The Isle of Cumbrae, also known as Great Cumbrae, lies on the Ayrshire coast and is roughly four miles long and two miles wide.
Just a short ferry trip from Largs, Cumbrae is regarded as Scotland’s most accessible island.
Seaside town
The only settlement is Millport, a seaside town with a Victorian promenade which curves around an attractive hilly bay on the south coast. Millport is home to Britain's smallest cathedral, the Cathedral of the Isles, which was completed in 1851 to a design by William Butterfield, one of the leading Gothic revival architects of the day.
Outdoor activities
Cumbrae is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Cycle hire is available from the main town of Millport, and the island will not fail to delight with its miles of stunning coastline. Follow the 10 miles of the circular loop around the island’s main road, which is suitable for families and offers view of North Ayrshire coast and the Isle of Bute.
Play Millport Golf Course, the only golfing venue on Cumbrae. Designed by James Braid, the architect of some of Scotland’s greatest courses, Millport affords breathtaking views to Ailsa Craig, Bute and the Cowal Peninsula.
On the water
Cumbrae is also a mecca for watersports, you can try yachting, dinghy sailing, windsurfing, powerboating and paddlesports including kayaking, open canoeing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Whilst out exploring the islands, keep your eyes open for wildlife. The shoreline is home to a resident population of seals, and you can also see a wide variety of seabirds and marine life, including basking sharks, in the waters surrounding the island in the warmer months.
Great attractions & events
Garrison House is home to the Museum of the Cumbraes and here you can learn about the history of Millport and the isles. Learn of 18th century smuggling tales and gain an insight into life on the island during the Second World War. At the Robertson Museum & Aquarium, visitors can learn about the wide variety of marine life and local habitats on the island.
Cumbrae is also the host of a great range of events, including the annual Millport Country Festival.
Helpful info
Ferry travel is great value - fares from Largs to Cumbrae were reduced when RET (road equivalent tariff) status was introduced in 2015.
While it’s a great place to visit with a motorhome or caravan, facilities are limited for recreational vehicles. The Millport Holiday Park has 11 pitches with electric hook-ups and tourers are advised to phone ahead.
Little Cumbrae, the islet to the south of Millport, is privately owned.
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