Throughout the year, we both launch and host a plethora of events here at Mount Stuart, from farmers markets and food festivals, to concerts and conferences. Our annual eatBute festival and Visual Arts Programme are particular favourites, and on our calendar you may find events to please every member of the family, regardless of age or interests.
We source as much as we can direct from our own Bute Estate and other trusted local and regional suppliers so we know the provenance of our food and ingredients.
Throughout the year we host a number of Farmers and Craft Markets so you too can enjoy the freshest of produce and help to support the regional community.
From Halloween haunts and antics to fascinating celebration tours behind-the-scenes our ever-popular Special Tours are just perfect for birthday and celebration gifts or simply to enjoy yourself.
Demand for these tours is usually high, so please do book early to avoid disappointment.
Mount Stuart has hosted a fascinating and eclectic mix of events and occasions and will continue to strive to offer a diverse programme of events throughout the year.
We are constantly updating our schedule of activities to suit all ages and tastes, so do visit our What’s On Calendar on a regular basis to keep abreast with the latest programme.
Whether traditional or contemporary, Mount Stuart creates that special ambience for events, small and large.
Whether indoors or outdoors, the programme of events offers a variety of activities for all ages to soak in that special atmosphere that is Mount Stuart.
Mount Stuart hosts a programme of activities for children of all ages throughout the year – face painting is always a favourite, so too is lantern making and Den Building.
Young at heart adults are catered for too – in 2012 Baird of Bute celebrations, visiting Car and Scooter Clubs, acclaimed theatrical productions performed by some of Scotland's finest actors and traditional musicians - and so much more!
| Daily | 11am – 5pm (last entry 4pm) |
|---|---|
| Saturday | Closed at 1pm on occasional Saturdays, please ring to confirm. Confirmed dates for early house closure are as follows: Saturday 22 June Saturday 20 July Tours will take place at 11am, 12pm, 1pm and 1.30pm. Tel: +44 (0) 1700 503877 |
| Daily | 10am - 6pm |
|---|
| Daily | 10am - 6pm (last entrance 5pm) |
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| Restaurant | |
|---|---|
| May/June | 10am - 5pm |
| July/August | 10am - 6pm |
| September | 11am - 4pm |
| October 1-3 & October 22-31 |
11am - 4pm |
| October 4-21 | 11am - 5pm |
| Courtyard Tea Rooms | |
|---|---|
| Selected Dates |
11am - 5pm |
| Farm Shop | |
|---|---|
| Daily | 11am - 5pm |
| Garden Centre | |
|---|---|
| Daily | 10am - 5pm |
| Dates | Open 28 March to 31 October 2013 |
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Throughout the year, Mount Stuart hosts and organises a varied programme of events and activities, from themed garden walks and craft workshops, to party nights and concerts in the Marble Hall. We are proud to work in association with other local organisations and groups to deliver events such as Achievement Bute's annual "Dens Week". Please keep an eye on our What’s On calendar for up-to-date details of our events.
Selected Saturdays throughout the year
These new and exciting workshops aims to introduce people of all ages to their local woodlands, champion sustainable woodland management and offer workshops in practical woodland skills.
Available selected Sundays
By the end of the weekend the idea of slaving over a hot stove is nobody's idea of fun. What better way to spend a Sunday afternoon than coming to enjoy a 2 course roast in our relaxed and stylish restaurant.
Daily until 31st October 2013
Let your children follow our map and join in the scavenger hunt around our gardens. Finish the trail and become an official Mount Stuart Young Explorer.
Every Sunday until 27th October 2013
Woodland meditation can be a wonderful blessing in your busy and stressful life. Join us on Sunday mornings to reconnect with the woods. We will be finding the simplicity of our own place within nature through guided meditation and respect for all living things.
Afternoon Tea from a Bygone Era
Daily until October 31st 2013
Enjoy our Victorian Afternoon tea, complete with dainty sandwiches and mouth watering, homemade cakes. Served daily from 2pm – 5pm in our stylish Restaurant, relax and spend the afternoon surrounded by spectacular views.
Wood Watch - Nature Detectives
Every Saturday until 26th October 2013
Wood watch are inviting nature detectives of all ages to explore the hidden secrets of our woodlands during a relaxing afternoon stroll. Whatever your interest, flora & fauna, myth & magic or tree identification, a knowledgeable member of wood watch will be on hand to answer your question.
Every Wednesday and Sunday in June 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Saturday 22nd June 2013
Join Gill Brandon-Turner from Beautiful Baboon who will be on hand to help you decorate your own clay critter!
