Free Perthshire Travel Guide & Mobile App

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Perthshire
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Explore Perthshire’s historic towns, forested glens, Highland lochs, riverside paths, castles and mountain landscapes in central Scotland.

Perthshire occupies a broad transition zone in central Scotland, stretching from the fertile straths around Perth into the wooded valleys and mountains of the Highlands. The River Tay and its tributaries shape much of the landscape, while the region's changing terrain brings together farmland, lochs, forest, moorland and peaks. Perth, the region's principal city, stands near the meeting of important routes through Scotland and provides a useful gateway to both the lowland east and the Highland country to the north and west.
Read more about Perthshire
The southern and eastern parts of Perthshire are associated with productive farmland, estate landscapes and historic settlements. Perth itself has a compact centre, riverside walks and strong links to Scotland's medieval monarchy, while nearby Scone is closely connected with the inauguration of Scottish kings. Around Blairgowrie and Alyth, fertile land and soft-fruit growing have long influenced the local economy. To the west, Crieff and Comrie combine spa-town history, wooded hills and access to the southern Highlands.
Further north, the landscape becomes more dramatic. Dunkeld and Birnam sit beside the River Tay beneath wooded slopes, with a cathedral, historic streets and pathways into the forest. Aberfeldy is a base for exploring Highland Perthshire, including Loch Tay, Castle Menzies and the Birks of Aberfeldy. Pitlochry, a long-established tourist town, provides access to mountain scenery, theatre, walking routes and the Pass of Killiecrankie. Blair Atholl lies beyond the pass beneath the Grampian mountains, with Blair Castle marking centuries of political and military history.
Perthshire's natural appeal is closely tied to its forests and watercourses. Seasonal colour is especially notable in autumn, while the Tay and its lochs support fishing, paddling and riverside recreation. Walking ranges from gentle woodland trails to demanding mountain ascents, including routes around Schiehallion and Glen Lyon. Conditions can change quickly in upland areas, so route planning and suitable equipment matter even on days that begin in settled towns.
Food and drink reflect both agricultural Perthshire and Highland traditions. Local menus commonly draw on Scottish beef, lamb, game, salmon, trout, berries and seasonal vegetables, while farm shops, country inns, cafés and distilleries provide varied ways to sample regional produce. The region's historic houses, battlefields, forests and villages are best explored at a measured pace, allowing for the considerable distances between the eastern lowlands and the mountain country.

When is the best time to visit Perthshire?

Best: June–August · 19–20°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January780
February760
March970
April1250
May1660
June (best)1970
July (best)2070
August (best)2080
September1770
October1390
November790
December6100

Getting to and around Perthshire

How to get there

Perth is the principal railway gateway, with direct rail links from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, Inverness and other Scottish destinations; some services continue towards northern Scotland. Perthshire is also reached by the A9 from the central belt towards Pitlochry and the Highlands, while the A90 and other trunk roads connect Perth with Dundee and eastern Scotland. There is no major international passenger airport within Perthshire. Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport are the main practical air gateways, both outside the region, with onward rail, coach or car connections. Dundee Airport, also outside Perthshire, can be useful for some domestic journeys.

Transportation

Rail and bus services connect Perth with several larger towns, but rural glens, lochs and estate attractions are much more dispersed. A car is useful for reaching places such as Glen Lyon, Loch Tay, Blair Atholl and remote walking trailheads, although roads may be narrow and slow in upland areas. Perth, Dunkeld, Pitlochry and parts of Aberfeldy can be explored partly on foot, with local buses serving some principal routes. Cyclists should plan carefully around gradients, weather and traffic on trunk roads. Taxis are available in larger settlements but may need to be arranged in advance for rural journeys.

Top city travel guides in Perthshire

The cities of Perthshire, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Perthshire

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Best attractions in Perthshire

Perthshire's attractions range from royal and aristocratic heritage to forests, rivers and mountain routes. Scone Palace explains the area's association with Scottish kings, while Blair Castle near Blair Atholl presents the history of one of Scotland's influential families and its estate. Dunkeld Cathedral, Castle Menzies near Aberfeldy and the largely ruined Huntingtower Castle near Perth add architectural depth across different parts of the region. The Battle of Killiecrankie visitor area interprets the Jacobite conflict and the strategic pass. Outdoor attractions are equally important: the River Tay, Loch Tay, Loch Tummel, the Birks of Aberfeldy and extensive woodland trails offer walking, cycling, fishing and water-based recreation. Schiehallion provides a well-known mountain objective, while quieter glens such as Glen Lyon appeal to visitors seeking longer drives and more remote walking. Pitlochry Festival Theatre adds a cultural dimension, and Perth's museums, galleries and riverside spaces provide accessible options when weather limits outdoor plans.

