Victorian villas, sweeping bays, forest trails and a castle with a twist! The Isle of Bute mixes old-school charm with the kind of scenery that slows you down. It’s got just enough buzz for a lively day out, and just enough space to breathe.
The ferry journey takes about 35 minutes, and once in Rothesay, it’s easy to explore the town on foot or stroll to nearby beaches, trails and historic spots.
Bute is a peaceful haven for walkers, birdwatchers and beachcombers alike. Whether you're wandering through woodlands or spotting seals by the shore, you don’t need to venture far from Rothesay to find yourself surrounded by nature.
A wide sweep of golden sand with open views across the water, Opens in new windowEttrick Bay is one of Bute’s best-loved beaches. Pack a picnic, dip your toes in the sea, or refuel with something sweet from the tearoom just behind the dunes. It’s a 30-minute ride on bus 90 or 490 from Rothesay, with departures every hour from near the ferry terminal.
Right from Rothesay, climb the winding Opens in new windowSerpentine Road to Canada Hill for sweeping views over the town, the Firth of Clyde, and nearby islands. You might even spot buzzards circling overhead as you climb.
Just a short walk from the town centre, Opens in new windowArdencraig Gardens is a quiet, colourful spot that’s also home to aviaries of ornamental birds and doves, great for a gentle wander with some wildlife on the side.
Bute blends heritage, flavour and creativity into one easy-going day out. You’ll find history, flavour and island character around every corner, with more than enough to enjoy between bites and sights.
Viking raids, medieval castles, island life in the 1800s – Bute has tales to tell. Start at Opens in new windowRothesay Castle, right in the heart of town, where thick stone walls and tower views bring Scotland’s medieval history to life.
Around the corner, step into the Opens in new windowVictorian Toilets (yes, really) and admire the intricate tiling and polished brass of these beautifully restored public loos.
Just a short walk away, the Opens in new windowBute Museum offers more insight, with exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and how life on the island has evolved over time.
Bute is proud of its produce, and once you try it, you’ll see why. It’s a foodie’s paradise, with rich cheeses, hand-smoked fish, and crusty artisan loaves ready to tempt.
One of the best spots to sample it all is Opens in new windowBute Yard, a modern food hub just five minutes from the ferry terminal. Grab a bite from local vendors, browse the craft stalls, or enjoy lunch and a cocktail in the covered courtyard, perfect come rain or shine.
For a local twist on island spirits, head to Opens in new windowBute Distillery, where small-batch gins are infused with botanicals gathered from around the island, including the world’s first oyster gin. You can try a tasting flight, pick up a bottle, or enjoy a G&T in the Bute Yard gin garden, open year-round.
Bute strikes the perfect balance between active and easy-going. With quiet roads, coastal trails and gentle hills, it’s a dream for walkers and cyclists alike. If you're bringing your own bike, it travels free on the ferry, but local bike hire is also available. Prefer to explore on foot? Many of the best routes start right from Rothesay.
If the sea’s calm, rent a paddleboard near the ferry terminal and glide across Rothesay Bay. It’s peaceful, beginner-friendly, and offers a totally different view of the island.
Bring a bike or rent one from Rothesay and pedal along quiet coastal roads, taking in beaches, farmland and castle ruins along the way. You can go as far as Ettrick Bay or just loop around town – the pace is up to you.
The Opens in new windowWest Island Way spans the length of Bute, but day-trippers can easily walk shorter sections near Rothesay. The route offers varied terrain, including shoreline paths and wooded hills, and you’ll find waymarked trails right from the town centre.
Bute is a brilliant option for a relaxed, car-free family day out. With a quick ferry crossing, easy walks, and fun stops close to Rothesay, it’s a stress-free way to keep everyone happy, toddlers to teens.
Just a short stroll from the ferry terminal, this fenced play area near The Meadows offers plenty of space for little ones to run, climb and play. It’s a great first stop to burn off some energy before exploring the rest of the island.
Stretch your legs with a seafront stroll along Rothesay Bay. Spot boats, grab an ice cream, and enjoy the open space before diving into more activities.
The Opens in new windowIsle of Bute Discovery Centre is a great all-weather stop. Housed in the old Winter Gardens, it features a cinema, local exhibits, and a visitor info hub, ideal for planning your next island stop or just unwinding indoors.