Overview of the Best Things to Do in Perth, Scotland
Perched around the River Tay, Perth is a relatively small Scottish city that’s lovely to visit for a day trip. However, there are heaps of the best things to do in Perthshire that you can’t really explore in one single day.
It’s not just Perth that makes ‘Perth’ great; it’s the surrounding area. Moreover, the wider locale is steeped in history and the city boasts a fair share of culinary spots and hotels. Consequently, it makes for a perfect base to explore wider Perthshire and beyond during your visit to Scotland.
To help you maximize your visit, here are my top recommendations for places in Perth to visit upon your arrival. Enjoy your trip to Scotland!
1.) Perth Art Gallery
Located not too far from Smeaton’s Bridge, the City’s Art Gallery is well worth a visit while you’re in Perth. Although it may be small compared to galleries in cities like Edinburgh, it still features an abundance of exhibitions and rooms to explore.
Once inside, you’ll want to investigate the main areas showcasing art from Scottish artists. You can observe works by renowned artists such as Calum Colvin and Alison Watt.
Additionally, it’s a fantastic spot for kids, with a dedicated area teaching about dinosaurs and the local natural history.
Best of all, entry is completely free!
2.) Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
Dewar Distillery is located in the charming town of Aberfeldy, about a 40-minute drive from Perth. This necessitates a little planning, especially concerning your travel arrangements.
For context, the Dewar family distills exceptional whiskey in this part of Scotland. John Dewar, the founder, was born just a few miles away and initiated the distillery back in the 1800s.
Today, Dewar’s produces some of the finest whiskey in Scotland. A tour of the facilities provides insights into the distillation process and how the whiskey achieves its distinct flavors.
Just make sure to reserve your tour through their website, as spaces can fill up quickly on peak days.
3.) Kinnoull Hill
If you’re looking for a pleasant walk, then heading to Kinnoull Hill is one of the best things to do in Perth. This expansive woodland park hugs the eastern outskirts of the city.
Additionally, the area is rich in history. It is said that William Wallace, a prominent figure in Scotland’s fight for independence during the 1200s, once took refuge within these hills.
While navigating the woodland, make sure to visit the Kinnoull Hill Tower. This beautiful folly, built in the 1700s, provides stunning views overlooking the River Tay.
Be advised that you will need to walk uphill for a bit, which may not be suitable for everyone due to accessibility considerations.
And don’t forget to bring a jacket—it can get quite windy at the hilltop.
4.) Stanley Mills
Nestled along the banks of the River Tay, Stanley Mills was established during the Industrial Revolution, which witnessed the UK industrial landscape blossom in the 1700s, not exclusively in the Perth area.
Stanley Mills produced textiles for over 200 years and continues to stand proud today.
Located around a 15-minute drive from central Perth, you can visit the site between April and September to discover the historic Bell Mill—considered one of the oldest factories in Scotland, possibly even the world.
Plan to allocate around 90 minutes to fully enjoy the exploration.
5.) Central Perth
The area surrounding George Street is undoubtedly the best spot for leisurely strolling and discovering local attractions. This vibrant area boasts numerous shops, Scottish retailers, and delightful cafes worth visiting while in Perth.
While you’re here, be sure to stop by Breizh for superb wood-fired pizzas and Cafe Tabou for their grilled venison.
After your meal, take a stroll north along Tay Street, following the River Tay’s route. You will meander through North Inch, which is a vast green space that is lovely on sunny days.
6.) Rodney Gardens
Situated across the River Tay, Rodney Gardens stands out as one of Perth’s premier parks. Once you arrive, stroll through the grounds and appreciate the installations along the waterfront.
Among the highlights, you’ll easily spot Millais’ Viewpoint, River Arch, and the Vortex as you wander through the gardens and along the banks of the River Tay.
7.) River Tay Rafting
Speaking of the River Tay, don’t miss out on exhilarating activities on the water. As the longest river in Scotland, the River Tay is fantastic for exploration.
For an action-packed experience, consider rafting on the River Tay. It’s a fantastic way to spend a few hours and is ideal for an afternoon adventure.
Additionally, you can easily combine this adventure with a visit to Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, as both are within a 40-minute drive from Perth city center.
8.) Scone Palace
A visit to Scone Palace is among the top things to do in Perth. This stunning Gothic-style mansion is a true architectural gem.
Once inside, you can explore the very rooms that once greeted famous visitors such as Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth. Moreover, learn more about the Murray Family and the palace’s reconstruction in the 1800s.
To reach Scone Palace, simply take a taxi from the center of Perth; tickets for the gardens and the palace itself are available for purchase. Why not enjoy both experiences? And keep an eye out for some peacocks during your visit!
9.) Black Watch Castle
As you walk along the River Tay, beyond North Inch, you’ll encounter Black Watch Castle. Here, you’ll explore the largest Highland regiment in Scotland.
Inside, you will learn about the Black Watch’s history and its military operations dating back to the 1700s. This location is well worth a visit for those interested in military history.
Typically, a visit to the castle will take around 45 minutes, and there is a modest entry fee of approximately £10.
10.) Drummond Castle Gardens
Located approximately a 30-minute drive west of Perth, Drummond Castle is an excellent destination as you venture westward. If you have access to a car, a morning trip is quite feasible.
What sets Drummond Castle apart is its magnificent gardens, which were initially laid out in the 1600s and have matured into one of Scotland’s most iconic formal gardens.
Keep an eye out for the beech trees that were planted by Queen Victoria during her visit in the 1800s.
Do note that the interior of Drummond Castle is not accessible to the public.
11.) St. John’s Kirk
There has been a church on this site in Perth for nearly a millennium, with St. John’s Kirk being constructed in the 1400s. Today, it stands as the oldest surviving structure in Perth.
While you won’t spend long at St. John’s Kirk, it’s very easy to visit, especially if you’re already walking around Watergate or St John’s Street.
Furthermore, there’s also St Leonard’s-in-the-Fields, which overlooks South Inch. It is another of Perth’s historic churches and has stood for centuries.
Additionally, it’s conveniently located within walking distance from the train station, making it easy to visit if you’re arriving by train.
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