Travelling by Ferry

The Isle of Bute is situated in Scotland’s Firth of Clyde, to the north of Arran, and is easily accessible by regular ferry services from the mainland.

There are two ferry access ports to the island both operated by Caledonian MacBrayne Ferries.

www.calmac.co.uk

Wemyss Bay – Rothesay Ferry

The principal route to the island is by car or foot passenger from Wemyss Bay.  The crossing takes 35 mins with sailings every 45mins during peak times.  Between the hours of 11.00 – 16.00 the ferry leaves Wemyss Bay on the hour.   There is no need to book, just turn up and pay at the pierhead.  If you are not driving, regular train services leave Glasgow Central Train Station to Wemyss Bay that connect with the Ferry.

SPECIAL NOTE: Please check the Caledonian MacBrayne website (www.calmac.co.uk) for current status and updates for this route. You can also download the CalMac app

Colintraive – Rhubodach Ferry

The ferry is a tiny hop of 350m from the mainland having driven the scenic route from Glasgow (approximately 75 miles by car) . This route takes you along the shores of Loch Lomond and through the Arrochar Alps in the heart of Argyll. This is some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland. Stop at the top of “Rest and Be Thankful” and admire the view. Skirting the top of Loch Fyne, with views across to Inveraray Castle, you head south and arrive at the Colintraive ferry for the 5 minute crossing to Rhubodach on Bute. The crossings are frequent, so if you just miss the boat it’ll be back soon.

Travelling to Scotland by Air

Bute is handily placed for access from Glasgow Airport and Glasgow Prestwick Airport and it is only an additional 45mins or so from Edinburgh Airport.   From London, we are only 2 ½ hours away.

Glasgow International Airport

By Car:  Wemyss Bay is about 40 mins. Drive.

By Public Transport:  a short taxi or connecting bus from the airport takes you to Paisley Gilmour Street station to connect to the Wemyss Bay Train.

Edinburgh Airport

By Car:   takes approximately 1.5 hrs depending on the traffic, but it is motorway for most of the journey.

Public Transport:  Tram or bus  from Edinburgh Airport to Haymarket Station, connect with Glasgow Queen Street Train, short taxi or bus ride from Queen Street Train Station to Central Station to meet with the Wemyss Bay Train.

(Glasgow) Prestwick airport:

By Car: takes approximately 30-40 mins.

Public Transport:   There is a direct train service to Glasgow Central, but you have to change at Paisley Gilmour Street to connect with Wemyss Bay Train.