Bute Museum

About this activity

Bute Museum, located in the Scottish town of Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, is a small but fascinating museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the island. The museum is housed in a beautiful Victorian building that was once the town's library, and its collections are spread over two floors.

The museum's collections cover a wide range of topics, from the geological history of the island to its social and industrial history. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of fossils, which includes specimens dating back millions of years. These fossils offer a glimpse into the geological history of the island, which was once covered by sea and was home to a variety of ancient creatures.

Another highlight of the museum is its collection of paintings and sculptures, which includes works by local artists as well as pieces from around the world. These artworks offer a window into the cultural history of the island, and showcase the creativity and talent of its inhabitants.

The museum's collection of local history exhibits is particularly impressive, and includes a range of objects and artifacts that bring the island's past to life. Visitors can see tools and equipment used in traditional industries such as fishing and farming, as well as objects related to local trades such as weaving and knitting. There are also exhibits dedicated to the island's military history, which includes objects and memorabilia from both World War I and World War II.

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions often focus on specific topics related to the island's history and culture, and offer visitors the opportunity to learn about new and interesting aspects of Bute's past.

One of the unique features of Bute Museum is its collection of artefacts related to the Victorian seaside resort of Rothesay. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Rothesay was a popular destination for wealthy tourists from Glasgow and other nearby cities. The museum's collection includes a range of objects related to this era, including bathing costumes, postcards, and souvenirs.