Visitor Attractions near Loch Tay
Wonderful Visitor Attractions in
Perthshire
You are spoilt for choice in Perthshire with wonderful attractions to visit whatever
the time of year - in fact there is something to appeal to all ages and interests.
The beautiful
scenery and lovely towns on the way to your destination add to a memorable
day out.
What's more - this is just a small selection of some of the great attractions the area has to offer.
Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre, Glascorrie Road, Crieff, Perthshire (30 miles). Award Winning wildlife attraction high in the Perthshire hills with animals and birds, native and exotic. Set in 100 acres of beautiful Perthshire hills. Hatchings every day from Easter to October. Great for small children. Open Mar-Nov.
Tel - 01764 679 469
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Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve (nearby - scenic backdrop to Leisure Park)
Ben Lawers gives its name to a range of hills that includes seven peaks over 3000ft. On a clear day, views from the top stretch from the Atlantic to the North Sea. Fantastic views to Ben Lomond, Glencoe, and the Cairngorms.
Few places in Britain can rival the unique range of Arctic-Alpine plants found at Ben Lawers. Birdwatchers will be impressed with species such as meadow pipits, skylarks, ravens, ring ouzels, red grouse, ptarmigan, dippers and curlews. Higher slopes are the haunt of birds of prey such as golden eagle, kestrel and buzzards.
Watch out for herds of red deer, and mountain hare. There have been occasional sightings of the Scottish wildcat - one of the most elusive creatures in the land.
Most walking routes are suitable for experienced walkers with the right equipment, but there are gentler routes too - like the sign-posted Nature Trail, which is ideal for families. Ranger led walks and various events throughout the year. Site open all year, Mountain Visitor Centre and Shop open May-Sept.
www.nnr-scotland.org.uk
Tel - 01567 820 397
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Big Tree Country, Perthshire
Among its many other attractions, Perthshire can boast some of the most remarkable trees and woodlands anywhere in Europe. Its forests, woods and country gardens offer an unrivalled assortment of glorious greenery amongst which you'll discover Europe's oldest tree, the world's highest hedge, Britain's tallest tree, and the sole survivor from Shakespeare's 'Birnam Wood'.
www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
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Birnam Oak, Birnam, Dunkeld, Perthshire (35 miles)
Close to the village of Birnam, on the banks of the River Tay, are two trees of immense size, age and legend. The Birnam Oak and its neighbour the Birnam Sycamore are thought to be remnants of the great forest that once straddled the banks and hillsides of the Tay. This forest is celebrated in Shakespeare's Macbeth as the famous Birnam Wood.
www.perthshire.co.uk
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Blair Castle, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire (40 miles)
The ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl and home to the Atholl Highlanders, the last remaining private army in Europe. Blair Castle is one of the best known Scottish castles. With a comprehensive castle tour, treasure-filled rooms, and vast gardens and grounds, no visitor can fail to be impressed. You can also enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. Some great events there throughout the year. Open Apr-Oct with restricted winter opening.
www.blair-castle.co.uk
Tel - 01796 481 216
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Blair Drummond Safari & Adventure Park, near Doune, Perthshire (36 miles)
Drive amongst wild animals, boat around chimp island and visit the pet farm. Also amazing sea-lion shows, falconry displays, adventure playground, funfair rides and picnic areas. A great day out for all the family. Open Apr-Oct.
www.safari-park.co.uk
Tel - 01786 841 456
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Breadalbane Folklore Centre, Killin, Perthshire (4 miles)
Overlooking the famous Falls of Dochart, restored mill and waterwheel, trace the story of Scotland's clans - and admire their treasures. Souvenir, gift and book shop. Open Mar-Oct.
www.breadalbanefolklorecentre.com
Tel - 01567 820 254
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Caithness Glass Visitor Centre, Inveralmond, Perth (45 miles)
Marvel at the skills of the glassmakers turning molten glass into beautiful paperweights. Spacious viewing galleries, resident engraver, audio theatre, paperweight collectors gallery, Caithness Glass exhibition, factory shop, restaurant, childrens play areas. Located on the northern edge of Perth on the A9. Open all year.
www.caithnessglass.co.uk
Tel - 01738 637 373
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Cruise Loch Tay, Dalerb Steamer Pier, Nr Kenmore, Perthshire (12 miles)
Cruises on the covered Dutch Waterbus 'Glen Lyon'. Enjoy a leisurely 1 hour cruise on beautiful Loch Tay with commentary on the history, folklore, wildlife of the area. Spot the Leisure Park en-route. Cruises from Easter.