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Best landmarks in Perthshire

Scone Palace is Perthshire's most politically resonant landmark, occupying the site associated with the inauguration of Scottish monarchs and preserving a powerful royal landscape near Perth. Dunkeld Cathedral, beside the River Tay, combines medieval ecclesiastical remains with the visual character of a historic riverside settlement. Blair Castle is a prominent white-walled landmark in Highland Perthshire and reflects the long influence of the Atholl family. Castle Menzies near Aberfeldy is a substantial sixteenth-century fortified house whose architecture records the uncertain conditions of Renaissance Scotland. The Pass of Killiecrankie is both a geographical landmark and a battlefield, its steep wooded sides explaining why the route mattered militarily. Schiehallion forms one of the region's most recognisable mountain profiles, while the Tay provides a defining natural axis from Perth through Dunkeld and into the Highland landscape. Together these places express Perthshire's blend of royal history, clan society, strategic terrain, architecture and river country.

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Explore Perthshire on the map

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Best restaurants in Perthshire

Perthshire dining draws on the produce of its farms, rivers, forests and orchards. Menus commonly feature Scottish beef and lamb, game in season, salmon and trout, alongside vegetables, cheeses, breads and berries from the wider region. Blairgowrie and the surrounding countryside are particularly associated with soft-fruit growing, while farm shops and food halls provide opportunities to buy local produce for picnics or self-catering. Perth, Dunkeld, Pitlochry, Crieff and Aberfeldy offer the broadest choice of restaurants, cafés, bakeries and pubs, while rural inns remain important for hearty lunches and evening meals. Whisky from Perthshire distilleries and locally produced beer often accompany food, though the region's dining culture is not limited to drinks. Booking is sensible in smaller towns during summer, autumn foliage season and major theatre or event dates, when table numbers can be limited.

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Best bars in Perthshire

Perthshire's evening life is centred more on pubs, hotel bars, restaurants, theatre and live music than on a large nightclub scene. Perth has the widest choice, with traditional pubs, contemporary bars and venues that attract a local evening crowd. Pitlochry combines welcoming pubs and restaurants with audiences attending performances at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, while Dunkeld and Aberfeldy offer smaller selections of historic inns, bars and places to sample local whisky or beer. Crieff and other market towns have a similarly relaxed pattern, with activity concentrated around the town centre and weekends. In rural districts, evenings are quieter and often organised around a pub meal, a drinks tasting or conversation rather than late-night entertainment. Opening arrangements vary considerably outside the larger settlements, so visitors staying in a glen should plan transport and avoid assuming that a taxi or venue will be available late at night.

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Best nightclubs in Perthshire

Perthshire's evening life is centred more on pubs, hotel bars, restaurants, theatre and live music than on a large nightclub scene. Perth has the widest choice, with traditional pubs, contemporary bars and venues that attract a local evening crowd. Pitlochry combines welcoming pubs and restaurants with audiences attending performances at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, while Dunkeld and Aberfeldy offer smaller selections of historic inns, bars and places to sample local whisky or beer. Crieff and other market towns have a similarly relaxed pattern, with activity concentrated around the town centre and weekends. In rural districts, evenings are quieter and often organised around a pub meal, a drinks tasting or conversation rather than late-night entertainment. Opening arrangements vary considerably outside the larger settlements, so visitors staying in a glen should plan transport and avoid assuming that a taxi or venue will be available late at night.

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Best shops in Perthshire

Perth is the region's main shopping centre, with a conventional high street, independent retailers, galleries, cafés and access to larger stores. Smaller towns provide a more local pattern: Dunkeld is known for independent shops and galleries in historic streets, while Pitlochry and Aberfeldy cater strongly to visitors seeking crafts, outdoor goods, books, whisky and regional food. Crieff has long-standing connections with antiques and interior-related shopping, although individual businesses and opening arrangements change. Farm shops and produce outlets are useful for Perthshire berries, preserves, smoked foods, baking and locally made drinks. Craft products may include textiles, woodwork, ceramics and jewellery, but visitors should check provenance when buying items described as local. Markets and seasonal fairs can add to the retail experience, particularly in larger settlements, though dates vary and should be confirmed before planning a journey.

