Atholl Palace Hotel: Historic Elegance and Highland Charm in Pitlochry
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Nestled in the scenic town of Pitlochry, Atholl Palace Hotel is a grand 4-star Victorian hotel offering luxurious accommodation, spa facilities, and stunning views over the Scottish Highlands. With its rich history, elegant architecture, and extensive grounds, it combines heritage charm with modern comfort, making it a favored destination for relaxation, weddings, and exploring Perthshire’s natural beauty.
A brief summary to Atholl Palace Hotel
- Perth Rd, Pitlochry, PH16 5LX, GB
- +441796472400
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book a package deal to enjoy better value on meals and spa treatments.
- Reserve a turret room for a unique historic experience and panoramic Highland views.
- Explore nearby natural attractions like Black Spout Waterfall and the Pitlochry Dam Salmon Ladder.
- Take advantage of the hotel’s grounds for peaceful walks and scenic photography.
- Plan visits to local cultural sites such as Blair Castle and the Pitlochry Festival Theatre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Taxi
From Pitlochry railway station, take a taxi for a 5-minute ride (approximately 2 km) to Atholl Palace Hotel. Train services connect Pitlochry to major cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow with fares ranging from £15-£30.
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Car
Driving from Perth to Atholl Palace Hotel takes about 45 minutes via the A9. Parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during peak seasons. Fuel costs typically range around £10-£15 for the trip.
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Bus
Local bus services from Pitlochry town center to the hotel area run several times daily, taking 10-15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4. Note that service frequency may reduce on weekends and public holidays.
Atholl Palace Hotel location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Atholl Palace Hotel
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Roots
The Atholl Palace Hotel, built in the Victorian era, stands as a majestic landmark on the outskirts of Pitlochry. Its distinctive turreted architecture and expansive façade reflect the grandeur of a bygone age, offering guests a glimpse into Scotland’s rich heritage. Originally constructed as a hydropathic hotel, the Palace has evolved over the decades while retaining its historic charm, blending period features with contemporary comforts.Luxurious Accommodation and Facilities
Inside, the hotel boasts a range of rooms varying from classic to turret suites, many offering panoramic views of the surrounding Highlands. While some rooms retain a traditional décor, ongoing refurbishments enhance comfort and style. Facilities include a spa and health club with a swimming pool and hot tub, massage treatments, and wellness amenities designed to provide a relaxing retreat. The hotel also features multiple dining venues, including a verandah restaurant known for its scenic outlook and well-presented meals.Extensive Grounds and Scenic Surroundings
Set within beautifully maintained grounds, the Atholl Palace offers guests access to peaceful gardens and woodland walks. The hotel’s location provides a tranquil setting with views over the River Tummel and nearby hills, ideal for leisurely strolls. Nearby natural attractions such as Black Spout Waterfall and the Explorers Garden complement the serene environment, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in Perthshire’s lush landscapes.Cultural and Recreational Experiences
Beyond the hotel, Pitlochry is a hub for cultural and outdoor activities. Guests can explore the historic Blair Castle and Gardens, enjoy performances at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, or visit the impressive Pitlochry Dam and Salmon Ladder to witness the unique engineering marvel and local wildlife. The town also offers golf, distillery tours, and scenic hikes, including the ascent of Ben Vrackie for panoramic Highland views.Events and Celebrations
Atholl Palace is renowned as a wedding venue, combining its romantic setting with elegant event spaces. The hotel caters to conferences and special occasions, providing a refined atmosphere enriched by its history and scenic backdrop. Its blend of tradition and hospitality makes it a memorable choice for celebrations and gatherings.Guest Experience and Practical Insights
While the hotel is praised for its friendly staff, impressive setting, and spa facilities, some guests note that certain rooms and furnishings show signs of age, and dining can be on the pricier side. Packages often provide better value, and the hotel’s location offers easy access to Pitlochry’s attractions. Overall, Atholl Palace remains a distinctive Highland retreat with a unique blend of history, comfort, and natural beauty.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Atholl Palace Hotel
0.0 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Dunfallandy Stone
1.5 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Clunie Memorial Arch
3.6 km
A solemn stone arch in Perth and Kinross honoring the men who sacrificed their lives building one of the UK's largest water tunnels.
Dunkeld Bridge
17.4 km
Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.
Birnam Oak
17.9 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.
Perthshire Treks
18.4 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.
Ballathie House Hotel
29.0 km
Historic Scottish country house hotel with award-winning dining and tranquil river views on a vast Perthshire estate.
Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family
35.4 km
A solemn mausoleum nestled within Scone Palace grounds, honoring the minister and family amidst Scotland’s royal and religious heritage.
Inchbrakie Monument
36.3 km
A serene Scottish landmark honoring the vanished Inchbrakie estate, its ancient yew, and storied past.
Smeaton's Bridge
38.2 km
Historic 18th-century stone bridge spanning the River Tay in Perth, blending engineering brilliance with scenic charm and rich heritage.
Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust
38.2 km
Explore the Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust - a cultural gem showcasing Scotland's rich history and community heritage.
