Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Answers

Who lives in Mount Stuart?
The House was last used as a family home by the 6th Marquess of Bute, until his death in 1993. The current owner, Johnny Bute, and the board of directors of Mount Stuart Trust decided to open its doors to the public. The house and gardens were opened to the public in the Summer of 1995.
Top

When was the house built?
Construction of Mount Stuart began in 1880. It was built on the site of the original Mount Stuart house, which was ravaged by fire in 1877.
Top

What facilities are available?
As well as the House and Gardens, there is a Gift Shop, Restaurant, Contemporary Visual Arts Programme, Playpark and Garden Centre.
Top

What is there for children?
Children are very welcome at Mount Stuart. We have a children’s adventure Playpark and Funpacks are available on the tour. The restaurant is child-friendly.
Top

Is there accommodation nearby?
Yes, we have spacious and stylish self-catering accommodation nearby at Nether Stravannan. For more information on accommodation elsewhere on Bute, see www.visitbute.com
Top

When are you open?
For full up-to-date details of our opening times, please see the "Times Prices and Location" section of this website.
Top

How much does it cost?
For a full up-to-date list of prices, please see the "Times Prices and Location" section of this website.
Top

How do I book?
There is generally no need to pre-book, other than for large groups or coach parties. When you arrive at the Visitor Centre, the receptionist will book you on to a suitable tour.
Top

How long does a tour take?
Allow one hour.
Top

Do you offer private tours?
Yes, Private Tours are available and can include areas of the House not normally open to the public, such as the Burges Chapel and the Swimming Pool.
Top

Can we bring our dog?
Guide dogs only please.
Top

How do I get there?
The Isle of Bute is approximately 50 minutes by road/rail from Glasgow, followed by 35 minutes ferry crossing from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay. Mount Stuart is 5 miles South of Rothesay. For travel information and bookings, please refer to Caledonian MacBrayne, SPT, West Coast Motors.

For travel information and bookings, please refer to:

• Caledonian MacBrayne - www.calmac.co.uk
• SPT - www.spt.co.uk
• West Coast Motors - www.westcoastmotors.co.uk

Top

Is there free parking?
Yes.
Top

How far is the car park from the house?
3/4 of a mile (1.2km). You can either walk or take our free shuttle.
Top

Do you have a restaurant?
Yes. It is open daily from 10am – 5pm and serves a wide range of snacks and meals made from the freshest, locally-sourced food. For more information, please see the Restaurant page in the Visitor Centre section of this website.
Top

Do we have to book the restaurant?
No, although we would advise large groups too book ahead, particularly at busy times. Please call 01700 503877.
Top

Do you serve alcohol in your restaurant?
Yes, it is fully licensed and serves a selection of beers and wines.
Top

Can we have a picnic in your gardens?
Yes, there are several designated picnic areas with picnic benches. You can, of course, find a nice spot of your own within the vast grounds.
Top

Is there coach parking?
Yes. When you book your group, this information will be provided.
Top

Is there wheelchair access?
Yes - and we also have wheelchairs that guests can borrow.
Top

Are there discounts for groups?
Yes, there are discounts for school groups and groups of over 12 people.
Top

How long should we allow for the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour. Special private tours can be arranged, which can take up to 1.5 hours.
Top

Is there a special tour for school children?
Yes, our guides will tailor the tour to suit school groups.
Top

Do we pay beforehand or on arrival?
In order to save time on arrival, we advise groups to pay in advance - either by cheque, credit or debit card or by BACS transfer. It is however, possible to pay on the day.
Top

Can we book a meal in your restaurant?
Yes, the restaurant is open daily from 10am – 5pm. Please call 01700 503877 if you would like to reserve a table.
Top

Can I hire Mount Stuart?
Yes, Mount Stuart is available for private hire all year round for weddings, private events and corporate hospitality. We have a wide range of beautiful rooms and facilities. To find out more, please refer to the Hospitality section of this website, contact us on 01700 50 3877 or contactus@mountstuart.com
Top

Can I get married there?
Yes! You can have your wedding, reception and wedding night at Mount Stuart. Several areas in the House and Gardens are now licensed for civil ceremonies. Please refer to the Weddings section of this website to find out more.
Top

What is your availability for weddings?
To discuss availability please call our team on 01700 50 3877 or contactus@mountstuart.com
Top

What are your wedding packages?
We tailor our wedding packages to suit your requirements for your special day. If you would like a wedding pack or further information, please call us on 01700 50 3877 or contactus@mountstuart.com
Top

Do you have wedding accommodation?
Yes - there are 22 lavish bedrooms within Mount Stuart, which can accommodate up to 37 guests. In addition, we have our own spacious and stylish self-catering accommodation nearby at Nether Stravannan (see the Holiday Lodges section of this website). For more information on accommodation elsewhere on Bute, see www.visitbute.com
Top

Can I hire your gardens?
Yes. Different areas of the Gardens are available all year round for weddings, private events and corporate hospitality. To find out more, please refer to the Hospitality section of this website, contact us on 01700 50 3877 or contactus@mountstuart.com
Top