A Guide to the Isles - Bute
A Guide to the Isles - Bute
This iconic Scottish Isle might only be less than 5 miles wide and 15 miles long - but this tiny island has been a popular Scottish holiday spot for over 100 years! The Gulf Stream creates a unique climate, allowing for exotic plants and palm trees to line the isle coastline. Why not explore this beautiful isle for your next relaxing staycation? It is less than an hour from Hunters Quay!
HOW TO GET THERE
There is ferry from Colintraive on the mainland to Rhubodach on Bute, which takes 5 minutes.
No advance booking is necessary. Simply turn up at the port of departure, buy a ticket.
With so much to offer here is our guide to the Isle of Bute;
Food and Drink
Where to eat and drink is a vital decision when it comes to holidays whether it be with your friends, partner or the wee ones! Here are some options for everyone.
The Jam Jar Coffee Shop
The Jam Jar is a relaxed environment to enjoy tea/coffee and a cake, a beer and a snack, a milkshake and an ice-cream, brunch, lunch and Pizza nights during the summer. There really is something for the whole family! There is also a small out door play area for the wee ones to enjoy whilst you take in the incredible views over the town. Pets are also allowed which is perfect if you are staying with us on a pet friendly staycation.
Isle of Bute Gin Garden
For the adults! Why not visit the Isle of Bute Gin Garden and enjoy their small batch hand crafted gin? You can then visit the shop and take some home with you.
Things to do
It might be small but there is no shortage of things to do on the Isle of Bute.
Beaches
The western side of Bute is known for its beaches, many of which enjoy fine views over the Sound of Bute towards Arran and Bute's smaller satellite island Inchmarnock.
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ST NINIAN’S BAY BEACH
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SCALPSIE BAY BEACH
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KILCHATTAN BAY BEACH
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LANGALBUINOCH BEACH (STRAVANNAN BAY)
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ETTRICK BAY BEACH
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KERRYCROY BEACH
Walking Routes
If you are looking to get your steps whilst exploring the Isle, here are some walking routes to try out
Sight seeing
Mount Stuart
Mount Stuart is a visitor attraction located on the Isle of Bute. Visitors have access to 300 acres of gardens including a private beach and are able to view the house on either a 1 hour guided tour or self-guided free flow admission (subject to availability).
Exclusive Discount: £8.25 Adults / £5 Children, 3rd April - 1st November. Book on the day by quoting 'ARGYLLCUSTOMER' at ticket office.
Bute Museum
A visit to Bute Museum can enrich your experience of the island - explore the museum first! Experience the archaeology,history and natural history of the island with our extensive displays from every period of Bute's past.
Bute Museum's collections are mainly concerned with recording and preserving the Island's past and showing examples of the wildlife which might be seen there today.
Isle of Bute Open Top Bus Tour
The open-top bus tour on the Isle of Bute is a great way to explore this beautiful island. All you need to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the fantastic views.Explore the beautiful Isle of Bute in 7 stops on the official open top sightseeing tour. Hop on hop off around the island's best attractions, historic sites and gardens with your day ticket.
Rothesay Castle
Rothesay is the main town on the Isle of Bute. This seaside resort town has signs of its Victorian heritage everywhere.From old-fashioned shops, Italian cafés, to Rothesay Castle—a full-blown 13th-century castle situated right in the middle of the town!
Sporting activities
Port Bannatyne Golf Club
The course is set in the pretty seaside village of Port Bannatyne by the Kyles of Bute. Famed for being the home of the World war II midget submarine fleet the X Craft and overlooking Loch Striven where the famous bouncing bomb was tested.
Unique in Scotland Port Bannatyne has a 13 hole golf course,golfers play the first 12 holes and then repeat the first 5 holes with a separate 18th hole to finish with. Although we have a modern clubhouse with bar, locker rooms and showers, we have no full time steward. So golf is played using an honesty box. Access to the clubhouse is by members swipe-card.
Bute Paddle Boards
Bute Paddle Boards offer a wide range of equipment to suit all ages and abilities. Whether you’re a beginner, or you’re looking for the perfect place to hone your skills, they will give you a day to remember. If you are looking for a extra special activity why not try a days paddle boarding in one of Butes beautiful bays.
Bike Bute
Bike Bute is Scotland’s first island based community e-bike scheme! They have 16 Raleigh MOTUS Grand Tour e-bikes. They are available in 3 sizes – small, medium and large – for
your comfort.
Enjoy your visit to Isle of Bute!
