Why do tourists visit Perth?

Set on the banks of the River Tay, Perth is an attractive city in the heart of Scotland, around an hour’s drive north of Edinburgh. It has been nicknamed the “Fair City” due to its role as the setting of Sir Walter Scott’s 1928 novel “The Fair Maid of Perth”. With impressive museums, galleries, and gardens, Perth is a worthy destination and attracts tourists throughout the year. 

In this article, discover some of the places to visit as a tourist in Perth, from historic castles to a riverside art trail. While planning your trip, you can browse accommodation online via a holiday rental website such as rentola.co.uk, which lists a diverse range of properties in Perth and beyond. With the convenience of online booking, you can secure your accommodation in advance, ensuring an enjoyable stay as you explore all that Perth and its stunning surroundings have to offer. The compact size of the city means you’re only ever a short walk away from its main sights and attractions. 

Black Watch Castle & Museum

Occupying historic Balhousie Castle, this fascinating museum explores the legacy of Scotland’s oldest Highland Regiment. It showcases artifacts, images, and personal stories from the soldiers who served, with the chronological exhibits covering the French Wars, World War I, and World War II. Discover the life of a member of the Black Watch in the exhibit titled “A Day in the Life” and pay your respects at the Iraq Memorial. Not to miss is the beautiful stained glass window that depicts a Seaforth Highlander and two Black Watch soldiers.

Perth Concert Hall

Housed within an iconic glass and copper building is the Perth Concert Hall, which hosts orchestral performances, stand-up comedy shows, and touring artists. It is renowned for its exceptional acoustics and plays an important role in the cultural life of Perthshire. In addition to its 1,000-seat auditorium, the complex features an onsite cafe where you can grab drinks and snacks before or after your show. 

Scone Palace

A short drive north of Perth is Scone Palace, a magnificent, red sandstone building that was once home to Scottish royals. It is designed in a Gothic Revival style, with a castellated roof topping the palace. Step inside to tour the opulently decorated staterooms where Queen Victoria was once entertained and see textiles embroidered by Mary Queen of Scots. In the landscaped gardens, you’ll find an adventure playground and a maze planted with around 2,000 beech trees.

River Tay Public Art Trail

Perth lies on the banks of Scotland’s longest river, the River Tay, which can be enjoyed along the waterfront walkway. Extending all the way to Kenmore is the River Tay Way, a long-distance hiking and cycling route. For a shorter walk, follow the River Tay Public Art Trail, which is dotted with 25 sculptures inspired by the waterway, its wildlife and the local history. Keep an eye out for Rhonda Bayle’s “Soutar’s Menagerie”, which was created as an homage to one of Perth’s best-loved poets. 

Fair Maid’s House

In the heart of Perth is one of the city’s oldest buildings, the Fair Maid’s House, which partially dates back to 1475. Built from rubble, it features a slate-covered roof and a small tower with a staircase inside. The Fair Maid’s House inspired Sir Walter Scott’s 1828 novel, “The Fair Maid of Perth” and is now occupied by the Royal Scottish Geographical Society. Step inside to observe Earth from space and see where the hottest and coldest places are on our planet. 

Branklyn Garden

On the east bank of the River Tay is this picturesque garden, which is renowned for its exceptional collection of rhododendrons and alpine species. Nestled at the base of Kinnoull Hill, it was established in 1922 by John and Dorothy Renton, who filled it with rare and unusual plants from all corners of the globe. Today, Branklyn Garden is designated as a National Trust for Scotland property and features a store where you can buy seeds and plants. 

Perth Art Gallery

Newly refurbished, the Perth Art Gallery boasts an impressive collection of works by Scottish artists, as well as international creatives. It occupies a building named in honour of Thomas Hay Marshall, who played an important role in building Perth’s “new town” in the early 19th century. Sir William MacTaggart and Joan Eardley are represented in the collection, as are Margaret Morris and J.D. Fergusson. If you’re traveling with kids, you can participate in hands-on art workshops at the Messy Museum, making Perth the perfect weekend getaway for families.  

King James VI Golf Club

Set on Moncreiffe Island in the middle of the River Tay is the King James VI Golf Club, which is one of the only golf clubs in the world named after a monarch. It was originally founded in 1858 at North Inch before relocating to Moncreiffe Island four decades later. Affectionately known as “The Island” or “King Jimmy”, the Island Course is only accessible on foot. You can relax after your game at the clubhouse restaurant or shop for golfing apparel and accessories at the pro shop.