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Visiting Bute – The Perfect Weekend Escape

Published by Graeme on June 15, 2022 June 15, 2022

As a compact little island nestled in the Firth of Clyde, just a short ferry ride away, I’m convinced that visiting Bute makes the perfect weekend escape. It’s easy to get to, just as easy to travel around and there really is something for everybody. If you have a couple of days to spare for a mini adventure, then I promise you won’t be bored on Bute.

On your trip to Bute you’ll experience historic castles, lavish mansions, beautiful beaches, ancient forts and of course stories round every corner. Of course there’s plenty for you to spend longer and really delve deep into the island. Or if you’re short on time then even go the other way and make the journey into a daytrip!

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How To Get To But e

Lots of people get nervous traveling to any of the islands, but it’s much easier than you might think! There are two ferries that make the short hop to Bute, both run by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) . There’s no need to book onto either, just turn up and drive on.

The most common route takes 35 minutes from Wemyss Bay, arriving in the island’s main town Rothesay. If you want a scenic drive but less time on the water then Colintraive on the mainland to Rhubodach on Bute only takes around 5 minutes. Why not enjoy both routes like I did, arriving in Rothesay and leaving from Rhubodach?

Starting Off In Rothesay

It’s unlikely you’ll be visiting Bute without spending at least some time in the main town Rothesay. The first thing that will probably hit you are the swathes of palm trees and exotic plants lining the shore. These are the perfect demonstration that parts of Scotland’s west coast have a surprisingly mild climate!

It’s not a large town so Rothesay is best explored on foot. If you’re looking for refreshments then head to the chilled out bar attached to the Isle of Bute Gin Distillery . Interested in learning more about local history on your trip to Bute? The small museum is packed full of artefacts from every chapter of the island’s past and worth every penny!

One thing that’s become iconic in Rothesay are the Victorian Toilets which does sound a little surprising. They’re practically a work of art, but unfortunately vandalism during lockdown has taken its toll. I arrived to discover that the door is now locked, operated by a keypad with no sign of a code. Protecting against vandals is important, but that was an unwelcome surprise when I really needed to go!

Rothesay Castle

While wandering through Rothesay, it’s unlikely you’re going to miss Rothesay Castle. These enormous walls are surrounded by a moat and surprisingly well-curated gardens, smack back in the middle of town. The castle isn’t just important to Bute though, this fortress actually gave rise to a Royal dynasty.

Like many of the west coast islands, Bute fell into Viking hands for generations, right up until the 12th century. It’s likely that they had been the first to build a fort at Rothesay to guard the natural harbour here. However, Scotland wanted its islands back. King Malcolm IV appointed a man called Walter as his hereditary Steward, ordering him to secure the western coast. He successfully won back Bute and his son Alan the Steward rebuilt the walls of Rothesay Castle in solid stone.

When a force of Norwegian-Scots returned to the new Rothesay Castle in 1230, it must have looked formidable. Defenders poured oil and lead from the walls, but the attackers simply hacked through the soft stone with their axes. They were chased off after filling their pockets, but the island would be fiercely fought over for years.

Things on Bute changed in 1371 when Robert the Bruce’s son King David II died without an heir. Robert the Steward found himself a new role and a new surname becoming King Robert Stewart. A new dynasty had begun and Rothesay Castle became a royal fortress. The heir to the Scottish Crown is still known as the Duke of Rothesay, Prince Charles’ title whilst north of the border.

Rothesay Castle is closed just now for masonry assessment, but a visit to Bute wouldn’t be complete without admiring this incredible building.

On the very outskirts of Rothesay is a lesser known feature that absolutely deserves to be seen while visiting Bute. The tiny St Mary’s Chapel is easy to miss, hiding in the shadow of the modern parish church. Even if you notice this 14th Century building, there are no obvious signs encouraging you to try the door.

Trust me, you should always try the door. Inside what was once the chancel of a larger church, two carved stone figures are set back into the walls. These are known as the Knight’s Tomb and the Lady’s Tomb although we can only guess who is buried beneath. The coat of arms on the Knight suggests it was made for a member of the Stewarts, but we have no clues beyond that.

Now you’ve got a mystery to contemplate during your weekend escape.

A Range Of Stunning Beaches

Time to finally leave Rothesay, after all this is about visiting all of Bute, not just the town. There are plenty of historical places still to see, but unless this is a strict research trip, then there’s much more to enjoy around the island!

