Isle of Bute Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Island

Facts and practical information

Nestled in the heart of the breathtaking Scottish region, the Isle of Bute stands as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. This enchanting island, located in the United Kingdom, boasts picturesque landscapes, rich history, and a vibrant local culture that will leave visitors captivated.

As you step foot on the Isle of Bute, you are immediately greeted by its stunning natural beauty. Rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Kilchattan Bay, where the peaceful sound of crashing waves and the fresh sea breeze will transport you to a state of tranquility. For a more exhilarating experience, hike to the summit of the island's highest peak, Windy Hill, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Beyond its natural wonders, the Isle of Bute is steeped in history. Explore the ruins of Rothesay Castle, a medieval fortress that has witnessed centuries of battles and royal intrigue. Walk in the footsteps of ancient Scottish kings as you wander through its ancient halls and admire its impressive architecture. For a glimpse into the island's past, visit the Bute Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits detailing the rich heritage of the island.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by visiting the bustling town of Rothesay. Explore its charming streets lined with vibrant shops, traditional pubs, and quaint cafes. Indulge in the local cuisine, savoring delicious seafood delicacies freshly caught from the surrounding waters. Don't forget to sample the famous Bute fudge, a sweet treat that has become synonymous with the island.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Isle of Bute is home to several luxurious spa resorts and wellness retreats. Unwind with a pampering massage or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, surrounded by the island's serene beauty.

Alternative names: Population: 7.2 thous.Area: 47.17 mi²Elevation: 174 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 55°49'48"N, 5°4'40"W

Location

ScotlandUnited Kingdom

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Isle of Bute Top Attractions

Isle of Bute Attractions - What to See and Explore

Isle of Bute offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kirk Dam, Loch Fad, Dhu Loch, Dunagoil. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Kirk Dam
Kirk Dam is an impounding dam, located 1.5 kilometres south of Rothesay, and is separated by a causeway from the much larger Loch Fad to the south-west.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Loch Fad
Loch Fad is a freshwater loch on the Isle of Bute in Scotland. Its name means "long loch" in Scottish Gaelic. It lies on the Highland Boundary Fault. Its surface area is 71 hectares, fairly large for a freshwater loch on an island in Scotland. It is the site of one of the largest rainbow trout cage farms in the UK.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Dhu Loch
Dhu Loch is an impounding reservoir, located 1 kilometre directly west of the much larger Loch Fad and 5 kilometres south west of Rothesay. The loch is part of the water supply system for the town. The earthen dam is 8.1 metres high and was completed in 1905.

Forts and castles
Dunagoil
Dunagoil is a vitrified fort or dun on the Isle of Bute – an Iron Age hill fort whose ramparts have been melted by intense heat. It stands on a volcanic headland and gives its name to the bay that it overlooks. Like other places, such as Donegal, its name is from the Gaelic dún na gall – fort of the foreigners.
Nature • Natural attraction • Lake
Loch Ascog
Loch Ascog is a small reservoir on the east coast of the island of Bute, in the council area of Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The loch supplies water to the town of Rothesay and the fishing rights are held by the Isle of Bute Angling Association.
55°43'60"N • 5°1'60"W
Strathclyde
Strathclyde was one of nine former local government regions of Scotland created in 1975 by the Local Government Act 1973 and abolished in 1996 by the Local Government etc. Act 1994. The Strathclyde region had 19 districts.
Forts and castles
Kilmory Castle
Kilmory Castle is the remains of a 15th-century castle at Meikle Kilmory, Isle of Bute, Scotland. The castle was the residence of the Jamiesons of Kilmorie, and was already a ruin in the 18th century.
Forts and castles
Kelspoke Castle
Kelspoke Castle is a ruined castle overlooking Kilchattan Bay, Isle of Bute, Scotland. Only a small amount of the ruins are above ground.
Harbor
Rhubodach
Rhubodach is a small settlement on the north-eastern shore of the Isle of Bute, Argyll and Bute, Scotland. The name Rhubodach may come from the Gaelic Rubha a' Bhodaich which translates as old man's point or promontory or alternatively may be from An Rubha Bhòdaich meaning the Bute headland.
Forts and castles
Wester Kames Castle
Wester Kames Castle is located near Kames Bay near Port Bannatyne, Isle of Bute, Scotland. Dating from around 1700, the castle was rebuilt around 1900 from a ruined state.
55°49'24"N • 5°1'39"W
Ascog House
Ascog House is a large 17th-century mansion house at Ascog on the Isle of Bute, southwest Scotland. The house is in the care of the Landmark Trust, and is protected as a category B listed building. Balmory Hall lies just to the west of the house.

Day trips

Isle of Bute – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Isle of Bute, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Turnberry, Dalgarven Mill Museum (Kilwinning), Paisley Abbey (Paisley).

36 milesS
Golf
Turnberry
Turnberry, located on the rugged coast of the Firth of Clyde in Scotland, United Kingdom, is a name that resonates with golf enthusiasts around the globe. Known for its iconic lighthouse and stunning ocean views, Turnberry's Ailsa Course is a jewel in the crown of golf...
18 milesSE
Specialty museum, Museum
Dalgarven Mill Museum, Kilwinning
Nestled in the verdant Ayrshire countryside near Kilwinning, the Dalgarven Mill Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into Scotland's rural and industrial heritage. This charming museum is housed within a restored 17th-century grain mill, which itself is a testament...
26 milesE
Church, Mission, Sacred and religious sites
Paisley Abbey, Paisley
Paisley Abbey stands as a testament to Scotland's rich religious history and architectural heritage, nestled in the heart of the town of Paisley. This grand monastery, originally established in the 12th century, has been a cornerstone of the community for centuries...
25 milesE
Arenas and stadiums, Sport, Football
St Mirren Park, Paisley
St Mirren Park, commonly known as The Simple Digital Arena for sponsorship reasons, is a cornerstone of the Paisley community in Scotland, offering more than just a sporting spectacle. As the home ground of St Mirren Football Club, this modern stadium, which opened its...
21 milesSE
Park
Eglinton Country Park, Irvine
Nestled in the historic town of Irvine, Eglinton Country Park offers a tranquil escape to nature within the bustling region of Ayrshire, Scotland. This picturesque park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a day out in the Scottish countryside.