Things To Do
in Blairgowrie
Blairgowrie is a friendly market town in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, set between the Sidlaw Hills and the Strathmore valley. It sits on the River Ericht and serves as a gateway to Perthshire’s outdoor countryside, with easy access to footpaths, golf courses, and riverside walks. The town boasts a welcoming cafe culture, independent shops, and traditional pubs that celebrate local produce.
In every season, Blairgowrie makes a convenient base for exploring rural Perthshire and the wider Cairngorms region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Blairgowrie and settle into your cozy accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets to get a feel for the town. Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast at a local cafe to fuel your day ahead.
Explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside by visiting the picturesque Lunan Bay. Engage in outdoor activities such as hiking or bird watching in the nearby nature reserves. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the stunning landscapes.
Savor a traditional Scottish dinner at a local restaurant, sampling local delicacies. After your meal, take a peaceful walk by the River Ericht, absorbing the tranquil ambiance as the sun sets. Unwind in a candle-lit pub while enjoying some live music.
Begin your day with a visit to the Blairgowrie Museum to learn about the town's rich history. Engage with knowledgeable staff who can share fascinating stories about the local culture. Enjoy a traditional scone with jam served in the museum café.
Take a short drive to the historic town of Perth, where you can explore the stunningly beautiful Scone Palace. Enjoy a guided tour of the palace and its gardens, immersing yourself in Scotland's regal past. Stop for lunch at a nearby café, sampling freshly made local dishes.
Return to Blairgowrie for a relaxed dinner at a bistro known for featuring locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider attending a storytelling session at the community center, experiencing authentic Scottish folklore. Conclude your evening with a quiet walk through the town illuminated by moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staples (weekly) | $25-60 |
| 🚗Local taxi (5-10 miles) | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to beautiful countryside and outdoor activities just outside town
- Warm, friendly communities and local Perthshire produce
- Compact town center with walkable streets and scenic riverside
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared with larger cities
- Public transport can be less frequent than urban hubs
- Nearby airports require a short drive; no large international hub in town
Places to Visit in Blairgowrie
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking, world-famous hedge along the river that makes for dramatic seasonal photos, especially in autumn colors and dappled spring light.
Gentle paths along the river with bridges, reflections, and birds; ideal for serene landscape and portrait shots.
Historic town bridges and pastel townscape views across the water, particularly good during early morning or golden hour.
Captures the town heritage with market stalls, quaint storefronts, and the central clock tower—great for street photography.
Food in Blairgowrie
Blairgowrie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Scottish dish featuring sheep’s stomach lining filled with offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. Widely available in pubs and bistros.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked or pan-seared venison harvested from Perthshire estates, often paired with regional whisky sauces or berries.
Rich, crumbly biscuits baked by local bakeries; a perfect accompaniment to tea at a café corner.
Fresh, artisan products from nearby creameries and fisheries, often featured in light lunches and boards.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Monthly or seasonal market featuring local produce, meats, cheeses, honey, jams, and crafts—great for tasting and taking home Perthshire goodies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely, greet with a friendly hello, and mind personal space in crowded shops. Local pubs value courteous conversation and waiting your turn at the bar.
English is the primary language; a few Gaelic phrases or Scots terms may be encountered in rural settings—politeness and small talk are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Blairgowrie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service is not included, leaving 10-15% in restaurants or pubs is common; rounding up is appreciated in casual pubs.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still helpful for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Markets return to full swing, hedges and trees brighten the streets, and floral displays begin to open. Layered clothing is still wise on cooler days.
Long daylight hours favour outdoor activities, riverside walks, and patio meals. Expect intermittent showers; stay prepared with a light jacket.
Vibrant foliage makes for dramatic photography and scenic drives, especially around Meikleour and the Sidlaw Hills. Cool, crisp air invites cozy pubs in the evening.
Shorter days and potential snow or frost; warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and indoor pubs and cafés provide comfort after outdoor exploration.
Blairgowrie at Night
Hiking in Blairgowrie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several routes provide varying difficulty with sweeping views over Strathmore and the surrounding countryside.
Gentle woodland paths and countryside tracks near the Meikleour area, suitable for relaxed hikes and wildlife viewing.
Coastal-inland style walks along the Ericht and nearby river corridors offering peaceful scenery year-round.
Airports
How to reach Blairgowrie by plane.
Major international hub about 60–80 miles from Blairgowrie; frequent domestic and international flights; good rail and road connections from central Scotland.
Major hub about 70–90 miles away; extensive flight options and reliable road connections via the M80/ motorway network.
Smaller regional airport closer to Blairgowrie with occasional services; check current schedules and availability.
Further north but an option for some routes; good for exploring the Highlands with a longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households with a focus on outdoor activities and community events.
Quiet towns with access to healthcare and scenic landscapes attract many retirees.
Seasonal workers and small-business owners form a growing segment, attracted by outdoor recreation and local amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Two championship-length courses at Blairgowrie Golf Club attract golfers for classic Scottish links-style play.
Local amateur clubs and community leagues contribute to a friendly sporting culture.
Seasonal trout fishing in nearby rivers and streams is popular among locals and visitors with the proper licenses.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blairgowrie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for meat-free versions of classic dishes and ask about daily specials.