A Rainy Day Guide to Seaside Towns
Have you booked your next getaway to the seaside and you're worried about the weather? Then our rainy day...
Perth is a bustling city set along the River Tay in Scotland.
The city is a hub of activity, from its magnificent architecture and rich history to its independent shops and superb foodie scene. You will never be short of things to do in Perth, Scotland!
Thinking of an adventure to Scotland? Keep reading to find out the top 11 things to do in Perth, Scotland…
Perth, otherwise known as “The Fair City“, thanks to the novel by Sit Walter Scott in 1828, is a vibrant city surrounded by spectacular scenery.
The city was once known as the capital of Scotland due to being a place the royals frequently visited and stayed.
Perth attracts thousands of visitors each year, and it’s not hard to see why! Whether it’s a cultural event, delving into the city’s intriguing history, or sampling the local dishes. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for in Perth, Scotland.
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Follow in the footsteps of many royals, including Macbeth, as you tour the grand interior of Scone Palace.
Explore the awe-inspiring Palace State Rooms on a guided tour. On the tour you can expect to see antique French furniture and stunning artwork.
Afterwards, head outside to discover the wonders of the palace gardens. Spanning for 100 acres, you can enjoy strolls along nature trails, find your way out of the maze or tuck-in to a picnic.
If you’re feeling hungry after your journey through time, you can sample a sweet treat at the Old Servant’s Hall Coffee Shop and the Horsebox. Or why not dine like a royal with afternoon tea in The Old Kitchen?
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Your getaway to Perth would not be complete without a day at the races! Get dressed up to the nines and look forward to a fun-filled day at Perth Racecourse.
Pop open a bottle of fizz and place your bets as you watch your favourite horse thunder down the tracks.
When you fancy a bite to eat, you can dine on the go with a selection of food vans, serving fresh fish and chips, burgers, and pizzas. Or why not enjoy a meal in one of the courses two restaurants. The Tay Bistro and the more formal, Galileo Restaurant.
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If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local history, there is no better way than with a visit to the Black Watch Castle & Museum. Housed in the beautiful 12th-century Balhousie Castle, this attraction is not to be missed!
Wander through the museum, where you can see a vast collection of memorabilia, including medals, paintings, and uniforms.
Each room will take you through the regiments rich history, where you can hear the soldiers stories in their own words.
After your journey through time, why not enjoy a meal in the award-winning Bistro @ The Castle? There is also a lovely gift shop where you can pick up a souvenir!
Next up on our things to do in Perth, Scotland guide is the breath-taking Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park. The park has five hills where you can soak up exceptional views. Kinnoull Hill is the highest.
Take in your blissful surroundings with walks through mature woodlands. There are a few trails to choose from, including the Jubilee Trail, Tower Trail and Deuchny Trail, which offer superb views.
During your visit to the park, be sure to visit the fascinating 19th-century folly which rests on the edge of the cliffs.
If you’re a keen cyclist, check out the bike park on Deuchny Hill, where you can ride through a variety of forest tracks.
Spanning for 119 miles, the River Tay is renowned for being the longest river in Scotland.
The river attracts many anglers, and it’s no surprise with its excellent fishing opportunities. It is home to Atlantic salmon, otter, and freshwater mussels. The fishing season begins on 15th January and lasts until 15th October.
If fishing isn’t your thing, the river is also well-known for its excellent watersports opportunities.
Take to the waters on a paddleboard, canoe, and kayak, as you enjoy the impressive views. The adrenaline junkies amongst you can take on the rapids at Grandtully with white water rafting!
Tucked away in the heart of the city is the wonderful and independent, Perth Distillery.
Set along the banks of the River Tay, this small award-winning distillery is renowned for its excellent gins. Gather your loved ones and embark on a Perth Gin Tasting Tour, where you can learn about the history of gin as you sip on one of the homemade tipples.
If you fancy playing mixologist, you can book at Gin Making Experience, where you can create your very own Perth Gin to take home with you!
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Foodies will not want to miss out on a visit to Perth’s Michelin Star eatery of North Port. Set in an 18th-century, end-terrace home, this wonderful restaurant invites you to dine in a relaxed environment.
Sit back and unwind with a glass wine in the cosy dining room, as you peruse the menu. What will it be? Perhaps the popular homemade haggis? Or maybe the Black Isle Ribeye Steak?
Don’t forget to leave room for dessert!
If you’re looking for unfussy dining with Michelin Star food and service, be sure to add North Port to your itinerary.
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The next addition to our things to do in Perth, Scotland guide is the magnificent, Huntingtower Castle. Wander the same halls as Mary Queen of Scots and her son, James VI, who was held captive in the castle in 1582 during the famous Ruthven Raid.
The castle is rich in history, of which its unusual layout contributes to. It is said that the Earl of Gowrie’s daughter, Dorothea, visited her lover in his chamber, before making the great leap between the tower tops to avoid being discovered by her mother.
The distance between the towers tops has since become known as Maiden’s Leap.
The interior of this former royal residence is also famed for its beautifully painted ceilings dating from approx. 1540.
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If you’re searching for free things to do in Perth, Scotland, then the Perth Art Gallery & Museum is the perfect place to visit!
Inside you can expect exceptional artwork from both local and international artists. Including the Fergusson Collection in Spring 2023.
This family-friendly gallery is well-known for its Messy Museum event, where little ones can unleash their inner artist! This sensory space offers everything from musical instruments and craft tables to jigsaws and paints.
Afterwards, why not refuel with a cup of coffee and a sweet treat at the coffee bar?
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The cultural hive of Perth’s city centre, Perth Concert Hall. You can look forward to watching a variety shows in the grand Edwardian Theatre, including drama, dance, and musicals.
You can also treat yourself to an evening of live music in the magnificent concert hall. Where you can enjoy the harmonies of an orchestra, Motown, rock, or a tribute act!
The theatre houses a cafe where you can catch up with your friends over coffee. Or enjoy a pre-show lunch with a selection of homemade cakes, sandwiches and soups to choose from.
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Our final pick for things to do in Perth, Scotland, is the wildlife rich Quarrymill Woodland Park. This park is made up of 27-aces of woodland and three beautiful walking trails.
The park takes its name from its former use as a stone quarry in the 14th century. Vsitors can look forward to connecting with nature, and spotting the resident wildlife, including tufted ducks and moorhens.
Quarrymill is owned and maintained by The Gannochy Trust, after it was gifted by Arthur Kinmod Bell in 1937. Arthur even planted some of the trees himself which can still be seen today!
If his name sounds familiar, you’d be right! He was the brain behind the popular Bell’s Whiskey.
Ahead of your stay check out the seven-day weather forecast for Perth, Scotland. Don’t worry if the sun isn’t shining for the whole of your stay! You can enjoy plenty of indoor activities in Perthshire come rain or shine!
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As you can see from our list, there is so much to see and do in Perth, Scotland! If our list has inspired you to visit, why not check out our guide on Scottish mountains. Or why not try something a little different and read about the places to see the Aurora Borealis in Scotland.
Choose from our excellent range of Perthshire accommodation and enjoy a well-deserved getaway to central Scotland!
Hi, I'm Sophie and I joined the team in June 2020. My favourite destination in the UK is Stratford-upon-Avon for all things Shakes...
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