Killiecrankie

The Pass of Killiecrankie lies about midway between Pitlochry and Blair Atholl. A little under a mile and a half long, it is a narrow, steep sided glen cut by the River Garry through the surrounding high ground, and forms the most constricted part of what has throughout history been the main route between the Highlands and the Lowlands.

The National Trust for Scotland's Killiecrankie Visitor Centre is a little to the south of the actual village of Killiecrankie. The visitor centre is well worth a stop in its own right, as it gives a fascinating insight into the background of the Pass of Killiecrankie and the wider area. It also has a well stocked shop. But the main reason to stop at the Killiecrankie Visitor Centre is to enjoy a very striking chunk of Scottish scenery, and to understand the part that this place played in an important episode in Scottish history.

Some people come to Killiecrankie for the ever changing face of Scotland as it progresses through the seasons. The pass has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and the steep paths and deep glen allow you many different perspectives on the river, the glen itself and the surrounding trees.

Things to see and do in Killiecrankie

Admire the view from the footbridge, particularly in autumn when the colours are spectacular.

Pop in to the visitor centre to find out more about the 17th-century Battle of Killiecrankie.

See Soldier’s Leap, the spot where a Redcoat soldier leapt 18ft across the raging River Garry, fleeing the Jacobites.

Look out for unusual fungi – the Pass is a hot spot for rare mushrooms and toadstools.

Spot lots of wildlife in the area, including red squirrels, woodpeckers and pine martens.

During wet spells, look out for leaping salmon at the falls beneath the Soldier’s Leap.

A short walk will take you to Soldier’s Leap, and if you continue on the path for around a mile you’ll reach the southern end of the Pass of Killiecrankie, where a footbridge crosses the River Garry.

Admire the view from the footbridge, particularly in autumn when the colours are spectacular.

Don’t Miss:

Highland Fling Bungee

Bungee Jump from a bridge at the only permanent bungee location in the UK

Based in Perthshire, Scotland, Highland Fling is the only permanent bridge bungee operation in the UK.

The bungee jump is from the 40 metre (or 132 feet) high River Garry Bridge which is just outside Killiecrankie and 4 miles from the tourist town of Pitlochry.

From the bungee platform located under the bridge there are spectacular views to be enjoyed before you leap out into the fresh air falling toward the water below at up to 50 miles an hour.

Enjoy the wild side of Scotland with Highland Fling Bungee Jumping!

Queens View Visitor Centre

Historic viewpoint with iconic panoramas over Loch Tummel, a cafe/tea room & a visitor centre.

Queen's View lies at the heart of Highland Perthshire, and it's the area's most popular visitor attraction. Just one look is enough to tell you why.

When Queen Victoria visited in 1866, she assumed that the sweeping view west along Loch Tummel was named after her – but she was wrong. We think the view was really named after Isabella, the first wife of Robert the Bruce, who lived more than 500 years earlier.

Today, you too can enjoy views fit for a queen – along with a nice cup of tea at the café. Pick out some gifts at the well-stocked shop and relax before exploring the nearby forests.

Aileen Forest

Ancient ruins, stunning views and and peaceful forest just half a mile from The Queens View Visitor Centre.

Climb steadily through varied forest to discover a 300-year old farming settlement and some superb views across the Tummel Valley.

Places to Eat

Killiecrankie House

With direct access to the beautiful Pass of Killiecrankie, the deep river gorge formed by the River Garry, the whitewashed 1840s house has been a hotel since 1939. <

Mark Easton has been at the helm in the kitchen for more than 15 years and his food is always enjoyable and always consistent, with produce culled from excellent suppliers and the abundant kitchen garden.

The Loft Restaurant

Only a short distance away is The Loft restaurant, who pride themselves on using local Scottish produce in every dish. Traditional cuisine from Scottish Salmon to locally sources venision. There is a dish for everyone with an adaptable menu to suit a varied of dietary requirements. 

Don’t Miss

Soldiers of Killiecrankie

With battle re-enactments, cavalry charges, piping, zip-wire, a Living History camp, story-telling, singing, drama, demonstrations of traditional crafts, there's something for every age group.

Held on the Killiecrankie Battleground over the weekend of 30th & 31st  July 2016, open from 11.00am - 5.00pm each day, wth a Ceilidh on the Saturday night!

Two days of events and activities at the site of the 1689 Battle of Killiecrankie - includes arena displays of the Jacobite Cavalry. Variety of stalls, food stalls and activities.