Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
A visit to the Scottish Isle doesn’t have to be a lengthy trek. Only a short drive from Glasgow, the Isle of Bute is a gem hiding in plain sight. Bute boasts beautiful hills and beaches, old towns with rich history and Neo-Gothic architecture, and thousands of years of distinct history, from the second World War back to the Viking era and even earlier.
11 HOURS / MODERATE WALKING / GUIDED / SMALL COACH DAY TOUR
Rothesay Castle – With a long history and massive curtain wall, Rothesay is considered one of Scotland’s most remarkable castles.
Kilchattan Bay – The scenic south of the island is home to beautiful bays like Kilchattan.
Mount Stuart Gardens – These gardens’ 300 acres of diverse plant life make for a peaceful, colourful stroll at any time of year.
Mount Stuart – This 19th-century neo-Gothic mansion is the ancestral seat of the Marquesses of Bute and features a private collection of art and artefacts.
Weymss Bay – Pause to take in this quaint port town on your way to the islands.
Rothesay – This Victorian era seaside town is the heart and hub of the island.
Glasgow (Google Map)
Check-in closes at 08:00 (tour departs at 08:15) – Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station Pick Up, Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station (Stance between 23 to 32), Killermont Street, Glasgow, G2 3NW
Glasgow: same as departure
Approx. 7:00pm
This day tour comes with a driver-guide who knows the stories, sights, and secrets of the areas you travel through; every itinerary is tested by travel-loving locals; and you get the chance to support the communities you visit.
Who’s ready for an adventure? And today, we get to showcase a part of Scotland that is sometimes overlooked: Scotland’s stunning islands. Bute is one of them, and that’s our destination today. Your tour departs Glasgow, heading along the south shores of the Clyde Estuary. Relax and enjoy the stunning views across the Firth of Clyde to the Argyllshire sea lochs and Highland mountains. Travelling through the seaports of Greenock and Gourock, you continue down to the North Ayrshire coast to the quaint ferry port located at Wemyss Bay.
We set sail across the Firth of Clyde. Keep an eye out on the waters below, because you never know what wee creatures you might spot. We then disembark at Rothesay, the largest town on the Isle of Bute, and the day is ours to explore. Your journey carries on to the ancestral seat of the marquesses of Bute, Mount Stuart. This spectacular 19th-century neo-gothic mansion that is famous for ornate Gothic revival architecture, not to mention the wonderful grounds that are yours to explore. Back in 1877 when it was built, it was one of the most technologically advanced homes of its time. It was the first Scottish home with electricity and an indoor heated swimming pool. Luxury!
Next, you’re back on the bus and it’s time to relax as your driver-guide takes you for a scenic drive around the south side of the island. Time for a song request? Something dramatic to match the spectacular views across the Firth of Clyde. What a way to see the Highlands. Your driver-guide will make stops along the way. Get ready to curl your toes in the sand of the west coast’s beautiful beaches. Make sure to keep an eye out for Bute’s beautiful wildlife, from red squirrels to otters. You head back to Rothesay and here the time is yours. Sample some of the local cuisine, explore the promenade, grab yourself a souvenir, or take in the beautiful castle ruins.
As the day drifts towards slumber, we jump back on the ferry and head for the mainland. Don’t fret over leaving Bute behind, she’s always waiting for you should you return. And you’ll have your memories, photos, and souvenirs to enjoy on the drive back to Glasgow with coastline views as your companion for the journey.
| Departure Dates and Days | Adult (pp) | Child 5-15yrs (pp) |
|---|---|---|
| 2026: May – Tuesday (Except May 7) | $200 | $180 |
| 2026: June – Tuesday | $220 | $190 |
| 2026: July – Tuesday | $220 | $190 |
| 2026: August – Tuesday & Thursday (Except August 6 & 13) | $220 | $190 |
| 2026: September – Tuesday & Thursday (Except September 17 & 24) | $220 | $190 |
| 2026: October – Tuesday (Except October 27) | $200 | $180 |
Pricing
Pricing is per person (pp).
Rates are in $ CAD.
Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Ask us for the best available pricing for your dates… customized hotel packages, coach tours, airport transfers, airfares and more.
