Discover Perth & Kinross | A Visitor's Introduction to Perth & Kinross

Why is Perth & Kinross Worth a Visit?

Perth & Kinross is worth visiting for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and access to some of Scotland’s most iconic attractions. From the city of Perth, with its impressive Georgian architecture and vibrant arts scene, to the rugged wilderness of the Highlands, this region is perfect for both culture lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts ancient castles, grand estates, and historic towns that provide a window into Scotland’s past. With easy access to beautiful glens, rivers, and mountains, Perth & Kinross also offers endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

Perth & Kinross Highlights: Things to See and Do in Perth & Kinross

Scone Palace

Scone Palace, located just outside Perth, is one of Scotland’s most famous historic sites. This beautiful palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings, including Robert the Bruce, and is steeped in history. Visitors can explore the grand state rooms, admire the palace’s impressive art collection, and wander through beautifully landscaped gardens. The grounds are home to the “Moot Hill,” where kings were crowned, as well as a maze and a unique pinetum. Scone Palace is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and is known for hosting a range of events throughout the year.

The City of Perth

Perth, known as “The Fair City,” is a lively and historic town on the banks of the River Tay. This charming city offers a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining. Perth Museum and Art Gallery showcases local heritage and art, while St. John’s Kirk, the oldest building in Perth, offers a glimpse into the town’s medieval past. Perth’s riverside setting is perfect for a scenic walk, and the nearby North Inch park is a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. The town also has a thriving arts scene, with events held at the Perth Theatre and Concert Hall.

Loch Tay and Kenmore

Loch Tay, a stunning freshwater loch surrounded by mountains, is one of the most beautiful destinations in Perthshire. The village of Kenmore, situated on the eastern end of the loch, offers charming whitewashed cottages and breathtaking views. Visitors can enjoy water activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on Loch Tay or relax on the village’s pebble beach. Nearby, the Scottish Crannog Centre offers a unique opportunity to learn about Iron Age life with a replica of an ancient dwelling built on stilts over the loch.

Blair Castle and Gardens

Blair Castle, located near the village of Blair Atholl, is one of Scotland’s most majestic castles and the ancestral home of the Clan Murray. The castle’s impressive interiors feature grand halls, antique furniture, and a stunning ballroom. The surrounding Hercules Gardens, with ponds, sculptures, and rare plants, are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Blair Castle also has an on-site red deer park and hosts Highland games, giving visitors an authentic taste of Highland culture and history.

The Hermitage and Dunkeld

The Hermitage, near Dunkeld, is a beautiful woodland area with walking trails along the River Braan. This National Trust property is home to giant Douglas fir trees, waterfalls, and the picturesque Ossian’s Hall, a viewpoint built in the 18th century that offers stunning views of the Black Linn Falls. Nearby Dunkeld, a quaint village with whitewashed cottages, is known for its beautiful Dunkeld Cathedral, a partially ruined medieval church set on the banks of the River Tay. The village also has charming shops, cafés, and a historic pub, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day out.

Pitlochry and Ben Vrackie

Pitlochry, a scenic town in Highland Perthshire, is a popular tourist destination with a range of attractions and activities. Known for its Victorian charm and riverside setting, Pitlochry offers visitors the chance to tour the Blair Athol and Edradour Distilleries, both known for their traditional whisky-making methods. For hikers, Ben Vrackie is a popular climb that offers panoramic views over the surrounding glens and mountains. Pitlochry is also home to the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including drama, music, and comedy.

Queen’s View

Queen’s View, located near Loch Tummel, is one of Scotland’s most iconic viewpoints. Named after Queen Victoria, who visited in 1866, the viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama over Loch Tummel and the surrounding Highland scenery. The nearby visitor centre has a café and provides information on local wildlife and history. Queen’s View is particularly stunning in autumn when the surrounding forest is filled with vibrant colours, and the area offers several walking trails to explore the surrounding landscape.

