Perth is a city located in the east of Scotland, just a short journey from Edinburgh and Glasgow. Known as "the Fair City," a name inspired by a novel by Sir Walter Scott, Perth lies along the banks of the River Tay. The city is nestled between public parks and boasts elegant architecture, cobbled streets, and medieval spires. Visitors will find many attractions, including monuments, art galleries, museums, and the beautiful surrounding countryside.
The Perth Museum in Scotland boasts a rich collection of artefacts and stories illuminating the city's social and natural history. Visitors can explore various items, including mummified remains and various historical objects. The museum also features modern displays showcasing Perthshire life and sports memorabilia. Highlights of the collection include the Stone of Destiny (Stone of Scone), a symbol of Scotland and an important historical artefact; and the Bronze Age Carpow Logboat, a 3,000-year-old logboat excavated from the Firth of Tay.
Additionally, the museum houses the Sarcophagus of Ta-Kr-Hb, which contains the mummified remains of an Egyptian or Kushite woman. It also displays centuries-old children's shoes, providing a glimpse into children's past lives.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM. Entry is free. However, there are additional costs for some exhibits.
Address: St John’s Place, Perth & Kinross, PH1 5SZ
The Perth Art Gallery, renowned as one of the oldest art collections in the UK, is a treasure trove of works by prominent modern Scottish artists. Visitors can admire the pieces of Joan Eardley, Sir William MacTaggart, Margaret Morris, and Alison Watt. A highlight of the gallery is its new permanent exhibit, "Modern Scots," which thoughtfully narrates the journey of significant modern Scottish artists and illuminates their vital contributions to 20th and 21st-century art.
For families, the gallery features the engaging "Hands on Art" area, where you can enjoy interactive and creative experiences.
To complete your visit, don’t miss the charming shop, where you can find unique art-inspired gifts, and the cosy coffee bar, perfect for relaxing with a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM, except Thursdays from 10 AM to 7 PM, and Sundays from 10 AM to 4 PM. Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Address: George Street, Perth, Perthshire, PH1 5LB
Know more about the history of Scotland’s oldest Highland Regiment at Black Watch through artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays. The multi-award-winning attraction includes the Black Watch Museum located within the historic Balhousie Castle, which is said to date back to the 12th century. The Bistro offers an informal dining experience with an appealing selection of meals, sharing platters, soups, desserts, afternoon tea, and Sunday lunch. You can also pick up souvenirs from the gift shop.
Address: Balhousie Castle, Hay Street, Perth, Perthshire, PH1 5HR
Do not miss Scotland's oldest free public lending library, which dates back to 1680. Located in the beautiful Perthshire countryside, the area offers a rich history and heritage to explore, including Roman roads, forts, and the medieval chapel of St. Mary's.
Inside, you will find a vast collection of rare books, manuscripts, and historical documents, including the founder's original collection from 1680. The library also boasts a diverse array of books from various periods, including 17th and 18th-century volumes, 19th-century novels and journals, and more recent additions.
You can also explore the library's grounds, which feature the graveyard of St. Mary's Chapel, noted for its rare wall paintings, as well as the surrounding gardens. Additionally, the library hosts guided tours, educational workshops, and special events.
Timings: March-October, Wednesday to Saturday 10 AM – 5 PM and Sundays 2 PM – 5 PM. Admission price is £10, with under-16s free.
Address: Crieff PH7 3RF, Scotland, United Kingdom
The River Tay, Scotland's longest river, flows through Perth to the North Sea. You can explore its artistic and historical heritage through the River Tay Public Art Trail, featuring sculptures in beautiful gardens and riverside flowerbeds. The river, bridged since the Middle Ages, showcases inspiring sculptures that reflect the river and its surroundings. Incidentally, Perth is the UK's first UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art, featuring impressive museums, art galleries, outdoor installations, and trails.
Located to the east of Perth, this opened as Scotland's first official woodland park in 1991. It features five hills: Corsiehill, Deuchny Hill, Barn Hill, Binn Hill, and Kinnoull Hill.
From the summit, you can enjoy a stunning view of the River Tay and explore the historic Kinnoull Tower, a castle ruin. Additionally, the park includes an arboretum featuring trees suitable for gardens, as well as a bike park with trails for mountain biking and horse riding.
Explore 27 acres of mixed woodland, including ancient trees, at the Quarrymill Woodland Park in Perth. The park features three trails, two of which are accessible for wheelchairs. Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy observing birds and plants, including some rare species, along the Annaty Burn. The burn and its surroundings provide a unique opportunity to observe various plant and animal life, including dipper birds and aquatic insects. The park also includes a Macmillan Coffee and Giftshop for souvenirs.
Perth, Scotland offers a great location to explore surrounding attractions, including the Highlands and other historic sites. Some popular places to visit near Perth include Scone Palace, Blair Castle, and the Hermitage, offering a mix of history, nature, and scenic views.
Currently, there are no direct flights from India to Scotland. However, the nearest major airport to Perth is Dundee Airport, approximately 30 km from the city center. While Dundee is the closest, Edinburgh Airport is also a relatively close option, being around 50 km away. Glasgow International Airport is further, at about 90 km. From India, one can take connecting flights.
What are the visa policies?
Indians require a visa to visit United Kingdom, and by extension Scotland. With the visa, you can visit the UK as a standard visitor for tourism, business, study (courses up to six months) and other permitted activities.
The best time to visit Perth in Scotland, is generally during the shoulder seasons, April to May and September to October, for a combination of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices.
