Perth Museum: Home of the Stone of Destiny and Scottish Heritage

Discover Scotland’s royal heritage and iconic Stone of Destiny in Perth’s beautifully restored Edwardian museum.

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Perth Museum, reopened in 2024 after a £27 million redevelopment, is a world-class cultural attraction in Perth, Scotland. It showcases the Stone of Destiny, a historic symbol of Scottish monarchy, alongside nationally significant collections and international exhibitions. Housed in a beautifully restored Edwardian building, the museum offers free entry to permanent galleries, a café, and engaging events, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Perth Museum

St John's Pl, Perth, PH1 5SZ, GB
+441738632488
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-7 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book timed tickets in advance for the Stone of Destiny Experience, which is free but limited in capacity.
Visit on Thursday or Sunday mornings for a quieter, more relaxed museum experience.
Enjoy locally sourced meals and snacks at the on-site Stone Café, accessible from the vennel entrance.
Use sensory packs available at the front desk, including noise-cancelling headphones, for a comfortable visit.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Scone Palace to deepen your understanding of Scottish monarchy.

Getting There

Bus

Local bus services connect Perth city center to St John's Place where the museum is located, with frequent routes running every 10-20 minutes. The journey typically takes 10-15 minutes from central Perth. Tickets cost around £2-£4 one way. The stop is a short walk on level ground to the museum entrance.
Car

Driving to Perth Museum is straightforward with nearby public parking options within a 5-10 minute walk. Parking fees vary but expect £3-£6 for a few hours. The museum entrance is accessible via a ramp, suitable for all visitors. Traffic can be busy during peak hours.
Train

Perth Railway Station is approximately 1.5 km from the museum. A taxi or local bus from the station takes about 5-10 minutes. Taxi fares typically range from £6-£10. The route is accessible and suitable for travelers with luggage or mobility needs.
Walking

For those staying in central Perth, the museum is a 15-20 minute walk along mostly flat, paved streets. The path is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, making it an easy and pleasant stroll through the city.

Perth Museum location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Perth Museum

A Monumental Rebirth in Perth's Cultural Landscape

Perth Museum opened its doors on 30 March 2024 after an extensive £27 million redevelopment, transforming a historic Edwardian building into a modern cultural hub. The building itself, once a versatile venue for markets, concerts, political meetings, and even wrestling matches, has been reimagined by award-winning architects Mecanoo to create a welcoming and accessible space for visitors. This blend of heritage and contemporary design provides a fitting backdrop for the museum’s rich collections.

The Stone of Destiny: Scotland’s Crown Jewel

At the heart of the museum lies the Stone of Destiny, also known as the Stone of Scone, an ancient symbol of Scottish monarchy and kingdom. This stone has crowned Scottish kings for centuries and continues to play a role in the coronation of British monarchs, most recently King Charles III in 2023. After more than 700 years, the Stone has returned to Perthshire, offering visitors a rare chance to connect with a pivotal piece of Scotland’s royal history. The immersive Stone of Destiny Experience, although requiring timed tickets due to limited space, is free and provides an evocative journey through the stone’s legendary past.

Collections That Chronicle a Region and Beyond

Beyond the Stone, Perth Museum houses Perth & Kinross’s Recognised Collections of National Significance. These include artifacts spanning 10,000 years of Scottish and world history, from Bronze and Iron Age relics to Roman-era finds, alongside unique items such as a rare bird feather dress. The museum also hosts iconic loans and exhibitions from across the UK and internationally, ensuring a dynamic and ever-evolving visitor experience that highlights Perth’s central role in Scotland’s story.

A Welcoming Space for All Visitors

Accessibility is a priority at Perth Museum, with level access from the entrance, ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, and facilities for visitors with limited mobility. The museum is family-friendly, offering sensory packs including noise-cancelling headphones for a more comfortable visit. The on-site Stone Café serves locally sourced food and drink, while the museum shop and learning spaces provide additional engagement opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy refreshments in designated areas to help preserve the collections.

