Frequently asked questions about our holiday accommodation at Port Bannatyne
Here are some of our most frequently asked questions. Should you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to contact us directly :
info@kamescastlecottages.co.uk
How many cottages do you have and how many guests can they accommodate?
At Kames there are 7 cottages in total sleeping from 2 to 9 guests (34 in total) : Clutha sleeps up to 9 guests; Colmac sleeps up to 6 guests ; Blane sleeps up to 5 guests; Ninian sleeps up to 4 guests ; Catan sleeps up to 4 guests; Marnoc sleeps up to 4 guests ; and the Gate Lodge sleeps up to 2 guests.
Do you offer short breaks at the holiday accommodation?
Yes, we offer three night stays and above.
How do I get to Kames by car?
From Glasgow, travel west on the M8 to Greenock and then continue on the A78 to Wemyss Bay. Take the Caledonian MacBrayne ferry to Rothesay (approxinately 40 minutes) Please see the Calmay website for the most up to date information on their services. Calmac - Wemyss Bay to Rothesay. On arrival at Rothesay, turn right off the ferry on to the A844, heading north towards Port Bannatyne. Proceed through Port Bannatyne passing the marina on the right hand side. After the marina, turn left on the A844. The gates on the right-hand side form the entrance to Kames Castle.
Can I reach Kames by public transport?
It is easy to reach Kames at Port Bannatyne by public transport. The nearest airport is Glasgow Airport. From there you can take a bus to Paisley, Brick Lane. Transfer to Paisley Gilmour Street by taxi (approximately 4 minutes), bus (approximately 8 minutes) or walking (approximately 24 minutes). The train to Wemyss Bay is direct from Paisley Gilmour Street. You can then take the ferry as a foot passenger on the Calmac Ferry. On arrival at Rothesay you can take a bus from Guildford square (just opposite the ferry terminal) or a taxi from the taxi rank on the main road.
Can I purchase tickets in advance for the ferry?
Although it is not necessary, you can pre-book tickets for the Calmac ferry to Rothesay. Please check their website for timetables and regular service updates. Calmac website
What time can I check in to / out of the the cottages?
Our standard check in time is from 4pm. Please call when you are on the ferry to get the code for your cottage (07900 681401). Check out is at 10am on the day of departure.
Is there parking at the cottages?
There is free, off-road parking at all cottages at Kames.
Are the cottages dog-friendly?
Three of the cottages at Kames Castle Cottages are pet-friendly. We accept up to two fully trained dogs in each of Catan, Ninian and Colmac Cottages. Please refer to our Pet Policy for further information.
Are the cottages heated and are there log burners?
Yes, all of our cottages have full central heating throughout and each has a cosy log buner in the living room. Logs and kindling are provided free of charge.
Do the cottages have showers or baths?
The cottages have different bathroom arrangements to suit different needs as follows:
Blane Cottage : bathroom with over-bath shower plus an ensuite shower room with walk in shower
Catan Cottage : walk in shower
Marnoc Cottage : walk in shower
The Gate Lodge : bath with over-bath shower
Ninian Cottage : bath with over-bath shower
Clutha Cottage: bathroom with bath and over-bath shower plus an ensuite shower room with walk in shower
Colmac Cottage: bathroom with over-bath shower
Are the cottages suitable for those with limited mobility?
Four of the cottages are accessed by level pathways with a single step or small ledge at the main entrance door (The Gate Lodge, Marnoc, Catan and Blane). These cottages also have all the accommodation on one level with walk-in showers in the bathrooms. Please contact us should you need to discuss your needs in more detail info@kamescastlecottages.co.uk
Is linen provided in the cottages?
Yes, bed linen and towels are provided in all of the cottages. These are replaced every 7 days.
Do you provide a high chair and travel cot for infants?
Yes, we can provide a high chair and travel cot. Please request these at the time of booking.
Where is the nearest shop?
Our holiday cottages are a 10 minute walk from Port Bannatyne. Here you will find a small shop selling essentials, complete with Post office and a café. Port Bannatyne also has a lovely restaurant (the Caledonian Bistro) and a wonderful community pub (The Anchor Tavern). A new bakery is due to open in 2025. Please contact each establishment directly for up to date opening times.
Where can I buy groceries on the island?
There are two Co-operative supermarkets on the island (one on Montague Street and a larger one on Bridge Street). There is also Jessmay’s store for fresh produce (Bishop Street, Rothesay) and the award winning MacQueens butchers also on Bishop Street, Rothesay. Produce from the Isle of Bute Smokehouse is sold at 61-67 Hish Street, Rothesay.
Where can I charge or refuel my car on the Isle of Bute?
Electric car chargers are available in Guildford Square, Rothesay. There is a petrol staation and garage at W & J Duncan, 37 Mill Street, Rothesay.
