Location: Pitlochry
Top Things to do in Pitlochry
10 Free Things to do in Pitlochry That You Shouldn't Miss
Highland Perthshire places some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery within easy reach of both Glasgow and Edinburgh, and Pitlochry is the most geared-up base from which to enjoy it. It’s been a bustling mountain resort since the railways arrived in 1863, and these days manages to be both a cozy favorite for tourists who enjoy browsing in its woolen mills and taking in the repertory of plays at its famous Festival Theatre, and a magnet for adrenalin junkies in search of bungee jumping, canyoning, tubing and white water rafting adventures. Visitors of any age will be intrigued by the Pictish carvings on the huge Dunfallandy stone at nearby Ballinluig and, after a bracing mountain walk or visit to the famous salmon ladder, adults can enjoy a warming dram of malt whiskey after a tour at one of the two local distilleries, Edradour and Blair Athol.
Restaurants in Pitlochry
1. Ben Vrackie
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 298 reviews
Reviewed By 555alexandrae
The experience and challenge of getting to the top were worth every bit of effort. The distance from the car park to the loch is very manageable and doable in about an hour. Take a bit of bread to feed the ducks, they will love you for it! The steeper climb from there is definitely more challenging, but it can be managed in bite-sized chunks if needed. We would recommend decent walking boots or shoes and something warm to slip into at the top. With it, you can spend more time up there and wait for any mist or cloud to be blown away. We sat and watched as the wind opened up the skies to reveal a gorgeous landscape.
2. Robertsons of Pitlochry
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 118 reviews
Robertsons of Pitlochry is an independent specialist whisky, gin and spirit merchants and whisky and gin tasting venue. Stocking over 450 whiskies, gins, rums, vodka, liqueurs, specialty beers and wine. Robertsons has a bespoke tasting area called 'The Bothy' which is available for private bookings as well as hosting tasting evenings. Free tastings are available daily on a selected range of whisky, spirits and liqueurs.
Reviewed By paulsN2359TC - Diss, United Kingdom
A brilliant, entertaining evening of whisky tasting led by Ewan. Thoroughly enjoyed Ewan's relaxed style, who wears his knowledge and experience lightly. The selection of four whiskies (blind) showcased a variety of styles and Ewan provided insight on the process, industry and how best to enjoy the drink. I would recommend Robertsons and Ewan to any whisky enthusiast or novice.
3. Linn of Tummel
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 30 reviews
Reviewed By sts421 - St. Michaels, United States
Amazing hiking spot! We found this quite by accident turning off the main road can a trip from Edinburgh to Inverness. You're able to go over this very high suspension footbridge with beautiful views through the valley and River beyond. The hike itself was beautiful and nice because it had changes in elevation. Nothing too strenuous. you can walk along the trails up to the visitor center which we found to be closed for some reason. he didn't really need that visitor center though with the beauty that surrounds you up there.
4. Loch Faskally
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 73 reviews
Reviewed By susie895 - Aberdeen, United Kingdom
There’s a fantastic walk along the side of the loch/river that takes you from the end of the main road, right to the Dam visitor centre car park. Did the walk about four times whilst staying at Gardeners Cottage. Was great to have this quiet walk right on our doorstep
5. Falls of Bruar
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 180 reviews
This pretty waterfall is just a brisk two-mile hike from the House of Bruar shopping complex.
Reviewed By Richardbagwell - Birmingham, United Kingdom
Beautiful walk along the falls. It was raining but that didn’t dampen our enjoyment or views. There are steep cliff drops however it’s not a requirement to go to the edge to get a full experience. It’s located at the back of the House of Bruar which has a cafe post walk.
6. MacNaughtons of Pitlochry
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
Founded on Loch Tayside in 1792, is where all self-respecting Scots come for their tartans.
Reviewed By Hasledog - Surrey, United Kingdom
Spent a short break in Pitlochry . Visited MacNaughtons to find a warm cardigan for protection against the Highland weather . With helpful assistance from staff , found a lovely Barbour Fair Isle cardigan at half price !! Kept me warm throughout my visit , and I'm still wearing it on my return home
7. Melt Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 60 reviews
Reviewed By SugarKay8 - Fort Collins, United States
If you like silver jewelry, this is a wonderful place to browse! I bought a ring and earrings and they were pretty reasonable in price.
8. Black Spout Wood
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 288 reviews
Reviewed By ruthjE1301SS - Ilkley, United Kingdom
I ran up the woods along good paths to discover this hidden gem then further on to the Edradour Distillery, followed by a sweeping run down hill with a cheeky turn about the Atholl Palace hotel grounds which are a beautifully manicured contrast to the mysterious woods
9. Queen's View
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,126 reviews
Reviewed By junem704 - Glasgow, United Kingdom
I love going here ..it has a car park usually busy ..climb to the top and it has the most amazing views .. sit back relax bring a picnic and relax in nature
10. Killiecrankie
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 468 reviews
Reviewed By Traveller51_11
Yes, it could be said that Killiecrankie will always be the same but every visit is different in reality ... and it all depends on the season; weather; and water levels. We usually pass through on a circular walk from Tenandry (having parked at the Garry Bridge car park. If you do this same walk, it is now safer to walk the section through the village of Killiecrankie. Our first walk through 'saw' us walking up a dodgy stretch of road. The next time, a local gentleman told us to cut up through the Killiecrankie Hotel grounds - accessed adjacent to Village Hall ( I suppose it was a permissive path?) and this we have continued to do. Now, though, a proper path has been created - it runs to the edge of the Hotel grounds, closer to the road than the Hotel. It comes out at the end of the Hotel's drive and the next part of the walk begins exactly opposite the drive ... this stretch heading to the Soldier's Leap. Of course, when the Hotel is open (it closes for the winter), you can still divert off; breaking your walk; and visit the Hotel for refreshment. This new safe, official path really benefits walkers and gives the Hotel more privacy. There is a good car park (fee to pay) at the National Trust Visitor Centre on the main road. The Centre has restricted opening at the end of the peak season and closes in the winter. Also on site is a booking office for the 'Highland Fling' company - offering bungee jumping a new swing off the Garry Bridge. Be warned, it is a steep descent/ascent to/from the wooded gorge/Killiecrankie Pass; Soldier's Leap; and the foot of the Killiecrankie Railway Viaduct. Enjoy your visit ... as we always do ...
