Birnam Oak

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.

4.6

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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.

A brief summary to Birnam Oak

Oak Rd, Dunkeld, PH8 0BL, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

Visit in spring or early summer when the oak’s fresh green canopy is at its most vibrant, or in autumn for golden foliage contrasting with the river.
Combine the visit with a longer stroll along the River Tay, perhaps extending to Dunkeld or the nearby Beatrix Potter Garden for a full riverside walk.
Look for the humorous signs along the path that help distinguish the Birnam Oak from other large trees – they add a light-hearted touch to the walk.
Bring binoculars to watch birds in the oak’s upper branches and along the river; the area is good for woodland and riverside species.

Getting There

On foot from Birnam

From the centre of Birnam, follow brown tourist signs for the Birnam Oak along Oak Road. The walk is about 10–15 minutes on clear, waymarked paths and minor roads, suitable for most walkers. Parking is available in the village, and the route is well signed.
By train and bus

Trains serve Dunkeld & Birnam station, about 1.5 km from the oak. From there, a 20–25 minute walk along the river path or minor roads leads to the tree. Local buses also serve Dunkeld and Birnam, with stops near the village centre and the start of the Oak Road path.
By car

Drive to Birnam and park in the village or at the nearby Tay Terrace car park in Dunkeld. From there, follow signs for the Birnam Oak along Oak Road and the riverside path. The final approach is on foot along a well-maintained track.

Birnam Oak location weather suitability

Any Weather
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies

Discover more about Birnam Oak

A Living Relic of Birnam Wood

This enormous sessile oak, known as the Birnam Oak, stands in a strip of riverside woodland on the south bank of the River Tay, just below Dunkeld in Perthshire. With a girth of around seven metres and a height of roughly 27 metres, it is a veteran tree whose massive, spreading limbs are partly supported by wooden struts to keep them from collapsing. The lower part of the trunk is hollow, a result of age and past fires, yet the tree continues to thrive, putting on fresh leaves each spring. It is thought to be around 600 years old, meaning it was already a mature tree when Shakespeare is said to have visited Perthshire in the late 16th century.

Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood

In Macbeth, the witches prophesy that the king will fall only when Birnam Wood comes to Dunsinane Hill. In reality, this was a ruse: Malcolm’s army advanced camouflaged with branches cut from the great forest of Birnam. The Birnam Oak is now regarded as the last surviving representative of that once-vast woodland, lending it a powerful literary resonance. Whether Shakespeare actually saw this exact tree is uncertain, but the association has made it a pilgrimage site for lovers of the play. The tree’s gnarled, almost theatrical appearance – with its hollow trunk and crutch-supported limbs – feels like something out of a Shakespearean forest, adding to its mystique.

A Riverside Walk Through History

The oak lies at the end of a pleasant, waymarked path that begins in the village of Birnam and follows Oak Road down to the River Tay. Along the way, visitors pass other impressive trees and enjoy views of the wide, meandering Tay. Humorous signs along the path playfully warn that certain large trees are not the Birnam Oak, building anticipation before the real thing comes into view. Nearby stands the Birnam Sycamore, another heritage tree with massive buttress roots, creating a small grove of ancient giants. The riverside setting, with the sound of flowing water and birdsong, makes the walk as memorable as the destination.

More Than Just a Tree

Beyond its Shakespearean fame, the Birnam Oak has witnessed centuries of Scottish history: the Reformation, the Jacobite uprisings, the Union of the Crowns, and the industrial transformation of the Highlands. It has served as a local meeting place, attracted visitors like Queen Victoria and Beatrix Potter, and become a symbol of resilience in literature and environmental activism. Information boards at the site explain its natural history and cultural significance, helping visitors appreciate it not just as a curiosity, but as a living monument to time, nature and storytelling.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Birnam Oak

0.0 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

0.7 km

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

Perthshire Treks

11.2 km

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

Ballathie House Hotel

12.5 km

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

Dunfallandy Stone

16.8 km

A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.

Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family

17.5 km

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

Atholl Palace Hotel

17.9 km

Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.

