Best Landmarks near The Hermitage

Nestled on the banks of the River Tay in Dunkeld, this historic cathedral dates back over 1,400 years to Celtic monastic roots. Partly ruined after the Reformation, its choir serves as an active parish church of the Church of Scotland. Explore ancient memorials, a chapter house museum with Pictish stones, and serene grounds featuring the historic Parent Larch tree. Free entry, open daily with seasonal hours.

Dunkeld Bridge, completed in 1809 by renowned engineer Thomas Telford, is a seven-arch stone bridge spanning the River Tay in Dunkeld, Scotland. This elegant humpback bridge connects the parishes of Dunkeld and Dowally to Little Dunkeld, serving as a vital transport link and a historic architectural landmark. Its construction marked a major advancement in Highland infrastructure, replacing unreliable ferry crossings and facilitating trade and travel in the region.

Standing on the south bank of the River Tay near Dunkeld, the Birnam Oak is a majestic sessile oak believed to be the last survivor of the legendary Birnam Wood from Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Centuries old, with a hollow trunk and branches propped on wooden crutches, this ancient tree is a living link to Scotland’s natural and literary history. A short, scenic walk from Birnam village leads through riverside woodland to this iconic tree, often accompanied by the equally impressive Birnam Sycamore. It’s a peaceful, atmospheric spot where history, myth and nature converge.

Ballathie House Hotel is a distinguished 19th-century country house hotel nestled on the banks of the River Tay near Perth, Scotland. Set within a sprawling 1500-acre estate, it offers 41 traditionally styled bedrooms across the main house, riverside cottages, and a lodge, blending period charm with modern comforts. Renowned for its award-winning 2 AA Rosette dining and warm Scottish hospitality, Ballathie provides a tranquil retreat amid scenic Perthshire countryside, ideal for relaxation, fine dining, and outdoor pursuits such as fishing and shooting.

A hidden gem nestled in the Scottish Highlands near Aberfeldy, St Mary's Church is a rare surviving pre-Reformation rural chapel renowned for its spectacular 1636 painted ceiling. This austere whitewashed building, resembling a longhouse from the outside, conceals an interior adorned with 29 ornate panels depicting biblical scenes, saints, and the virtues of Christian death—one of only two post-Reformation church ceilings still in its original setting.

An exceptionally well-preserved Pictish cross-slab standing over two metres tall near Pitlochry in Perthshire. Dating to around the 8th or 9th century AD, this red sandstone monument features intricate Celtic knotwork on one side and mysterious Pictish symbols—including warriors, animals, and geometric patterns—on the reverse. Protected within a small shelter, it offers a rare window into the artistic and spiritual life of the ancient Picts and the early spread of Christianity in Scotland.

Moness Resort is a 4-star family-friendly haven in Perthshire's countryside, blending historic charm from its 1758 hunting lodge origins with modern luxuries. Spread across 35 acres near Aberfeldy, it offers an indoor pool, full-service spa, two restaurants, games room, playground, and self-catering cottages. Ideal for relaxation, family fun, or romantic escapes amid stunning Scottish scenery.

A fibreglass statue of Scotland's national poet Robert Burns sits contemplatively on a wooden bench near the entrance to the Birks of Aberfeldy walking trail. Positioned at the start of this 2.5-mile circular woodland walk through a scenic gorge, the statue depicts Burns composing his famous 1787 poem inspired by the Falls of Moness and surrounding birch trees. Visitors often pause for photographs alongside the seated figure before exploring the dramatic landscape that captivated the bard.

A charming family-run bed and breakfast in Highland Perthshire, blending historic elegance with modern comforts. Offering 15 unique en-suite rooms, exceptional breakfasts, free parking, and Wi-Fi, it's perfectly positioned on the edge of Aberfeldy town centre for exploring cafes, shops, and outdoor adventures like white-water rafting.

Nestled in the heart of Aberfeldy, the Schiehallion Hotel blends historic charm with modern comforts. This family-run gem offers spacious ensuite rooms, a lively bar, and hearty Scottish fare. Perfect base for Perthshire adventures like distillery tours, hiking, and white-water rafting, with friendly service and dog-friendly vibes.