A PERFECT TAY OUT
Newly minted as a city, Perth and its surroundings are simply magical
SCOTLAND’s ancient capital for five centuries, the ‘Fair City’ of Perth is now our newest city. Bustling, compact and beautifully situated on the banks of the Tay, Perth is a sparkling cosmopolitan gem that keeps on giving visit after visit.
The city offers exciting experiences. One way to experience a new view of the city is by kayaking down the Tay into Perth from Willowgate Activity Centre, just outside the city, with Outdoor Explore.
Nestled between two sprawling public parks, Perth boasts outstanding art galleries and museums and a unique shopping experience. Browse hip independent boutiques and pick up some treats from all your favourite high street names.
Whether you’re after a quick bite to eat or a three-course meal with all the trimmings, Perth’s dining scene doesn’t disappoint. Al fresco dining, tearooms, cafés and superb restaurants serving everything from gourmet French cuisine to traditional Scottish dishes all are on the menu in Perth.
At Perth Farmers’ Market – the longestrunning in Scotland – purchase local fare directly from producers, who are more than happy to talk about their food and share helpful cooking tips.
If music is your thing, Perth is the place to be. Travel back to the ’80s at Rewind Festival with bands such as Big Country on July 22-24 at Scone Palace or enjoy the Southern Fried Music Festival on July 29-31. If you fancy a midweek break, look out for Rock at the Races on July 26-27. Or take a leisurely guided walk around Perth’s outstanding buildings and landmarks with Dr Norman Watson, one of Scotland’s best-selling authors and a renowned historian. Suitable for all ages, it is a wonderful opportunity to explore Perth’s heritage.
On August 21, the city returns to the medieval and Viking era of 1266 at a festival to celebrate the 750th anniversary of the Treaty of Perth.
A short trip outside the city takes you to Europe’s oldest tree – the sole survivor from Birnam Wood, where the witches make their prophecy in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Perthshire is ‘Big Tree Country’ and the opportunity for adventures is on the same scale as its trees… big. See how many of Perthshire’s Munros – mountains over 3,000ft – you can bag. Scale the lofty heights of Ben Chonzie and one of Scotland’s most famous peaks, Schiehallion near Kinloch Rannoch, before tackling the area’s highest, Ben Lawers. If you prefer something more leisurely, you can explore 250 miles of waymarked trails through the stunning landscape. Stretch your legs on part of the Rob Roy Trail through Highland Perthshire, take the same route used by cattle raiders on the Cateran Trail or follow the Loch Leven Heritage Trail, near Kinross.
It is also worth exploring the Tay Forest Park, which includes Faskally Wood and Drummond Hill. Many of the paths are accessible for wheelchairs and prams, and dogs are welcome, allowing the whole family to enjoy the beauty of Perthshire visitscotlandcom./destinationsmaps/perthshire