South Inch
38.9 km
Explore South Inch Park, a scenic green oasis in Perth with beautiful landscapes, historical monuments, and recreational activities for all.
Melville Monument
38.9 km
A commanding granite obelisk atop Dun More hill, honoring Henry Dundas with breathtaking views over Perthshire’s scenic landscapes.
Branklyn Garden
39.5 km
Explore the enchanting Branklyn Garden in Perth, a botanical paradise featuring a stunning collection of plants and serene landscapes for all to enjoy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Faskally Forest
3.0 km
A historic Scottish woodland sanctuary by Loch Dunmore, famed for diverse trees, wildlife, and the magical Enchanted Forest light show.
The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
3.0 km
Scotland’s largest autumn event, The Enchanted Forest enchants visitors with immersive light, sound, and nature in magical Faskally Woods.
Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire
3.1 km
Your friendly Highland gateway in Pitlochry – maps, advice, and local insights for exploring Perthshire’s mountains, lochs, and glens.
Linn of Tummel
4.3 km
Discover the tranquil woodland sanctuary where the rivers Garry and Tummel meet, featuring stunning waterfalls and rich Highland wildlife.
Queen's View Visitor Centre
8.5 km
Discover breathtaking Highland views, rich history, and tranquil forest walks at Queen's View Visitor Centre near Pitlochry.
Blair Castle & Gardens
10.6 km
Explore over 700 years of Scottish heritage at Blair Castle & Gardens, home to the Atholl Highlanders and stunning Highland landscapes.
Atholl Estates Office
11.3 km
The administrative heart of Atholl Estates, blending historic stewardship with access to Highland adventures and heritage.
Blair Castle Gardens
11.4 km
Explore the historic Blair Castle Gardens, a beautifully restored Georgian walled garden set amidst the scenic landscapes of Highland Perthshire.
Castle Menzies
13.9 km
Explore Castle Menzies, a 16th-century Highland stronghold rich with clan history, Jacobite tales, and stunning Perthshire vistas.
The House of Bruar
14.9 km
Scotland’s iconic Highland destination for luxury country clothing, artisan food, and authentic Scottish hospitality.
Falls of Bruar
15.4 km
Discover the enchanting Falls of Bruar, where Scotland’s wild waters meet historic woodlands and poetic heritage in a breathtaking Highland gorge.
Bolfracks House & Gardens
15.9 km
Historic Scottish Baronial estate with exquisite gardens and panoramic Tay valley views, perfect for luxury holidays and special occasions.
Highland Safaris
16.3 km
Experience thrilling Land Rover safaris, scenic Loch Tay cruises, and intimate wildlife encounters at Highland Safaris in the heart of the Scottish Highlands.
Pine Cone Point
16.4 km
A whimsical pine cone shelter crowning a forested hillside with sweeping views across the River Tay valley and Perthshire mountains.
Dunkeld Cathedral
17.2 km
A majestic blend of medieval architecture and sacred history set beside the River Tay, embodying centuries of Scottish faith and resilience.
Essential places to dine
Victoria's Restaurant
0.8 km
A long-standing family-run eatery in Pitlochry, blending a relaxed coffee house by day with a chic bistro by evening, serving Scottish, British and Italian comfort food in a warm, open-fire setting.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
0.8 km
A cozy stone cottage in Pitlochry serving Scottish classics with a Mediterranean twist, plus a separate vegan menu and warm, attentive service.
The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry
0.8 km
Family-run Scottish dining with fresh, local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Pitlochry.
Port-na-Craig Inn & Restaurant
0.9 km
Charming riverside inn offering authentic Scottish cuisine and stunning views of the River Tummel in the heart of Pitlochry.
Killiecrankie House
5.9 km
Award-winning fine dining and luxury bedrooms in a contemporary Scottish country house.
The Loft Restaurant
10.3 km
Experience warm hospitality and fresh Scottish flavors in the scenic Cairngorms at The Loft Restaurant, Blair Atholl’s beloved dining spot.
Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden
17.3 km
Riverside Scottish bistro blending tradition with modern cuisine, set in the heart of Dunkeld's Perthshire landscape.
Uisge Bar & Restaurant
24.7 km
Cozy family-run restaurant in Murthly serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a charming countryside setting with stunning views.
Little's Restaurant
26.5 km
A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.
The Restaurant at Meikleour Arms
27.8 km
Classic 19th-century inn in scenic Meikleour serving award-winning Franco-Scottish country cuisine with estate-sourced produce in a warm, rustic setting.
The Anglers Inn
32.1 km
A cozy 3-star inn and pub in Guildtown offering fresh Scottish cuisine, warm hospitality, and peaceful rural charm near Perth.
The Maltings - Pub & Grill
35.4 km
A modern pub and grill in Perth offering flame-grilled classics, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining.
The Glenturret Lalique Restaurant
35.7 km
Experience Michelin-starred fine dining in an intimate setting within Scotland’s oldest whisky distillery, blending heritage, luxury, and innovative cuisine.
