Nestled in the scenic heart of Strathearn, the picturesque towns of Crieff and Comrie are bordered by the tranquil River Earn and lie near the sparkling waters of Loch Earn. The name Crieff originates from the old Gaelic word craobh, meaning “among the trees”—a fitting tribute to the lush woodlands that surround the area.
Alive with natural beauty and home to diverse wildlife, Crieff and Comrie are ideal destinations for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers alike.
The poet William McGonagall famously captured the area's charm in his poem Crieff:
“Ye lovers of the picturesque, if ye wish to drown your grief,
Take my advice, and visit the ancient town of Crieff.”
Whether you're after outdoor adventures, cultural discoveries, or a peaceful getaway, here are some of the best things to do in Crieff and Comrie, Perthshire.
Perfect for animal lovers and families, Auchingarrich Wildlife Park offers a fun day out for all ages. Kids can enjoy hands-on experiences like feeding animals, visiting the hatchery, pony rides, and even milking a cow! There's both indoor and outdoor play, soft play areas, and mini golf—not to mention a range of exotic and farm animals. The on-site café is the ideal place to refuel after your adventures.
Whisky aficionados will love The Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery, Scotland’s oldest working distillery. Tour the facilities, learn about the whisky-making process, and enjoy a tasting session. Afterwards, treat yourself to a fine meal at Wilde Thyme at Glenturret.
Just five minutes from Crieff, Drummond Castle Gardens is a must-visit for history and garden lovers. While the castle itself isn’t open to the public, the gardens are spectacular—a beautiful spot for a peaceful walk.
This annual walking festival celebrates Crieff’s historical role as a crossroads for cattle drovers in the 1700s. Enjoy guided walks of varying difficulty, plus music, drama, film, food stalls, and even mountain biking events.
For thrill-seekers, Loch Earn offers windsurfing, waterskiing, climbing, mountain biking, and more. Prefer something slower-paced? The loch is also ideal for a relaxing day of fishing.
A favourite with hikers, Ben Vorlich near Loch Earn is a rewarding climb with stunning views. There are also excellent cycling trails around the area for mountain bikers.
Looking for excitement? Action Glen is one of Crieff’s top attractions for families, stag and hen parties, and adventure lovers. From zip lines and watersports to shooting, off-road driving, and golf—it’s an action-packed day for all ages.
Just outside Comrie, near Tullybannocher Café, this lovely garden centre and art gallery offers garden supplies, gifts, and a wonderful selection of local arts and crafts.
A hub of contemporary Scottish art, the Strathearn Gallery features work by both established and emerging artists. You’ll also find ceramics, jewellery, and sculpture available for purchase.
Held during the summer, the Crieff Town Market offers a vibrant mix of stalls, from traditional farmer’s produce to handmade crafts and jewellery.
Established in 1925, this traditional sweet shop is a delight for visitors of all ages. Discover jars of old-fashioned sweets, homemade fudge, and iconic Scottish sugar mice.
Scotland’s oldest lending library, the Library of Innerpeffray is a hidden gem for book lovers. Set in a tranquil spot by the River Earn, the library allows visitors to explore rare and historic books, some dating back to the 1600s.
Housed in a charming 18th-century cottage, The Deil’s Cauldron serves Mediterranean and Scottish cuisine with a warm welcome. Enjoy tapas, hearty mains, and a well-stocked wine bar open into the evening.
Enjoy bold, authentic flavours at Thai Esan, a favourite for lovers of Asian cuisine. The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options, all made with care and flavour.
Awarded Restaurant of the Year at the Scottish Restaurant Awards, Barley Bree is renowned for its imaginative use of local ingredients to craft beautifully flavoured dishes in a warm and relaxed setting.
An unmissable spot for Mediterranean fare, Delivino offers refined pizzas, pastas, sharing platters, and an extensive wine list. Perfect for families or a stylish evening out.
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to make yourself at home in one of Crieff and Comrie’s charming holiday cottages.
Home from Home Perthshire offers a wide selection of self-catering accommodation perfect for families, couples, and groups.
Visit our Contact Us page to find out more and book your perfect stay.
Crieff and Comrie: A Highland Haven in Strathearn, Perthshire
Nestled in the scenic heart of Strathearn, Perthshire, the charming towns of Crieff and Comrie are bordered by the tranquil River Earn and lie close to the sparkling waters of Loch Earn. The name Crieff derives from the old Gaelic word craobh, meaning “among the trees”—a fitting tribute to the lush woodland surroundings that define the region.
Rich in natural beauty and teeming with diverse wildlife, this area offers a peaceful escape into the Scottish countryside. Whether you're a hiker exploring forest trails, a cyclist tackling rugged routes, or simply a lover of serene landscapes, Crieff and Comrie offer an unforgettable Highland experience.