Sunday 23rd June 2013
LUCY SKAER: A Proposal for Mount Stuart 2013. Artist Talk: In conversation with the artist.
Monday 24th June 2013
Graham Alcorn, our deputy Head gardener, with over 27 years horticultural experience will be leading this guided walk, join him and explore our Pinetum and learn more about our involvement with the International Conifer Conservation Project.
Dutch Ovens, Cob Ovens & Fresh Bread
Saturday 29th June 2013
Gain hands-on experience learning how easy it is to build a traditional oven using natural and reclaimed materials. Acquire basic cob building skills, and enjoy the awesome experience of working with other excited, like-minded people in an inspiring environment.
Sunday 30th June 2013
Calling all Chocoholics, join Stephen Rudkin from the innovative and multi-award winning Seed & Bean. Discover what your flavour fix will be - fiery chilli & lime, rich coffee espresso or soothing Lavender.
Every Wednesday and Sunday in July 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
A Weekend of Felt Craft and Well Dressing
Saturday 6th July 2013 to Sunday 7th July 2013
The origin of well dressing is something of a mystery and may date back to the Celts or even earlier. At its simplest it is the art of decorating springs and wells as a thanks giving for the gift of water.
Heather Hills Honey - Tasting Day
Saturday 13th July 2013
This speciality company will be buzzing around our Farm Shop offering you the chance to adopt a bee hive and sample some award winning honey. With varieties including, Heather, Blossom, Lime, Orange and Manuka you are sure to discover the flavour that sets your taste buds, buzzing.
Meet the Author - Story Telling Afternoon
Sunday July 14th, 21st and 28th, and August 4th
Silvana Biagioni, a new Scottish Author and illustrator will be on site reading extracts from her newly published children’s book “Sacha meets a Selkie”. Silvana will be bringing her story sack full of items from Sacha’s bedroom for children to rummage through, and will happily sign copies of the book purchased on the day.
Wednesday 24th July 2013
Join Graham Alcorn, our deputy Head gardener, who will be leading this guided walk to explore the Rock garden and Wee garden, where our rhododendrons, deutzia’s, hydrangea’s and candelabra primulas will be putting on a show and parading their finest blooms.
Saturday 27th July 2013
An ancient craft brought right up to date - participants will learn how to create their own willow structure's to take home. Willow withes, hazel sticks, string & wire and a little imagination is all you need to make garden supports, wall hangings and more.
Saturday 27th July 2013
Don’t know your oolong from your earl grey? Fear not the team at Love Leaf have years of experience in the art of tea, from flowering to herbal infusions, they will be on hand to guide you through their range and help you choose your favourite.
Sunday 28th July - TBC
Do you have a passion for cheese? We will be sampling some of Scotland’s finest cheeses in our Farm shop including, Criffel Organic, Ailsa Craig and Merangie sheep’s brie. Discover your cheese preference: Strong, mild, stinky or blue?
Daily throughout August
Join us for some retail therapy that saves you money; spend over £10 on Scottish Fine Soaps classically timeless Au Lait, Sensuous Poetica, Reinvigorating Sea Kelp or Deep cleansing Gardeners therapy range and receive a FREE goody bag.
Scottish Sea Glass Jewellery Demonstration
Saturday 3rd August 2013 to Sunday 4th August 2013
Gaynor Hebden-Smith from Scottish Sea Glass will be with us all weekend demonstrating her unique craft. Commission your own necklace, bracelet or earrings on the day by handpicking your own piece of Sea Glass provided by Gaynor and she will transform it into your own original treasure whilst you explore Mount Stuart.
4th, 7th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 21st, 25th, 28th, 31st August 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Saturday 10th August 2013
Calling all mini Paul Hollywood's and Mary Berry's. Whatever your ability - we are searching for Bute's best dressed cupcake. Simply bring your homemade, hand decorated entry along to our Visitors centre where it will go on display and be judged by the talented Elaine McIntyre from the Baking Barn at 4pm.
Saturday 24th August 2013
The Cress Company have spent many hours sourcing an original and diverse range of high quality products from some of the finest food producers across Scotland and the UK, they are committed to small producers many have won 'great taste' awards.
Saturday 24th August 2013
Back by popular demand! What could be better than a ready supply of Fresh, Free range eggs with little work and little cost involved. This day is ideal for those keen to keep their own happy, healthy brood of chickens.
Earth Art, Talisman and Amulets
Saturday 24th August 2013 - Half or Full Day Course
Using natural materials scavenged from the grounds, we will be making personal and unique amulets and talismans.
Free Machining Workshop - Wall Hanging
Saturday 31st August 2013
We will look for inspiration in the amazing setting of Mount Stuart House and using free machining with other interesting techniques, we will make a decorative panel which can be used to decorate a simple bag or make a wall hanging.
