Ettrick Bay - Bute

Beautiful Ettrick Bay sits in a sheltered position on the western coast of the Isle of Bute.  The beach, which is about one mile long, is backed by fields and gentle hills.  From the beach there are views over the Kyles of Bute towards the Cowal Peninsula and the Isle of Arran.

The beach itself is mainly composed of coarse, golden sand, and the water here, which is monitored, is very clear and popular with locals who come to paddle here and play in the sand.

A number of rivers run into the bay.  At the southern end, is a bird hide, a good place to come to see waders and other seabirds.

The bay is of historic interest, having been used to train troops for the D-day landings.  Also of interest to historians is a Bronze Age stone circle not far from the beach.

There are picnic areas here as well as a children’s play area and public toilets.  A popular tea-room offers home-cooking and cakes.  The nearest town is Rothesay.