Caithness Glass at Crieff Visitor Centre
Experience the artistry of Scottish glassmaking and explore unique gifts at Caithness Glass within Crieff Visitor Centre.
Located within the Crieff Visitor Centre in Perthshire, Caithness Glass offers a captivating experience showcasing traditional Scottish glassmaking. Visitors can watch skilled artisans craft exquisite paperweights and glassware in a close-up studio environment, explore a diverse gift shop featuring Caithness Glass and other quality brands, and enjoy creative activities like glass painting. The centre also includes a café and exhibits on local history, making it a multifaceted cultural destination.
A brief summary to Caithness Glass
- Crieff Visitors Centre, Muthill Rd, Crieff, PH7 4HQ, GB
- +441764654014
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Don’t miss the free glassmaking viewing gallery open Monday to Friday to watch skilled artisans at work.
- Book your glass painting session in advance to ensure availability and enjoy a creative hands-on experience.
- Explore the extensive gift shop for unique Caithness Glass pieces and local Scottish crafts.
- Visit The Drovers café within the centre for fresh local food, cakes, and refreshments.
- Check for any factory closures or maintenance days before planning your visit to the glassmaking gallery.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Crieff town centre to the Visitor Centre with a travel time of approximately 10 to 15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with tickets costing around £2-£4. Accessibility features vary by service.
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Car
Driving to Crieff Visitor Centre from Perth takes about 25 to 35 minutes via the A85. Ample free parking is available onsite. Note occasional maintenance closures of the glass factory, so check ahead.
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Train and Taxi
The nearest train station is in Perth, about 25 km away. From there, a taxi ride to the Visitor Centre takes roughly 30 minutes and costs approximately £30-£40. This option is suitable for visitors preferring a direct route.
Caithness Glass location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Caithness Glass
A Legacy of Scottish Glassmaking Excellence
Caithness Glass, based at the Crieff Visitor Centre since 2007, continues a proud tradition of fine glassmaking dating back to 1961. Renowned worldwide for its innovative abstract glass paperweights and art glass, the company exemplifies craftsmanship and artistry. Visitors gain a unique insight into the glassmaking process by observing skilled craftsmen and craftswomen at work in a dedicated studio environment. The factory viewing gallery offers a rare opportunity to witness molten glass transformed into elegant vases, whisky glasses, and intricate paperweights, highlighting the precision and dedication behind each piece.Immersive Visitor Experience and Creative Engagement
The visitor centre invites guests to engage beyond observation. Glass painting sessions, available daily, allow visitors of all ages to explore their creativity by decorating glass items in a specially designed painting area. Although the popular 'Make Your Own Paperweight' experience has been discontinued, the centre still offers a hands-on, immersive atmosphere that appeals to families, art lovers, and casual visitors alike. The glassmaking gallery is free to enter and open Monday to Friday, while the gift shop and painting area operate seven days a week.Extensive Gift Shop and Local Crafts Showcase
The Caithness Glass shop is a treasure trove of unique Scottish gifts, featuring an extensive range of handcrafted glass paperweights, whisky and wine glasses, and art glass pieces. Beyond Caithness products, the shop stocks complementary brands such as Dartington Crystal, John Beswick ceramics, and Royal Brierley glassware. Additionally, visitors can find a variety of local crafts, fine soaps, textiles, fashion accessories, and a curated selection of whiskies and liqueurs. This makes the shop an ideal destination for holiday gifts, souvenirs, or personal indulgences.The Crieff Visitor Centre: A Cultural and Historical Hub
Caithness Glass is part of the wider Crieff Visitor Centre complex, which also features the Drovers exhibition—an engaging display that explores the history and hardships of the local people and the region’s role in Scotland’s cattle droving heritage. The centre includes a garden centre and a café known as The Drovers, offering fresh local produce, cakes, and refreshments in a welcoming setting. The centre’s location amidst scenic Perthshire countryside adds to its appeal as a cultural and leisure destination.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The centre is fully accessible, with wheelchair access, accessible toilets, and facilities for visitors with limited mobility. Ample parking is available onsite, and the centre welcomes families with children, providing a children’s play area and family-friendly amenities. The gift shop and café operate daily from 9am to 5pm, while the glassmaking gallery is open weekdays from 9am to 4pm. Admission to the gallery is free, making it an accessible experience for all visitors.Seasonal Operations and Visitor Tips
The glass factory occasionally closes for maintenance and during the Christmas period, with updates communicated via the centre’s channels. Visitors are advised to check opening times in advance, especially for the glassmaking gallery. While the glass painting sessions run daily in hour-long slots, booking ahead is recommended to secure a place. The centre’s combination of art, history, shopping, and dining ensures a rich and varied visit throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Inchbrakie Monument
4.6 km
A serene Scottish landmark honoring the vanished Inchbrakie estate, its ancient yew, and storied past.
