The McIntyre family have a weekend of fun on the Isle of Bute
July 28, 2024
What an incredible weekend we had on the Isle of Bute! After some planning and anticipation, we set off early Saturday morning. The ferry crossing from Wemyss Bay was fun in itself, with the kids, Emily and Jack, loved the stunning views of the Firth of Clyde. The journey was smooth, and we arrived in no time, eager to explore. It made us wonder why we hadn't come across to Bute before, it was so quick from Glasgow.
As soon as we arrived, we headed straight to our cosy B&B in Rothesay. The town's charm, with its Victorian architecture and friendly locals, was immediately welcoming. After settling in, we strolled along the promenade, enjoying the sea breeze and got ice cream - it's a must do when at a seaside town isn't it?!
Bute Yard was on our 'must-go' list for lunch and some live music - the pop up food restaurant was brilliant and the entertainment did not disappoint, what a great and unexpected space!
We spent the afternoon exploring Mount Stuart, the magnificent neo-Gothic mansion surrounded by lush gardens. The kids loved the adventure playground, while David and I were fascinated by the art and history within the house. The grandeur of the rooms and the stories behind the artworks were truly captivating.
Sunday was dedicated to outdoor fun. We took a scenic drive to Ettrick Bay, where we spent the morning walking along the sandy beach, collecting shells, and even daring a chilly dip in the sea. A picnic on the shore, with tasty sandwiches from a nearby cafe and the freshest local strawberries, was a simple but perfect lunch. The kids built sandcastles while we relaxed and took in the breathtaking views.
In the afternoon, we hired bikes and cycled around parts of the island. It was an exhilarating way to take in the landscapes and quaint villages. It helped we had e-bikes so we could enjoy it even more! Emily and Jack were thrilled with the adventure, and we enjoyed some wonderful family moments as we cycled along the scenic routes. The kids were surprised to spot some wildlife too, including seals, different sea birds and they were sure an otter made appearance too!
After our bike ride, we visited the Bute Museum, which gave us a wonderful insight into the island’s rich history. The kids enjoyed the hands-on exhibits, especially the section about Viking heritage. We learned so much about the island’s past, from ancient times to more recent history. Before heading back to the ferry, we indulged in delicious fish and chips at a local eatery, savouring the final moments of our trip.
The Isle of Bute, with its island beauty and warm hospitality, provided us with great summer trip moments. We’re already planning our next island trip in Argyll - there are plenty of them to choose from! I think we've started a new family tradition.
This weekend was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and quality family time, and it left us feeling relaxed and wanting to do more day trips and weekend breaks in Argyll.
We would highly recommend the Isle of Bute to our family and friends for a short break or even a day trip from Glasgow. Its easy accessibility and variety of attractions make it an ideal destination. Whether you’re looking for historical sites, beautiful beaches, or just a peaceful retreat, Bute has something for everyone. It's the perfect escape from city life, offering a refreshing change of pace and scenery.
- The McIntyre Family (David, Sarah, Emily, and Jack)
*This content is brought to you by some fictional characters, but based on real island trips by our visitors.
