Grand Tours of Scotland Season 1 Episode 6 Wish You Were Here
- January 1, 2011
- 29 min
In the sixth episode of Grand Tours of Scotland season 1, titled "Wish You Were Here," host Paul Murton sets out to explore the beautiful Scottish scenery and discover the fascinating heritage of the Isle of Bute. Bute is a small island located just off the west coast of Scotland, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and numerous attractions.
The episode begins as Paul arrives at the port of Wemyss Bay, where he takes a ferry to Rothesay, the capital of Bute. He then heads to Mount Stuart House, a magnificent Gothic mansion that dates back to the 19th century. Paul is given a tour of the house and its stunning gardens, which were designed by famous landscape architect Gertrude Jekyll. Mount Stuart House is also home to some fascinating art and artifacts, including a painting by Scottish artist Jack Vettriano.
Next, Paul visits the Bute Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the island. Here, he learns about the ancient inhabitants of Bute, the Viking raids, and the island's role in the Scottish Wars of Independence. Paul is particularly interested in the museum's collection of photographs, which document the changing face of Bute over the years.
After his visit to the museum, Paul heads to the west coast of Bute, where he discovers some of the island's most beautiful and secluded beaches. He also learns about the importance of the sea to the people of Bute, both in terms of fishing and tourism. Paul meets some local fishermen who tell him about the challenges they face in today's world, such as overfishing and changing weather patterns.
The episode continues with Paul traveling to the north of the island, where he visits the magnificent ruins of St. Blane's Chapel. This ancient building dates back to the 12th century and is steeped in history and legends. Paul also hikes to the top of the hill where the chapel is located, enjoying the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Finally, Paul visits the famous Victorian toilets of Rothesay, which have been restored to their former glory and converted into a quirky art installation. The toilets are a popular tourist attraction and have won numerous awards for their unique design. Paul finishes his visit to Bute by talking to some of the locals about what makes the island so special and what they love most about living there.
Overall, "Wish You Were Here" is a fascinating exploration of one of Scotland's most beautiful and fascinating islands. Paul Murton's enthusiasm and natural curiosity make the episode a joy to watch, and viewers are sure to be inspired to visit Bute and discover its treasures for themselves.