Inchmarnock Island, Isle of Bute, Argyll and Bute PA20

Inchmarnock offers a rare opportunity to acquire a remarkable 661 acre island combining a productive in hand organic farm, traditional buildings with development potential (subject to consent), and significant sporting, recreational and conservation appeal. Located off the Isle of Bute and accessible within two hours of Glasgow, the island extends approximately 2.5 miles in length with around 4.75 miles of varied coastline, featuring a mix of rocky shoreline and sheltered sandy coves. Its attractive topography rises to around 60 metres above sea level, providing impressive far reaching 360 degree views.

The land includes approximately 102 acres of grass leys, 66 acres of permanent pasture and 368 acres of rough grazing, interspersed with parcels of native woodland. Soil composition varies across the island, but overall it is well suited to grass production with some scope for occasional arable cropping, supported by the mild Gulf Stream climate. Considerable investment has been made in infrastructure over the past two decades, with all fields stock proofed and a network of internal tracks providing vehicular access. Traditional drystone dykes, many dating from the 18th century, are a notable feature and provide valuable livestock shelter. The southern third of the island and much of the eastern and western fringes are naturally wooded, dominated by native species including birch, alder, oak, hazel and rowan, contributing both to its landscape appeal and biodiversity.

The farm operates as a low input, self sustaining organic enterprise, managed by the owner with support from a contractor based on Bute. It comprises a fold of around 35 Highland cows and followers, with cattle outwintered and calving in spring. Young stock are typically sold privately for finishing at around 10 months. Natural water is available from springs and lochans, while extensive areas of birch and hazel woodland provide shelter from the elements.

Infrastructure includes a general purpose shed (approximately 30m x 55m), a gravity fed private water supply, and a dedicated ferry, the Marnock, which transports livestock and machinery between the island and Bute and is available separately as part of the equipment inventory.

The island features three principal building groupings - Northpark, Midpark and Southpark - comprising two former farmhouses and a range of traditional stone steadings, all offering development potential. Northpark includes a two storey farmhouse (vacant since 1986) with smaller outbuildings, occupying an elevated and sheltered position with excellent easterly views and strong potential as a principal residence, subject to planning. A potential borehole site has previously been identified nearby. Midpark and Southpark, located adjacent to each other near the slipway, are lower lying but present further opportunities for refurbishment or redevelopment.

In addition, The Port House on the Isle of Bute (available by separate negotiation) offers a modernised shore property with a slipway and direct views across to Inchmarnock, providing practical and attractive access to the island.

Inchmarnock is situated in a dramatic setting within the Firth of Clyde. The island boasts views over the ‘Kyles of Bute’ but also enjoys southerly views over the Cowal Peninsula, Knapdale, Kintyre Peninsula and even as far as ‘Goatfell’ and the mountains of Arran on a clear day. There is a concrete slipway on the west coast of Bute, overlooked by the Port House (available separately) which provides boat access to the island.

There is a choice of three landing points on the island. Whilst situated in a very tranquil setting, The Port House and slipway can be swiftly reached by road from Rothesay (4 miles) in about 10 minutes. Glasgow can be reached in under two hours via car and ferry.

The seaside town of Rothesay is situated on the east coast of Bute and has historically been a popular holiday destination. It is reached by ferry from Weymss Bay which takes about 35 minutes and up to 14 crossings a day during the peak season. Weymss Bay also has a train station with regular direct services to Glasgow city centre which take 1 hour. Rothesay has plenty of local amenities including a range of shops, a supermarket, bars, restaurants, three primary schools, a secondary school and hospital. Glasgow Airport is 36 miles away and can be reached from Weymss Bay by train in about 40 minutes.

With its many islands, peninsulas and sea lochs, the area surrounding Inchmarnock offers endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits. The Argyll coastline and Inner Hebrides offers world class sailing. Close to Inchmarnock, there are marinas at Rothesay, Port Bannatyne, Dunoon and Inverkip. The nearby Isle of Arran is a sought after holiday destination.

The ferry port of Lochranza (5 miles away) provides frequent sailings to Skipness on the northern Kintyre Peninsula and is also accessible via rib.

There are active sports clubs on Bute, including an amateur football club, cricket club and shinty club.

The ferry port of Lochranza (with frequent sailings to Skipness on the northern Kintyre Peninsula) is about 5 miles from Inchmarnock and easily accessible in the estate RIB. There is a wealth of recreational, cultural and historic activities and interests on Arran with its accessibility from Inchmarnock being a particular attraction. In terms of land based activities, the most successful sporting club on the Isle of Bute is the Shinty Club. There is an amateur football club, a cricket club and three golf courses; an 18 hole, 9 hole and unusually a 13 hole course. Further afield there are internationally renowned golf courses at Loch Lomond, Royal Troon, Trump Turnberry and Prestwick.

With many islands to explore, mountains to climb, lochs to fish and pubs and restaurants to dine at throughout Argyll, there is a fantastically diverse range of activities within an hours drive of The Port House.