Attractive and vibrant, Aberfeldy is a popular destination for visitors looking for adventure, fun and a huge array of things to do and places to visit.
Though it is one of the smaller towns in Perthshire, Aberfeldy is definitely one of its most interesting, and as you’ll see, there’s plenty to do!
There are so many things to do and see in Aberfeldy, you’ll have a hard time deciding what to do first! Here are some of the activities and places of interest we think are worth a visit:
The breath-taking Loch Tay is the ideal place to go if you enjoy the outdoors. The magnificent stretch of water boasts spectacular scenery and is host to an array of activities, such as paddleboarding, Kayaking and other watersports. You can hire canoes, fishing boats, water trampolines and lots of other fun water-based activities from the Taymouth Marina, and there’s even a lochside sauna for those who want a more relaxing holiday.
Situated on the Loch Tay, the Scottish Crannog Centre is the perfect historic family day out. At this interactive centre, you can discover what life was like at that very spot 2,500 years ago. This award winning reconstruction of an ancient loch is popular with history lovers young and old, bringing the past to life with hands-on museum exhibits and original artefacts found by nearby divers.
In June last year, the Crannog centre sadly suffered a fire but the Scottish Crannog centre has reopend with plenty to still see and do, such as a tour of the museum and artefacts as well as interactive demonstrations of ancient crafts.
There are many castles in High Perthshire, including Castle Menzies situated in Aberfeldy. A spectacular sixteenth century castle, the beautiful architecture demonstrates the transition of Scottish castles from rugged Highland fortresses to mansion houses fit for a family to reside in. A visit to Castle Menzies is unique in that the castle has not been fully restored and it is easy to imagine how it looked when it was originally built, and the entire castle is open to tourists.
The Bolfracks Estate and Gardens is a beautiful family estate situated on the banks of the River Tay, and boasts some of the best views in Scotland. Spend a day here; the estate holds an organic farm, forestry, space for fishing and sprawling, stunning gardens. There is an abundance of wildlife to be found and the estate is the perfect location for an afternoon walk.
The Birks Cinema is an impressive part of the Aberfeldy scene, showing a mixture of mainstream and art house films, as well as regular opera screenings. The venue also holds many special events, so be sure to check the listings for your trip.
The Breadalbane Community Campus is open to visitors and offers a range of fun leisure and fitness activities such as swimming, fitness classes, a gym and a climbing wall.
The Highland Safaris centre is home to the Red Deer Centre, where visitors can come face to face with Britain’s largest land mammal. Along with encountering the majestic red deer, the centre offers a barn owl experience. Visitors are welcome to feed and stroke the animals, and a Safari Ranger will be on hand to teach you and the family everything you need to know.
At Highland Safaris you can also have fun Gold Panning, armed with your own bucket of dirt ready to find some semi-precious stones and fools’ gold to take home with you.
The town of Aberfeldy is lined with independent shops offering gifts, outdoor essentials, clothing and local furniture. Here are some of our favourites:
The Taymouth Courtyard Shop is an incredibly impressive delicatessen and gift shop, where you can pick up local Perthshire produce, homemade gifts and souvenirs from your time in the Scottish Highlands.
Haggart’s, established in Aberfeldy in 1801, tailors high quality tweed and classic countryware.
The town of Aberfeldy is rich in artistic talent, and a diverse range of Scottish artwork is proudly displayed at the local Aberfeldy Gallery, established in 1983. Original paintings are available to purchase and the gallery hosts changing exhibitions.
For a unique art experience, take a trip to the Keltneyburn Smithy Gallery & Workshop to see creative and inspiring sculptures by local artist Heather M. Cummings, whose work can be found all over High Perthshire.
The Fortingall Art Exhibition is held every summer featuring some of the area’s best artists and photographers. An established highlight in the Perthshire cultural calendar, the event is not for profit and all proceeds go back into supporting the artists and the annual exhibition.
Aberfeldy hosts an exciting festival every year, showcasing local music artists, poets, and drama.
This grade-A listed former watermill has been revamped as an award-winning bookshop, café and gallery, perfect for a unique literary trip. The Watermill has a large variety of titles, and boasts a private children’s section so the kids can browse while you treat yourself to something from the café before heading over to visit the frequently-updated art gallery. Also on the site is Homer – a shop selling design-led European homeware and vintage furniture.
After all there is to do in Alberfeldy, you’re bound to be hungry. The town is full of indie cafes and unique restaurants perfect for day or night.
The Habitat Café is a popular dog-friendly independent café offering homemade food, cakes and coffees. It also has a good selection of vegetarian and vegan options. Ideal after a long walk!
The Three Lemons is a charming restaurant and bar serving great quality, affordable food. Make sure you try a burger or one of their excellent pizzas.
The chocolate lounge is ideal for an after dinner stop in or midday coffee and cake. Explore Ian's elegant range of luxury chocolates, desserts and cakes.
No visit to Aberfeldy is complete without a visit to the Taymouth Marina Restaurant, set on the stunning shores of the loch, overlooking the water and Drummond Hill. Serving locally sourced Scottish produce, having lunch or dinner here is a must-do.
Whatever you decide to do on your trip to Aberfeldy, we have a wide range of delightful self-catering holiday homes to suit your needs and your group size.
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