Travel Specialist Holly Janney
As children Holly and her twin sister grew up hearing stories about their grandfather and his life on the Isle of Arran, off the coast of Scotland.
Isle of Arran
Otherwise known as Alexander Wallace, their grandfather was the son of the Corrie Hotel gardener. They lived in Prospect Cottage, which was built for the gardener and his family specifically.
Holly’s mother, Moira, spoke of a special pewter mug that had been given to her from their grandfather. The significance of the mug was somewhat of a mystery, so they all decided to travel to the Isle of Arran to learn more about their lineage and the origin of the pewter mug.
Moira & Lady Jean Fforde with pewter mugs
They visited the Arran Heritage Museum and The Brodick Castle, where they learned that the mugs had been presented to the children on the island to mark Lady Mary Louise Hamilton’s 21st birthday in 1905. They were able to meet with Lady Mary’s daughter, Lady Jean Fforde, who also had an identical mug. Lady Jean noted, “Of course at that time my mother’s family owned the whole island so there would have been children all over the island receiving these mugs” (The Arran Banner).
Brodick Harbor, Isle of Arran
Due to their rarity and significance to the island’s history, Moira and her daughters are considering donating their mug to the Arran Heritage Museum so the entire community would be able to enjoy it.
They were also able to stay at Prospect Cottage, in the small town of Corrie where their grandfather had been raised. The cottage has been restored and maintains its timeless character. It sleeps 4 comfortably and is close to the beach, golf course, horse back riding and hiking. Oh and don’t forget Holly’s favorite, the natural salt water baths within walking distance!
Natural salt water bathtub with the Corrie Hotel in the distance
Rona Davidson now owns and rents the cottage to visitors of the island. For more information on staying at the Prospect Cottage CLICK HERE.
A visit to the enchanting Isle of Arran will change you forever! For more information on how to get there and what to see, please contact travel specialist Holly Janney at Cruise & Travel Masters!
Sonja Arrasi, Cruise & Travel Masters
800-264-0557
Join us on Facebook
Hi Holly! Wonderful to see you. Great article. Sounds like a fascinating place. Miss you.
Hello Katie!
Wow! I just found your message! YES I loved Scotland and the Isle of Arran!
I miss you too and hope to see you one day! I’m headed to St. Lucia and Antigua for a SANDALS fam in September. I’m excited! Would love to catch up with you and Sonja one day! Love you, Holly