Bute has some stunning beaches, especially along the western coast. Many have incredible views across to the mountains of Arran, which is another fantastic island worth visiting. I didn’t manage to visit all of them, but ate pizza at Ettrick Bay before searching for seals at Scalpsie. Unfortunately the only sea-based creature I spotted swimming around was Molly…

There are others for you to explore though and I’m now convinced that Bute’s beaches live up to their high reputation. If you want to head to some lesser known spots then find out more about some of them here.

Located at the far south of the island, I struggle to find the right words to describe St Blane’s Church . It’s quite simply one of the most incredible places I’ve ever experienced. If you only have time for just one thing while visiting Bute, then this is my recommendation.

Isolated up a small track, nestled in a hollow, the size of the sheltered clearing around St Blane’s is astounding. It’s easy to imagine a whole community living here, surrounding the church on its raised platform.

Confusingly, the church wasn’t established by St Blane at all, but by his uncle St Catan in the 6th Century. Around 200 years later, two Abbots were martyred here by marauding Vikings and soon St Blane’s was completely abandoned. The island came back under permanent Scottish control in the 1200s and that’s when these ruined remains date from.

Like most Catholic churches, St Blane’s was abandoned after the Reformation, apart from the priest who simply refused to leave. He was so much hassle for authorities, they just left him to live in the manse for around 30 years. The church soon fell into ruin, but thankfully the 3rd Marquess of Bute put his vast fortune and obsession with architecture to good use. He didn’t actually rebuild it, but did at least stabilise the remains for us to enjoy today.

Dunagoil Vitrified Fort

Not far from St Blane’s you can find some of Bute’s ancient history at Dunagoil Vitrified Fort. A vitrified fort like this is somewhere that has seen such immense heat, the stone walls have essentially fused together. Nobody knows exactly how it was done or more importantly why!

It can be hard to make out any human evidence atop this Iron Age hillfort, but that doesn’t mean Dunagoil isn’t worth exploring! There are two little hills to climb, the remains of a burial cairn and some pretty incredible views. If you’re visiting the museum in Rothesay then keep your eyes open for some of the archaeological finds from here

Even if you can’t manage right to the top, it’s an interesting area to wander around and you’ll find some spooky caves down by the water.

Mount Stuart

Top of most peoples list when visiting Bute is the spectacularly extravagant Mount Stuart . The building we see today was designed by the 3rd Marquess of Bute, mentioned previously. Remember, he was the one obsessed with architecture and just happened to be the richest man in Britain. It’s no surprise then that this character built a house just as eccentric as he was.

The first Mount Stuart from the early 18th Century had been practically destroyed by fire in 1877, leaving just a few wings standing. That gave the Marquess a clean slate for his mansion and he didn’t do things by half. It became the first home in Britain to be entirely lit using electricity as well as the first to have a heated indoor pool.

As a converted Catholic, the chapel had to be breathtaking, but the main draw inside Mount Stuart is the Marble Hall. The Marquess’ interest in mythology and astrology are evident in the displays directly overhead. Cut crystal stars are embedded in the ceiling as an exact replica of the night sky.

The Mount Stuart Trust have looked after the building and its lush gardens since 1989, ensuring it stays an essential stop during any visit to Bute.

West Island Way

Exploring everything Bute has to offer in just one weekend might be difficult without driving. However, if you have the time and energy then you could try hiking the West Island Way. It’s roughly 30 miles long and covers the island from north to south, crossing several different types of terrain. You’ll see some beautiful scenery, but if you want to visit the sights or beaches then those involve some detours.

Another great option would be to cycle around instead of drive. Bute is a very bike friendly island, I passed several cycling signs and free to use pumps on my journey.

Planning on Visiting Bute Yet?

So what are you waiting for? Hopefully I’ve convinced you that this wee island has lots to keep you entertained on your weekend escape.

I know that I’ll definitely be back visiting Bute again soon.

If you’re looking for other island escapes then how about a trip around the Isle of Skye?

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Wendy S. · June 16, 2022 at 9:55 am

Bute certainly seems to be a tad underrated ???… but this article changes that !!!… ‘ease of travel’ for starters !!!…and once there a variety of places to discover – the Castle 🏰 anyway , but Mount Stuart has to be ‘a must-see’ especially the ceiling in the Chapel ??!!??… but there’s much , much more that Bute has to offer …and just a short journey away …. brilliant ❤️👌🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 !!!

