Bute 

It might be just 15 miles long but this compact island is brimming with culture, history, wildlife, and arts. Given the title of the best place to live in Scotland by The Times in 2022, the Isle of Bute has certainly earned its place as a top visitor destination.

Mount Stuart House

No trip to Bute would be complete without a visit to the iconic Mount Stuart House. With the firth of Clyde as its backdrop, the landmark is a real blend of idyllic nature, stunning architecture, and captivating history. Throughout the year there are a range of exhibitions, and performances in the house and grounds making it a real cultural highlight.

Bute Highland Games

The Highland Games are one of Scotland’s most well-known traditions with many communities drawing huge crowds to their festivities every year. The Bute Highland Games are a truly authentic experience as the day’s events almost always include pipe bands, highland dancers, and of course, the heavy events such as the hammer throw and caber toss which have become synonymous with the games themselves.

Bute Yard

Bute Yard is a contemporary multi-use space hosting a variety of different food and drink vendors from across the Isle of Bute. It has indoor and outdoor facilities including an on-site distillery which offer tours and tastings year-round. Alongside that there are regular markets where you can sample the finest culinary offerings from the Island.

Thank you for listening to the Caledonian MacBrayne podcast. You can find out more about Scotland’s west coast islands and all topics discussed on this episode at calmac.co.uk/podcast