Property Description
Situated in a wonderful coastal location in Kames Bay on the east side of Bute, the lovely traditional stone cottages that form Kames Castle (refs ssba, ssbb, ssbc, ssbd, ssbe, ssbf, ssbg and ssbh) are situated in approximately 19.5 acres of woodland and parkland and provide a superb, secluded location.
Kames Castle dates from the 14th century, at which time it was the seat of the Bannatyne family, whose roots can be traced back to the reign of King Alexander III of Scotland. The Bannatynes of Kames were believed to be chamberlains to the Stewart kings when Bute was part of the Royal Estates, and the title of Lord Kames was bestowed on William Bannatyne in the 19th century, before it came into the possession of the Marquess of Bute.
The island has been named as one of National Geographics 'Top10' global adventure trips. There are many breathtaking scenic walks, the West Island Way Walks and the Kelspoke Trail are close by and take in the glorious sea views. There is an interesting 13-hole golf course at Port Bannatyne. Kingarth has a 9-hole course, with views towards Arran, and there is a scenic 18-hole course in Rothesay, with views from Canada Hill towards Loch Striven and The Kyles of Bute. Bute is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and has a pleasant mild climate. Outdoor enthusiasts have numerous opportunities to enjoy coastal and hill walking as well as cycling on the quiet roads and tracks around the island. Anglers enjoy a choice of freshwater and sea fishing on hill lochs and the Firth of Clyde. The area is notable for its sailing on the famous Kyles of Bute, which is a National Scenic Area. Tighnabruaich and Colintraive to the north, and the Crinan Canal and Tarbert to the west, are centres of lively sailing activity throughout the season. There are marinas and sheltered moorings in Rothesay and Port Bannatyne.
A couple of miles away is the island's main town of Rothesay, a traditional, Victorian, seaside resort which has managed to maintain its grand architecture. It still has its ancient castle, built to fend off the Vikings, and a museum. From Rothesay harbour, trips can be taken around the islands on the Waverley, the last sea-going paddle steamer ship in the world. Further along the coast is the pretty harbour town of Port Bannatyne. There are also other sites such as St Blanes Chapel and Ascog Fernery to be found.
The island attracts many annual festivals including the Jazz Festival in May, 'T in the Port' in June, ButeFest, for music and food in July, the Bute Highland Games in August, the Baird Festival of Flight, and in September to mark the first 'All Scottish, heavier than air, powered flight in 1910', just a few years after the Wright brothers first flight to France. Close by is Mount Stuart House, an extravagantly decorated stately home. It is said to contain more marble than any other building in the British Isles and has become a popular location for celebrity weddings. Days out to Glasgow and Edinburgh are easily managed by the train link from Wemyss Bay. Shop, pub and restaurant ½ mile.
Living room with electric woodburner. Large kitchen with tiled floor and French doors to patio. Double bedroom with en-suite shower room and toilet. Further double bedroom. Bathroom with over-bath shower and toilet. Steep stairs to first floor: 2 twin bedrooms. Play room with TV.