Graeme · June 16, 2022 at 9:56 am

Absolutely! This is a place I really hope gets a boom of visitors in the near future! It deserves it.

Janice · January 20, 2024 at 5:32 pm

Hi Graeme, I really enjoyed reading about Rothsay through you. I don’t often complete some composer’s thoughts! However, you are definitely interesting and a joy to read.

I will definitely be paying a visit this year as I only live in Edinburgh. Thank you so much.

Miriam · June 16, 2022 at 12:28 pm

It’s been a few years since we visited Bute, but my memories of that visit will stay with me. It was a gorgeous sunny day, which made it even more perfect. We drove the whole circuit and visited the castle. And yes, we were lucky to even get to see the beautiful decor of those Victorian toilets. It’s a shame vandalism has forced them to close. Hopefully it’ll only be temporary. We never, unfortunately, got to visit the sumptuous Steward home, if only to see that spectacular ceiling. Also, if you’re visiting, and they’re still in business, make sure you also treat yourself to one of Zavaronie’s scrumptious ice creams. But is definitely worth the visit.

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Bute is the island for beautiful walks

We have a local walking group, why not join in or hire a guide for your party and of course we have lots of walks around Bute

Bute Ramblers

Walk bute with friendly faces and walking guides.

A great group of people who walk Bute

Join their Facebook Group page and contact them direct for walk dates and times

FACEBOOK PAGE

Wild Flower Walks of Bute

Click to go direct to the website to find out all about the wild flowers on Bute

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Bute Community Forest – Walks 

The forest is on the north end of Bute, near to the Colintraive-Rhubodach ferry terminal.

The forest was acquired by the community has some lovely easy walks.

If nature is your thing, then you can see a whole variety of plants, animals, insects, fungi and protected bird species or if you’re more into your history you can visit archaeological sites or the WWII decoy village bunker.

You can wander anywhere in the forest and make your own discoveries or follow the waymarked paths to see some of our favourite spots.

There’s a load of more detailed information on the forest website. buteforest.org.uk

WEST Island WAY

The West Island Way was officially opened in 2000 by Janet Street-Porter, the journalist and former president of the Ramblers Association.

The route runs the length of the island for about 25 miles (40km) and can be accessed from various points if you want to split the journey.

The views of the island and the seascapes are fantastic and make a walk along the route more than worthwhile.

The West Island Way was the first waymarked long distance island footpath in Scotland. You could walk it between one and five days, but it is best walked over two.

It crosses a dramatic landscape, with a beautiful coastline, beaches, farmland, the moors and forests.

Pick up a Discover Bute Landscape Partnership Scheme Map from most local shops to find your way round the West Island Way and along other walks.

You can find out further information on the West Island Way here – www.westislandway.co.uk

All the information about the West Island Way has been taken from their website.

To purchase a map click here: Footprint: Visitor Maps (stirlingsurveys.co.uk)

The route is now part of the  Scotland’s Great Trails network  it can easily be broken down into a series of shorter walks as listed below:

Stage 1 – Kilchattan Bay Loop (5 miles)

This loop begins and ends in Kilchattan Bay.

It takes in the coast, with amazing views and the nationally significant site of St Blane’s chapel. Although short, it can be strenuous with some rough terrain

Route Notes:

● At the very end of the road through Kilchattan Bay village there is a turning area for buses and a parking area. Here a carved sandstone pillar marks the start of the West Island Way.

● The footpath is clear and follows the rugged coastline down to the south end of Bute. Take extra care where the rocky path is narrow and close to the shoreline – this is the most rugged section you will encounter on the West Island Way.

● You will pass below a rocky outcrop known as the ‘Hawk’s Neb’ – still an impressive sight but it’s neb (beak) was much reduced by rockfall in recent years.

● Soon you will see the lighthouse of Rubh’ an Eun and Glencallum Bay coming into view.

● Follow the path around the edge of the bay to the far side. Looking up, a marker shows where the path climbs up. At the top, pause to look back and enjoy the view of the bay, the lighthouse and across to Wee Cumbrae.

● Follow the curving path for about half a mile and you will reach the southernmost part of the walk. You will have a fine view of Arran and of Holy Isle in Lamlash Bay.

