Perth

Location

Perth is a city in central Scotland, located on the banks of the River Tay. It is approximately an hour’s drive from both Edinburgh and Glasgow, making it an accessible destination for those exploring Scotland’s central region.

History and Culture

Perth has a rich history dating back to the Roman times, and was once a capital of Scotland in the 12th century. Today, it is known for its elegant Georgian architecture, museums, and cultural events. Some notable landmarks in Perth include the Black Watch Museum, St. John’s Kirk, and the Perth Museum and Art Gallery.

Attractions

• Black Watch Museum
• St. John’s Kirk
• Perth Museum and Art Gallery
• Scone Palace
• Elcho Castle
• The Scottish Gun Room
• The Fergusson Gallery

Day-Trip Ideas

• Scone Palace
• Elcho Castle
• The Hermitage
• Branklyn Garden
• The Birnam Institute

Transportation

Perth is well connected to the rest of Scotland and beyond by road, rail, and air. The nearest airports are Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow Airport, both approximately an hour’s drive from Perth. The city has its own train station, with regular services to both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Local bus services also connect Perth with the surrounding areas.

Accommodations

Accommodation options in Perth range from budget-friendly hotels and hostels, to more luxurious options such as bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels. Prices for budget-friendly options start from £30-£40 per night, while more luxurious options can cost upwards of £100 per night. Airbnb rentals are also available in the area, with prices starting from £30 per night.

Food and Drink

For budget-minded travelers, the best options for finding affordable meals in Perth are cafes, sandwich shops, and pub-style restaurants. Traditional dishes in Perth include Cullen Skink (a creamy smoked haddock soup), Haggis, Neeps and Tatties (a Scottish dish made from sheep’s heart, liver, and lungs), and Cullenbie (a type of Scottish bread). Some popular local drinks include Irn-Bru (a Scottish carbonated soft drink), Scotch whisky, and Glasgow-style tea.

Safety

Perth is considered a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, visitors are advised to take the usual safety precautions and be mindful of their belongings when in crowded areas. There are no known scams in Perth that tourists should be aware of.

Climate and Weather

The climate in Perth is temperate and maritime, with mild temperatures throughout the year. Average temperatures in the summer months (June to August) are around 15°C, while in the winter months (December to February) temperatures can drop to around 5°C. The best time to visit Perth is from May to September, when the weather is mild and dry.

Cost

Perth is considered a budget-friendly destination, with low costs for transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. An estimated budget for a trip to Perth for a week, including transportation, accommodation, food, and activities, would be around £500-£600.

Miscellaneous

• Currency: Pound Sterling (GBP)
• Local language: English
• Best time to visit: May to September, the warmer months with a pleasant temperature.
• Notable: Birthplace of Gus Campbell