Arran UNESCO Global Geopark

Celebrating Earth Heritage

Arran UNESCO Global Geopark, located off the southwest coast of Scotland, encompasses terrestrial and marine zones that record 600 million years of Earth’s history. This island’s remarkable landscape tells a story of tectonic plate collisions, the shifting of continents from the southern hemisphere, the opening of the Atlantic Ocean and the sculpting of alpine mountains by glaciers. It’s a place where the ancient forces of nature are still visible in the dramatic cliffs, smooth beaches and rugged landscapes. The island’s ecosystems support species like the Arran whitebeam, one of the world's rarest and most endangered tree species, which has existed on the island since the last glaciers retreated. Over 156 bird species and more than 1,000 plant species thrive here, making Arran a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Characteristics

Designation date
2025
Area (ha)
94,700