● The path now turns right to reveal Loch na Leighe below. The path takes you downhill and to the left of this peaceful little loch and heads in the direction of The Plan Farm turning right onto a vehicle track before reaching the farm. Follow the signpost to take you up to the higher ground, looking down on the Farm.

● Walk a little further and the ruin of St Blane’s Chapel can be seen, sitting high on a mound and surrounded by native trees. Take time to go into the Chapel to learn its story and feel the atmosphere of this special place – the gate is at the far side of the mound. What we see of the Chapel today owes much to the restoration work carried out by the 3rd Marquess of Bute and his architect Robert Schulz.

● Turn to the north end of the St Blane’s site to pick up the signs to where the path leads you to the farm track that will take you uphill. After passing the ruined township of Kingaven, follow the track up the hill to go through a bridle gate leading to a field. Turn right to walk downhill to a small bridge at the bottom.

● Head uphill in the direction of the summit of the hill called Suidhe Chatain.

● Stop at an interpretation ‘Swing’ Post will tell you about the ruined township of Branser.

● The West Island Way path will lead you to the right, skirting around the summit. But it is well worth making the short diversion (uphill to the Ordnance Survey trig point marker) to enjoy the view of the red sands of Kilchattan Bay and to the Firth of Clyde beyond.

● Rejoin the main path and head downhill to the Suidhe Wood and the stepped path that will take you back into the village of Kilchattan Bay.

● If you are continuing to Stage 2, turn left after the steps and follow the path that will take you out of Kilchattan Bay along the back gardens of the houses.

● If you are ending your walk at Kilchattan Bay, after the stepped path take the passage between the village houses that will take you back to the seafront and to the Car Park and Start of the Way.

● You have now reached the end of Stage One.

Download the walk from The West Island Way website

Stage 2: Kilchattan Bay to Port Bannatyne (11.5 miles, 18.5km)

This highly varied section of the Way takes in farmland, woodland, rocky shore, sandy beach, moorland track, golf course links, lochside and even an airfield!

● Follow the path along the back gardens of the village houses and take the gate leading into the Suidhe Wood, passing the Community Orchard on your right.

Stretches of boardwalk will take you safely over some occasionally very boggy sections.

● At the end of the Wood cross the ‘Plan Road’ to pass down a field leading to the edge of an Airfield and to the Golf Course (take care if any golfers are playing).

Near the shore, cross the Course to the rocks and sands of Stravanan Bay beach.

● Walk halfway along the shoreline of the bay then turn inland to cross the open grassy area (if cattle are grazing take extra care) to a gate that will lead you up a track to Langalbuinoch Farm. Turn right through the two farmyard gates and up the farm track to the main road – this is a working farm so take special care to leave the gates open or closed as you find them. Turn left here to follow the main road. Soon you will see a lane on your right (with a fingerpost) that will lead you upwards in the direction of Scoulag Moor.

● Follow the track until you reach a T-junction where a fingerpost will direct you to turn left.

● At the next gate a signpost will direct you to turn right onto Lord James’ Ride.

Walk uphill and at the summit you will find a stone cairn and a welcome seat from which to enjoy the fine views of Bute and over to Arran….

● From Lord James’ Ride, the track will reach a crossroads – turn left here to join the Moor Road. This will take you gently downhill to Loch Ascog, and onwards to a main road, the B881.

● The Way continues across the road, and down through field and track to the causeway near the end of Loch Fad.

After the causeway follow the quiet minor road that will lead you to Barone Cottage and the B878 – on the outskirts of Rothesay. Bear right onto this road and soon you will see a signpost to take you left (over a stile) into a field.

● Cross the field to reach a residential road end after which you will follow a downhill path and emerge opposite an old school building. Turn left here and, passing a waste transfer station on your left, continue uphill.

● Before you reach Westlands Farm, a Way fingerpost will direct you to turn right onto a long, raised track at the edge of a field.

● Continue on this track until you reach the second of two high metal gates – turn left immediately before the gate (as directed by the signpost).

● The path then skirts around the buildings of the Gortans and takes you through gates to reach the Kames Hill woodland. Follow the path downhill (known locally as the Boggely Road) to reach a minor road above the town of Port Bannatyne.

● Turn left and head uphill on this minor road. Bear right before reaching the Golf Clubhouse.

● Immediately on your right is a short path that will take you down to the seafront at Port Bannatyne and the end of Stage 2 of the Way.