It is anticipated that a new built steamship 'The Spirit of the Tay' will be ready to cruise on Loch Tay this year. Modelled on a Victorian steamship design, it will be capable of carrying 250 passengers. The 110 foot long vessel will offer day cruises and evening dinner cruises. Currently under construction at this location.
www.lochtaysteamheritage.co.uk
Tel - 0781 466 6253
www.explore-highland-perthshire.com/attractions/aberfeldy-loch-tay-glen-lyon.htm
For a more personal experience take a guided 1 hour trip on a small boat. Personalised to your own preferences you may wish to:
- take photographs of the magnificent scenery and wildlife.
- view crannogs and other interesting sights.
- be dropped off for a picnic on the shores or islands of the loch.
For those interested in hearing about local folklore and tales from the past, a story teller can be booked to accompany you on your outing.
www.lochtayfishntrips.co.uk/index.htm
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Dewar's World of Whisky, Aberfeldy Distillery, Aberfeldy (19 miles)
Have a wonderful day out at this traditional working distillery set in beautifully landscaped grounds. Dates back to 1896. With a personal guided tour, innovative and interactive visitor centre, café, picnic area, nature trail, fabulous shopping for unique souvenirs - there's something here for all ages. Open all year, restrictions Oct.
www.dewarswow.com
Tel - 01887 822 010
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Drummond Castle Gardens, Muthill, Crieff, Perthshire (30 miles)
One of the finest formal gardens in Europe, created in the early 17th century. 12 acres of formal italianate gardens. Large Victorian parterre with terraces, fountains, topiary and heraldry. Used in the filming of Rob Roy. Open May-Oct & Easter.
www.drummondcastlegardens.co.uk
Tel - 01764 681 550
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Drummond Trout Farm and Fishery, Comrie, Perthshire (22 miles)
Voted Perthshire's most enjoyable visitor attraction. Feed the fish, see the salmon ladder and underwater camera. Catch your own trout, gutting and freezing service. Free lessons for beginners and experts, rod hire, 15 pools and nursery tanks, specimen pool. Farm shop, snacks and picnic facilities, not forgetting the dramatic scenery. Open all year.
www.drummondtroutfarm.co.uk
Tel - 01764 670 500
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Eppie Callum's Oak (Forest/Wood), Crieff, Perthshire (30 miles)
This ancient oak is said to have once sheltered the notorious outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor from his enemies. Jacobite leader Bonnie Prince Charlie also apparently hid up inside the trunk. Eppie Callum's Oak is located very near to Lady Mary's Walk and MacRosty Park - both worth visiting for lovely walks, splendid trees and relaxation.
www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
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Falls of Bruar (Waterfall), Bruar, Perthshire (42 miles)
The spectacular Falls of Bruar are accessed via a pleasant woodland walk that winds its way up from the nearby House of Bruar beside the Water of Bruar to several waterfalls. Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns, visited here in 1787 and was deeply impressed by what he saw, being inspired to write a poem on it. House of Bruar country store and restaurant nearby.
www.houseofbruar.com
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Famous Grouse Experience, The Hosh, Crieff, Perthshire (30 miles)
The Famous Grouse Experience, at Glenturret Distillery - Scotland's oldest distillery set in the peace and tranquillity of a woodland setting. A fun and interesting day out with a unique exciting interactive and sensory experience. Learn the secrets of this best-loved whisky. Fly with the Grouse bird. Restaurant & shop. Open all year.
www.famousgrouse.co.uk/experience
Tel - 01764 65 65 65
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Fortingall Yew Tree, Fortingall, Perthshire (11 miles)
Thought to be the oldest living organism in Europe, estimated to be between 3000 and 5000 years old. Its once vast trunk measured an amazing 56 feet in girth. Legend has it that Pontius Pilate, the Roman Governor of Judea who had Jesus Christ crucified, played in the tree as a child, having been born to a local woman and a visiting Roman official.