Melville Monument
9.5 km
A commanding granite obelisk atop Dun More hill, honoring Henry Dundas with breathtaking views over Perthshire’s scenic landscapes.
Ruins of Kincardine Castle
13.0 km
Explore the evocative 13th-century ruins of Kincardine Castle, a royal Scottish fortress steeped in medieval history and surrounded by tranquil farmland.
Perthshire Treks
20.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Perthshire with guided hiking tours from Perthshire Treks, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Stone circle
23.7 km
Discover the ancient Neolithic Croft Moraig Stone Circle near Easdale, a serene and mysterious prehistoric landmark in Perthshire’s countryside.
memorial
25.3 km
A solemn stone memorial honouring Stirling's fallen, set within a verdant park of woodland walks and quiet reflection.
Scone Palace
26.3 km
Experience the rich history and stunning gardens at Scone Palace, a royal heritage site in Perth, Scotland, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.
Pine Cone Point
26.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Pine Cone Point in Dunkeld, a scenic haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
The Fair Maid of Perth
26.4 km
Explore The Fair Maid of Perth, a stunning sculpture that captures the charm of Scottish folklore in the vibrant heart of Perth.
VisitScotland Perth iCentre
26.4 km
Explore Perth with ease at the VisitScotland iCentre, your go-to resource for local attractions, events, and travel tips in Scotland's historic city.
Greyfriars Burial Ground
26.4 km
Discover the serene ambiance and historical significance of Greyfriars Burial Ground in Perth, a peaceful retreat rich with stories from the past.
Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust
26.4 km
Explore the Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust - a cultural gem showcasing Scotland's rich history and community heritage.
The Scottish Crannog Centre
26.5 km
Explore Scotland's Iron Age at The Scottish Crannog Centre, an open-air museum on the shores of Loch Tay, rich in history and culture.
Smeaton's Bridge
26.6 km
Historic 18th-century stone bridge spanning the River Tay in Perth, blending engineering brilliance with scenic charm and rich heritage.
Stirling Old Bridge
26.6 km
Discover the stunning Stirling Old Bridge, a historic landmark over the River Forth, blending medieval architecture with breathtaking views.
Unmissable attractions to see
MacRosty Park
1.8 km
A tranquil Victorian-era park in Crieff featuring mature conifers, a historic bandstand, scenic walks, and panoramic views across Strathearn.
Drummond Castle Gardens
2.3 km
Explore Scotland’s finest Renaissance gardens with stunning terraces, historic trees, and cinematic charm near Crieff.
The Glenturret Distillery
2.9 km
Scotland’s oldest working distillery, blending centuries-old craft with world-class whisky and Michelin-starred dining in scenic Perthshire.
Perthshire Views
4.3 km
Tranquil self-catering accommodation in scenic Crieff, offering a peaceful gateway to Perthshire’s natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Auchingarrich Wildlife Park
7.1 km
Discover wildlife wonders and family adventures in the scenic Perthshire hills at Auchingarrich Wildlife and Adventure Park.
Cultybraggan Camp
8.7 km
Explore Scotland’s last WWII prisoner of war camp, a site of intense history, community revival, and preserved heritage near Comrie.
Tullibardine Chapel
8.8 km
Discover Tullibardine Chapel, a rare, unaltered medieval Scottish church steeped in history, family legacy, and serene beauty amid Perthshire’s tranquil farmland.
The Gleneagles Hotel
10.8 km
Experience timeless Scottish luxury and world-class golf in the breathtaking Perthshire countryside at The Gleneagles Hotel.
Strath Allan
13.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich wildlife of Strath Allan, a tranquil ravine near historic Dunblane in central Scotland.
Maggie Wall Witch Monument
16.2 km
Explore the Maggie Wall Witch Monument in Dunning, a haunting tribute to Scotland's witch trials and a reflection on societal change.
St Serf's Church & Dupplin Cross
17.2 km
Explore St Serf's Church and the Dupplin Cross, a stunning blend of medieval architecture and Pictish heritage in the heart of Perthshire.
Gloagburn Farm Shop
19.1 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly fun in the heart of Perthshire.
Dunblane Cathedral
20.5 km
Discover Dunblane Cathedral’s rich medieval heritage, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant stained glass in the heart of historic Dunblane.
Scottish Antiques & Arts Centre
22.5 km
Explore Scotland’s premier antiques and arts destination nestled in scenic Doune with over 200 dealers, a bistro, and year-round charm.
David Stirling Memorial
22.6 km
A striking tribute on the Hill of Row honoring Colonel Sir David Stirling, founder of the SAS, set against breathtaking Highland vistas.
Essential places to dine
The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant
2.9 km
Experience Michelin-starred fine dining in an intimate setting within Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery, blending heritage, luxury, and innovative cuisine.
