Autumn 2013 Events in Cowal and Argyll

Waverley Paddle Steamer Trips
May – October

Waverley, the world’s last sea-going paddle steamer stops at Tighnabruaich pier every Wednesday on her way to the fishing village of Tarbert. Climb on board this magnificently restored paddle steamer with its distinctive towering red, black and white funnels, timber decks, gleaming brass and woodwork, then relax in the lounges, take in the stunning scenery on deck and visit the engine room to see the immaculate (and loud!) engine hard at work.

For more details about the Waverley including timetables, boat trips and special interest cruises, visit the Waverley Excursions website.

September

Kyles 10 Miles
7th September

The Kyles 10 Miles is a scenic fun run through the picturesque Ardlamont peninsula just south of Tighnabruaich. Now in its third year, the event is open to both runners and walkers and has built a reputation as one of the best runs in Scotland due to the spectacular scenery of coastal and mountain views. There are categories to suit all ages and abilities and all are invited to the after-run ceilidh.

Visit the Kyles 10 Miles website for more information.

EatBute
8th Sept

EatBute is a festival of food held at Mount Stuart and is a showcase for the fabulous food to be found on the Isle of Bute and throughout Argyll.

Local suppliers display their produce in tents and stalls with the aim of highlighting the importance of eating high quality, sustainable, nutritious food as advocated by the ‘Slow Food’ movement.

The event is free to enter but tickets always sell quickly so advance booking is advised. Further details are on the EatBute website.

Isle of Bute Festival of Cycling
21st Sept – 22nd Sept

Isle of Bute Festival of Cycling or ‘Rothesay Weekend’ is two days of road bike races (four in all), including the steep and winding Serpentine hill-climb, a round the island time trial, 10 mile time trial, and road race.

This is an informal, laid back event with plenty of socialising in between lots of serious cycling. Visit the Isle of Bute Festival of Cycling website for more details.

The Bute International Guitar Festival (The Big F)
Dates to be confirmed

The Bute International Guitar Festival is a celebration of what is arguably the world’s most popular musical instrument. “The Big F” sees some of the best guitarists in their genre come together to play concerts, hold workshops and there’s even an open mic competition.

So whether you’re a fan of Rock, Classical, Blues, Folk, Country or Bluegrass come along to watch and listen to some seriously good guitar playing.

More details can be found on the Bute International Guitar Festival website.

Cowal Open Studios
27th – 30th September

The Cowal peninsula is a haven for a variety of professional artists such as painters, sculptors, weavers, potters, jewellers and photographers and for four days they will invite visitors to see firsthand where they create their art whether indoors or outdoors. During a visit to Cowal it’s hard not to be inspired by the stunning countryside, coastal views, hills and mountains and the work of the Cowal artists reflects this natural beauty. So why not come along and see artists at one with nature.

Full details of the artists involved and photos of their work are on the Cowal Open Studios website.

Bute Line Dance Festival
27th – 29th September

Although it is call the Bute Line Dance Festival, this event is not only a celebration of Country and Western as many other line dancing styles such as Irish, Latin, Pop and Blues are catered for. All are welcome from beginners to experts and if you are attending on Sat 22nd, the theme is the Oscars so join in the fun and look out a costume.

For more details and to book tickets, visit the Bute Line Dance Festival website.

October

Cowalfest
Dates to be confirmed

During October, we celebrate Cowalfest, a walking and arts festival with over 80 walks providing something to suit everyone such as children’s drama workshops, orienteering, horse riding, concerts and exhibitions, taking in all the local visitor attractions and making the most of the stunning scenery. Walkers come from far and wide to this large and varied walking festival, all are welcome and most of the walks are led by knowledgeable and informative walk leaders.

Further details can be found on the Cowalfest website.

If you know of an event happening this Autumn in either Argyll or Cowal and it’s not listed on our website, call us on 01700 811 239 and we’ll get it listed.