● If you are pressing on to Stage 3 continue on the path heading downhill through trees and you will emerge onto the A844, with Kames Bay on your right and Kames Castle across the field in front of you.

Turn left to begin Section 3 of the Way.

Stage 3: Port Bannatyne to Rhubodach (8.5 miles, 13.75km)

Stage 3 opens by following the route of the old Tramway. It then turns northwards up a winding and peaceful glen. At the head of the glen the path enters the forest, then winds its way down to Rhubodach and the ferry to Colintraive.

● If you are starting Stage 3 from the Port Bannatyne seafront, walk north to Kames Bay and turn left at the first road turning (beside the gateway into Kames Castle) along the A844 signed for Ettrick Bay.

● Soon you will meet, on your left, the end of the woodland path taken by walkers continuing from Stage 2 to Stage 3 without a break at Port Bannatyne.

● The pavement walk goes gently uphill. Bear right where the road divides and take the B875 signed for Ettrick Bay. You will now switch to an enclosed track that follows the line of the Tramway that once took holidaymakers from Rothesay to enjoy the sands and Tearoom at Ettrick Bay (which you can still do today with only a very slight diversion). Unsurprisingly, the Tramway section is very level and is easy walking.

● After about a mile, Ettrick Bay (and the Tearoom) will come into view. But just before it, at the fingerpost, turn right up the single track road heading inland. Keep straight on up this road, passing houses and farms on the way. Eventually you will reach a point where a road leads down to Achavoulaig Farm – but at this point you will continue straight ahead onto a rougher farm track leading to Glenmore Farm.

● Continue past the farm and through the gate. Your path is roughly straight ahead – but take care to look for the waymarkers. You will come to a dip and bend.

● Carry on for about half a mile – watch out for a fingerpost to guide you. You will come to an interpretation ‘Swing’ Post that tells you about the site of a farmstead called Achavoulaig Butt.

● Next you will come to a bridge across a small burn and arrive at the ruins of another farmstead, Butt a’ Croit – another Interpretation ‘Swing’ Post tells you its history.

● Continuing onwards, you will reach a gate that leads down onto the open moorland. A small bridge lies directly ahead to take you across the Glenmore Burn. Follow the path towards the waymarker on the higher ground ahead of you.

● Continuing on this path you will soon reach a marker post and a ‘sliding’ gate that will take you into the forestry plantation.

● The path meets a forestry turning circle and track. Follow the forestry track northwards.

After about one mile you will meet a turning to the right – ignore this and continue straight ahead.

● You will come to a junction signposted for the ‘Balnakailly Loop’. At this point you will have a choice of two options, as shown on the Information Board at this Junction:

▪ [Option 1] The official West Island Way route to Rhubodach by gentle forestry track and a short stretch of main road to finish.

▪ [Option 2] A more scenic but longer route To Rhubodach via the ruins of Balnakailly village and a native woodland walk – designated by Scottish Natural Heritage as a ‘Site of Special Scientific Interest’.

(WARNING: Allow at least an hour to cover the 2 extra miles)

[Option 1] The official Way route to Rhubodach by gentle forestry track and a short stretch of main road to finish.

● Take the right hand track and continue on the official Way route on forest track.

● After about a mile and a half you will reach a junction. Turn left to walk the track down to the main A886 road and the short section to Car Park, Bus Stop and the Rhubodach ferry slipway and the end of Stage 3.

[Option 2] The more scenic but longer route to Rhubodach via the ruins of  Balnakailly village and a native woodland walk.

(WARNING: Allow an hour to cover the two extra miles)

● Take the left hand track (the Balnakailly Loop) an alternative and arguably more scenic route to Rhubodach. After a short distance you will arrive at a forestry vehicle turning circle. An information board and fingerpost will point the way down to the old Balnakailly settlement.

● At the forestry turning circle you may wish to break off the route and follow a signpost to visit the site of the World War 2 ‘decoy village’ and learn about its history (with the bonus of a comfortable seat on which to enjoy a break and a fine view of the Kyles of Bute, Loch Ruel and the Burnt Islands).

Returning to the turning circle, follow the sign down a path and through the ruins of the old settlement. Leave the ruins at the lower end and take the path through a short stretch of dense conifers.

