Perthshire Towns and Villages Worth Visiting

Perth, the city that gives the county its name, is a lively hub with a rich history dating back over 800 years. Known as the 'Gateway to the Highlands', Perth has an array of attractions from the beautiful gardens of Branklyn to the historic Scone Palace, where Scottish kings were crowned. Entry to Scone Palace is £12, and it's worth every penny to wander its impressive grounds.

For those interested in art and culture, the Perth Museum and Art Gallery provides insights into local history and art for an entry fee of around £3. The city also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from the Perth Festival of the Arts in May to the Winter Festival, which lights up the town during the colder months.

When visiting Perth, be sure to take a stroll along Tay Street for scenic views of the River Tay. The city is also a great base for exploring other Perthshire towns, with excellent transport links including a mainline railway station.

situated among the Highland hills, Pitlochry is a pleasant Victorian town that remains a favorite among visitors. Known for its scenic setting and lively theatre scene, Pitlochry has a perfect blend of culture and nature. The Pitlochry Festival Theatre, a cultural cornerstone, has performances from May to October, with ticket prices starting at £20.

Nature lovers will appreciate the town's proximity to the lush landscapes of Loch Faskally and the scenic Ben Vrackie hiking trail, a 2-4 hour trek that rewards with panoramic views. For those interested in local produce, a visit to the nearby Blair Athol Distillery is a must. Here, you can enjoy a guided tour and tasting session for £15.

Pitlochry is also well-known for its hospitality, with numerous B&Bs and hotels offering comfortable stays. Consider booking in advance, especially during the summer months when the town is busy with tourists.

Aberfeldy is a lively town located on the River Tay, known for its outdoor activities and impressive scenery. It's an ideal destination for those looking to engage in kayaking, fishing, or hiking. The Birks of Aberfeldy, a scenic woodland walk immortalized by poet Robert Burns, is a must-see. This 2-hour circular walk is free to enjoy and has remarkable views of waterfalls and lush forests.

Aberfeldy is also home to Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery, where whisky enthusiasts can enjoy a detailed tour and tasting session for £17. The town itself has a welcoming community, with a selection of local eateries serving up delicious Scottish cuisine. The Three Lemons has a popular menu with dishes averaging £15.

For a distinctive shopping enjoy, visit the Watermill Bookshop, Gallery & Cafe. This award-winning venue is housed in a beautifully restored former oatmeal mill and has a relaxing spot to enjoy a coffee while browsing an impressive selection of books and artworks.

Situated on the banks of the River Tay, Dunkeld is one of Perthshire's most scenic towns, full of history. Its pleasant streets are lined with 18th-century buildings, and the majestic Dunkeld Cathedral, partially ruined, is a testament to the town's historic past. Visiting the cathedral is free, although donations are appreciated to help with its upkeep.

Dunkeld is surrounded by impressive landscapes, with the Hermitage woodland walk offering a serene escape into nature. This easy walk is famous for its towering Douglas firs and the scenic Ossian's Hall overlooking the Black Linn waterfall.

The town also has a lively music scene with regular folk sessions at the Taybank Hotel. If you're visiting in October, the Dunkeld and Birnam Traditional Music Festival showcases local talent and is a highlight for music lovers. Accommodation options include pleasant inns and guesthouses, with prices starting from £80 per night.

Crieff is a busy market town that serves as a gateway to the Highlands. Known for its whisky heritage, the Glenturret Distillery, one of Scotland's oldest, has insightful tours and tastings for £15. Crieff is also home to the well-known Crieff Hydro, a family-friendly resort offering a range of activities including horse riding, golf, and spa treatments.

The town itself is pleasant, with a variety of shops, cafes, and galleries to see. For a taste of local cuisine, visit the Lounge in Crieff, where you can enjoy a meal for around £20. Crieff is also the starting point for several scenic walks, including the Lady Mary’s Walk along the banks of the River Earn.

For those interested in history, the Drummond Castle Gardens, located just outside Crieff, are worth visiting. These formal gardens, dating back to the 17th century, are some of Scotland's finest and can be explored for an entry fee of £10.

Blairgowrie is a pleasant town known for its rich agricultural history, particularly in soft fruit production. During the summer months, the fields surrounding Blairgowrie are alive with berry picking, offering fresh strawberries, raspberries, and more. A popular activity for families, many local farms offer 'pick your own' options, typically charging by weight.

