Scottish island ‘gem’ gets first 'glamorous' wine bar with stunning marina views

A Scottish island has welcomed its first ever wine bar, with a grand opening taking place over the Easter weekend.

Over the Easter weekend, residents of a Scottish island raised a glass to the opening of its first wine bar.

The Sulking Room is a new social destination on the island. It is located in the Rothesay old town hall building, which was designed for entertaining and has hosted many shindigs in its almost 150 year history.  

The Sulking Room wine bar Isle of Bute
Picture: weshootpeoplephotography

Nestled in the heart of Rothesay with views over the marina and across to the hills of Cowal, The Sulking Room promises to be more than just a bar. 

Inspired by the French word for boudoir, it offers a space historically meant for women to retreat, gather themselves, and emerge empowered. True to its name, the bar is designed as a glamorous, intimate haven where everyone — and especially women — can feel welcome and comfortable. 

Inside, guests are transported into another age of indulgence and glamour. Interiors include plush velvets, rich textures and eye-catching chandeliers. Outside seating invites guests to sip and savour while watching the yachts on the water until sunset. 

The Sulking Room wine bar Isle of Bute
Picture: weshootpeoplephotography

With an extensive, carefully curated wine list, expertly trained bar staff offering specialist cocktails, Isle of Bute speciality coffee, and attentive, high-end service, The Sulking Room is ideal for after-work drinks, date nights, and all-out nights of celebration. 

To compliment a glass of wine or evening cocktail, beautifully presented cheese boards and artisan foods are also available. 

The concept and design have been over six years in the making, lovingly brought to life by local entrepreneur Erin Murphy — already known for her popular food business and shop Gather Deli on the island. 

The Sulking Room is her latest vision, and Ms Murphy said “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support we’ve had for Gather, including our recent sold-out Supper Clubs, so we’re really excited to bring this latest addition to the island for everyone to enjoy” 

Skye Edwards from the band Morcheeba and her family have spent the last four summers holidaying on Bute with Erin, her partner Chris and their children Argyle (3) and Lonach (2).  

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She attended the opening of the bar and sang with Gather’s chef manager David Murphy - who is also behind the launch of The Sulking Room. As well as singing Down by the Sea, Skye performed a reworked cover of Nothing Compares - singing Nothing Compares to Bute. 

The Sulking Room is located at 19 East Princes St, Rothesay, Isle of Bute.

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Isle of Bute, UK
Isle of Bute, UK
Known for cake making, experimental jam recipes, Champagne, whisky and gin drinking (and the inability to cook Gnocchi), Rosalind is the Food and Drink Editor and whisky writer for The Scotsman, as well as hosting Scran, The Scotsman's food and drink podcast.
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