The Archaeological Landscape of Bute

Lying among the sea lochs of southern Argyll, near the centre of the ancient waterways that once connected Scotland to Ireland and beyond, the Isle of Bute is a treasure trove of thousands of years of archaeological remains. With earliest occupation by hunter gatherers estimated at around 9,000 BC, the island’s remarkable landscapes feature a wealth of monuments ranging from standing stones, chambered tombs and forts, to monasteries, castles and industrial cotton mills.

Drawing on the results of a groundbreaking survey carried out by RCAHMS in partnership with members of the local community, authors Alex Hale and George Geddes take readers on a fascinating journey through the diverse layers of Bute’s past. With detailed maps, plans and photographs providing the most comprehensive ever guide to the island’s sites of interest, The Archaeological Landscape of Bute offers an unparalleled insight into one of Scotland’s richest historical environments.

"Embodies the classic virtues of the Royal Commission's work: beautifully produced and illustrated with stunning aerial photographs, new site plans, and material from many other sources, clearly and succinctly written . . . a gem of a book" Archaeology Scotland

Now available as a PDF for free download

The Archaeological Landscape of Bute was published in 2010 following two years fieldwork by RCAHMS and DBLPS. Although the print run has sold out, the book has now been turned into a free download available on this page.

The downloadable PDF has been enhanced so that readers can search for details of each site mentioned in the book. Click on any of the site numbers and you will be taken to the RCAHMS Canmore database for more details.

Dunagoil fort, for example, has Canmore database number 40291. Click on the number and you will be taken directly to the RCAHMS Canmore page for that site. There you will see more detailed information, including; digital photographs, archive maps and historic documents.

We hope this facility will enable readers to explore Bute’s historic features in even more depth, and perhaps stimulate a longer-lasting interest in the island’s fascinating cultural heritage.