16 Cool Things to do in Pitlochry, Scotland, UK

Nestled in the heart of Highland Perthshire, Pitlochry is a lovely town known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures. This page provides a list of things to do in Pitlochry, plus a map showing each location and hotel suggestions too.

If we haven’t met, hello! 👋 I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger who regularly travels between London and Scotland for my day job. I’ve prioritised exploring both places as much as possible and sharing my insights with you.

About Pitlochry.

Framed by the rugged hills of the Scottish Highlands, Pitlochry is a glorious place to visit if you want natural beauty and cultural heritage. 

Known for attractions like the renowned salmon ladder, historic distilleries, and nearby Blair Castle, the town offers a classic Highland experience. 

There’s a map at the bottom of this post, and I’ve also included tour links (from Viator) and hotel links (from Booking.com) where appropriate.  

Things to do in Pitlochry.

This list of things to do in Pitlochry will help you to plan your trip and decide where to stay.

1. Marvel at the Queen’s View.

Queen’s View is one of Scotland’s most famous viewpoints, a beautiful panorama over Loch Tummel and the surrounding hills. 

Queen Victoria visited this place in 1866 and assumed the view had been named after her. But in fact, most historians believe the view was named after Queen Isobella, wife of Robert the Bruce, over 500 years earlier.

The views are especially beautiful in autumn when the trees turn shades of red, orange, and yellow. 

There is a visitor centre, shop, toilets and cafe, but unfortunately these are currently closed (at the time of writing – February 2025). I will update this page when I hear of any changes, or you can check the official website here.

The Queens View car park and viewpoint are still open (the postcode is PH16 5NR for your sat nav). The car park costs £2 for a day . There are toilets about half a mile away, at Allean forest (postcode PH16 5RH).

2. Wander around Loch Faskally.

Loch Faskally is an artificial reservoir created in the 1950s as part of Scotland’s hydroelectric initiatives. 

The loch is a favourite for walking, fishing, and boating, surrounded by peaceful woodland trails and scenic views. 

It’s quite small, but there are some beaches and fish in the loch, including salmon. There is a pleasant walk from the car park to the visitor centre and cafe.

The gentle paths around the loch are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and it’s also a great spot to see red squirrels and various bird species.

3. Visit the Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder.

The Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder are unique landmarks, providing insight into the area’s hydroelectric heritage. 

Built in the 1950s, the dam features a specially designed fish ladder, which allows salmon to migrate upriver to their spawning grounds. 

The visitor centre at the dam contains an interactive experience detailing the hydroelectric power process and the significance of salmon migration. 

Depending on the season, you might even catch sight of the fish making their way up the ladder. The peak period for salmon jumping starts in spring, between April and August, or thereabouts.

There is also a shop and a great cafe (check out the strawberry and fresh cream tarts!)

4. Catch a show at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre.

Known as the “Theatre in the Hills”, the Pitlochry Festival Theatre is known for its impressive productions set against the scenic backdrop of the Tummel Valley. 

The theatre runs a diverse programme, including plays, musicals, and live music, running throughout the year. 

There are usually six shows each summer, all played on a daily rotation, so you could see a different show each day if you wanted. Some people go for a week and see all six shows! See what’s on here.

There is a cafe/bar on site with a lovely riverside location, which makes for an excellent way to spend an afternoon or evening.

5. Discover the Enchanted Forest.

Each autumn, the nearby woodlands come alive with the Enchanted Forest, a spectacular sound and light show that has become one of Scotland’s most popular events. 

This family-friendly attraction transforms Faskally Wood with vibrant lights, music, and visual storytelling. 

It’s a magical experience that brings visitors from all over the country, so booking tickets early is recommended if you’re visiting in October.

6. Stroll through Black Spout Wood and waterfall.

Black Spout Wood is a tranquil forested area just outside Pitlochry, home to the impressive 60-metre Black Spout Waterfall. 

The short walk begins in Pitlochry town centre, taking you past Athol Distillery and then through woodlands before arriving at the Black Spout waterfall. There is a viewing platform with wonderful views of the waterfall. The path then continues up to the Edradour Distillery.

7. Sample food and drink in Pitlochry.

Pitlochry’s culinary scene offers many options, from cosy pubs to fine dining establishments. 

Many eateries here emphasise local ingredients, using fresh produce, meats, and seafood in traditional and innovative dishes alike. 

For a classic Highland experience, visit a local pub like The Old Mill Inn, known for its warm atmosphere and traditional fare, or The Moulin Inn, where you can also try their own craft ales from the Moulin Brewery.

8. Sample Highland chocolates at the Highland Chocolatier.

Located in nearby Grandtully, the Highland Chocolatier is a haven for chocolate lovers. 

Iain Burnett, the chocolatier behind this award-winning establishment, is known for his luxurious truffles and artisanal chocolates. 

Customers can indulge in a tasting flight, explore the exhibition to learn about the chocolate-making process, and pick up unique Highland-inspired chocolate treats to take home.

