Butesong is a boutique songwriters festival held in Rothesay on the stunning Isle of Bute. The festival is curated by Scottish singer-songwriter JJ Gilmour, putting together a hand-picked line-up of some of the finest songwriters from Scotland and around the globe as well as introducing new up-and-coming talented artist.

Butesong 2026 returns on the 23rd & 24th October, and what a line-up we have for you. Joining us will be the hugely respected Scottish singer songwriter Hamish Hawk, the former Seahorses frontman and outstanding songwriter Chris Helme, the wonderful The Swiss Family Orbison, featuring Kit Clark of Danny Wilson, multi award-winning Irish singer songwriter Gareth Dunlop, the former Grim Northern Social & Apollo 440 songwriter Ewan MacFarlane, revered Canadian songwriter & producer David Celia, highly regarded all-female trio Alma & the wonderful much talked about Scottish singer songwriter Alice Faye.

Tickets now on sale.

BUTESONG 2026 LINE UP

STAYING AT THE GLENBURN HOTEL

As always, accomodation should be arranged seperately. If you wish to stay at the Victorian splendour of the Glenburn Hotel where the festival is held, you can use the special booking button below. This is the only way to secure rooms at the hotel as they have removed all rooms from all 3rd party websites to ensure that festival goers can get a room.

To get the discounted rate for that weekend, please select Special Codes at the top of the booking page and select Promo Code from the drop down. Please enter the codes Butesong1 for either just the Friday or Saturday night, or Butesong2 for the full weekend, to receive a special Butesong rate.

BOOK A ROOM

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Butesong held?

Butesong is held in the town of Rothesay on the beautiful Isle of Bute on the West coast of Scotland. Bute is one of the most accessable islands on the West coast. Our venue is the grand Victorian Glenburn Hotel, with commanding views across Rothesay bay towards loch Striven. The hotel is a short walk from the ferry terminal.

What is Butesong?

Butesong is a boutique festival dedicated to the art of the songwriter and was established by the Scottish singer songwriter JJ Gilmour who continues to curate the festival. The festival moved to Bute having previously been based on the Isle of Skye and more recently the picturesque town of Portpartrick. The festival has been moved to October from April for this year.

Can I stay at the Glenburn hotel?

Yes… you can. The Glenburn is a lovely hotel and one of the most recognisable buildings on the Isle of Bute, plus you get to stay in the place where the festival takes place. To book a room at the hotel for Butesong, please visit the dedicated booking link HERE.

To get the discounted rate for that weekend, please select Special Codes at the top of the booking page and select Promo Code from the drop down. Please enter the codes Butesong1 for either just the Friday or Saturday night, or Butesong2 for the full weekend, to receive a special Butesong rate.

How do I get the the Isle of Bute?

There are two ways to get to the Isle of Bute.. and both involve ferries. The easist way is the 40 min crossing from Wemyss Bay to Rothesay and is easily accessed by train or car. You can also go via Colintraive to Rhubodach but this is quite a rural route. See www.calmac.co.uk for sailing times & costs.

Is there much to do on Bute?

Bute is a beautiful island with plenty to do. You can visit the spectacular Mount Stuart House, Rothesay castle, the Bute museum or just explore this extremely pretty island with golden bays and stunning walks.

How do I buy tickets for Butesong?

Buying tickets is easy. Just click on the buy tickets link on this page. We have a limited capacity which means that the festival always sells out due to our extremely loyal following, so if you are not quick, it is likely that you will miss out. We hope to see you there.