Introduction
This evening, I am reporting on Rothesay (pop 4,400), the principal town on the Isle of Bute.
Information on Rothesay
Rothesay is positioned in the Firth of Clyde in the west of Scotland. This firth is an extended waterway where the River Clyde flows west into, ultimately, the Atlantic Ocean. The town is accessed by a regular ferry service from Wemyss Bay with journey time of about 35 minutes. In the summer season the veteran paddle steamer, Waverley often calls in course of it’s scheduled cruising programme.
From the Victorian era through to the 1950s Rothesay was a popular holiday destination for residents of the Glasgow conurbation. However, the advent of cheap holidays to the Mediterranean sunshine has resulted in a diminution of mass tourism. Nevertheless, Bute still attracts independent travellers plus some coach tour groups.
Specific sites worthy of note
Colourful Esplanade gardens.
Isle of Bute Discovery Centre: A unique 1920s circular structure of cast iron and glass. This incorporates a cinema, theatre and many interactive displays as well as showcasing the best of Bute.
The impressive Rothesay Castle, its dungeons, thick outer walls and grand hall which are all now fully restored.
Close to the castle is the fascinating Bute Museum. Here visitors can obtain an appreciation for the archaeology, history, flora, fauna and geology of Bute.
Victorian toilets: Here can be seen the most complete Victorian toilets to remain in Britain. These toilets are clad in patterned ceramic tiles and mosaics bearing the crest of the Royal Burgh of Rothesay.
Accessible beach: About five miles to the N.W is Ettrick Bay, a relatively safe haven for able swimmers.
Ardencraig Gardens: These are situated about two miles east of Rothesay. This is a walled site developed to create a propagation, education and show garden. Here can be found brightly coloured fuchsia, bedding displays, as well as more exotic plant species within the glasshouses.
More information
Rothesay is home to a wide range of eateries, cafes, and accommodation providers.The publication, Visitors’ Guide to Scotland includes a section on the Isle of Bute. The book’s ISBN is 978-1`-9161332-0-4. Also available via Kindle.