Step Inside Wester Kames Castle – A Secret Castle On Isle Of Bute
Wester Kames Castle is nestled near Kames Bay on the Isle of Bute, Scotland.
This magnificent tower house dates back to the early 16th century.
It has witnessed centuries of change, from its origins with the Spens family to its remarkable restoration under the stewardship of the Marquess of Bute.
Historical Background
The story of Wester Kames Castle begins with the MacKinlay family, who originally held the lands of Wester Kames.
However, after some family disputes, in 1447, the estate passed to Finlay de Spens, the Constable of Bute, marking the beginning of the Spens family’s association with the castle.
It is believed that the Spens family constructed the castle around 1500.
Over the centuries, the castle changed hands through marriage, becoming part of the Campbell and later the Graham families.
By the early 18th century, it had become an integral part of the neighboring Kames estate.
However, by the mid-18th century, the once formidable tower was reduced to a ruin, standing only 3.7 meters high.
Restoration By The Marquess Of Bute
In 1863, John Crichton-Stuart, the 3rd Marquess of Bute, saw the potential of the Kames estate and decided to restore it.
The Marquess commissioned renowned Arts and Crafts architect Robert Weir Schultz to detail to rebuild the tower.
When Schultz began his work in 1897, only the vaulted basement of the castle remained.
His meticulous attention to detail and commitment to preserving the castle’s original character resulted in a sympathetic restoration.
The restoration of Wester Kames Castle was completed in 1900.
When you visit today, you can see where the original castle meets Schultz’s 19th-century additions—marked by a line of brickwork.
Architectural Features
The tower house of Wester Kames Castle is an impressive structure, measuring 25 by 21 feet (7.6 by 6.4 meters).
It rises four storeys high, with a five-storey stair tower at the northwest corner.
The restoration faithfully preserved the castle’s medieval charm, creating a seamless blend of old and new.
The interior of the castle is equally enchanting.
The ground floor houses a cosy kitchen with an AGA, a dining room, and a utility room.
Drawing Room
The first floor is dominated by a formal drawing room, complete with a splendid fireplace and wood-burning stove, offering breathtaking views over Kames Bay.
Dining Room
Kitchen
Staircase
The staircase was crafted from sturdy oak and features intricately carved banisters and handrails.
There are large windows along the staircase to increase the natural light.
The upper floors feature four bedrooms providing a retreat of unparalleled comfort and elegance.
Guest Bedrooms
Guest bedrooms are located on the second and third floors and they are tastefully decorated with period furnishings.
These rooms offer views of either the castle grounds or the surrounding countryside.
Principal Bedroom
The principal bedroom occupies the entire fourth floor and it is the epitome of luxury and elegance.
This expansive suite features panoramic views of Kames Bay and the surrounding landscape, visible through large windows that fill the room with natural light.
The principal bedroom is furnished with a comfortable sitting area, ideal for relaxation, and boasts an ensuite bathroom for added convenience and privacy.
Surroundings and Local Attractions
Wester Kames Castle sits on about two acres of gardens, perfect for a stroll or just soaking in the views of Kames Bay.
It’s near Port Bannatyne, a quaint village, and not far from Rothesay, the main town on Bute.
The Isle of Bute, often referred to as the “Madeira of Scotland” due to its mild climate, is renowned for its natural beauty and has been a beloved holiday destination since Victorian times.
Rothesay’s got everything you need—shops, schools, even a hospital. And getting here’s easy; ferries run regularly from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay, about 35 minutes away.
