Great Cumbrae — Local services in Scotland

It’s all change in Millport! This was our first visit (June 2024) in a year and we were surprised to see work ongoing for flood defences right across Millport to Kames Bay and beyond. We were impressed by the investment but less so that the new constructions were rather modern and out of step with the retro Victorian style of this old resort. For example: shiny steel handrails on new steps down to the beach. I also have to say with some disappointment that the new seating and tiered steps of mellow coloured concrete look remarkably like that at Blackpool. Again, not very much in keeping with Millport’s traditional look. Let’s hope new public toilets are included in the redevelopment plan as they really let the town down. Most are pretty grim and smelly and that’s after having to pay 40p on a bank card to access ( though I see some canny Scots have left a wee stone next to the doors to keep them from closing completely). Other aspects of the town could do with a refresh too: like the telephone box at the harbour (see photo). And whoever printed the signs needs to go back to school for English lessons. What an embarrassment! Spot the spelling error for all to see on the toilet wall.

One welcome modernisation are the new electric charging points. Brilliant, let’s have more of them, e.g. at Fintry Bay.

Most interesting is the new breakwater, forming an outer harbour with 18 guest yacht moorings. Is there a plan for the dear old pier? And who gave planning permission for that strange new house along from Kames Bay? We met one passer-by who detested it but to be honest we almost immediately met another who thought it was admirable. At first, we thought it was a conversion of some bleak and grey 1950s telephone exchange building! It looks so drab and out of place, IMHO! Well, Millport is going to be very different from our cherished memories of our childhood holiday isle. I see the Ritz is up for sale,...

If you’re looking for a peaceful day trip or weekend getaway in Scotland, the Isle of Cumbrae is an absolute gem. Just a short ferry ride from Largs, this little island packs in a lot of charm for its size.

The main town, Millport, has a lovely seaside vibe with quaint shops, cafés, and friendly locals. Cycling around the island is a must—it’s only about 10 miles around, mostly flat, and the views of the coast and mainland are stunning throughout.

One of the highlights was visiting the Cathedral of the Isles, the smallest cathedral in Britain. It’s tucked away among trees and has a really serene atmosphere. The beaches are also surprisingly nice for a Scottish island—great for a picnic or just relaxing with the sound of the waves.

Whether you’re into nature walks, cycling, history, or just want to escape the busy city life, Cumbrae has something to offer. It’s quiet, scenic, and totally underrated....

Great place for a relaxing cycle with family or friends as, apart from one small hill at the west edge of Millport, the outer loop around the island is relatively flat and scenic. For a considerably more challenging cycle, I'd recommend having a go at the "inner loop" which climbs up to the Glaidstone Viewpoint, up in the hills. One word of caution for cyclists though is that please remember you're still on public roads and not a cycle path. You will still encounter some traffic of all sizes, up to and including buses, especially between Millport and the ferry terminal. Car drivers, please drive cautiously, especially in Millport main street, as during the summer holidays there are cyclists of varying abilities, including young...