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Glamis Castle, Glamis by Forfar, Angus (62 miles)
Childhood home of the late Queen Mother and birthplace of the late Princess Margaret. Legendary setting for Shakespeare's famous play 'Macbeth' and one of the most haunted castles in Scotland. A wonderful day out for all the family. Open Mar-Dec.
www.glamis-castle.co.uk
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Highland Adventure Safaris, Aberfeldy, Perthshire (22 miles)
Something for all the family. Exciting Land Rover safaris for all ages and interests and gold panning. Discover tracks, trails, views and clues. Take to the wheel yourself under the guidance of an experienced instructor. Enjoy a safari/hike hike through some of Scotland's most stunning scenery in search of wildlife, flora, fauna and history. Have a picnic lunch. At the Gold Panning Centre pan for real gold and gem stones. Deer Park, Wildlife Discovery Garden, shop, Tea Room, and superb events throughout the year. Open all year.
www.highlandadventuresafaris.co.uk
Tel - 01887 820 071
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Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park
Loch Tay Highland Lodges Leisure Park is situated close to North East boundary of Scotland's first National Park. It embraces the deep waters of Loch Lomond, the wild glens of the Trossachs, Breadalbane's high mountains and the sheltered sea lochs of the Argyll Forest.
Often described as the Highlands in Miniature, the scenery around the Trossachs is breathtaking. Forest covered slopes, dramatic peaks, waterfalls and lovely walks.
26 miles away is Loch Lomond. This magnificent part of Scotland is well known throughout the world, and has been an inspiration for writers, artists, and musicians throughout the centuries. The area is renowned for its beauty and tranquillity and offers picture postcard views around every corner.
It is the largest expanse of freshwater in Britain - 23 miles long, 5 miles wide, and up to 600 ft deep. Attractions include:
- Loch Lomond Shores Visitor Centre at Balloch.
- The attractive village of Luss (setting for the popular TV serial 'Take the High Road').
- Various leisure activities including walking, water-sports, and loch cruises (nearest are Tarbet and Luss).
www.lochlomond-trossachs.org
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Loch Tay (a few feet away)
The Old Pier Lodge directly overlooks Loch Tay - a lovely scenic loch flanked on either side by mountains. Perthshire's largest loch and one of the deepest in Scotland, it is 15 miles long, 1 mile wide, and over 500ft deep.
The shores of Loch Tay were once home to many small farming communities - the remains of some can still be seen today. It's hard to believe that ancient settlers also lived here, inhabiting artificially created islands known as crannogs.
There are 18 crannogs on Loch Tay most of which are now submerged. A large crannog near the northern shore at Kenmore can be clearly seen. This was the ancient burial place of Queen Sybilla, wife of Alexander, King of Scots. For more info visit the Scottish Crannog Centre (details below).
www.incallander.co.uk/lochtay.htm
www.crannog.co.uk
Tel - 01887 830 583
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Perthshire Gardens Collection
The Perthshire Gardens Collection brings together 11 spectacular examples of the gardener's art that combine native Scottish plants with rare and exotic species from all over the world. You'll find some of Britain's most colourful gardens here.
www.perthshiregardens.co.uk
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Queens' View Visitor Centre, Strathtummel, by Pitlochry, Perthshire (32 miles)
The spectacular view with sweeping vistas across Loch Tummel to the distinctive peak of Schiehallion, is considered one of the most famous in Scotland. Many visitors, including Queen Victoria, have gazed at the view. The centre is the focal point for the Tay Forest Park - a collection of delightful woodlands in Highland Perthshire. Audio-visual film, exhibition, tearoom and shop. Forest trails nearby. Viewpoint open all year, Visitor Centre March to November.
www.forestry.gov.uk
Tel - 01796 473 123
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River Tay, Perthshire
At 120 miles the mighty River Tay is the longest in Scotland. By the time it reaches the end of its majestic journey it is almost 2 miles wide and can carry more water than the Thames and the Severn combined. The river is home to populations of salmon, otter and lamprey and is one of Scotland's finest angling rivers. The River Tay can best be enjoyed at Kenmore, Aberfeldy, Dunkeld and, in Perth, from the beautiful riverside walkway and North Inch Park. The riverside at Dunkeld is a lovely spot for a lazy afternoon, with the Cathedral and the old larch trees providing a romantic backdrop.
