Info about the Isle of Bute’s sea swim possibilities
Bute Coast Swim Guide
Information about swim possibilities around the Isle of Bute coast, for existing sea swimmers
At Dunagoil (c) Steve Newman
About the Isle of Bute
The Isle of Bute is a medium-sized island in the Firth of Clyde, West of Glasgow. Its sheltered position South of the Cowal Peninsula and East of Arran and Kintyre means swimmers can enjoy a varied range of scenic swims in generally calm waters.
Background to the Bute Swim Guide
Hi, I’m Janet Clapton, a permanent resident of Bute since 2020, after relocating from near the South Coast.
Between May and July 2021, I swam around the 70km coast of Bute.
You can read about my swims here: roundbutein39swims.wordpress.com
My experience from the Round Bute swims and daily all-year swims on the East side is shared in this swim guide.
Sea swimming is fun and adventurous but can be dangerous.
If you don’t already swim in the sea, or have experienced friends with you to keep you safe, Bute isn’t the place to start, because of lack of lifeguards, few people to spot you in trouble, and (in some areas) no phone signal.
Please make sure you act on safety advice, take responsibility for yourself and act sensibly when you swim.
Getting to the Isle of Bute
Public transport: by train or bus from Glasgow or bus from Largs, to Wemyss Bay, then the Calmac ferry to Rothesay.
Infrequent buses also run from Dunoon to Colintraive, for the Calmac ferry to Rhubodach, then onwards by bus or pre-arranged taxi to Rothesay. (see West Coast Motors or Traveline Scotland for details)
By road, the Wemyss Bay – Rothesay ferry (the Big ferry) is the main route, but the Colintraive – Rhubodach ferry (the Wee ferry) can be a useful option, via Cowal or the Rest and Be Thankful. (see Calmac for details)
Safety
Please click on the Safety heading and view the page links and local details. These give you both general information and specific details relevant for Bute.
Disclaimer: Sea swimming can be safe but also challenging and dangerous. Accept responsibility for your own safety; there are no lifeguard patrols on Bute. If in any doubt, don’t get into the water.
Swim index
The most popular beaches are Ettrick Bay (with tearoom), Scalpsie, Kilchattan Bay (post office serves snacks) and Rothesay.
There are many other beaches to explore – click on the Swim index heading to start.
Picture credits
All pictures and maps are (c) Janet Clapton, unless otherwise credited. Please do not copy/re-use without permission.
Bute coast swim guide 