For seeing best of Perthshire Region is packed with attractions
As Perthshire’s tourism industry readies itself for the busy summer months, Jim Clarkson, VisitScotland regional director, shares some of his highlights for the season ahead.
“I love this time of year when the region becomes noticeably busier, the days gets longer, the weather improves and every weekend there is an exciting and enthralling event ready to entertain visitors.
“Tourism is more than a holiday experience – it creates jobs and sustains communities in every corner of the country and this is no more evident than during the summer months.
“This year is shaping up to be another good one. If ever there was a perfect theme for Perthshire then 2017 is it. The Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology is all about delving deeper into Scotland’s past and Perthshire is packed with historical attractions such as Scone Palace, Dunkeld Cathedral, the Black Watch Castle and Museum, Stanley Mills and Lochleven Castle. We’ve even got a virtual reality attraction thanks to the innovative Charterhouse Project which aims to tell the story of James I and the Stewart monarchs.
“History and culture is one of the top reasons for visiting Scotland and there is plenty to see and do if you want a glimpse of Perthshire in days gone by. The Perth and Kinross Archaeology Year is a year-long programme of events that includes excavations, guided walks, talks, workshops, exhibitions, themed fairs and more. Throughout the summer the Scottish Crannog Centre, which
Jim Clarkson, regional director of VisitScotland casts an eye over the months ahead
features in our new ScotlandVR app, is hosting a range of activities that will let you experience the sights, sounds, smell and tastes of ancient Scotland. While in September we celebrate Perthshire’s royal connections at the Mary Queen of Scots Festival in Kinross, one of this year’s signature events.
“But it’s not just about Perthshire’s past, the region’s present and future is just as interesting with a number of new experiences and developments set to enjoy their first summer season.
Over the next three years, Perthshire’s tourism industry stands to benefit from investment of almost £400 million. A major part of this has been the new £4m SSE Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre, which has been a valuable addition to the region’s tourism offering and is already exceeding footfall expectations.
“The new centre, which is free to visit, brings to life the fascinating story of electricity in the north of Scotland and the impact it has had on thousands of lives. One of the highlights is the spectacular views of the dam, River Tummel and Loch Faskally, courtesy of the centre’s cutting-edge cantilevered design by architect Craig Steven. The attraction which includes a café, feels almost like it is ‘floating’ over the loch.
“It brings new meaning to the phrase, ‘lunch with a view’. Another new experience, which is a must for those heading to Highland Perthshire, will be Loch Tay Safaris. From this summer, visitors will be able to board a new, custom-built 12seater boat for a tour of the history, heritage and mythology of the largest loch in Perthshire and one of the deepest in Scotland. Perthshire is renowned for its natural heritage and Loch Tay Safaris will let visitors enjoy the stunning beauty and rich wildlife in the area.
“The region’s reputation for adventure tourism continues to grow with the arrival of a new bridge swing at Highland Fling Bungee, which is sure to be at the top of any thrillseekers’ bucket list.
“Of course we can’t forget about the other highlights of Perthshire’s summer season, such as Solas Festival (June 23-25), the GWT Scottish Game Fair (June 30- July 2), Rewind Scotland: The ‘80s Festival (July 21-23), Southern Fried Festival (July 27-29)– which received funding from EventScotland, VisitScotland’s event’s directorate - and the Blair Castle Equi-Trek International Horse Trails and Country Fair (August 2427) - all set to bring thousands of visitors to the region. These visitors, whether here for the day or longer, The Solas Festival is one of the musical and arts highlights to look forward to
all contribute to our vital visitor economy.
“As well as a bustling events programme, Perthshire is also home to a range of excellent accommodation providers, stunning landscapes, mouth-watering eating experiences and fascinating attractions. I’m delighted to see so many Perthshire accommodation providers being recognised for their achievements at the 2017 Scottish Hotel Awards earlier this week.
We are also now working with more than 370 quality assured businesses with Knockendarroch Hotel and Restaurant in Pitlochry (4 star Gold Hotel and restaurant), The Skiach in Blairgowrie (5 star selfcatering), The Old Manse of Blair in Blair Atholl (5 star exclusive-use) and The Nurse’s Cottage in Comrie (4 star self-catering) all recently securing new awards.
We also have 93 Taste Our Best eateries and over 90 businesses and organisations enrolled in our VisitScotland Information Partnership
The Scottish Crannog Centre at Loch Tay recreates a Medieval period dwelling (VIP) Programme, each acting as a local ambassador for their town or region by providing first-class information to visitors.
“Finally, I can’t share my summer highlights without a mention of the Fair City because in July we will learn whether Perth has been shortlisted for the UK City of Culture 2021.
The team behind the bid have done a fantastic job and whatever happens the legacy left from the campaign will benefit visitors for decades to come.
“The events and attractions I’ve mentioned offer just a small taste of what this area of Scotland can offer, if you need a little help finding out more about our local tourism treasures, make sure you visit the VisitScotland website or pop along to a VisitScotland Information Centre.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out and discover Perthshire this summer!”
If ever there was a perfect theme for Perthshire then 2017 is it...the Year of History, Heritage and Archaeology