Isle of Bute & the
Cowal Penninsula




Rothesay

The most accessible of West Coast islands, Bute - straddling the Highland Line - is an emerald gem with golden beaches set in a sea of azure blue.

Relax as you explore the gently, undulating hills, catch glimpses of the wildlife and marvel at the vistas. For such a compact island, Bute has some extraordinarily varied landscapes. From the lush, fertile and rolling hills of the island’s heart to the craggy, heather-covered moorlands of the north and the delightful sandy beaches around the coastline, the island is a haven for walking, cycling, fishing and wildlife.

To the north, the beautiful Kyles of Bute separate the island from the Cowal Peninsula. This is the domain of feral mountain goats, buzzards and roe deer, whilst mackerel and sea trout provide sport for the angler. This most hilly part of Bute gives way to the gentler slopes of farmland pastures to the south, before rising in rocky crags once more at the most southerly tip.

Gothic Marvel Bute has a long history, with evidence that it was settled as far back as 2,000BC. Standing stones at Ettrick Bay, the ancient chapel of St Blane and the vitrified Iron Age fort at Dunagoil lay testament to every phase of Scottish history. But it was in the last century that Mount Stuart, the high Victorian Gothic palace of the Marquess of Bute, was built. Set amongst glorious gardens and policies and recently opened to the public, the mansion is undoubtedly Scotland’s most stunning stately home, with superb treasures and works of art.

Ascog Fernery

The Victorian theme continues at Ascog Victorian Garden and Fernery, a magical garden of a bygone era.

Royal Rothesay

The Royal Burgh of Rothesay, the island’s main town, has a most splendid Victorian frontage cradling romantic Rothesay Bay.

Rothesay Castle

Dominating the shoreline amongst the glorious esplanade gardens is the refurbished Isle of Bute Discovery Centre, a unique 1920s circular structure of cast iron and glass, now incorporating a cinema, theatre and many interactive displays as well as showing the best of Bute. Rothesay Castle, a moated, circular structure, captured by the Vikings in 1230, later became an island residence of the Scottish Stewart kings. Explore the dungeons and the thick outer walls and grand hall, now fully restored.

Just behind sits the fascinating Bute Museum, affording a glimpse of island life in years gone by. Rothesay also offers a full range of leisure activities for the more sporting, including a fine swimming pool, superb golf course (Bute has three in all) and vast areas of parkland where youngsters can safely play.

The colourful display at Ardencraig Gardens near Rothesay includes not only the stunning floral presentations, but also an aviary, which is home to many species of exotic bird. To the north of Rothesay, through the small community of Port Bannatyne lies Ettrick Bay, Bute’s most accessible beach which is a relatively safe haven for able swimmers. Scalpsie Bay, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Isle of Arran, is the home of a large colony of seals, who gaze in curiosity from their rocky perches at those who gather to watch their antics.

Scalpsie Bay, Bute

Area Overview | Photogallery | Maps & Travel Info | Accommodation | Things to See & Do
The Great Outdoors | Events | Highlights of Scotland | Contact Us | Links |
Brochure Request | Copyright VisitScotland 2008
Old Town Jail, St. John Street, Stirling, FK8 1EA