Ardencraig GardensAscog Hall Fernery and GardenMount StuartRothesay CastleSt Mary's Chapel
Truly a house of firsts, we believe Mount Stuart was the first home in the world to have a heated indoor swimming pool, and the first in Scotland to be purpose built with electric light, central heating, a telephone system and a Victorian passenger lift. Most of which are, quite remarkably, still in use today.
The spirit of nineteenth-century invention is embodied in Mount Stuart – a feat of Victorian engineering, this neo-gothic mansion was one of the most technologically advanced houses of its age. Ironic, when you consider the medieval inspiration of the Gothic Revival.
The central heating system was in fact designed by extraordinary Victorian engineer Wilson Phipson, who had achieved fame by heating prominent buildings such as London's Royal Albert Hall. However the sheer magnitude of materials required for this audacious build - granite, sandstone, marble and tiling for the swimming pool, would necessitate a horse-drawn railway from Kerrycroy village to the fledgling house - a physical reminder of the practical scope of the project.
Mount Stuart Gardens
Mount Stuart hosts an incredible collection of both exotic and native flora spanning several spectacular gardens, each set against the dramatic backdrop of the Firth of Clyde.
Bask in the individual characters of each, from mysterious woodlands to vibrant landscapes, as you wander around our occasionally peculiar policies.
Don't forget to pick up our handy map to help guide you around.
It is situated on the Isle of Bute which, with its proximity to Glasgow, is the most accessible of Scotland's west coast islands.
Copyright Mount Stuart and Keith Hunter Photography
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Every effort is made to make sure that all the information is correct but we strongly recommend that you call Mount Stuart before you set off on your day out to confirm opening times and admission prices.
Please also note that the position on Google maps for Mount Stuart is a rough estimate using their postcode in the database and might be slightly out.
It may also be worth clicking the web link for Mount Stuart to see if there are any special events coming up or currently on.