Blairgowrie is also a gateway to the impressive landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, making it a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts. The Cateran Trail, a 64-mile circular walk, passes through the town and showcases some of the region's most beautiful scenery. For those less inclined to large hikes, the River Ericht has pleasant, shorter walks.

The town has a welcoming atmosphere with a range of local shops and cafes. The Old Cross Inn is a local favorite for pub meals, with mains priced around £12. With its combination of natural beauty and local produce, Blairgowrie has a pleasant taste of rural Perthshire.

Located at the northern end of Loch Tay, Kenmore is a scenic village great for those seeking tranquility. The village is dominated by the presence of the impressive loch, which has opportunities for a variety of water sports including kayaking and fishing. Boat hire is available from the Kenmore Marina, with prices starting at £20 per hour.

Kenmore is also home to the historic Kenmore Hotel, one of Scotland's oldest inns, dating back to 1572. It's a great spot to enjoy traditional Scottish hospitality and cuisine, with dishes averaging £18. The nearby Scottish Crannog Centre has a fascinating insight into Iron Age life, with guided tours costing £9.

The village is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding countryside, with plenty of walking and cycling trails in the area. Taymouth Castle, although closed to the public, is a impressive site to view from the outside and adds to the village's charm.

situated at the western end of Loch Tay, Killin is a small village known for its impressive natural beauty. The Falls of Dochart, located at the village's entrance, are a spectacular sight, especially after rain. The stone bridge over the falls has a perfect vantage point for photographs, and the adjacent Dochart Inn provides a cozy spot for a meal or drink.

Killin is a popular spot for hikers, with the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve nearby. Ben Lawers itself is a challenging climb, but the views from the summit, if the weather is clear, are worth the effort. For those seeking a gentler walk, the Killin to Kenmore path has a scenic route along the loch.

The village also has a rich history, with the Breadalbane Folklore Centre providing insights into local legends and stories. Entry is free, though donations are appreciated. With its combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage, Killin has a quintessential Perthshire enjoy.

Comrie, located at the edge of the Highlands, is a village full of character and charm. Known for its friendly community and scenic setting, Comrie is an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy a traditional Scottish village. The village is noted for its annual Comrie Fortnight, a two-week festival in July featuring parades, sports, and music.

Comrie's history as a spa destination is reflected in its beautiful architecture and pleasant parks. The Earthquake House, a small stone building on the outskirts, marks the village's past as a site of seismic monitoring. It's a quirky yet interesting attraction to visit.

The village is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Glen Lednock circular walk offering impressive views of waterfalls and glens. For a taste of local fare, the Royal Hotel serves excellent meals, with mains around £16. Comrie's blend of charm, history, and natural beauty makes it a pleasant place to visit.

Auchterarder, often referred to as the 'Lang Toun' due to its long main street, is best known as the home of the world-famous Gleneagles Hotel. This luxurious resort has a range of activities from golfing on its championship courses to fine dining experiences. Even if you're not staying at Gleneagles, visitors can enjoy afternoon tea or a round of golf, with prices for non-members starting at £150.

Auchterarder itself is a pleasant town with a range of independent shops and cafes. The town is a great place to wander, with its mix of distinctive boutiques and traditional Scottish architecture. For a taste of local cuisine, Jon & Fernanda's Restaurant has an acclaimed dining enjoy, with mains priced around £25.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Ochil Hills provide excellent walking opportunities, and the nearby Tullibardine Distillery has tours for £10, showcasing the art of whisky making. Auchterarder is a perfect blend of luxury, charm, and natural beauty.

Scone, a small village near Perth, is best known for its historical significance as the crowning site of Scottish kings. The main attraction is Scone Palace, a impressive example of Georgian architecture set in beautiful grounds. The palace is open to the public, with entry priced at £12, and has a glimpse into Scotland's royal history.

The grounds of Scone Palace are great for a leisurely stroll, with the chance to see peacocks and Highland cattle. The Moot Hill, where kings were crowned, is a highlight of any visit. The palace also hosts events throughout the year, including the annual Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust Fair in July.

Scone itself is a quaint village with a few local shops and cafes. It's a short drive from Perth, making it an easy day trip. For those interested in history and heritage, Scone has a fascinating insight into Scotland's past.