Saturday 31st August 2013
Amy Beverley founder of AB Jewellery creates stunning glass jewellery, her pieces are possibly the most wonderful fused glass jewellery you'll ever see, full of light and colour. Commission your own pendant, ring, cufflinks or broach on the day to complement a particular outfit or personality.
September - TBC
Handmade in small batches, Henshelwoods use only locally-sourced fruit and vegetables, Lynn’s herbs all come from the Mount Stuart Kitchen Garden. All of Henshelwoods’ premium products are free from artificial colorants and additives and are gluten free.
Every Wednesday and Sunday in September 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Tuesday 3rd September 2013
Guided walks help you get to know the birds, wildlife and beautiful setting of Mount Stuart better whether you are local or on holiday. Our extremely knowledgeable expert guide, Billy Shields will lead these group walks, and will be happy to answer your questions along the way.
Dogstar Theatre’s THE BARONESS
Saturday 7th September 2013
Mount Stuart Trust is proud to present Dogstar Theatre’s THE BARONESS. Starring Roberta Taylor, THE BARONESS is Thor Bjorn Krebs’s provocative, free interpretation of the relationship between 62 year old writer of ‘Out of Africa’, Karen Blixen and the young poet, Thorkild Bjørnvig.
Saturday 14th September 2013
The farm shop has gone all saucy and will be sampling DipNations fine selection of mouth-watering dips.
Whether you are dunking a tortilla, filling a jacket or stirring into cooked pasta the DipNation range have a dip to suit your palate. Whether you are dunking a tortilla, filling a jacket or stirring into cooked pasta the DipNation range have a dip to suit your palate.
Saturday 14th September 2013
Hunt around the grounds and gardens to find your perfect leaf. Gill Brandon-Turner from Beautiful Baboon will then be on hand to preserve it in clay as a treasure for you to keep forever.
September Weekend Food & Craft Market
Sunday 22nd September 2013
We celebrate September Weekend in Style with our Food & Craft Market – a vast array of fresh, local produce will be available to sample and purchase.
Saturday 28th September to Monday 30th September 2013
3 day workshop. Using willow and canvas, we will be constructing Boyne Valley coracles that were historically used for fishing and transportation on both lochs and rivers across the West coast of Scotland.
2nd, 6th, 9th, 13th, 16th, 20th, 23rd, 27th October 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Tuesday 8th October 2013
Guided walks help you get to know the birds, wildlife and beautiful setting of Mount Stuart better whether you are local or on holiday. Our extremely knowledgeable expert guide, Billy Shields will lead these group walks, and will be happy to answer your questions along the way.
Saturday 12th October 2013
Are you a four season’s gardener? Even though the winter winds are blowing you can still spruce up your planters and containers. Join Dot, an experienced member of the garden team and horticulturalist for a demonstration of winter planting.
Saturday 19th October 2013
It's time to put the heating on, get out the jumpers, bring in the garden furniture and start drinking cocoa. As the colder weather approaches we are not the only ones thinking about staying indoors, animals will be looking for a cosy home for the winter. Why not come along and make your very own hedgehog hibernation box to take home for your garden.
Wednesday 23rd October 2013
Wrap up warm and enjoy the spectacle of rich autumnal colours by joining Graham Alcorn our deputy head gardener on a guided walk of the estate.
Saturday 26th October 2013 to Sunday 27th October 2013
Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management where stems are cut at ground level promoting vigorous re-growth. Aimed at beginners the course will give an insight into the history, wildlife and practical aspects of coppicing. This weekend will involve the physical work of cutting stems, stacking and possibly dragging them.
6th, 13th, 20th, 27th November 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Saturday 30th Nov, 7th Dec, 14th Dec and 21st Dec 2013
Why not spend your Christmas party night in style at our licensed restaurant in the award winning Visitor Centre. Large parties or small, our dedicated Visitor Services team will ensure your party night is full of festive fun.
4th, 11th, 18th December 2013
Your Guide will take you on a private Behind the Scenes tour viewing rooms such as the Swimming Pool, the Burges Chapel, the Billiard Room and other treats not normally open to the general public. Your fascinating exploration of Mount Stuart will culminate in a sumptuous Afternoon Tea served in a Private Family Sitting Room.
Sunday 8th December 2013
The annual Mount Stuart Christmas Fair marks the start of the Christmas Celebrations on Bute! The event includes our ever popular food & craft market, children's activities, a programme of live entertainment, carolling and of course - Santa Claus will be there to hear children’s Christmas wishes!
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