9. Walk the Ben Vrackie Trail.

For those up for a more challenging adventure, the trail to the summit of Ben Vrackie offers an invigorating hike with stunning views over Pitlochry and the surrounding Highlands. 

The well-marked trail winds through scenic woodlands and across open hillsides, ultimately rewarding you with panoramic views from the summit. 

This walk is best suited for those with a moderate fitness level, as it involves some steep sections, but the views are worth every step.

10. Enjoy a cruise on Loch Tay.

A short drive from Pitlochry, Loch Tay offers a different perspective of the Highland scenery. 

Amazingly, ancient settlers once lived on this loch, using artificially created ‘crannogs’ as islands. One of these ‘crannogs’ can still be seen near the northern shore at Kenmore. There is a visitor centre there, which contains Scotland’s only authentic recreation of an Iron Age loch dwelling.

You can book a scenic boat cruise or even rent a kayak to explore the loch at your own pace. 

11. Experience Blair Castle and Gardens.

Just a short drive from Pitlochry, Blair Castle in Blair Atholl is a magnificent sight. 

Steeped in history and surrounded by beautiful gardens, the castle offers fascinating insights into Scotland’s noble past. You can explore the ornate rooms, learn about the Atholl family, and wander through the castle’s gardens. 

Various events are held here, as well as exhibitions and scenic trails in the surrounding estate. The castle and grounds were also featured in the ITV show ‘Victoria‘. In the surrounding town, there are cute cafes and a working windmill too.

12. Discover the Old Church of Moulin and graveyard.

A short walk from Pitlochry’s town centre, the Old Church of Moulin and its historic graveyard offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.

This 12th-century church, nestled in the village of Moulin, is one of the oldest in the region and holds a significant place in local history. The church itself no longer holds services, but you can still visit its atmospheric graveyard.

Many of the headstones bear the names of Highland families from the 17th and 18th centuries. Some markers are intricately carved, reflecting the unique symbols and artistry associated with traditional Highland graves.

After visiting the church and graveyard, the nearby Moulin Inn is an ideal stop for enjoying some local food and drink.

13. Explore the Edradour Distillery.

Scotland’s smallest traditional distillery, Edradour, lies just outside of Pitlochry and is a hidden gem for whisky lovers. Unfortunately, Edradour seems to have been closed for the whole of 2025, but I am leaving this entry here in case it opens again!

Known for producing hand-crafted single malt whisky, Edradour offers small tours where you can learn about the unique whisky-making process, and enjoy tastings. 

You can check the website here to see if the distillery will be open during your visit.

14. Go hiking in Glen Tilt.

Glen Tilt is one of Scotland’s most scenic glens, with spectacular views of rugged mountains, ancient forests, and the winding River Tilt. 

This area is a great place for walking, with trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. 

The ‘Glen Tilt Circuit‘ is a popular circular route which explores both sides of the glen. It starts at the Old Bridge of Tilt car park, and is clearly waymarked throughout.

15. Taste local whisky at Blair Athol Distillery.

A visit to the Blair Athol Distillery is a must if you’re partial to a wee dram. Although it states Blair Athol in the name, it is actually in Pitlochry. Although Blair Atholl is a wonderful place to visit too!

This historic distillery produces fine single malt whisky dating back to 1798. Its ancient water source, the Allt Dour, lies to the south in the foothills of the Grampian mountains.

The distillery was closed in 1932, and subsequently rescued by Arthur Bell and sons during the depression, reopening in 1949 and trading ever since.

Fun fact: In case you were wondering why you haven’t heard of Blair Athol whisky, it’s because they sell almost all of their production to Johnny Walker.

The distillery provides guided tours, where you can learn about the distillation process and enjoy a dram or two at the end.

There is a shop where you can buy 12-year-old bottlings, among other things, and a bar that serves cocktails and mocktails.

16. Jump off a bridge at the Highland Fling bungee.

If you’re in the mood for something thrilling, head to the nearby Garry Bridge for a bungee jump with a view! 

The Highland Fling Bungee offers one of the most scenic bungee jumping experiences in Scotland, set above the River Garry. It’s roughly equidistant between Blair Atholl and Pitlochry – so I have included it in both posts. There is another bungee jump run by the same company in Glasgow.

If you don’t feel like throwing yourself off a bridge for fun (who would blame you), the area is still worth a visit for its beautiful surroundings and the dramatic views over the river gorge.

Map of things to do in Pitlochry.

This Google Map shows all of the things to do in Pitlochry, as listed in this post. If you are viewing on a phone, you can use two fingers to pinch and drag the map.

Quick links for things to do in Pitlochry.

Here are some links that may interest you when planning your trip to Pitlochry.

• Reserve your Pitlochry Hotel early (they sell out fast).
• Compare Pitlochry Rental Cars before choosing a hire car.
• Browse Pitlochry memorabilia on Amazon before or after your trip.
• Book Pitlochry tours in advance (no payment required up front).
• Remember to get a Universal Plug Adaptor if you need a UK plug.
• Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.

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