Engaging Programs and Seasonal Highlights

Perth Museum offers a rich calendar of events, including guided tours, tabletop adventures, and special exhibitions such as the recent 'Macbeth' exhibition exploring myths and monarchy. Many events require advance booking, with some featuring admission fees. The museum also hosts exclusive after-hours experiences and whisky tastings, adding layers of cultural immersion. Seasonal closures for maintenance occur annually, with detailed schedules provided to visitors.

Connecting to Perthshire’s Wider Heritage

Situated less than 15 minutes from Scone Palace, the original home of the Stone of Destiny and the historic crowning place of Scottish kings, Perth Museum serves as a gateway to exploring the region’s royal heritage. Supporting the museum through donations or memberships helps preserve these iconic stories and artifacts for future generations, making every visit a contribution to Scotland’s cultural legacy.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust

0.2 km

Explore the Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust - a cultural gem showcasing Scotland's rich history and community heritage.

Smeaton's Bridge

0.4 km

Historic 18th-century stone bridge spanning the River Tay in Perth, blending engineering brilliance with scenic charm and rich heritage.

Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family

3.3 km

A solemn mausoleum nestled within Scone Palace grounds, honoring the minister and family amidst Scotland’s royal and religious heritage.

Ballathie House Hotel

13.5 km

Historic Scottish country house hotel with award-winning dining and tranquil river views on a vast Perthshire estate.

Birnam Oak

20.5 km

An ancient oak on the banks of the River Tay, believed to be the last survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood – a living piece of Scottish and literary history.

Dunkeld Bridge

21.0 km

Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.

Ruins of Kincardine Castle

21.2 km

Explore the evocative 13th-century ruins of Kincardine Castle, a royal Scottish fortress steeped in medieval history and surrounded by tranquil farmland.

Kirkgate Park

21.6 km

Explore Kirkgate Park, a tranquil retreat in Kinross, Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens, a serene loch, and rich historical significance.

Loch Leven Castle Viewpoint

21.7 km

Explore the scenic Loch Leven Heritage Trail in Kinross, where history meets breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures await.

Lochleven Castle

21.8 km

Experience the rich history and stunning views of Lochleven Castle, an enchanting Scottish landmark set on a serene island in Loch Leven.

Inchbrakie Monument

21.8 km

A serene Scottish landmark honoring the vanished Inchbrakie estate, its ancient yew, and storied past.

Pine Cone Point

22.2 km

Experience the serene beauty of Pine Cone Point in Dunkeld, a scenic haven perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Tullibardine Chapel

23.2 km

Discover Tullibardine Chapel, a captivating site in Auchterarder, where stunning architecture meets rich Scottish heritage in a tranquil setting.

Balgarthno Stone Circle

24.7 km

Bronze Age stones standing sentinel over Dundee's prehistoric past, a timeless circle of mystery and ancient wisdom.

Perthshire Treks

25.4 km

Explore the stunning landscapes of Perthshire with guided hiking tours from Perthshire Treks, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Unmissable attractions to see

The Fair Maid of Perth

0.1 km

Celebrate Scotland’s rich history and storytelling tradition through the evocative Fair Maid of Perth sculpture in the heart of Perth’s historic High Street.

St John's Shopping Centre

0.1 km

Perth's premier shopping destination with 30+ retailers in a bright, welcoming city-centre mall.

VisitScotland Perth iCentre

0.1 km

Your essential starting point for exploring Perth’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and scenic surroundings with expert local advice.

Perth Concert Hall

0.2 km

A modern, flexible events centre in central Perth, hosting concerts, theatre, comedy, conferences and community events in a bright, accessible steel-and-glass building.

The Fair Maid's House Visitor Centre

0.3 km

Delve into Perth's rich heritage at The Fair Maid's House Visitor Centre, where history and culture come alive in the heart of Scotland.

