King’s Caves

Along the Western shore of Arran, are a series of natural caves in the sandstone rock. One of the caves is said to have been the refuge in which Robert the Bruce had his famed encounter with a spider.

According to legend Bruce was dejected, and on the verge of giving up trying to gain independence for Scotland from the English. While hiding out in a cave he observed a spider on one of the cave walls. The spider span a web only to have it collapse from the slippery stone.

Again and again the spider built its home, never giving up no matter how many times it failed, and eventually the web held. Bruce was said to have been inspired to try and try again against his foes and finally led the Scots to victory at Bannockburn.

Historically the caves may have been inhabited by ancient man, and there are fragile ancient carvings on the walls. These consist of early Christian religious images, and Pictish symbols. It is thought the caves were visited by early Christian travellers. The main cave has been closed off from the public by the means of a large iron gate, more information about access can be discovered at Brodick Tourist Information.

Directions: A long pleasant walk from Blackwaterfoot along the coast, takes in excellent scenery and an ancient fort.