Red sandstone converted church with rose window, seen from the shore road on the Isle of Bute
Where to stay / The Church, Isle of Bute

A converted church property on the Isle of Bute.

The Church is a converted church property on the Isle of Bute, offering one of the more unusual places to stay on the island. Located in the southern part of Bute, it is close to Kilchattan Bay, St Blane's Chapel and the quiet coastal scenery around Kingarth.

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Aerial view of the converted church and neighbouring houses beside the shore road on Bute
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Where it is

The property is in the south of the Isle of Bute, near Kingarth and Kilchattan Bay. This part of the island is more rural and relaxed than Rothesay, with lanes, fields and coastal views.

A car is recommended for getting around from here. Rothesay is a 15-minute drive north, and the main ferry terminal is at Wemyss Bay on the mainland.

Area
Southern Bute
Nearest beach
Kilchattan Bay
Type
Converted church / self-catering
Drive to Rothesay
About 15 minutes
Double-height dining hall with long oak table, exposed stone wall and kitchen beyond in the converted church
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Inside the church

The old nave is now a soaring open-plan dining hall and kitchen: exposed stonework, a long oak table for ten, a wrought-iron chandelier and a Gothic arched window above the sink.

Off it, an oak-panelled sitting room with a leather Chesterfield, a fireplace and French doors out to the garden makes a snug spot for the evening.

Bedroom in the converted church with tall Gothic arched windows, brass bed and oak floor
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Bedrooms and bathrooms

Bedrooms keep the church's arched and lancet windows, with iron and brass bedsteads, high ceilings and plenty of light. One has a striking pointed-arch window set high in the gable above the bed.

Bathrooms are bright and practical, including a large shower room with a corner steam cabin and heated towel rail.

Double bedroom with black iron bedstead beneath an arched church window
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What to expect

Expect a unique stay in a converted historic building. The church setting gives it character and space, making it a memorable choice for families, groups or couples looking for something different from a standard cottage.

Self-catering facilities let you settle in at your own pace. The rural location means peace and quiet, with dark skies and coastal walks nearby.

White tiled shower room with steam cabin and heated towel rail
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What's nearby

Kilchattan Bay, St Blane's Chapel and the West Island Way are all within easy reach. For a longer day, head north to Mount Stuart, Ettrick Bay or the village of Port Bannatyne. See our walks guide for routes in the south of the island.

Bute walks guide