Family 4 Day Break on the Isle of Bute

Recommended by local Nikki

Perfect for families with children, this itinerary combines adventure, relaxation, and engaging activities for all ages.

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Family Itinerary Highlights

SUP 01
Outdoor Adventures
CASTLE 01
Cultural & Educational Activities
EAT & DRINK 01
Great Food & Drink
NIGHTS 01
Events & Festivals
Background image - Bike Bute2

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.
Background image - House Exterior Front Lawn Mount Stuart

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.
Caledonia Bistro & Deli 1

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.
The Glenburn Hotel

Explore the Isle of Bute

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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.

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Mount Stuart Trust

Mount Stuart features magnificent Victorian Gothic architecture and design together with contemporary craftsmanship. The house is surrounded by extensive gro...

Mount Stuart
Isle of Bute
Argyll
PA20 9LR

Tel: +44 (0) 1700 503877

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Mount Stuart Estate - Nether Stravannan North

Nether Stravannan is a self-catering development just three miles from Mount Stuart on the attractive south west coast of the island. The picturesque setting...

c/o Mount Stuart House
Isle of Bute
PA20 9LR

Tel: 01700 503877

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Bute Boat Tours Ltd

Join us to experience the most beautiful scenery in Scotland: The Kyles of Bute, Loch Fyne to Tarbert, visit Arran Distillery and snorkel off the boat.

The...

Rothesay Harbour
Isle of Bute
PA20

Tel: 07486 873114

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Ready to plan your Bute trip?

All you need to know

There is much for everyone to enjoy on Bute with a coastline of beaches, standing stones, culture, wildlife, arts and music.

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VISIT ISLE OF BUTE

There is much for everyone to enjoy on Bute with a coastline of beaches, standing stones, culture, wildlife, arts and music.

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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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EAT & DRINK
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