● Cross a low dyke and follow signs for the downward path through the native woodland of Balnakailly Wood, arriving at a bridge over Balnakailly Burn taking you towards the shore and a track to the end of Stage 3 at Rhubodach.

Download this walk from The West Island Way website

Stage 4: Rhubodach to Port Bannatyne (8.5km / 5.25 miles)

The first half of this section is on gentle forest track and pathway. The second is across rough and steep moorland. In places the moorland grass and bracken path makes the route unclear without an obvious path on the ground.

● The starting point for Stage 4 is from the Car Park and Bus Stop beside the Rhubodach Ferry slipway.

● If you have already walked to Rhubodach via the Balnakailly Village Loop, you will now be setting off on unexplored territory. If you chose to complete Stage 3 by the forestry track route, you will now retrace your steps for a short while.

● Begin by heading south on the grass verge of the A886 roadway. Soon you will pass the road-end of Rhubodach Farm. Just a little further ahead you will see Rhubodach Cottage.

● Turn right to go up the track beside the cottage. There is a stile to use if the second gate is locked.

● Continue up this forestry track. Pass some forestry buildings and equipment on your left and then arrive at a junction. Take the path leading to the left – if you turn right it will take you back to Stage 3.

● Continue along the forestry track for over a mile until you reach a turning circle at the end. Look right to cross a wooden bridge that leads you up to a shady path through the rest of Shalunt Wood.

● Soon you will emerge into bright daylight. Look for the finger post and stile that will lead you onto the open moorland.

● Now walking mostly uphill, your route will skirt around the summit of Windy Hill. It then falls and rises as you pass near the summit of Kames Hill, finally reaching the summit of Edinbeg Hill.

● Enjoy the fantastic view from Edinbeg Hill over Kames Bay and Port Bannatyne below, and the Cowal peninsula and the Firth of Clyde beyond.

● The hardest work is all behind you now – the route is now all downhill to Port Bannatyne.

● Follow the visible path down in almost a straight line (keeping the distant Hilton Farm and track over to your right.

● Cross a stile and then bear right onto a path (watching carefully for the waymarkers) that will lead you around a large area of gorse bushes. Then cross some open ground and reach a wooden gate.

● The gate leads to the Hilton farm track. Turn left and walk down this pleasant track to emerge at Kames Bay.

● Walk round the shore pavement and into Port Bannatyne – you are now at the end of Stage 4 and have Completed Bute’s ‘West Island Way’!

Glen More (Ettrick Bay) – Rhubodach   (6 miles)

Glen More is a winding and peaceful glen with a deserted township.

At the top of the glen the path enters the forest, then winds its way down to Rhubodach and the ferry to Colintraive.

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© City Sightseeing Bute

City Sightseeing Bute Tour

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.

Let us show you the best of Bute.

Starting in Rothesay, we serve the former Winter Garden, now the Isle of Bute Discovery Centre. The bus then travels to Ardbeg Point, Port Bannatyne, Kames Castle and the 'One Man Burial Ground' before continuing to Ettrick Bay.

Following the coast road south, we pause at Scalpsie Bay to savour its peace and tranquility before we head towards Kingarth, Kilchattan Bay and Ascog Bay.

We end the tour back at Rothesay Pier with ample time to catch the ferry back to Wemyss Bay.

As we take you on a round trip of the island, fascinating commentary about Bute's history, culture and people is provided by our local driver guides.

Your ticket is valid for the day of purchase and can also be used as a pass on West Coast Motors local bus services on the day of purchase.

Daily tours depart from Guildford Square, Rothesay at 1030, 1200, 1430 and 1600 between May and September.

From £12 per adult

Departure days.

• W Wednesday

May — September

Contact details

• () 01586559135
• View tour details
• [email protected]

Key facilities

• Level Access

Tour information

• Driver guide
• Large Group (31+)
• Architecture
• Outdoor Activities
• Photography

Tour prices

From £12 Per Adult £10 Per Child £10 Concession

Prices are subject to change depending on season

Tour gallery

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Tour company information

City sightseeing bute.

Explore the beautiful isle of Bute in 7 stops! Hop on hop off around the island's best attractions including Mount Stuart, Ascog, Ettrick Bay and Rothesay Castle. We operate daily from May until September with four departures from Guildford Square a day. We are locally operated and globally connected.

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Opening times

Tour departs daily from Guildford Square, Rothesay from May to September at 1030, 1200, 1430 and 1600.

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.