Things To Do
in Blairgowrie
Blairgowrie is a charming town located in Perth and Kinross, Scotland, known for its picturesque surroundings and outdoor recreational activities. The town is situated on the banks of the River Ericht and is surrounded by the beautiful Perthshire countryside. Blairgowrie is famous for its soft fruit growing industry, particularly raspberries, and hosts an annual raspberry festival.
Visitors to Blairgowrie can enjoy exploring the nearby Cateran Trail, playing golf at the local courses, and experiencing the town's friendly community atmosphere.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a local café. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the River Ericht to enjoy the serene morning views.
Visit the beautiful Blairgowrie, where you can enjoy the art and nature around you. Stop by a nearby shop to find unique local crafts.
Dine at a cozy pub, sampling traditional Scottish fare. After dinner, take a quiet walk to absorb the charming small-town atmosphere.
Begin with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Cateran Trail. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and fresh air.
Continue your hike while taking in the sights of rolling hills and forests. Pause for a packed lunch amidst nature's tranquility.
Return to Blairgowrie, and enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant. Unwind with a warm drink while reflecting on your day outdoors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic landscapes and natural beauty, including the nearby Cairngorms and River Ericht.
- Rich in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing.
- A strong sense of community with friendly locals and various local events.
- Access to good schools and facilities, making it suitable for families.
- Well-connected by road, providing access to nearby cities like Perth and Dundee.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Public transport options may be limited compared to larger cities.
- The weather can be unpredictable, with cold winters and rainy seasons.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural options compared to urban areas.
- Housing prices may be high relative to local income levels.
Best Activities in Blairgowrie
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the scenic Cateran Trail, a long-distance walking route that offers stunning views of the Perthshire countryside and the opportunity to experience local wildlife.
Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing on the River Ericht, known for its salmon and trout. Perfect for both beginners and experienced anglers.
Take a cycling trip through Tay Forest Park, which has a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
Play a round of golf at the prestigious Blairgowrie Golf Club, which features two championship courses set in picturesque surroundings.
Visit the Glen of Clunie for wildlife watching, where you can spot deer, various bird species, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Take a kayaking trip on Loch Tay, suitable for all abilities, providing a great way to enjoy the water while taking in the surrounding scenery.
Spend a night under the stars at The Enochdhu Campsite, offering a great base for exploring the local area and enjoying outdoor activities.
Try your hand at archery with a session at Strathardle Mountain Sports for a unique outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Blairgowrie with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Blairgowrie
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque river running through Blairgowrie, offering scenic views and tranquil spots for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Set against the backdrop of the Scottish countryside, the golf course features panoramic views that are perfect for capturing stunning landscapes.
This long-distance walking route provides various viewpoints along the journey, showcasing the natural beauty of the area, ideal for nature photography.
Just a short distance from Blairgowrie, this historic cathedral, set by the River Tay, offers beautiful architectural photography opportunities.
A nearby natural gorge with woodland trails and stunning views of the surrounding hills, perfect for capturing wild landscapes.
A lookout point offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside, especially vibrant during autumn with colorful foliage.
The charming streets and historic buildings of the town provide numerous opportunities for capturing local life and architecture.
Food in Blairgowrie
Blairgowrie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, combined with oatmeal, suet, and spices, all encased in the animal's stomach and simmered to perfection. It's a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Scotland. Can be found at local pubs and traditional Scottish restaurants.
Must-Try!
These are wood-smoked haddock, a delicacy with a Protected Geographical Indication. The fish is salted and then tied in pairs and left to dry. Once dried, they are hung over a hardwood fire, which imparts a wonderful smoky flavor. Available at local fishmongers and seafood restaurants.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Blairgowrie better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Held on the first Saturday of every month, this market offers a delightful array of fresh local produce, artisanal cheeses, homemade baked goods, and handcrafted products. It's a great place to sample local flavors and mingle with the friendly producers.
Rattray has a vibrant street food scene where visitors can sample a variety of international cuisines from food trucks and stalls. From authentic Thai street food to gourmet burgers and vegetarian delights, there's something for every palate.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Blairgowrie, it is customary to greet them with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are also considered polite.
