ButeFest is calling, and you know you’re in for a cracking weekend of music and island vibes …but there’s so much more to the island to explore!
The Isle of Bute offers stunning natural beauty, fascinating history and plenty to do and see.
Fit some of these into your festival weekend, or even better, extend your stay and take some well-deserved time out to enjoy the Bute island vibe!
Bute is a haven for nature lovers. Trade the festival crowds for some peace and quiet in these beautiful spots:
West Island Way: Lace up your walking boots and explore this 30-mile waymarked path. The West Island Way website has details of the different stages, offering varied landscapes and stunning views.
Bute Forest: If you are a nature lover, you can see a variety of wildlife in Bute Forest. Moss Wood, towards Colintraive is a very special place on the island, with beautiful walks, (including a Poetry Trail), artworks hanging from the trees, picnic areas, and an abundance of wildlife. Don’t miss it!
Bute has several beaches – all are different and worth a visit!
Ettrick Bay – White sands, a tearoom, playpark and …ahem …an EPIC Music Festival 🙂
St. Ninian’s Bay – Pebbled beaches in a really tranquil spot.
Scalpsie Bay – Home to a colony of seals! Head to the Seal View viewpoint for a chance to see these adorable creatures basking in the sun.
Kilchattan Bay – Rock pools, a great wee tea room and a 5-mile circuit walk around the coast.
Stravanan Bay – A beautiful, quiet stretch of beach on the other side of the island.
Bute’s history is rich and fascinating. Explore these historical sites:
Rothesay Castle: This ruined castle is one of the most remarkable in Scotland, due to its long history and unusual circular plan.
Explore its ancient walls and imagine life in centuries past.
St. Blane’s Chapel: Discover the impressive remains of this monastery, which was originally founded in the 6th century.
St. Mary’s Chapel (Rothesay): Adjacent to the United Church of Bute, this medieval chapel is home to two remarkable 14th-century canopied tombs. A hidden gem for those interested in ancient Scottish heritage. Learn more about St Mary’s Chapel.
Rothesay Victorian Toilets: Yes! Toilets! 😁 Located at Rothesay Pier, these toilets are a stunning example of Victorian craftsmanship, built for the many Glaswegian’s who came ‘doon the watter’ during the Summer. Find out more about the Victorian Toilets.
Mount Stuart House: A Victorian Gothic masterpiece, Mount Stuart is a must-see! Explore its opulent interiors and wander through its extensive gardens.
Mount Stuart is a must-see when you come to ButeWhether you’ve popped into town for a wee ‘timeout’ or are staying for a few extra days around ButeFest, you’ll find some great places to dine in, snack and take away food. Here are just a few …
Electric Bakery: Great cafe in the centre of town – stop by for freshly baked pastries, or sit in for breakfast or lunch.
Musicker: This vegeterian cafe offers delicious freshly prepared paninis, soups and cakes to sit in or take away.
The Diner: Right in the town centre, you’ll find superb Scottish breakfasts and generous lunches here.
The Waterfront: Superb fine dining in a cosy atmosphere.
The Glenburn: Dine in style at this incredible hotel, open all day, and offering breakfast, lunch and evening meals.
The Scottish Honky Tonk: delicious American diner, bar and hotel with a menu to die for and live music.
India Pavilion: Delicious Indian cuisine, to sit in or take away.
Bute Yard: A vibrant hub showcasing local food and drink, often featuring various pop-up food events.
Helmi’s: A wonderful spot in Rothesay for fresh pastries, delicious coffee, and light bites.
…and many others, including The Kettledrum, Simply Delicious, Bonnie Bling, The Coffee Stop – and Wee Zoes (for amazing ice-cream!).
Soak in spectacular sea views at The Glenburn Hotel
Bute is easily accessible by ferry from Wemyss Bay, or travel the more scenic route to the ferry at Colintraive. Once on the island, there are regular buses to take you around. Head for the Rothesay VisitScotland iCentre for more local information.
…or why not explore Bute by bike? You can hire e-bikes from Bike Bute – just book online and pick up from the terminal!
