The Isle of Bute in Scotland remains untouched by modern developments of retirement housing, tourism and industry, yet is easily reached by train and ferry from Glasgow Airport in 90 minutes.

There are castles and prehistoric standing stones, a Stately Home and 6th Century Chapel, a concert hall and cinema.

Right by the sea in Port Bannatyne, a fishing and yacht haven, is an ancient stone-built village inn.

Bought by two Russian ladies in 2000, the crumbling highland pub has been transformed into a recreation of a Russian Tavern of Imperial Times with piano and log fire, casks of live beer and flagons of Russian wine.

There are wild flowers and candle-light, timber floor, tables and chairs and Russian tapestries and wall-plates.

Through the high front windows are spectacular views across the sea to the Argyll highlands.

Ivan the fisherman brings in the live crayfish and other side catches he nets to be cooked and served immediately in the tavern.

Fine Russian dishes utilise the ranched highland cattle, wild red deer venison and herbs, berries and fungi collected from the wild by Babushka.

The quality of the a la carte cuisine is of the first order. See the menus at our link above.

The Russian Tavern has four guest rooms, a double or twin costing £64 per night including two substantial but healthy Russian breakfasts.

The Port Bannatyne Marina is 100 metres away, and the golf course some 150 metres.