What events in Argyll and Bute we are looking forward to this summer? The cruising season is fast approaching and we are looking forward to welcoming guests back aboard Splendour in April.
Before we cast our lines for the first trip, the Argyll Cruising team will be making the most of the wonderful local area we are lucky enough to call home. The famous Hebredian Baker visited for a book tour and we are waiting with baited breath to meet crime author Val McDermid too.
There are a fantastic array of events, outdoor markets and music this year, and we wanted to share our favourites with you, just in case you need inspiration to make your trip to Dunoon and the surrounding area extra special this summer. You can check out the What’s on Dunoon website to search the dates around your trip to find some fun. Or, if you are lucky enough to be planning some extra time on Bute, then Bute Yard’s events page is also worth keeping an eye on for pop up events and markets.
In date order, here are some of the best events that our corner of Argyll and Bute has to offer:
Fans of trad and rock music are in for a night to remember, with the eight person band Skerryvore coming to town. The popular folk band plays the Queens Hall in Dunoon on 20th April.
Avid watchers of the Great Pottery Throw Down can practice their wheel skills with pottery taster sessions. Our neighbours at the beautiful Holy Loch Marina Sea Drift pottery are holding sessions in April and May (these sell out fast so don’t forget to book!)
For music and beer lovers, FyneFest will be a fun filled, family friendly extravaganza. The festival at the top of Loch Fyne runs from 31st May to 2nd June.
The Mull Car Club’s rally race traverses Dunoon and the surrounding area between the 21st and 22nd of June.
Foodies and lovers of fresh seafood will be in heaven in the bustling working port of Tarbert. The first weekend of July sees Tarbert’s annual seafood festival.
The Cowal Gathering has something for everyone, from Highland dancing, the traditional highland games and even axe throwing for the brave. The games run between 29th and 31st August.
There are plenty of 10k running races and trail ultra marathons around Dunoon for the athletic and amateur runners. However the most scenic in our opinions is the Kyles 10 miles, which completes a loop of the stunning Ardlamont peninsula. It is normally held in September, watch their website for a race date announcement.
Ardkinglas Estate are hosting Funghi Foraging for the adventurous foodies. Join Galloway Wild Foods on 7th or 8th September.
Artists, sculptors, printers and jewellers are just some of the fantastic crafters and makers who showcase their talents for Cowal Open Studios. Explore the Cowal Open Studios network of popup galleries and exhibition spaces over the weekend of the 20th to the 23rd September.
If one of the events in Argyll and Bute above looks like it cannot be missed, take a look at the cruise calendar for last minute berths on our Clyde trips, including the peaceful Kyles and Isles which showcases the best of Cowal and Bute’s stunning scenery.
“We will always hold our cruise on the Splendour dear in our hearts.”
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | May 2023
“Thank you for a wonderful trip and for taking us to fabulous places. Food was excellent.” Paul and Christine Edwards
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2023
“What a wonderful adventure. Thank you Ted and Thomas.” Michael and Ginger Barr
Private Charter | May 2023
“A wonderfully relaxing trip, great company, Iggy’s wonderful food and calm and sunny weather. Thank you!” Helen
Arran and Ailsa Craig Wildlife Explorer | April 2022
“One of my very favourite adventures.” Ron Domin
Private charter | May 2023