Fun activities for all the family

During the summer months each of our self-catering cottages is supplied with a BBQ and outside seating for guests to enjoy some al fresco dining. A number of games and amenities are also available for guests to enjoy within the grounds – all at no extra cost. There is a tennis court, the only tennis court on the Isle of Bute, with tennis balls and a range of sizes of raquets provided. Those looking for more leisurely activities can head to the small putting green or ‘giant’s corner’ in the walled garden that has an outdoor chessboard, dominos and a giant tumbling tower.

There are also plenty of things for kids to do at Kames. There are swings and large lawns where visiting roe deer are often seen grazing at dusk and dawn. There is a small woodland walk in the forested area boasting a number of ancient trees with info boards along the way – look out for magical fairy doors on many of these trees. This forested area is the perfect space to look out for the abundance of wildlife and birds that frequent Kames including owls, pheasants and buzzards as well as families of ducks in the estate stream.  

Victorian Walled Garden

The magical spaces of walled gardens are sadly disappearing throughout the UK. Thus, the fact that Kames boasts a two acre, 18th century walled garden with an original glasshouse, adds to it’s unique charm. The garden dates from the ownership of William Bannatyne, the last in the Bannatyne line, an advocate and so-called great "improver". The garden wall is traditional red brick with a South facing double-thickness wall. Large borders, for flowers and produce, remain in place surrounding a traditional four–quartered middle section. A perfect space for a summer picnic.

Glasshouse

The 18th century Mackenzie & Moncur glasshouse remains remarkably intact. It has retained its timber glazing, slanted roof and unusual channelled side wall. The pipes which originally heated the glasshouse are still in place. In days gone by loose bricks from the brick wall were also removed and the holes stuffed with hay. This was then burnt in order to create enough heat to allow the growth of soft fruit. The glasshouse was saved from decline with a full renovation in 2018. Back to it’s former glory it contains aged vines in one section, lemon and lime trees in another, with the final section home to the central staging with colourful annuals.

Produce

The walled garden at Kames dates from the 18th century and was originally planted out to provide a plentiful supply of fruit, vegetables and flowers for the main house. Over the years the layout has inevitably changed and the four quadrants are now laid to lawn. However, renovations are ongoing and one section of the west side has now been dedicated to raised vegetable beds. Guests are welcome to help themselves to a variety of produce throughout the season.

The estate also boasts around 80 fruit trees, including apple, pear and fig, of which many are heritage varieties. Again, guests are welcome to help themselves to the fruit when it is in season.