Brown & Blacks
37.0 km
A welcoming restaurant in Scone offering hearty steaks, diverse breakfast options, and a relaxed atmosphere for all-day dining.
Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery
37.6 km
A charming Scottish pub in Perth offering hearty carvery meals and warm hospitality in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Keepsake Scotland
1.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and handcrafted keepsakes in the heart of Pitlochry’s welcoming gift shop.
The Scottish Shop
1.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland heritage at The Scottish Shop, a charming independent store in the heart of Pitlochry.
Highlands Jewellery
10.5 km
Discover handcrafted Scottish jewellery inspired by Highland heritage in the welcoming village boutique of Blair Atholl.
Peel Farm
31.7 km
Discover the charm of Peel Farm, where artisanal coffee and homemade treats meet stunning countryside views in Kirriemuir.
Rustic Retro
37.1 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Scone at Rustic Retro, where history and charm meet.
1097
37.5 km
Explore a unique shopping destination in Perth, featuring handmade crafts and local treasures that showcase the beauty of Scottish artistry.
The New Wool Shop
38.0 km
A welcoming wool and needlecraft shop in Perth offering quality yarns, expert advice, and a vibrant crafting community.
Marians Of Perth
38.1 km
Marian's of Perth: Over 40 years of elegant, inclusive ladies' fashion and personalized service in the heart of Scotland’s historic city.
Loretta's Collections Boutique Perth
38.1 km
Discover stylish women's apparel at Loretta's Collections Boutique, Perth’s elegant destination for timeless and contemporary fashion.
Fun Junction
38.1 km
Independent toy shop in Perth offering quality toys, games, and educational supplies with friendly family-run service.
Evalucia
38.2 km
Discover curated fashion and accessories at Evalucia Boutique, Perth’s stylish destination for everyday and special occasion wear.
Precious Sparkle
38.2 km
Discover sustainable fashion, unique jewellery, and stylish homewares at Precious Sparkle, Perth’s boutique treasure trove of handpicked delights.
The Works
38.3 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery inspiring creativity and screen-free fun in the heart of Perth.
Begg Shoes
38.3 km
Discover timeless style and expert service at Begg Shoes, Perth’s go-to boutique for quality footwear and leather accessories.
Whispers Of The Past
38.3 km
Explore Whispers Of The Past, an antique shop in Perth filled with unique treasures and rich histories that transport you back in time.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Victoria Inn
32.6 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Victoria Inn, a cozy bar in Coupar Angus, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local brews.
The Ardler Tavern
35.4 km
Historic country pub in Blairgowrie offering hearty fare, local ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere for over 100 years.
The Glover Arms
35.8 km
Historic Scottish pub with hearty fare, cozy fires, and a lively beer garden in Perth’s Huntingtower Park.
The Half Moon Bar
38.0 km
A friendly and spacious local pub in Perth offering great drinks, big sports screens, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
King James
38.0 km
Historic pub in Perth with hearty Scottish fare, lively atmosphere, and medieval roots beneath its floors.
The Foundry
38.1 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Perth offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a vibrant social atmosphere in the city center.
Ormonds
38.1 km
A friendly Perth pub serving hearty, affordable Scottish classics with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
The BANK Bar & Beer Garden
38.1 km
A vibrant gastropub and beer garden in Perth’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and lively socializing.
Sandeman
38.1 km
Historic charm meets vibrant hospitality at Sandeman, Perth’s welcoming pub and restaurant in the iconic Sandeman Building.
The Caledonian
38.2 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Perth’s city center, offering great drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
Grayson's Wine Bar
38.2 km
Discover Grayson's Wine Bar in Perth for an elegant wine journey paired with seasonal dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
The Bee Bar
38.2 km
Authentic Scottish dive bar in Perth’s town centre, known for live local music, friendly vibe, and a welcoming community spirit.
BrewDog Perth
38.2 km
Discover BrewDog Perth, a vibrant craft beer bar with 28 taps, delicious pizzas, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in Scotland’s cultural heart.
Robert Burns Lounge
38.3 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Perth with lively karaoke nights, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Silvery Tay
38.3 km
Historic charm meets local ales and live music in Perth’s beloved Silvery Tay pub on South Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Gig
26.3 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
Ego Nightclub - Perth
38.1 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Ego Nightclub, where quality music and positive energy unite after dark.
Loft Nightclub
38.3 km
Perth’s energetic nightclub with six bars, late-night dancing, and a lively social scene on South Street.
Club One
38.4 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Club One, a lively nightclub offering late-night and daytime parties in the city center.
Ice Factory Perth
39.3 km
Perth’s energetic nightclub and live music hotspot, blending dance, DJs, and vibrant weekend nights in a modern setting.
Royal Night Club
51.2 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
Afro Beats
52.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
AURA Nightclub
52.8 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Dundemo
52.8 km
Dundemo nightclub pulses with energy in Dundee’s historic Lower Ward, blending vibrant nightlife with the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Club Tropicana & Venga
52.8 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Fat Sams
52.8 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
Private Eyes
52.8 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Underground
53.0 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
53.2 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
OUT Nightclub
53.2 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly