Perthshire, often called “the Big County”, is the fourth largest historic county in Scotland. Known for its diverse landscapes, it transitions from fertile agricultural lowlands in the east to the rugged mountains of the southern Highlands.
The region is famous as “Big Tree Country” due to its extensive woodlands, including some of Britain’s tallest and oldest trees. Perthshire is a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage, offering everything from serene lochs and dramatic waterfalls to ancient castles, many of which you can see here.
Natural Attractions and Scenic Spots
- Queen’s View: A famous viewpoint near Pitlochry overlooking the stunning Loch Tummel.
- The Hermitage: A beautiful woodland walk along the River Braan, leading to Black Linn Falls.
- Kinnoull Hill: Provides panoramic views over the city of Perth and the River Tay from its summit.
- Falls of Bruar: A series of picturesque waterfalls set within a beautiful 18th-century plantation.
- Loch of the Lowes: A wildlife reserve where you can spot ospreys, red squirrels, and other native species.
- Tay Forest Park: A collection of woodlands with towering trees, scenic walks, and a variety of wildlife.
- The Birks of Aberfeldy: A circular walk along a gorge with waterfalls, famously celebrated in a poem by Robert Burns.
- Killiecrankie Gorge: The site of a famous Jacobite battle, now a dramatic, wooded gorge.
- Drummond Castle Gardens: Considered one of Europe’s finest formal gardens, known for its Italianate parterre.
- Loch Leven: A large loch with a national nature reserve and a castle on an island.
Historic Sites and Ruins
- Scone Palace: The ancient crowning place of Scottish kings, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.
- Blair Castle: Home to Europe’s only remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders.
- Dunkeld Cathedral: A beautiful, partially-ruined cathedral on the banks of the River Tay.
- Lochleven Castle: A small island fortress where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567.
- Huntingtower Castle: A unique, well-preserved medieval castle with two separate towers.
- Elcho Castle: A remarkably complete 16th-century fortified mansion overlooking the River Tay.
- Abernethy Round Tower: A 11th-century Pictish tower and one of only two in Scotland.
- Stanley Mills: A well-preserved cotton mill complex from the Industrial Revolution.
- Meigle Sculptured Stone Museum: Houses one of Europe’s most important collections of Pictish carved stones.
- Cultybraggan Camp: A former WWII prisoner-of-war camp, now a scheduled monument and museum.
Museums and Cultural Sites
- Perth Museum: A new world-class museum showcasing the history of Perthshire, and the new home of the Stone of Destiny.
- The Black Watch Castle & Museum: Located in Balhousie Castle, it tells the story of Scotland’s oldest Highland regiment.
- The Scottish Crannog Centre: A reconstruction of an Iron Age loch dwelling, offering a glimpse into prehistoric life.
- Pitlochry Festival Theatre: A well-regarded theatre in the hills, known for its diverse year-round programme.
- Perth Art Gallery: Features a collection of works by influential modern Scottish artists.
- Atholl Country Life Museum: Located in Blair Atholl, it showcases the area’s rich agricultural history.
- Meigle Museum: One of Scotland’s most important collections of early medieval Pictish sculptures.
- Innerpeffray Library: Scotland’s oldest lending library, with books dating back to the 16th century.
- Birnam Arts: A creative hub with a theatre, gallery, and a garden inspired by Beatrix Potter.
- Glenturret Distillery: Scotland’s oldest working distillery, offering tours and tastings.
Any Other Notable Experiences
- Whisky Distilleries: Tour and taste Scotland’s national drink at numerous distilleries like The Glenturret.
- Outdoor Adventures: Kayak on the River Tay, go bungee jumping, or hike in the hills.
- Highland Safaris: Take a Land Rover safari to spot red deer, grouse, and other wildlife.
- The Cateran Trail: Walk or cycle a long-distance route through Perthshire and the Angus glens.
- Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier: Visit the home of the award-winning chocolatier near Pitlochry.
- Blair Atholl Watermill: Scotland’s last working watermill, producing and selling its own stoneground flour.
- Loch Tay Safaris: Discover the history and folklore of Perthshire’s largest loch on a boat tour.
- Gleneagles: A world-renowned luxury resort with three championship golf courses.
- Walking & Cycling: Explore the vast network of paths and trails, including the River Tay Way.
- Beatrix Potter Exhibition: Learn about the author’s connection to Birnam and see her original artwork.
Some sites may have limited access or be in ruins. Museums / attractions may have seasonal hours, for the most up-to-date details, such as opening hours or entry fees, check official websites or Google Maps reviews.