About Bute

The Island of Bute used to be called "The Madeira of the Clyde". However, the decline in tourism, espcially the lack of regular weekend visitors from around Glasgow, has had a strong effect on the economy and the population of Bute.

Of a population of 7,354 (Census 1991) 6,116 live in Rothesay, the main town on the Island. There are two neighbouring communities, Port Bannatyne and Kilchattan Bay. The remainder of the inhabitants live in outlying rural areas.

The Island has 3 Primary schools and 1 Secondary school. Many young people have to leave the Island for further education or employment opportunities. Many of them don't return. There is an ageing population with 44% of Islanders over 50.

The main access route to and from the mainland is a 35-minute ferry crossing with connecting public transport to Greenock, Largs or Glsgow and beyond. There is another 5-minute crossing to mainland Argyll and the Cowal Peninsula at the north end of the Island. Access to public transport on this route is very poor.

Access to emergency medical services is by helicopter or aeroplane. There is a small airstrip at the south end of the Island especially for emergency services. There is no scheduled flight service to Bute.