remote area of Scotland. The play barn was also wonderful for the kids.

10/10 Excellent

Janet F.

11 September 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Banlicken Farmhouse

Idyllic.

Stayed 14 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

sarah b.

13 August 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Genuinely remote

This is a lovely property which is comfortably furnished and feels like a proper well-loved home. It really is remote; it takes a long time to drive along the track and depending on the weather/your car, you might not find you can always get down it. The nearest shop really is a long way away and you absolutely have to check the water supply regularly. In return, you get spectacular views and real space. Sadly, you won’t enjoy sitting outside most evenings because the midges will drive you in. You will also not get silence-the stream and the wind are noisy- but you will get peace. If you are of a nervous disposition do not come here! We had a storm one evening and the following day three of the four roads across the island were closed, some ferries were cancelled and the ford was running very high, all in August, but we thought it was worth it.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Duncan B.

28 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect getaway on Arran

We have just got back from 2 weeks at Banlicken and had a wonderful time at the house and also across all that Arran has to offer. The house itself it perfect as a base from which you can explore the island and also get across to Skipness on Kintyre which is recommended if nothing else because of Skipness Seafood Cabin serving delicious fresh seafood with Skipness Castle as a stunning backdrop on one side and views across to Arran the other. With 2 small children (aged 18months and 5yrs) we hoped the house would satisfy them as well as ourselves and we weren't disappointed. The House is well stocked with games, toys and DVD/videos which were appreciated when we needed some down time to recharge the kids batteries. For us adults all the key essentials (and more) were provided to make life as easy as possible and to make the house feel like that very well used cliche - a home from home. It is worth noting that the drive way up to the cottage off the main road isn't for the timid but perfectly passable none the less. The water for the house coming direct from the mountain side needs checking and that is a short hike up the side of the hill so again not ideal if 10min walks up hill aren't your thing. The views at the check point are worth it though as you get widescreen views of Banlicken and the Kilbrannan Sound beyond and Kintyre beyond that. As for Arran itself, there is so much to see and do that 12 days wasn't enough which means we'll have to return soon!

Stayed 12 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mick S.

5 June 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to stay

We had a great holiday lots to see and do

10/10 Excellent

Zoe M.

8 November 2018

Halloween week 2018

I have just returned from a marvellous holiday in Banlicken. There were 3 families of four and a spaniel. The house was very remote, well equipped and just what we were looking for. There were plenty of games for the evening. The route to the house was fun but I am glad we arrived in the light. The ramble to the beach down the shortest route was slippy in the rain and sturdy boots were required. Sausages on an open fire were the reward. What more could you want!! Seals and porpoise, we saw them too. Great week, great island, fantastic property with lots of helpful information.

Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Sue R.

20 August 2018

Peaceful,picturesque, near perfect.

The house and bothy were comfortable, beautifully furnished , with the arrangement of the accommodation ideally suited for extended family. The big kitchen diner was a great space to congregate, and was very well equipped. Loads of crockery and big pans. We really enjoyed the views over the water to Kintyre. The farm track to the property had had some work done to it, and was easily passable with a heavily loaded family hatchback. Finally, both owner and housekeeper could not have been more helpful and friendly throughout our entire dealings.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Margaret C., Glasgow

12 August 2018

A gem of a place, isolated and a long farm track with views making it all worth while

Although remote as described, this house offered seclusion,a sense of peace and views which were quite outstanding. It offered our children and grandchildren a sense of freedom. The road has been described fully and can be a bit tricky for those not used to farm tracks. It was well maintained though and was passible by our 2 saloon cars, though there is a ford which was full flow after a stormy night. Would be impossible if two cars met! The house was one of the best stocked holiday homes I’ve been to, regarding kitchen equipment, games, dvds and videos. Reading material really interesting too. Play barn was used but we were reasonably lucky with weather so out and about a lot. After a long spell of drought water flow to tank really a trickle but luckily the rain came just at right time and with quick clean of input pipe and clearing of airlock no issues over the course of week. Full instruction were given and we were well warned that this is one of the quirks of this isolated farm house... it’s a gem of a place and we left with every intention of returning. Thank you for allowing us to share the experience of living in your home. Many lovely memories made.

