Isle of Bute

Scotland > West of Scotland > Argyll > Isle of Bute

Many years ago, prior to 1975 at least, there was a county known as Buteshire , this included the Isles of Arran and Bute located in the upper Firth of Clyde just to the south of the Cowal Peninsula. Its 'county town' was Rothesay, a highly important holiday destination in the 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s for the working people's of Glasgow and the west of Scotland.

Over the last 40 years, Rothesay has suffered from the increase in cheap overseas holidays but is now re-inventing itself as a peaceful and picturesque short break destination.

The Island, however, has not changed a great deal, as it is still as beautiful as ever. It has, however, suffered from the perceptions of the Rothesay image as a holiday resort of bygone days and that is a shame as it has always been an enjoyable destination for a break away from work.

The Isle is about 15 miles long and between 3 and 5 miles wide with the only hills at the northern end. Like its neighbours Arran and Cumbrae, Bute is an excellent place to cycle and enjoy the peace, the environment and the views across the First of Clyde.

The first visitors to Bute came 5,500 years ago and evidence remains of many signs of habitation including vitrified forts (Dunagoil Bay) and standing stones. The Bute Museum has excellent archives on the island's history and archaeological remains.

Contemporary history is closely associated with the Stuart dynasty who ruled off an on in Scotland for centuries. Rothesay Castle was once attacked by the Vikings and captured by the English only to be re-captured by Robert the Bruce in 1311.

Cromwell's troops did their best to destroy it in 1659 as did the Duke of Argyll, later in 1685 but it has been partly restored over the last century or so.

The Stuarts moved to Mount Stuart House which, as a visitor attraction, is highly recommended.

Bute was also the home of singer Lena Zavaroni until her untimely death in 1999.

Access to the Island is by vehicle ferry from Wemyss Bay on the mainland (30 minutes) or across the Colintraive Ferry from the north (5 minutes). In summer there is also a ferry to Brodick on the Isle of Arran (2 hours) with connections back to the mainland at Ardrossan (1 hour)