Bute Museum
Isle of Bute, Argyll and Bute
About Bute Museum
Bute Museum's collection of Bute's links with the past cover a period from the earliest Mesolithic stone tools and weapons, to the present day, and many items in between!
Our museum is a great place for kids, as there are plenty of low level displays to ensure that even the smallest visitors can look straight in at seashore exhibits, or steamer models. They will also love being able to look in the saltwater taken that contains the sort of creatures that can be found in rock pools, such as hermit crabs and shrimps!
The island has many well preserved historic and archaeological sites, and this is reflected in the Archaeology and History room. It has a case that contains swords, daggers and cannon balls from Rothesay's Mediaeval castle, which, incidentally, is just across a road and a moat from the museum and well worth a visit!
An island needs links to the mainland, and models of steamers and other ships of the past are on show. You can also learn about Rothesay history as a Naval Base during WWII, and there is a case showing Victorian toys will make you glad you live in the 21st Century!
If natural history and wildlife is your thing, our Natural History room begins with the rocks that shape the landscape, and the animals and birds that you can expect to see there. There is a touch table with objects you can handle, and at the entrance there is a common seal just asking to be stroked before you cross the island to see the real thing. The Inchmarnock collection of carved stones and other artefacts is also worth a look!
Opening Times
Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday 13.30 - 15.30
Pricing & Tickets
Adults: £4.00 Concessions: £3.00 Kids: Free
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to Bute Museum by visiting our attraction tickets section.
FAQs
Contact Details
Stuart Street, Rothesay
Isle of Bute
Argyll and Bute
PA20 0EP
Scotland
Tel: 01700 505067
Visit Website
Verification & Last Updated
Claim Status:Claim
This attraction has not been claimed and verified. Own this attraction? Claim it now.
Last Updated: 05:36 26/02/2026
Bute Museum Reviews
Recent blog posts
As we’re nearing mid-June, the one month countdown to the school summer holidays is well and truly on and if you haven’t already started planning ahead, NOW is the time to do so… The UK Family Days Out Everyone’s Booking This Summer BeWILDerwood Norfolk Ready and waiting to welcome adventurers of all ages, BeWILDerwood Norfolk…
Discover 10 brilliant free days out across the UK, led by Manchester Museum. Perfect family ideas for budget-friendly adventures without entry fees.
The arrival of June signals just one thing: SUMMER has officially landed! We know you’re itching to dive into sun-drenched family adventures and soak up every second of the great outdoors before it’s gone. Keep scrolling for our weekly top picks of attractions… The UK Family Days Out Everyone’s Booking This Summer Wonderland, Telford Get…
Wow what a SCORCHER this May half-term has been! Whilst it might be back to routines sooner than you’d like, the fun needn’t be over as there’s still plenty going on for you and your family to enjoy! Check out these trending family attractions you won’t want to miss out on: The Days Out Families…
May Half Term 2026 – Best Days Out May half term is one of the best times of year to get the kids out of the house: warmer weather, longer days and a packed calendar of limited-time family events. To make planning easier, we’ve pulled together the best May Half Term 2026 days out from…
May half-term has officially arrived, and with a week of glorious sunshine ahead, it is the perfect time for an outdoor adventure! We have rounded up everything you need for the ultimate break. Searching for inspiration? We have found some fantastic last-minute options to help you plan a truly memorable trip. Attractions nationwide are launching…
May half-term is certainly on the horizon now, which means it’s time to start planning some unforgettable family days out! With Whit Week just around the corner, attractions across the country are gearing up for a packed schedule of special events, live entertainment, thrilling rides, and seasonal activities perfect for all ages. Below is a…
It’s that time of the week again when you start scratching your head as to where to take the children this weekend. Well, there’s no need to worry as we’ve got you covered with a whole range of entertaining activities suitable for your youngest right up to your eldest. Below is a list of all…