The Bute: Forgotten Past
Driving
Explore sites of neolithic, medieval and Victorian heritage on the Isle of Bute
This tour is 22 miles long, please allow at least 1 hour to complete it, excluding the time taken to enjoy the destinations along the way.
Embark on a journey through Bute’s buried history, which encompasses mysterious stone circles, atmospheric medieval ruins ravaged during Viking raids, and the preserved ancestral estates of Bute’s ancient families. Make sure to hike up Canada Hill – so-called for the Bute tradition of bidding a final farewell to relatives emigrating to Canada - for some spectacular views over Rothesay to the Firth of Clyde.
What you'll see
Canada Hill - Isle of Bute
Scenic Views
Enjoy beautiful views over Rothesay to the Firth of Clyde and the Cowal Peninsula from the top of Canada Hill.
04 The Bute
Mount Stuart - Bute
History & Heritage
Mount Stuart House is a Gothic revival country house on the east coast of the Isle of Bute.
04 The Bute
Kingarth Standing Stone - Bute
History & Heritage
Bute has its fair share of mysterious stones and one of the easiest examples to find on the island is at the Blackpark Plantation.
04 The Bute
St Blane's Monastery - Isle of Bute
History & Heritage
This early Christian monastery was abandoned during Viking raids around AD 790, and lies about 2 miles from modern Kingarth.
04 The Bute
St Ninians Point and Chapel Well - Bute
History & Heritage
The monument consists of the remains of a chapel and surrounding enclosure, which replaced an earlier burial ground.
04 The Bute
Ettrick Bay Stone Circle - Isle of Bute
History & Heritage
The Ettrick Bay Stone Circle comprises eight stones, lying 130m south of St. Colmac Cottages.
04 The Bute
Kames Castle - Bute
History & Heritage
Kames Castle is located on the shore of Kames Bay near Port Bannatyne.