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Perthshire essentials

Currency and Payment
Perthshire uses the pound sterling, with the currency code GBP, as part of the United Kingdom. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in Perth, larger towns, hotels, attractions and most established restaurants. Carry some cash for small cafés, honesty boxes, rural stalls, occasional car parks and businesses in remote areas, where mobile reception or payment terminals may be unreliable. Banknotes issued by Scottish banks circulate alongside Bank of England notes, although visitors may find that some businesses outside Scotland are less familiar with particular Scottish designs.
Safety
Perthshire is generally a straightforward destination for visitors, but normal care is appropriate in towns, car parks and busy tourist areas. On hills and in remote glens, prepare for rapid changes in weather, limited mobile coverage, wet ground and earlier darkness outside summer. Follow marked routes where available and tell someone your plans for longer walks. Take care near fast-flowing rivers, lochs and reservoirs, and use caution on narrow rural roads, especially when passing cyclists, walkers, farm vehicles or wildlife. In winter, snow and ice can affect higher roads and paths.
Emergency Situations
Dial 999 or 112 anywhere in Perthshire for police, fire and ambulance emergencies. Ask for the coastguard only where relevant to a water incident; there is no coastline in Perthshire, but inland water emergencies should still be reported clearly to the emergency operator. For a mountain or remote outdoor incident, provide a precise location, grid reference or What3words address if available, and follow the operator's instructions. For non-urgent police matters, use Police Scotland's non-emergency contact arrangements rather than tying up emergency lines.
Do's and Don'ts
Do keep dogs under close control around livestock, close gates, follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code and leave no litter. Do give walkers and cyclists room on narrow roads, and allow farm vehicles to pass. At castles, churches and historic houses, follow photography and access rules and do not climb fragile structures. Do not assume that all land is available for vehicle access, camping or fires; responsible access in Scotland carries duties as well as rights. Tipping is discretionary rather than compulsory, but rounding up or leaving a modest amount for good service is customary in restaurants.
Local Tips
Perthshire rewards combining a town stay with a rural base, since Perth, Dunkeld, Pitlochry and Aberfeldy offer different access to the region's landscapes. Check seasonal opening arrangements before travelling to historic houses, gardens and small museums. Autumn woodland colour can make roads and car parks busy, while spring and summer bring longer daylight for outdoor activities. Local produce shops and farm cafés are useful places to find Perthshire berries, smoked fish, game and baking. For mountain walks, download maps or carry a paper map rather than depending entirely on mobile data.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHello[həˈloʊ]
GoodbyeCheerio[ˌtʃɪə.riˈoʊ]
YesAye[aɪ]
NoNae[neɪ]
Please/You're welcomePlease[pliːz]
Thank youCheers[tʃɪrz]
Excuse me/SorryExcuse me[ɪkˈskjuːz mi]
How are you?How's it gaun?[haʊz ɪt ɡɑːn]
Fine. And you?Braw. And yersel?[brɔː. ənd jərˈsɛl]
Do you speak English?D'ye speak English?[dʒə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
I don't understandAh dinnae ken[ɑː ˈdɪniː kɛn]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh'd like tae see the menu, please[ɑːd laɪk teɪ si ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
I don't eat meatAh dinnae eat meat[ɑː ˈdɪniː it miːt]
Cheers!Cheers![tʃɪrz]
I would like to pay, pleaseAh'd like tae pay, please[ɑːd laɪk teɪ peɪ pliːz]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![hɛlp]
Go away!G'way![ɡəˈweɪ]
Call the Police!Call the polis![kɔːl ðə ˈpoʊlɪs]
Call a doctor!Call a doc![kɔːl ə dɒk]
I'm lostAh'm lost[ɑːm lɒst]
I'm illAh'm no weel[ɑːm nɔʊ wiːl]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Ah'd like tae buy...[ɑːd laɪk teɪ baɪ]
I'm just lookingAh'm just lookin'[ɑːm dʒʌst ˈlʊkɪn]
How much is it?How much's that?[haʊ mʌtʃz ðæt]
That's too expensiveThat's ower pricey[ðæts ˈoʊər ˈpraɪsi]
Can you lower the price?Kin ye lower the price?[kɪn jə ˈloʊər ðə praɪs]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Whit time is it?[wɪt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock[ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
Half past (10)Half past ten[hɑːf pɑːst tɛn]
MorningMornin'[ˈmɔrnɪn]
AfternoonAfternoon[ˌɑːftərˈnuːn]
EveningEvenin'[ˈiːvnɪn]
YesterdayYesterday[ˈjɛstərdeɪ]
TodayToday[təˈdeɪ]
TomorrowMorrow[ˈmɒroʊ]
1One[wʌn]
2Two[tuː]
3Three[θriː]
4Four[fɔːr]
5Five[faɪv]
6Six[sɪks]
7Seven[ˈsɛvən]
8Eight[eɪt]
9Nine[naɪn]
10Ten[tɛn]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?[wɛrz ə/ðə]
What's the address?Whit’s the address?[wɪts ðə əˈdrɛs]
Can you show me (on the map)?Kin ye show me (on the map)?[kɪn jə ʃoʊ mi (ɒn ðə mæp)]
When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?[wɛn z ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
A ticket (to ....)A ticket (ta ...)[ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ...)]

History of Perthshire

Pictish Kingdoms and Early Christianity

Before the formation of medieval Scotland, much of Perthshire lay within the territory associated with the Picts. Carved stones and early ecclesiastical remains provide evidence of communities with distinctive artistic and religious traditions. The area around Dunkeld became an important Christian centre, and the later cathedral stands on a site with early medieval associations. Pictish Perthshire was not an isolated wilderness: its river valleys connected settlements and routes across central Scotland, while its position between lowland and Highland zones gave it strategic importance.

