What is "rhubodach"

Rhubodach is a small settlement on the north-eastern shore of the Isle of Bute, Scotland.

The name Rhubodach may come from the Gaelic Rubha a’ Bhodaich which translates as old man's point or promontory or alternatively may be from An Rubha Bhódaich meaning the Bute headland.

Rhubodach lies at the north of Bute at the termination of the A886 road. From here a small ro-ro ferry sails the short distance over the Kyles of Bute to Colintraive in Argyll. The route, operated by Calmac, is reputed to be one of the shortest in Scotland still in operation. The issue of whether the ferry should be replaced by a bridge is one which reappears in various discussions about Bute's economy, however opposition stems from the resulting loss of Bute's "island status".

Film actor and director Lord Attenborough owned Rhubodach estate for a number of years. In August 2009 he placed estate up for sale. A referendum carried out on 12 February 2010 showed 93% of islanders supported a plan land to buy the land for the community. In January 2011 he sold the estate - which included a forest for the reduced fee of £1.48 million.