14 Things to do in Perth

The new Perth Museum is open after a £26.5 million redevelopment project. This world-class cultural and heritage attraction highlights the fascinating objects and stories that put Perth and Kinross at the centre of Scotland’s story.

At its heart sits the Stone of Destiny, also known as the Stone of Scone, one of Scotland and the UK’s most treasured historical objects. Returning to Perthshire for the first time in over 700 years, the Stone is free for all to view.

There's also the chance to view Unicorn - The Debut Exhibition which runs until 22 September 2024. Explore the story of Scotland’s national animal and discover the special meanings behind this mythical creature, from ancient times to the present day, through art, science, social history and pop culture.

This tranquil park to the east of Perth opened as Scotland’s first official woodland park in 1991. It includes five hills, Corsiehill, Deuchny Hill, Barn Hill, Binn Hill and Kinnoull Hill and an abundance of flora and fauna, as well as roe deer, red squirrels and excellent open viewpoints across the Perth countryside. The park also features grassy paths and waymarked nature trails through fine mixed woodland of Scots pine, larch, oak, birch and Norway spruce. 

You’ll find The Black Watch Museum within the historic Balhousie Castle, a building which is said to date back to the 12th century. A visit to the ancestral Home of The Black Watch brings the history of Scotland’s oldest Highland Regiment’s to life, through artefacts, paintings, photographs, personal stories and interactive displays. Not only will you find The Black Watch Museum here, but there is also The Bistro @ The Castle and a gift shop. 

Perth Concert Hall is a go-to venue for major music and comedy tours, a second home for Scotland’s classical orchestras, and a place for local artists and top international acts to perform. This state-of-the-art concert hall has some of the finest acoustics in Europe and, along with its sister building, Perth Theatre, is at the heart of cultural life in Perthshire. 

Scone Palace is an ancient Scottish building, which was once the crowning place of Scottish royalty. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and peaceful woodland, perfect for a stroll or even a picnic. Inside the palace you can admire the needlework skills of Mary Queen of Scots and see the State Rooms where Queen Victoria was entertained on her way to the Highlands. There's also a great adventure playground for children in the grounds, not to mention the unique 'tartan' maze of 2,000 beech trees. The maze was planted in the shape of the heraldic Murray Star. 

The River Tay is the longest river in Scotland at 119 miles and is one of the five big Scottish salmon rivers. In Perth, the river can be best enjoyed from the beautiful riverside walkway and North Inch Park. Look out for a new long-distance walking and cycling route called The River Tay Way which will travel between Perth and Kenmore through some of the finest countryside that Perthshire has to offer. The walking route follows existing paths, and the cycling route follows National Cycle Route 77. 

Visit The River Tay Public Art Trail on your trip to Perth, a two-and-a-half-mile long wheelchair accessible trail beginning and ending in Perth city centre. It features thought-provoking sculptures which draw their inspiration from the river and its wildlife, the city and local history. 

Perth Art Gallery, one of the UK's oldest collections, features works by influential modern Scottish artists, including Joan Eardley, Sir William MacTaggart, Calum Colvin, and Alison Watt. The gallery was recently refreshed and is now home to the Fergusson, and now allows more works of art from local, Scottish, and international artists to be displayed than ever before.  

Willowgate offers visitors a chance to take to the water or land just 5 miles from Perth city centre. With experiences including guided kayak tours into Perth, guided local walks, archery and stand-up paddle boarding there is plenty of choice. After enjoying a great day out why not relax in the riverside café with a scone and a cup of tea! 

The Fair Maid’s House is one of the oldest buildings in Perth. Nowadays it is home to The Royal Scottish Geographical Society's visitor and education centre. Visitors to the centre can watch the planet from space and see the continents evolve in the Earth Room; learn about the hottest and coldest places on Earth in the Education Room; and learn about maps and explorers, or curl up with a book, in the Explorers' Room. Great for families! 

Gardeners and botanical types will love Brankyln Garden which has an outstanding collection of rhododendrons, alpines and herbaceous plants, not to mention some beautiful woodland. A haven of peace and tranquillity within walking distance of Perth city centre, it also contains a wonderful collection of rare species and exotic plants. You can purchase gifts, seeds and plants, including a selection of unusual alpines, perennials and bulbs, in the shop. 

Why not spend a couple of hours exploring Perth on the Perth Treasure Hunt Trail? The self-guided Perth Treasure Hunt Trail was written with families in mind as it can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. Can you work together to solve the fun and sometimes tricky puzzles found on permanent features around Perth? Solve the clues and see the sights of Perth! 

Enjoy waymarked forest walks and array of wildlife in Quarrymill Woodland Park, which is just half a mile north of Perth. During springtime, bluebells carpet the woodland floor beneath the trees and red squirrels are often spotted above. Access for wheelchair users has been created along two of the walks here, which also include picnic areas and viewing platforms across the forest. 

This fascinating castle has seen many turbulent times in Scottish history, including the Chaseabout Raid where Mary Queen of Scots and her husband Lord Darnley saw off a rebellion. Inside you can enjoy the fine painted ceiling in the hall of the eastern tower, get to grips with the odd layout of the two towers that were built in the 15th and 16th centuries, and see if you can find the secret hiding place that was once used for Ruthven treasures.