The Medieval Royal Landscape of Scone

Scone was one of medieval Scotland's most important political and ceremonial centres. Traditionally associated with the Stone of Scone, it was the setting for the inauguration of Scottish monarchs, including Robert the Bruce in 1306. The abbey founded there became a major religious institution before the Reformation. Although the medieval abbey has not survived intact, Scone's royal associations remain central to Perthshire's historical identity, and the later palace developed within the same landscape.

Burghs, Castles and Religious Foundations

During the medieval period, Perth developed as a royal burgh and an important centre for trade, administration and movement along the Tay. Castles and fortified houses appeared across the region, controlling routes through straths and passes. Religious houses at places such as Dunkeld and Inchaffray shaped landholding and local society before the Reformation. Perthshire's surviving tower houses, estate landscapes and ecclesiastical ruins reflect the political authority of powerful families and institutions rather than a single unified architectural style.

Reformation, Royal Conflict and the Jacobite Era

The sixteenth and seventeenth centuries brought religious upheaval and political conflict to Perthshire, as they did to Scotland more widely. The region's strategic passes made it significant during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms and later Jacobite risings. The Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689, fought near the pass north of Pitlochry, was an important Jacobite victory, although Viscount Dundee was killed and the rising soon lost momentum. The battlefield remains one of the clearest places to understand the military importance of Perthshire's terrain.

Agricultural Improvement and Estate Landscapes

From the eighteenth century, agricultural improvement reshaped much of Perthshire. Landowners reorganised farms, built planned villages and invested in roads, bridges, policies and ornamental planting. Commercial forestry became increasingly important, helping to create the wooded landscapes now associated with Highland Perthshire. At the same time, cattle, sheep, oats, fruit and other agricultural products supported market towns such as Crieff, Blairgowrie and Perth. Many walled gardens, avenues and estate buildings visible today are legacies of this period.

Tourism, Railways and the Romantic Highlands

Improved roads and the arrival of railways in the nineteenth century made Perthshire more accessible to visitors from Scotland's cities and further afield. Writers, artists and tourists were drawn to the area's mountains, forests, rivers and associations with Scottish history. Pitlochry expanded as a resort, while Dunkeld, Aberfeldy and other settlements benefited from the growing interest in Highland scenery. Tourism brought hotels, guidebooks and new forms of recreation, while also reshaping local economies that had previously depended more heavily on agriculture and estate work.

Perthshire in the Modern Era

Twentieth-century Perthshire combined established rural industries with new forms of tourism, conservation and outdoor recreation. Forestry, farming, hydroelectric infrastructure and whisky production remained important, while heritage properties and walking landscapes became major visitor draws. Perth continued to function as the principal administrative and commercial centre, and towns such as Pitlochry and Aberfeldy developed broad tourism economies. Today the region's identity rests on the interaction of working countryside, historic estates, Highland culture, environmental stewardship and access to the outdoors.

Perthshire in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

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Neighbouring regions of Perthshire

The closest regions to Perthshire, if you have time for more than one.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Perthshire

Discover Perthshire with Evendo: A Comprehensive, 100% Free App-Based Travel Guide Covering Attractions, Landmarks, Restaurants, and More!

  • Comprehensive details on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
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Plan your perfect trip to Perthshire with Evendo, the all-in-one, free travel guide app. Discover attractions, book hotels, and explore like a local!

  • History of Perthshire and travel essentials
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near Me' feature
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Perthshire, a picturesque gem in the United Kingdom, brimming with scenic beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or food lover, Evendo is here to ensure you make the most of your trip. With detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities, Evendo offers a one-stop solution for all your travel needs.

Explore iconic landmarks like Scone Palace, where Scottish kings were once crowned, or marvel at the natural beauty of the Hermitage, with its towering Douglas firs and stunning waterfalls. Discover the ancient Birnam Oak, said to have inspired Shakespeare, and take a peaceful stroll along the River Tay. For a taste of local culture, visit the charming town of Pitlochry and enjoy a performance at the Festival Theatre.

Foodies will delight in Perthshire's culinary offerings. Savor traditional Scottish cuisine at the renowned The Old Mill Inn or indulge in a fine dining experience at Fonab Castle Hotel. Don't miss the opportunity to sample local produce at the Crieff Farmers' Market, where you can find everything from artisanal cheeses to fresh seafood.

With Evendo, you can easily plan and organize your trip. The app provides rich information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details for each location. Booking hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences is just a tap away, eliminating the need to search multiple platforms. Our 'Near Me' feature ensures you can always find nearby attractions, no matter where you are in Perthshire.

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