Red telephone kiosk before restoration at Port Bannatyne

Port Bannatyne Red Phone Box Project

Restoring a classic K6 telephone kiosk to benefit the community and local business in Port Bannatyne, Isle of Bute.

A community project on the Isle of Bute

Restoring a classic red K6 phone box and transforming it into an interactive space where people can listen to local stories, find useful information, and take a quiet moment by the water.

Restoration progress 1
Restoration progress 2
Restoration progress 3
Restoration progress 4
Volunteer here

A Phone Box with a Story to Tell

"Every time I walked my dog past Port Bannatyne Marina, I couldn't help noticing the sad state of that old red telephone box. Once a proper beauty, now looking a bit forgotten. And yes, it stirred up memories - which probably tells you my age right there," said local Port resident Linda MacFadyen.

"It turns out I wasn't the only one feeling that way. Lots of folk around Bute have said that seeing the plans has stirred their own memories too - and how pleased they are to see something positive finally happening with the box."

Now, thanks to the generous donation of the box from Port Bannatyne Marina, the classic red K6 phone box is getting a new lease of life. Instead of making phone calls (remember those?), it's being restored and reinvented as a permanent heritage information point, potentially right on the village quayside.

But this won't be your average info board. Oh no.

Phone box restoration progress 1
Phone box restoration progress 2
Phone box restoration progress 3
Phone box restoration progress 4

Dialling into Bute's Stories

Step inside the restored kiosk, lift a retro-style handset, and you'll be able to "dial in" to the stories of Port Bannatyne and the Isle of Bute. Each number reveals something different - from the history of the village and island life to the dramatic tale of the midget submarines, the development of the Marina, and how the Anchor became the much-loved, community-owned hub it is today.

The technical side of the project has been developed by local installation artist Chris Ratcliffe, who works with recycled technology to create interactive public artworks. His approach ensures the old phone box delivers a thoroughly modern listening experience - while still retaining an important practical function, with the ability to dial 999 in an emergency.

There'll also be practical stuff too - ferry and bus times, places to visit, and where to grab good food and a drink. Best of all, the recordings can be updated easily, so the box stays fresh and relevant.

One especially thoughtful feature is the inclusion of a Wind Phone - an unconnected line inspired by the international Wind Phone movement. It offers a quiet space for reflection, remembrance, or simply a moment of calm looking out over the water.(see: mywindphone.com)

Small Box, Big Heart

This project isn't just about saving a piece of design history. It's about creating a place to pause, listen, and feel connected - to the village, to its stories, and to each other.

Inside the kiosk there'll be printed leaflets highlighting local attractions and events, and plans are also in place for a small community book exchange, building on similar successful ideas elsewhere on the island.

Local organisations will be invited to sponsor and look after individual audio recordings, helping bring together heritage groups, tourism, and the wider community.

The phone box on the Port Bannatyne quayside.

A Real Talking Point

Let's be honest - a shiny red phone box on the quayside is always going to turn heads. It's instantly recognisable, hugely photogenic, and very likely to become one of those "Instagrammable" spots that tempt visitors to stop, linger, and explore Port Bannatyne a bit longer.

And this might just be the beginning. If it proves popular, the idea could grow into a network of "Bute-branded" heritage phone boxes dotted across the island - from Ardbeg to Kilchattan and beyond.

Both BID and Port Bannatyne Development Trust are backing the project. Duncan Martin, Chair of BID, said:

"BID is delighted to support the restoration of the island's red telephone kiosks. These quirky landmarks will create a fun tourism trail, act as vibrant community hubs, and help connect people, support local groups, and boost businesses while celebrating the island's unique heritage."

Port Bannatyne Development Trust added:

"We are supporting this project because we believe it contributes to the local community, creating space for people to connect, contribute, and develop new skills. It has the potential to grow and make a lasting impact in Port Bannatyne and across the Isle of Bute."

Not bad for an old phone box that's got folk talking again - and this time, in the best possible way.

Getting Stuck In

Local Port resident Neil McKay is already excited about the project and can't wait to lead the restoration volunteer team. He's looking for as many helpers as possible - and the good news is you don't need any special skills. Just a bit of enthusiasm and a steady hand will do nicely.

The work will be planned around people's availability, so even an hour here and there makes a real difference. It's set to be a fun, social project and a great way to be part of something that'll leave a lasting mark on the village.

Volunteer to help!

If you fancy getting involved, or have a story to share for the box,
get in touch via the form below, or pop into the Anchor Tavern or the Port Post Office.

We are looking for as many helpers as possible — and the good news is you don’t need any special skills. Just a bit of enthusiasm and a steady hand will do nicely. The work will be planned around people’s availability, so even an hour here and there makes a real difference. It’s set to be a fun, social project and a great way to be part of something that’ll leave a lasting mark on the village.