|
|
|
|
The historic City of Perth has been attracting visitors for 800 years. Once Scotland's capital, the 'Fair City' has often had a significant role as a centre of politics, business and the law.
Nowadays, it is one of Europe's most successful small cities, preserving and celebrating its fascinating heritage whilst embracing the best of the 21st century. Indeed 2010 is the 800th anniversary of the founding of the Royal Burgh of Perth and will be celebrated with a year long programme of events focusing on a series of themes - past, present and future.
Its compact city centre, complemented by a wealth of renowned parks and gardens, gives Perth a delightful atmosphere which invites relaxed exploration.
And there is much to discover, as Perth's history continues to hold its own alongside the vibrant cultural and culinary scene that distinguishes this truly modern city.
Beautifully situated on the banks of the silvery River Tay, Perth's central location makes it the ideal base from which to explore.
A climb or drive through the wooded slopes of Kinnoull Hill is an ideal introduction to Perth. Enjoy the breathtaking views to the north and west. Otherwise explore Perth on foot; perhaps you could follow the Soutar Trail (leaflet available from Perth Tourist Information Centre).
Perth has been a market town for hundreds of years. Today, long established family businesses, specialist retailers and familiar chain stores sit alongside one another on the traffic-free High Street and in St Johns Shopping Centre.
|
History lovers will find that Perth offers unsurpassed delights. Not to be missed is Scone Palace (pronounced Scoon) original home of Scotland's Stone of Destiny where 42 of Scotland's Kings were crowned.
Other wonderful houses to visit include Elcho Castle, Huntingtower Castle, Megginch Castle at the Carse of Gowrie and last, but not least, Balhousie Castle - home to the Black Watch Museum.
If it's industrial heritage that you're interested in then Stanley Mills, a new visitor centre 4 miles north of Perth, expertly showcases and explains how the mill harnessed the power of the River Tay to drive cotton-spinning machines.
|
Colourful floral displays and wonderful lush green parklands enhance Perth. These parklands survive today as the North and South Inches; superb public parks. While here, also enjoy the kaleidoscope of colours at Perth's many gardens including Branklyn and Rodney Gardens.
|
Reminders of medieval times are plentiful and in the city centre you will find the striking St John's Kirk. Around St John's Kirk is the perfect place to pause and soak up the atmosphere in one of the many restaurants and coffee shops of the Café Quarter.
Indeed, the new £20 million state of the art Perth Concert Hall sits on the site of the original Horsecross - Perth's 17th century horse market.
This ambitious and modern venue doesn't simply mean there's somewhere new to go in Perth. It marks the beginning of a new cultural life in the city and an opportunity for the people of Perth and the surrounding area to indulge in the very best in music, drama, new media, comedy, family events and much more.
A wide variety of touring shows and in-house productions also take place at the much loved Perth Theatre, one of the oldest theatres in Scotland.
If you'd like to find out more about the area's rich agricultural heritage, a visit to the Perth Mart Visitor Centre on the outskirts of Perth is a must, while in the town centre, Perth's Museum and Art Gallery offers a collection of fine and applied art. More paintings and works of art are to be found at The J.D. Fergusson Collection, situated within Perth's historic Round House.
|
Before leaving this wonderful area visit Abernethy; home to an 11th century Round Tower and local history Museum. Glenalmond is especially picturesque in Spring and Autumn while nearby Pitcairngreen is a pretty hamlet with an English-style village green. The hamlet of Rhynd on the outskirts of Perth is home to Elcho Castle and at Abernyte the Scottish Antiques & Art Centre and Rait Antiques Centre are treasure troves of artefacts and curios.
Perth's Tourist Information Centre is in Lower City Mills, adjacent to the pedestrianised High Street shopping area and offers a range of information about Perth and Perthshire, together with services that include accommodation booking & ticket reservations.
Mobility Equipment Hire in Perth
To hire a wheelchair or scooter for the day, visit Shopmobility, Canal Street car park, Perth. The equipment is suitable for use within Perth city and on the terrain on the North and South Inch Parklands only.
Please note that it is not suitable for rambles in the wider countryside.
There is no charge but a donation is suggested. This service is available Monday to Friday 0900-1700. User to collect equipment.
Contact: Dave McLellan
T: 01738 783960
E: Perth Shopmobility
To hire a wheelchair or scooter outside business hours please call to book and arrange collection/return.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Perth City Centre Map - colour
|
|
|
|
|
|