Smeaton's Bridge

20.3 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

20.3 km

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

Clunie Memorial Arch

20.9 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.

Inchbrakie Monument

24.1 km

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

Stone circle

26.4 km

Discover the ancient Neolithic Croft Moraig Stone Circle near Easdale, a serene and mysterious prehistoric landmark in Perthshire’s countryside.

Drummond Castle Gardens

29.3 km

Discover the breathtaking charm of Drummond Castle Gardens, a splendid tourist attraction in Crieff, Scotland, featuring stunning formal gardens and rich history.

Abernethy Round Tower

30.1 km

A rare medieval Irish-style round tower in Abernethy, steeped in Pictish heritage and offering sweeping views over Perthshire’s countryside.

Balintore Castle (undergoing restoration)

30.7 km

Discover the majestic Balintore Castle near Kirriemuir, a stunning example of Scottish architecture amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Balintore Castle (undergoing restoration)

Unmissable attractions to see

Scottish Wildlife Trust - Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre & Wildlife Reserve

1.7 km

Discover the vibrant wildlife and iconic ospreys at Loch of the Lowes, a serene nature reserve with immersive viewing and family-friendly facilities.

Scottish Wildlife Trust - Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre & Wildlife Reserve

The Hermitage

2.4 km

Explore towering Douglas firs, dramatic waterfalls, and historic Ossian’s Hall in Scotland’s enchanting Hermitage woodland near Dunkeld.

Pine Cone Point

3.1 km

A whimsical pine cone shelter crowning a forested hillside with sweeping views across the River Tay valley and Perthshire mountains.

Kinclaven Bluebell Woods

11.0 km

A free woodland sanctuary carpeted in violet-blue bluebells each spring, home to rare wildlife and Outlander's iconic Witness Trees.

Active Kids Adventure Park

11.4 km

A vibrant indoor and outdoor adventure park in Perthshire offering year-round family fun with play zones, farm animals, and scenic countryside charm.

Stanley Mills

12.3 km

Explore Stanley Mills, a captivating 18th-century cotton mill complex on the River Tay, blending industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and scenic riverside charm.

Meikleour Beech Hedge

13.3 km

Discover the awe-inspiring Meikleour Beech Hedge, the world's tallest and longest living hedge, a majestic natural monument steeped in Scottish history.

Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire

14.9 km

Your friendly Highland gateway in Pitlochry – maps, advice, and local insights for exploring Perthshire’s mountains, lochs, and glens.

Scone Palace

17.5 km

Explore Scone Palace, the iconic Gothic Revival home where 42 Scottish kings were crowned amid stunning gardens and rich heritage.

Huntingtower Castle

17.7 km

Discover Huntingtower Castle’s twin towers, royal intrigues, and one of Scotland’s oldest painted ceilings near Perth.

Heathergems

18.3 km

Discover Scotland’s only handcrafted jewellery made from real Highland heather, blending nature, art, and heritage in every unique piece.

Gloagburn Farm Shop

18.5 km

Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly fun in the heart of Perthshire.

Quarrymill Woodland Park

19.1 km

Discover peaceful woodland trails, ancient trees, and friendly café charm just north of Perth in Quarrymill Woodland Park.

The Black Watch Castle & Museum

19.5 km

Explore the rich history of Scotland’s oldest Highland Regiment in the historic Balhousie Castle, Perth, with immersive exhibits and charming amenities.

Perth Cathedral, St Ninian's

20.0 km

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

Essential places to dine

Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden

0.7 km

Riverside Scottish bistro blending tradition with modern cuisine, set in the heart of Dunkeld's Perthshire landscape.

Uisge Bar & Restaurant

7.6 km

Cozy family-run restaurant in Murthly serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a charming countryside setting with stunning views.

The Restaurant at Meikleour Arms

12.7 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

14.4 km

A cozy 3-star inn and pub in Guildtown offering fresh Scottish cuisine, warm hospitality, and peaceful rural charm near Perth.

Little's Restaurant

15.2 km

A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.

The Maltings - Pub & Grill

17.5 km

A modern pub and grill in Perth offering flame-grilled classics, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining.