Perth Art Gallery

0.3 km

Discover Scotland’s rich artistic heritage at Perth Art Gallery, home to iconic modern Scottish art and family-friendly interactive exhibits.

Greyfriars Burial Ground

0.3 km

Historic 16th-century cemetery in Perth, featuring Scotland’s finest gravestones on the site of a former Franciscan monastery.

The Art Attic - Gallery, Gift Shop, Craft Supplies, Workshops

0.4 km

Discover unique artworks, craft supplies, and inspiring workshops in the heart of Perth’s historic St Paul's Square.

The Art Attic - Gallery, Gift Shop, Craft Supplies, Workshops

Norie-Miller Walk

0.4 km

A peaceful riverside park in Perth blending natural beauty, artistic sculptures, and seasonal festivities along the River Tay.

Vectran Vintage

0.4 km

Discover timeless antiques and vintage guitars in the heart of Perth at Vectran Vintage, a haven for collectors and nostalgia lovers alike.

Rodney Gardens

0.4 km

A free riverside garden sanctuary with vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful pathways along the River Tay.

Perth Cathedral, St Ninian's

0.5 km

Discover Perth Cathedral, St Ninian's—a Gothic Revival masterpiece blending rich history, spiritual warmth, and stunning stained glass in Scotland’s heart.

South Inch

0.7 km

Expansive green park with sports, events, and historic charm just minutes from Perth city centre.

The Black Watch Castle & Museum

0.9 km

Scotland's military heritage preserved in a historic castle overlooking Perth's North Inch.

Branklyn Garden

1.1 km

Discover rare plants and serene hillside beauty at Branklyn Garden, a botanical treasure overlooking Perth.

A welcoming Perth eatery serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with a fine selection of wines and whiskies.

Marian's of Perth: Over 40 years of elegant, inclusive ladies' fashion and personalized service in the heart of Scotland’s historic city.

Historic charm meets local ales and live music in Perth’s beloved Silvery Tay pub on South Street.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Perth Museum with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Perth Museum: Home of the Stone of Destiny and Scottish Heritage

A brief summary to Perth Museum

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Train

Walking

Perth Museum location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Perth Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Perth Museum

A Monumental Rebirth in Perth's Cultural Landscape

The Stone of Destiny: Scotland’s Crown Jewel

Collections That Chronicle a Region and Beyond

A Welcoming Space for All Visitors

Engaging Programs and Seasonal Highlights

Connecting to Perthshire’s Wider Heritage

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust

Smeaton's Bridge

Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family

Ballathie House Hotel

Birnam Oak

Dunkeld Bridge

Ruins of Kincardine Castle

Kirkgate Park

Loch Leven Castle Viewpoint

Lochleven Castle

Inchbrakie Monument

Pine Cone Point

Tullibardine Chapel

Balgarthno Stone Circle

Perthshire Treks

Unmissable attractions to see

The Fair Maid of Perth

St John's Shopping Centre

VisitScotland Perth iCentre

Perth Concert Hall

The Fair Maid's House Visitor Centre

Perth Art Gallery

Greyfriars Burial Ground

The Art Attic - Gallery, Gift Shop, Craft Supplies, Workshops

Norie-Miller Walk

Vectran Vintage

Rodney Gardens

Perth Cathedral, St Ninian's

South Inch

The Black Watch Castle & Museum

Branklyn Garden

Essential places to dine

The Giddy Goose

Cridos Restaurant

Cafe Tabou

Cardo

Breizh

Paco's Restaurant

Broth3rs Restaurant

Kisa's

Bothy Perth

North Port Scottish Restaurant

63 Tay Street Restaurant

Everest Inn

Nicoll's Steak House

Deans Restaurant

Atholl Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Perth Gift Card

Hell Yeah

Bonmarché

PolkaDot Boutique Perth

The Works

Bonnie Moon Crystals

Whispers Of The Past

Begg Shoes

Precious Sparkle

Highland Homeware