Explore Isle of Bute

Once ashore, you will nd yourself within walking distance of a wide range of amenities. A 12th century moated castle just peeks out from behind the main town square.  To the rear of the historic castle sits Bute Museum, a delightful building holding the treasure trove and variety of the island’s history.  

Buses provide easy transport to local attractions such as Mount Stuart, a breathtaking Gothic Rival Victorian architectural masterpiece that opens its doors and lush gardens to visitors from March to October. Alternatively, you can take a bus to one of Bute’s lovely sandy bays, where you may catch a glimpse of the island’s seal population, or simply treat yourself to an enormous cake from Ettrick Bay and let your dog stretch its legs on the beach.

Shopping local

The main shopping thoroughfare in Rothesay is lined with independent shops, bars, restaurants, and cafés. Bute’s retail sector is dominated by independents, each offering hand-picked goods and providing a personal touch. Here you will find everything from unique clothes and shoes to beautiful baby garments, The Isle of Bute sportswear, cosy jackets, branded menswear, scarves, handbags, and delightful jewellery choices - perfect for ticking off your Christmas list. The town also boasts an art gallery, an award-winning family butcher, and a speciality coffee shop that roasts its own beans on Bute. Even the hardware store offers an impressive range that is sure to catch your eye. A maker’s market at The Bute Yard is on the rst Sunday of the month – just the fit for seasonal gifts for the family.

A destination for all

Bute nightlife has its place on your agenda too.  Bute Yard’s pop-up kitchen hosts many world inspired foods whilst sipping Bute brewed beer, lager and award-winning Bute distilled gin cocktails. Often accompanied by singers and local bands to entertain you as you catch up with friends and family. Or perhaps you fancy trying the recent addition of a city style deli and sister wine and cocktail bar with outdoor seating allowing you watch the sun set over Rothesay Bay as you sip your new favourite tipple?  You could try the friendliness of the community owned bar, The Anchor, in Port Bannatyne who host their guests with jam sessions, local musicians and quiz nights on a weekly basis. 

Staying Put

Bute’s accommodation choice has widened over the last few years as the hotel market has grown diverse. Bute has happily risen to that challenge. Now the island will tempt you with stylish homes with log burning stoves, hot tub experiences, suite style apartments with sea views, a 1950’s themed hotel and American diner, eco homes, sea view town centre ats, pet friendly self-catering, whole house hires, glamping, camping and 5 star caravan getaways. Our community owned forest at the top end of the island not only has delightful walks and superb views over the North of the island over to the Kyles of Bute, but it also invites you to hire their off-grid Charcoal Huts.  A stay that will reset your mind and make you switch off from the buzz of the day to day. Bute has it all and maybe even something you weren’t even expecting.  That’s what Bute does so well, it has a little bit of something for nearly everyone. Just come visit.  We’ll expect you.