WORKING TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE OF NORTH ARRAN

NACBS was formed by local people coming together with a shared aim: to support the long-term future of North Arran.

Since 2021, we’ve worked to protect valued community assets, support local initiatives and create new opportunities in North Arran. In 2022 we became a registered charity and later achieved a major milestone with the community purchase of the Lochranza Country Inn.

Everything we do is guided by local voices and made possible through the dedication of volunteers who care deeply about our community’s future.

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N.A.C.B.S. purpose

NACBS is a community-led organisation established to support long-term community benefit across North Arran.

“At its heart, nacbs is about bringing people together to protect our local heritage, support wellbeing and create opportunities for communities to connect, grow and thrive.”

— North Arran Community Benefit Society

Our Northend community

Lochranza

A coastal village set in a horse-shoe around Loch Ranza Bay, known for its 14th Century Castle, surrounding hills and rich wildlife. Lochranza is home to the community-owned Lochranza Country Inn, Lochranza and Catacol Village Hall, St Bride's Church, Lochranza Distillery, Lochranza Field Centre and the Isle of Arran UNESCO Global GeoPark exhibition space. With a Youth Hostel, Campsite, visitor moorings, ferry terminal and places to eat, is a hub for local activity and visitor life at the Northend.

catacol

A small, historic village characterised by its traditional white cottages and dramatic coastline, Catacol is home to the iconic Twelve Apostles, abundant birdlife and a local population of the unique Arran Whitebeam.

Pirnmill

Located between several clachans including Thunderguy, Penrioch and Whitefarland, the village is home to the Pirnmill Village Shop and Post Office, Pirnmill Primary School, Pirnmill Village Hall and the Lighthouse Restaurant. Looking across the Kilbrannan Sound, the village is well-known for its beach walks and dramatic sunsets.

Lochranza Country Inn

A Community Hub Reborn

The Lochranza Country Inn was secured through community ownership to protect an important local asset for the people of North Arran.

Following a period of closure, the project focused on reopening the Inn as a sustainable, community-led space — providing hospitality, local employment opportunities and a venue for events and gatherings.

The Inn stands as a practical example of how community ownership can help safeguard rural facilities and support long-term resilience in the area.

Built on local support

Since reopening, the Lochranza Country Inn has once again become a place for people to come together.

Through volunteer-led weekends, local events and community-supported trading, the Inn has helped strengthen social connections, support local causes and bring new energy back into the village.

The project continues to demonstrate how community ownership can protect valued local assets while creating spaces that benefit residents, visitors and the wider North Arran area.

EXPLORE THE INN

community action that counts

By working alongside local organisations, we help ideas grow - offering support with community-led projects and by unlocking funding opportunities.

VIEW OUR PROJECTS

Community Highlights

January Quiz night winning team
January Quiz Team donating their winnings to the arran animal rescue & sanctuary
January volunteers weekend
January volunteers weekend
December volunteers weekend
Open Music Sessions
Live Music
Lochranza Loos Team
October NACBS AGM