Today, it is a much quieter place, much like the whole island, but when it comes to finding space to stretch out on the beach, fewer people can be a definite bonus. At times thousands of people gathered here to watch major events. It is hard to imagine now, but the beach was once bustling with hundreds of visitors and over the last couple of centuries has witnessed horse races, sand-castle competitions, donkey rides, entertainment shows and dances. Today, you can walk part of the old tram line on a marked walk between St Colmac's Church and the tearoom. Rewind to the Edwardian era and a tram would convey excited holidaymakers from Rothesay to Ettrick Bay.
Just along from the car park at the south end is a bird hide which is a great place to watch the many seabirds that frequent Bute. There are car parks at either end, with a popular tearoom located at the north end, while the south end is popular for overnight camper van parking. Being on the west coast, is is also a great spot for watching the sunset behind the Kintyre Peninsula. It is a classic golden sweep of sand, stretching for about 1 mile along the west coast of the island. I have also included some additional points of interest and history to help you get the most out of your visit.Įttrick Bay is the most popular beach on Bute, however even on the hottest of days you will still have plenty of space to sunbathe, paddle and even swim if that's your thing. However, if you are looking for an easy Scottish island escape with some lovely coastline then Bute ticks the boxes.īelow is a list of my favourite Isle of Bute beaches, some are classic sandy affairs while I've picked others for their scenic setting. Once extremely popular as an escape from the city, it has fallen out of favour over recent times.
It always amazes me that despite its proximity to Glasgow, Bute is often overlooked as a holiday destination. Regularly placed benches, numerous parking bays and way-marked walks allow you to easily enjoy a variety of seaside scenery at your own pace.
Oh, and I should add that even on a sunny day, on most of the beaches mentioned, you are unlikely to encounter many other people which makes them even more appealing!Īnother great thing about Bute is the accessibility of the coast as the road follows close to the shoreline around much of the island. Compared to its Firth of Clyde island neighbours, Arran and Cumbrae, the sandy bays and sheltered coves on Bute are far prettier in my opinion. One of my favourite things about the Isle of Bute is the choice and diversity of beaches.
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