Coorie Inn Restaurant & Rooms, Crieff
3.7 km
Cosy boutique inn near Crieff offering seasonal Scottish cuisine, elegant rooms, and warm hospitality in a tranquil village setting.
Restaurant Andrew Fairlie
10.8 km
Scotland’s only two-Michelin-star restaurant, blending exquisite local ingredients with warm, refined service in Gleneagles’ elegant setting.
The Kirkstyle Inn
17.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine at The Kirkstyle Inn in Dunning - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery
22.7 km
A charming Scottish pub in Perth offering hearty carvery meals and warm hospitality in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
The No 5 Inn
23.3 km
Historic Scottish pub and vibrant bar & grill in Alva offering hearty local dishes, warm hospitality, and a cozy atmosphere.
Friend Of Mine
23.8 km
A vibrant, modern restaurant in Bridge of Allan serving creative small plates, bao buns, and vegan delights in a welcoming, dog-friendly setting.
The Crook bar and Bistro
23.8 km
A lively tapas bar and bistro in Bridge of Allan blending friendly service with flavorful small plates in a vibrant setting.
Nick's
23.9 km
A modern British restaurant in Bridge of Allan offering fresh, locally inspired dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting with attentive service.
Nairn's
23.9 km
Contemporary Scottish cuisine led by acclaimed chef Nick Nairn in the heart of Bridge of Allan.
La Cucina
23.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Bridge of Allan at La Cucina.
The Meadowpark
24.3 km
Charming British bar, restaurant, and boutique hotel offering home-cooked meals and cozy rooms in scenic Bridge of Allan, Stirling.
SMUGGLERS Bar & Bistro
24.3 km
A bright and welcoming village bistro in Tillicoultry serving fresh, comforting pub classics with friendly service and good value.
The Maltings - Pub & Grill
24.7 km
A modern pub and grill in Perth offering flame-grilled classics, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining.
The Woodsman Restaurant Fishcross Scotland
25.0 km
Rustic Scottish country dining with hearty portions and warm hospitality in the charming village of Fishcross.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nutcracker
0.1 km
A year‑round Christmas wonderland in Crieff, packed with festive decorations, ornaments, and holiday magic for every season.
Bear Necessities
11.5 km
A personalized fashion boutique in Auchterarder offering stylish clothing and accessories for everyday and special occasions.
Grace & Favours
11.6 km
Discover unique gifts and warm hospitality at Grace & Favours, a charming boutique in the heart of Auchterarder’s High Street.
Unique
20.7 km
Discover Unique, Dunblane’s charming gift shop offering curated treasures and local charm on historic High Street.
Higglety Pigglety
23.5 km
Discover unique gifts, crafts, and fabrics in the charming heart of Alva, nestled beneath the scenic Ochil Hills.
Nutshell | Homewares & Lifestyle
23.8 km
Discover unique homewares and lifestyle treasures at Nutshell, Bridge of Allan’s beloved boutique for charming and surprising décor.
thewoodbubble
24.4 km
Explore The Wood Bubble, a charming gift shop in Tillicoultry showcasing handcrafted wooden treasures perfect for unique souvenirs.
adidas Outlet Store Clackmannanshire
24.7 km
Find unbeatable deals on authentic adidas sportswear in the scenic Sterling Mills Outlet Shopping Village, Tillicoultry.
Mountain Warehouse
24.7 km
Affordable, quality outdoor gear and clothing at Sterling Mills, your gateway to Scotland’s scenic adventures.
Affinity Sterling Mills Outlet Shopping
24.7 km
Outlet shopping with Ochil Hill views, over 25 brands, free parking, and family-friendly facilities.
Kitty at Home
24.8 km
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1097
25.7 km
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Fun Junction
25.9 km
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Marians Of Perth
26.0 km
Marian's of Perth: Over 40 years of elegant, inclusive ladies' fashion and personalized service in the heart of Scotland’s historic city.
The New Wool Shop
26.0 km
A welcoming wool and needlecraft shop in Perth offering quality yarns, expert advice, and a vibrant crafting community.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glover Arms
23.0 km
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The Cairn
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The Woolpack Inn
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The Bawbee
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Westerton Arms
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Royal Arms
24.1 km
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Volunteer Arms
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Cherrybank Inn
24.4 km
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Bridge Street Bar
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The William Wallace
25.3 km
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Abbotsford Lounge Bar
25.5 km
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The Inn
25.5 km
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Ormonds
25.9 km
A friendly Perth pub serving hearty, affordable Scottish classics with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
Robert Burns Lounge
26.0 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Perth with lively karaoke nights, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Silvery Tay
26.0 km
Historic charm meets local ales and live music in Perth’s beloved Silvery Tay pub on South Street.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
