Family 4 Day Break on the Isle of Bute
Recommended by local NikkiPerfect for families with children, this itinerary combines adventure, relaxation, and engaging activities for all ages.
Outdoor Adventures
Bute lends itself to family adventures. Here are some recommendations.
- Hire ebikes from Bike Bute to cycle around Bute's beautiful beaches.
- Jump on Bute's very own sightseeing - hop on, hop off tour.
- Visit Ettrick Bay for beachcombing and playtime; the sandy shore is ideal for picnics and paddling. There are now play and borrow boxes where you can use a bucket, spade, and other beach goodies - just put them back, please!
- Walk or cycle part of the West Island Way, choosing shorter trails suitable for younger children.
- There are play parks on Bute at Rothesay, Ardbeg and Port Bannatyne.
- Indoor swimming, gym and sauna are available at Rothesay Leisure centre.
Cultural & Educational Activities
- Tour the grand Mount Stuart House, with interactive exhibits and family-friendly programs.
- Visit the Bute Museum to learn about the island’s natural history and archaeology – this is a must for all things historically Bute.
- Take a tour around the Island on the Open top Bus.
Food & Drink
- Family-friendly cafes serve hearty meals and sweet treats.
- Enjoy fish and chips or deli food in Rothesay’s many take-away and sit-down places.
Evening Fun
- Stargazing opportunities at Scalpsie Bay, with minimal light pollution.
- Enjoy cozy evenings in family accommodations like The Glenburn Hotel, which has spacious rooms and on-site dining.
- Most pubs are not for kids, but a few allow them to enter until 8 p.m.
Explore the Isle of Bute
What are you looking for?
Bute Forest
A lovely short walk taking in oak woodland and spruce, passing the Painted Rock Trail and work area and with a short diversion, taking you to the stunning vi...
From Rothesay or Port Bannatyne, drive north along the A844 along the coast. Stay on this coastal road as it becomes the A886 shortly past Port Bannatyne and follow it until you reach the Rhubodach-Colintraive ferry crossing where you can park your car. From Rothesay to the ferry terminal by car takes around 20 minutes. Public transport and walking is also possible.
Bute Yard
Home to the Isle of Bute Smokehouse, Isle of Bute Distillery, and Bute Brew Co, Bute Yard runs a taproom from 12 noon each day. This unique, versatile space...
61-67 High Street
Rothesay
PA20 9AU
Tel: 07481 830 493
Isle of Bute in Pictures
There is much for everyone to enjoy on Bute with a coastline of beaches, standing stones, culture, wildlife, arts and music.
Find your place to stay from luxury hotels for a relaxing retreat to holiday parks and self catering options for adventure seekers, and everything in-between.
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