Perth: Why It's a Must on Your Scotland Trip
Do you sometimes feel like you don’t have enough time for everything you want to do? That there are endless possibilities, but only 24 hours in a day? I feel this way quite often, especially when I travel. That’s why I tend to prioritize visiting new countries over revisiting places I’ve already explored. But every rule has its exception. My exception is Scotland (and Ireland, but that's another story). I return to Scotland regularly because I love the country, the people, the culture, and the landscapes. However, with each trip, I try to discover new places because Scotland has so much to offer. That's how, in 2024, I found myself visiting Perth, Scotland.
Table of Contents
Nestled in the heart of the country, Perth is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "Royal City," Perth has played a central role in Scottish history for centuries.
A bit of history
Although Perth in Australia is often mentioned, it’s actually Perth in Scotland that gave its name to the Australian city. Often called the Gateway to the Highlands,it is the 7th largest city in Scotland. Its significance dates back tomedieval times,when it served as a royal residence and a coronation site for Scottish kings. The city was a thriving commercial hub in the Middle Agesbenefiting from its strategic position on the River Tay, which facilitated trade with other regions.
Perth was also an important religious center, with historic buildings like St. John's Kirk,one of the oldest parish churches in Scotland. The city played a crucial role in the Scottish Reformation in the 16th century, with figures like John Knox preaching within its walls.
Today, Perth is a vibrant city offering the perfect blend of historical riches and modernity.
How to Get to Perth
Arriving in Perth by Train
Trains from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, and Inverness serve Perth. The journey from Edinburgh takes about an hour and a half, while the trip from Glasgow takes just over an hour.
From France, you can take the Eurostar (from Paris or Lille) to London and then travel to Perth. The train journey might seem a bit long (6 hours from London or 9 hours from Paris), but trust me, it's worth it. The Edinburgh-Perth leg offers breathtaking scenery. Practical tip: reserve a seat on the train, as they can sometimes be fully booked. Bonus for Harry Potter fans: while waiting for your train at King's Cross station, you can visit Platform 9 3/4.
Arriving in Perth by Bus
Long-distance and local buses also offer convenient options for reaching Perth. Companies like Scottish Citylink et Stagecoach provide regular services from Scotland's main cities. Perth's bus station is located near the train station, making it easy to switch between modes of transport.
What to See and Do When You Visit Perth, Scotland
To be honest, I didn’t know much about Perth before visiting. I had vaguely heard of the "Stone of Destiny" thanks to previous visits to Scotland but didn't realize its connection to this part of the country. So, to help you prepare better than I did, here are the must-see spots in Perth.
High Street
Leaving our hotel, we simply headed for the city center, and it wasn’t hard to find Perth’s High Street.It resembles the main street of many other Scottish towns, pedestrian-friendly with cobblestones and typical shops on both sides. You'll also find pubs and cafés, perfect for a break and some refreshment.
Perth is also calledThe Fair City after Scotland’s most famous writer, Sir Walter Scott, wrote a novel titled Fair Maid of PerthThere’s even a bronze statue on the east side of the High Street depicting this character.
St. John's Kirk
Unlike the High Street, we specifically sought out St. John’s Kirkas it’s a must-see landmark in Perth. It’s one of the oldest buildings in the city. St. John’s Kirk played a crucial role in the Scottish Reformation and is a fascinating example of medieval architecture. The church is still in use today, hosting regular religious services, as well as concerts and cultural events.
Practical Information The church is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 4 pm, between May and October and with limited hours the rest of the year. Don't hesitate to check the official website before you visit.
The Banks of the River Tay
If you visit Perth, Scotland, a stroll along the River Tay is a must.This picturesque setting offers soothing tranquility and enchanting landscapes. Cross the bridge to take in the panoramic view of the city. This iconic spot is perfect for a leisurely walk, allowing you to appreciate Perth's natural beauty.
North Inch and South Inch
These two vast green spaces are ideal for a relaxing walk or a family picnic. North Inch and South Inch stretch along the River Tayand offer many leisure facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and walking paths.
North Inch,with its vast grassy expanse, is a historic site rich in heritage. This is where the famous Battle of North Inch took place in 1396, a judicial duel between rival Scottish clans. Today, the park offers top-notch sports facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, football and rugby fields, as well as well-maintained walking and cycling trails. The banks of the River Tay, which border the park, add a touch of natural beauty and offer spectacular views, especially during sunset strolls.
South Inchlocated just south of the city center, is equally impressive. This park is perfect for families, with its children’s playgrounds, paved paths ideal for peaceful walks, and vast lawns perfect for picnics. South Inch also hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, reinforcing its central role in Perth’s community life. The park is adorned with many mature trees and colorful flowerbeds, offering a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Perth Museum and Art Gallery
Visiter Perth Écosse
Perth Museum and Art Gallery The Perth Museum and Art Gallery is a must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about the history and culture of Perthshire.The museum houses an eclectic collection ranging from archaeological artifacts to contemporary art. The temporary and the permanent exhibitions give you an interesting glimpse at the region's history and culture.