Drummond Castle Gardens

Drummond Castle Gardens, near Crieff, is one of Scotland’s finest formal gardens. Known for its intricate 17th-century design, the garden features beautiful flower beds, topiary, and fountains, all set against the backdrop of Drummond Castle. The gardens are especially beautiful in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom, offering a colourful and peaceful retreat. Though the castle itself is not open to the public, the gardens are well worth a visit and provide an elegant setting for a leisurely walk.

Gleneagles and Golf

Gleneagles, one of Scotland’s most famous luxury resorts, is a world-renowned destination for golfers. The resort features three championship golf courses, including the PGA Centenary Course, which hosted the 2014 Ryder Cup. Gleneagles also offers a range of outdoor activities, including horse riding, shooting, and falconry, making it an ideal destination for sports enthusiasts. The resort’s spa and fine dining options provide a relaxing and luxurious experience, making it perfect for those seeking a mix of leisure and adventure.

Aberfeldy and the Birks of Aberfeldy

Aberfeldy, a small town on the River Tay, is known for its picturesque setting and literary connections. The town’s famous Birks of Aberfeldy, a scenic woodland walk with waterfalls, was immortalised in a poem by Robert Burns. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing hike along the trails, with plenty of spots to stop and admire the waterfalls and natural beauty. Aberfeldy is also home to Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, where visitors can tour the facility, learn about whisky-making, and enjoy tastings.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Perth & Kinross is easily accessible by car, train, and bus. Perth is a key hub, located just an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow by car, and both cities offer frequent train and bus services to Perth. The A9 is the main route connecting Perth & Kinross with the Highlands, Inverness, and other parts of Scotland. Most towns and villages within the region, including Pitlochry, Dunkeld, and Crieff, are also well-served by local buses and train services.

Parking

Parking is generally available at major attractions and in town centres across Perth & Kinross. Scone Palace, Blair Castle, and the Hermitage all have dedicated car parks. Some towns, like Perth and Pitlochry, offer public car parks, though charges may apply. During peak tourist seasons, parking at popular spots such as Queen’s View and Loch Tay can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early.

Dining

Perth & Kinross has a vibrant food scene, with a mix of traditional Scottish fare and contemporary cuisine. In Perth, restaurants like 63 Tay Street and Breizh Restaurant offer locally-sourced dishes with a modern twist. In Pitlochry, Victoria’s Restaurant and Café Biba are popular options. The area is also known for its whisky and local produce, with distilleries offering tastings and eateries often featuring Highland beef, fresh salmon, and seasonal vegetables from local farms.

Shopping

Perth & Kinross offers plenty of shopping opportunities, from artisanal crafts to local food products. Perth’s town centre is filled with independent shops, boutiques, and art galleries. In Pitlochry and Dunkeld, you’ll find shops selling handcrafted gifts, traditional Scottish woollens, and souvenirs. Farmers’ markets in towns like Crieff and Aberfeldy offer fresh local produce, cheeses, baked goods, and handmade crafts, making it easy to take a piece of Perthshire home with you.

When to Visit

Perth & Kinross is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring (March to May) brings blooming gardens, and autumn (September to November) is ideal for scenic walks among autumn foliage. Summer (June to August) is popular for outdoor activities, and many events and festivals are held during this time. Winter (December to February) offers a quieter experience, and visitors may enjoy festive markets, cosy pubs, and snow-covered landscapes.

Local Events

The Perth & Kinross region hosts various events throughout the year. The Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry, held in October, is a popular light and sound show that transforms Faskally Wood into an enchanting spectacle. The Perth Festival of the Arts in May brings a wide range of performances, including music, theatre, and visual arts, to the city. Highland games are held throughout the summer, with Blair Castle hosting the annual Atholl Highlanders Parade and Gathering in May.

Exploring Beyond Perth & Kinross

Perth & Kinross’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby areas. Edinburgh and Glasgow are both within easy reach for a day trip, offering a mix of historic sites, museums, and shopping. The Cairngorms National Park is just a short drive north, with opportunities for skiing, hiking, and wildlife spotting. For a scenic day trip, the Kingdom of Fife, with its coastal villages and historic St. Andrews, is less than an hour away.