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Susie H.

20 February 2018

Fantastic rural setting for a big family get together

We ranged from 4 to 70 years old and very much enjoyed our stay at Banlicken. The beautiful big farmhouse kitchen is the perfect place for a large group to gather round the table and the kitchen is very well equipped. We stayed during a cold spell in February but the heating was efficient enough plus the fire in the cosy living room to keep us warm. The kids had a great time all sleeping in the annex together. It is certainly remote and the track up to the house not for the faint hearted (or low slung car!) but we found it all part of the adventure! There is only one bathroom in the main house but not a major issue for relaxed holiday mornings. Book your ferry early!!

Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Isobel B.

4 August 2016

Wonderful remote farmhouse

Loved this house. We were 2 grannys' with 9 children, aged between 16 and 18 months and 2 dogs. Weather wasn't very good but the children didn't care as they had plenty of room to play both inside and out. The play barn was great and the children put on a talent show. (We laughed but the judges took it very seriously) The house and the cottage were well equipped and comfortable. We all loved the kitchen as we could all gather round the table. Initially we were taken aback by the instructions for the water source but once the children knew where it was and what to do it wasn't so much of a chore. Although it wasn't great walking up the hill when it had been raining and the midges were out. The midges were no problem in the house but loved to nibble at bodies playing in the garden. The road up to the house should be treated with great care but you shouldn't let it put you off.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Tim W.

2 September 2015

Very, comfortable and remote house for 3 families

We are three families (6 adults, 6 kids now aged 8-14) who take holidays together every other year - previously Crete, Brittany (twice) and Wales. We had a great week on Banlicken and Arran generally. Banlicken is very quiet, with lovely views across to Kintyre. The house is very comfortable. We appreciated the well-appointed kitchen (we like preparing big meals) and table we could all sit around. The bedrooms are very nice with comfortable beds. Some lovely pictures and ornaments give Banlicken a nice homely feel. The kids spent a lot of time playing table-tennis. Another loo in the main house would have been the icing on the cake! The track is memorable and not for the faint-hearted. It fords a small river and was at the limit of our low-slung skoda - so mostly the passengers had to walk. One of the reviews here says there isn't a restaurant nearby, but since that was written the Cafe Thyme has opened a couple of miles down the road - good food, big portions, children's playground, rabbits. Worth a visit. There are lots of nice walks for youngish children, including a particularly nice one around Lochranza (buy lunch at the Sandwich Shack). Bring your own frying pan for making bacon rolls on the beach - an adventuresome and steep walk down from the house.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

tracey l.

21 February 2015

Family fun in Arran

Just had a super long weekend at Banlicken, 3 families, 3 nights. Banlicken was perfect. What an adventure the children had from the start, opening the gates and through the ford. Such excitement. The house was super, we all had our own little area to sleep and retreat to if needed. We cooked up some great meals in the large well equipped kitchen, sat around the cosy fire in the living room, reading, board games, and rugby for the men!! The children had the playbarn to work off some energy. A walk down to the shore with fantastic views and a very pretty sunset. Perfect.

About the host

Hosted by Jenny Thomson

We love welcoming guests and hearing that our guests love being at Banlicken as much as we do. We hope to be able to share the best kept secrets that we have found and enjoy hearing all about their adventures and experiences. We never tire of visiting Banlicken ourselves.

Why they chose this property

Just wonderful place to get away from it all, so relaxing, stunning views, wildlife all around and ability to get into the heart of the countryside.

What makes this property unique

• Beautiful location, so close to the sea and wild countryside
We love it because of its location, peaceful tranquility and the wildlife..
This is what Our Guests love about Banlicken
• Fantastic / beautiful views of Mull of Kintyre
• Stunning and magical sunsets
• Seeing the otters and seals on the beach below the house
• Incredible array of wildlife – deer, red squirrels, golden eagles, otters, seals
• Lovely large garden, the sound of the sea and birdsong
• Wonderful hosts who are so helpful
• Great for outdoor pursuits
o Walks, hiking, kayaking, cycling, open water swimming in loch and the sea below.
• Great for groups of friends and multi-generational families