Practical Information the Museum is open from Thursday to Monday from 10am to 4pm. The opening hours vary each day, You should check them out before you go.
The Black Watch Castle and Museum
This museum is dedicated to Scotland’s famous military regiment, The Black Watch, and is housed in Balhousie Castle.
The museum offers a fascinating insight into Scotland’s military history.
Practical Information : Opening hours : Summer (April-October from 9h30am to 4h30pm). Winter (November-March), from 10am to 4pm
Scone palace
Scone Palace is arguably the most iconic attraction in Perth. Once a royal residence, it is where theStone of Destiny was used for coronations. The palace is beautifully preserved and offers a deep dive into Scotland’s royal history.
Practical Information : Opening hours Summer (April -October, from 9h30am to 5h30 pm), Winter (November - March), from 10am to 4h30 pm
Stone of Destiny
When I visited Edinburgh for the first time, I had the pleasure of taking a guided tour of the city.Our guide, full of passion, told us the story of the Stone of Destiny. With grand gestures and jokes (sometimes hard to understand due to the accent), he shared with us what this Stone represents for Scotland. Ten years later, when I visited Perth, I had the pleasure of seeing it with my own eyes.
The earliest origins of the Stone are unknown, but what we do know is that it was kept a few kilometers from Perth, atScone Abbey,which was then one of the most important religious and political centers of the kingdom. It is believed that it was used for the coronation of Scottish kings until 1296, when it was seized and taken to London by Edward I ofEngland.Edward had the Stone of Destiny embedded in the base of a specially commissioned oak chair, kept at Westminster Abbey. This chair was named King Edward’s Chair,or Saint Edward’s Chair, in honor of Edward the Confessor. Today, it is more commonly known as the Coronation Chair..
Since then, almost every English and British monarch has been crowned while seated on this ancient chair during their coronation ceremony. This symbolic use of the Stone of Destiny in coronations signifies the British monarchy’s right to rule over Scotland..
visiter Perth Écosse
If you are familiar with the history and complex relations between Scotland and its inclusion in Great Britain, you can understand that this use of a Scottish artifact is not appreciated by everyone. So, you won’t be surprised to learn that the Stone has been stolen at least once. On Christmas 1950, the Stone disappeared from Westminster Abbey.A few months later, on April 11, 1951, it reappeared atArbroath Abbey in Scotland,a symbolic location for the Scottish nationalist struggle. The stone was stolen by four students from the University of Glasgow, aligning with the fight for Scottish independence. They managed to break into Westminster Abbey. and steal the Stone, unfortunately damaging it in the process. The theft reignited the debate about the legitimacy of its use by the royal family.
Visiter Perth Écosse
Despite the discontent of the Scottish people, the Stone was returned to England.It was used in 1952 for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.However, the debate around its history and Scottish culture continued. Thus, in 1996, the British government decided to return the Stone toScotlandIt was officially placed in Edinburgh in 1996. Since 2024, it has been on display at the Perth Museum, where I had the pleasure of seeing it. Admission to the Perth Museumis free, but it’s advisable to book your visit in advance.
Is it worth visiting Perth, Scotland?
Perth, with its rich historical heritage, stunning landscapes, and numerous attractions, is a worthwhile stop if you can include it in your trip to Scotland. Whether you are drawn to its royal past, cultural treasures, or natural beauty, the city offers an unforgettable experience. By visiting Perth, you will discover a city that harmoniously blends history and modernity, and that warmly welcomes you with its unique culture and hospitality. Be prepared to be enchanted by Scotland’s royal city..
Bonus: Where to stay when visiting Perth, Scotland?
When I planned my stay in Perth, I didn’t really know the city. I had no idea where to stay. So, completely by chance, we ended up at the most central and historic hotel in the city. The hotel has been open since 1699! Since then, it has hosted tourists and travelers from all over. It has 84 rooms and several event rooms. The prices are more than affordable. As a bonus, you can enjoy an excellent breakfast. Don’t hesitate to book through Hotels.fr for your stay. And of courseif you need help organizing your trip,, contact me for in my services of travel planning expert.
Visiter Perth Écosse
For more useful information
To find your plane ticket :
I can recommend you use ExpediaI trust them with my own travels and when I am working with clients
For your hotel reservation
I invite you to look into Hotels.fr they have a large choice of bookings and your client services are always available
Pour trouver des activités sur place :
I use either viator or GetYourGuideThe two plateforms offer a large choice of activities at reasonable prices
To rent a car
I recommend discovercarsTheir prices are competitive and they have a great customer service
Need more inspiration?
Get a look at my other blog articles to discover the Balkans and the rest of the world
Need a hand?
Contact me to discover my services of travel planning
You want to write an article for my blog?
Want more travel content?
Follow me Instagram