Top 10 things to do in Argyll and Bute
Argyll is a region of sea lochs, islands and long coasts on the west side of Scotland. Ferries link islands such as Mull, Islay and Iona.
- 1
Inveraray Castle
📍 InverarayHouse, gardensThe seat of the Duke of Argyll, a castle with towers on Loch Fyne.
- 2
Oban
📍 ObanTown, seafoodA harbour town with seafood stalls, McCaig’s Tower and ferries to the islands.
- 3
Isle of Iona
📍 Iona, off MullIsland, historyA small island with a medieval abbey, the birthplace of Scottish Christianity. Reached by ferry from Mull.
- 4
Isle of Mull and Tobermory
📍 MullIsland, wildlifeAn island with colourful Tobermory, castles, eagles and boat trips.
- 5
Isle of Islay distilleries
📍 IslayWhisky, islandAn island famous for peaty whisky and wildlife.
- 6
Crinan Canal
📍 Lochgilphead and CrinanCanal, walksA pretty canal across the Kintyre neck, with a towpath and boats.
- 7
Kilmartin Glen
📍 KilmartinHistory, ancientA valley full of prehistoric monuments and cairns.
- 8
Dunadd Fort
📍 Near KilmartinHistory, viewsAn ancient hill fort, the capital of the kingdom of Dál Riata.
- 9
Mount Stuart
📍 Isle of ButeHouse, gardensA spectacular Gothic Victorian house on the Isle of Bute.
- 10
Luing and Easdale Islands
📍 Near ObanIslands, quietSmall slate islands, reached by tiny ferries.
Where to base yourself
Last checked: October 2026.