EsseCamp 2025, Isle of Bute

 Esse House was proud to present our first ever EsseCamp, which took place at a secret location on the Isle of Bute from Friday 18 July to Monday 21 July 2025. The event was designed to coincide with, and offer an alternative to, the busy crowds of Glasgow Pride. Attendees were encouraged to read all event information in advance and direct any questions to our team via email or the website contact form.

Guests were welcome to stay for the full weekend or choose arrival and departure times that suited their schedules. Some joined only for the Saturday night Beach Party, while others stayed for the entire experience and even travelled to Glasgow Pride on the Saturday before returning to camp. Attendance was open to verifiable members of the gender‑diverse community (and their named +1s), provided they could fund their travel to the meeting point near Rothesay Ferry Terminal at one of the three allocated pick‑up times.

Highlights of the weekend included:

• A beautiful, secluded campsite
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner provided daily
• Hot and cold drinks throughout the event
• Return shuttles between Rothesay Ferry Terminal and Basecamp
• Group wild swimming sessions
• Beach games and sports
• A sandcastle competition
• Local history tours
• Photography hikes
• Sunset campfires

Participation in activities was encouraged but always optional, and the schedule was full enough that few people attempted the entire itinerary (especially with multiple wild swims). While much was provided, guests were advised to bring any personal items they needed and to ensure they could carry their belongings. Spare tents and sleeping bags were available for emergencies, bins were provided for waste, and limited electrical charging was offered. Shops were available on the island, though not near the campsite.

At minimum, attendees were advised to bring:

• Tent
• Sleeping bag
• Torch and batteries
• A vessel suitable for hot drinks
• Snacks and extra water
• Towel and hygiene products
• Suitable clothing and footwear
• All necessary travel tickets

EsseCamp operated as a guest‑list‑only community event. Applications were extended and ultimately closed at 22:00 on Friday 11 July 2025.