Port-na-Craig Inn & Restaurant

18.1 km

Charming riverside inn offering authentic Scottish cuisine and stunning views of the River Tummel in the heart of Pitlochry.

The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry

18.3 km

Family-run Scottish dining with fresh, local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Pitlochry.

Fern Cottage Restaurant

18.3 km

A cozy stone cottage in Pitlochry serving Scottish classics with a Mediterranean twist, plus a separate vegan menu and warm, attentive service.

Victoria's Restaurant

18.4 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.

Brown & Blacks

19.1 km

A welcoming restaurant in Scone offering hearty steaks, diverse breakfast options, and a relaxed atmosphere for all-day dining.

Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery

19.9 km

A charming Scottish pub in Perth offering hearty carvery meals and warm hospitality in a cozy, family-friendly setting.

Atholl Restaurant

20.0 km

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

Deans Restaurant

20.0 km

Chic fine dining in Perth with quirky interiors and a focus on local Scottish produce, offering elegant tasting menus in a stylish setting.

North Port Scottish Restaurant

20.2 km

A warm, historic cottage in Perth serving modern Scottish dishes made with local, seasonal produce and a strong sense of place.

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Perth Gift Card, a charming gift shop in Perth offering a vibrant selection of treasures.

Historic and welcoming traditional pub in Perth’s city centre, offering a cozy atmosphere and excellent selection of ales and whiskies.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

The Gig

14.7 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

20.2 km

Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Ego Nightclub, where quality music and positive energy unite after dark.

Loft Nightclub

20.4 km

Perth’s energetic nightclub with six bars, late-night dancing, and a lively social scene on South Street.

Club One

20.5 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

21.3 km

Perth’s energetic nightclub and live music hotspot, blending dance, DJs, and vibrant weekend nights in a modern setting.

Afro Beats

38.2 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.

AURA Nightclub

38.4 km

Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.

Club Tropicana & Venga

38.4 km

Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.

Fat Sams

38.4 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

38.4 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.

Underground

38.5 km

Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.

Decades Bar & Nightclub

38.8 km

Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.

Pout Bar and Nightclub

38.9 km

Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.

Rewind dundee

38.9 km

Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.

OUT Nightclub

38.9 km

A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.

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Birnam Oak

A brief summary to Birnam Oak

Local tips

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

Getting There

On foot from Birnam

By train and bus

By car

Birnam Oak location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Birnam Oak

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Birnam Oak

A Living Relic of Birnam Wood

Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood

A Riverside Walk Through History

More Than Just a Tree

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Birnam Oak

Dunkeld Bridge

Perthshire Treks

Ballathie House Hotel

Dunfallandy Stone

Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family

Atholl Palace Hotel

Smeaton's Bridge

Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust

Clunie Memorial Arch

Inchbrakie Monument

Stone circle

Drummond Castle Gardens

Abernethy Round Tower

Balintore Castle (undergoing restoration)

Unmissable attractions to see

Scottish Wildlife Trust - Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre & Wildlife Reserve

The Hermitage

Pine Cone Point

Kinclaven Bluebell Woods

Active Kids Adventure Park

Stanley Mills

Meikleour Beech Hedge

Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire

Scone Palace

Huntingtower Castle

Heathergems

Gloagburn Farm Shop

Quarrymill Woodland Park

The Black Watch Castle & Museum

Perth Cathedral, St Ninian's

Essential places to dine

Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden

Uisge Bar & Restaurant

The Restaurant at Meikleour Arms

The Anglers Inn

Little's Restaurant

The Maltings - Pub & Grill

Port-na-Craig Inn & Restaurant

The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry

Fern Cottage Restaurant

Victoria's Restaurant

Brown & Blacks

Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery

Atholl Restaurant

Deans Restaurant

North Port Scottish Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Keepsake Scotland

The Scottish Shop

Rustic Retro

1097

The New Wool Shop

Marians Of Perth

Loretta's Collections Boutique Perth

Fun Junction

Evalucia

Precious Sparkle

The Works

Begg Shoes

Whispers Of The Past