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Rob Roy's Grave, Balquhidder, Perthshire (16 miles)
Rob, his wife Mary and two of their four sons are buried in a simple grave in the churchyard in one of Scotland's most beautiful glens.
www.robroycountry.com
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Rob Roy & Trossachs Visitor Centre, Callander, Perthshire (25 miles)
Re-live the life and times of the infamous Highlander, see a reconstructed 18th century farmhouse and decide for yourself - was Rob Roy hero or villain? Open all year.
www.robroyvisitorcentre.com
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RSPB Vane Farm Nature Reserve, Kinross, Perthshire (70 miles)
Loch Leven is an international hotspot for birds and other wildlife. It supports a huge waterfowl population, including up to 20,000 pink-footed geese in winter. Facilities at the RSPB Vane Farm Centre include 2 nature trails, 3 hides and an observation room, brown trout fishery, coffee and retail shop. This loch is also famous for its historical links with Mary Queen of Scots. Open all year.
www.rspb.org.uk/reserves/guide/v/vanefarm
Tel - 01577 862 355
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Scone Palace, Scone, Perth (45 miles)
Scone is a place that breathes history like nowhere else in Scotland. Scone Palace is the crowning site of the Kings of Scots and the cherished family home of the Earl's of Mansfield. One of Scotland's seven Great Houses. It is the place where the Stone of Scone (Stone of Destiny) was kept for nearly 500 years. Various events throughout the year. Open Mar-Oct.
www.scone-palace.co.uk
Tel- 01738 552 300
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Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore, Perthshire (13 miles)
Crannogs are a type of ancient loch-dwelling built on an artificial rock island.
The Centre highlight is an authentic recreated Iron Age crannog perched above the loch on stilts. Exhibits, artefacts, guided tours, and hands-on ancient crafts and technologies bring the past to life. Open Apr-Oct.
www.crannog.co.uk
Tel - 01887 830 583
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Scottish Hydro Electric Visitor Centre/ Dam & Salmon Ladder,
Pitlochry, Perthshire (33 miles)
Situated within the picturesque Pitlochry Power Station, this is a fascinating place to visit. Find out the history of hydro electricity generation in Scotland using interactive exhibits, and view the Turbine Hall from the Visitor's Gallery.
Watch the salmon making their ascent via a viewing chamber, and find out all about their epic journey at the visitor centre. Attractive riverside walks nearby.
Open Apr-Oct.
www.scottish-southern.co.uk/ssegroup/visitorcentre.asp
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Stirling Castle, Stirling (42 miles)
Stirling Castle is the grandest of Scotland's castles and is an essential visit. Perched high on volcanic rock, it is visible for many miles in every direction. Many important events from Scotland's past took place at Stirling Castle, which was the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots. Open all year.
www.stirling.co.uk/attractions/castle.htm
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Wallace Monument, Stirling (42 miles)
Built in memory of a great Scottish hero - William Wallace - whose life was dramatized by Mel Gibson in the blockbuster film 'Braveheart'. The National Wallace Monument is packed with fascinating exhibits and displays - so come and visit one of the country's most magnificent sights, and meet Scotland's national hero. Fantastic panoramic views from the top - well worth the climb! Opened in 1869, 220 feet high, and 246 steps. Open all year.
www.nationalwallacemonument.com
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There are many more other wonderful visitor attractions in the area, including:
- Castles, cathedrals, and historic sites.
- Woodland parks, forests, woodland trails, and gardens.
- Lochs, glens, nature reserves, and scenic waterfalls.
- Museums, art galleries, and craft centres.
For more info visit:
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