In Blairgowrie, as in the rest of the UK, queuing (standing in line) is an important cultural norm. Always wait your turn in lines, whether at shops, bus stops, or events.
Maintaining a respectful distance during conversations is appreciated. Personal space is valued, so avoid standing too close to someone unless you know them well.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Blairgowrie with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Blairgowrie
Ensure a smooth experience
In Blairgowrie, as in many parts of the United Kingdom, tipping practices generally follow the custom of leaving a gratuity for good service. In restaurants, it is common to tip around 10-15% of the bill if service is not included. Tipping is also customary for taxi drivers and hotel staff, although the amounts can vary. Local practices may lead to some variations, but overall, tipping is appreciated and seen as a mark of good service.
Payment methods in Blairgowrie reflect modern practices commonly found across the UK. Cash is still accepted, but card payments and contactless transactions have become predominant, particularly in shops, restaurants, and services. Many places also support mobile payment systems. In cafes and pubs, it's typical to pay at the counter. Most businesses expect customers to settle bills before leaving, especially in dining establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Blairgowrie.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a beautiful time to visit Blairgowrie. Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and greenery all around. This is ideal for walking and exploring the scenic countryside, as well as enjoying local festivals and events.
Summer (June to August) offers warm temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, golfing, and fishing. The days are longer, and the area is lively with tourists. Expect busy attractions and potential for high accommodation prices.
Autumn (September to November) is marked by stunning fall foliage in the surrounding areas. The weather is cooler but still pleasant for sightseeing. This is a quieter time with fewer tourists, making it a great season for a peaceful getaway.
Winter (December to February) brings cold temperatures and potential snowfall, creating a picturesque winter landscape. This is a quieter season for tourism, but visitors can enjoy cozy accommodations, holiday markets, and winter sports in nearby areas.
Blairgowrie at Night
Hiking in Blairgowrie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area featuring stunning views and a range of trails suitable for different skill levels.
Offers breathtaking scenery with trails that take you through picturesque valleys and alongside rivers.
A scenic walkaround a tranquil loch, perfect for a leisurely hike with beautiful surroundings.
A long-distance trail that traverses the Strathardle and Glenshee regions, offering a rich historical landscape.
A challenging hike that rewards climbers with panoramic views of the surrounding area upon reaching the summit.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Blairgowrie through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Blairgowrie by plane.
The main international airport serving Edinburgh and the surrounding area, located approximately 30 miles southeast of Blairgowrie.
An international airport located about 60 miles southwest of Blairgowrie, serving Glasgow and the west of Scotland.
An international airport located approximately 60 miles northeast of Blairgowrie, serving the city of Aberdeen and the surrounding region.
Located about 70 miles southwest of Blairgowrie, this airport serves international flights mainly to and from Europe and North America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, consisting of individuals who identify as White British.
Includes individuals from other White backgrounds such as Irish, Eastern European, or other White ethnicities.
Encompasses various Asian ethnic groups, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and other Asian backgrounds.
Individuals identifying with more than one ethnic group.
Includes individuals from Black, African, Caribbean, or Black British backgrounds.
Comprises individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds that do not fit into the previous categories.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Blairgowrie is known for its golf courses, including the prestigious Blairgowrie Golf Club, which features two 18-hole championship courses.
The surrounding countryside and trails make Blairgowrie a popular destination for cycling enthusiasts, both on-road and off-road.
Lawn bowling is a popular community sport in Blairgowrie, with local clubs that host competitions and social events.
Rugby is played at various levels in Blairgowrie, with local clubs fostering youth and adult teams.
Local football clubs engage community members, offering competitive leagues and recreational play for all ages.
The area has access to rivers and lochs, making fishing a popular recreational activity for locals and visitors.
With several scenic routes, running is a favored activity among residents, including organized events such as fun runs and marathons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blairgowrie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Blairgowrie offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with choices ranging from creative salads to plant-based curries and artisanal veggie burgers. Little's Restaurant, in particular, provides a dedicated vegetarian menu.
For those with gluten intolerances, several restaurants and cafes in Blairgowrie offer gluten-free alternatives, including soups, seafood dishes, and gluten-free cakes and pastries available at local bakeries and coffee shops.