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Scotland’s Best Activities: 15 Unusual Things to Do in Perth That Will Make You Go, ‘Wait, What?!’

But, nah, ’cause one evening, I found myself on an impromptu ghost tour. Not something I expected, but it turns out to be fun and great (okay, yes, scary too!).

So, if you’re thinking of visiting Perth and want a mix of the unexpected and totally cool experiences, you’re in luck! Here’s the list of unusual things to do in Perth that will have you talking for years!

Discover WWII history at The Black Watch Castle & Museum

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Website: https://www.theblackwatch.co.uk/ 

Address: Balhousie Castle, Hay St.

Contact details: +44 173 863 8152

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

Daily Guided Tour:

  • Adult – £21
  • Concession (Ages 60+, Students) – £16.50
  • Child (Ages 5 to 15) – £9.75
  • Ages under 7 – Free
  • Family (2 Adult, up to 4 Children) – £52.25
  • Ages 5 and under – Free

The Black Watch Castle & Museum is a treasure trove of fascinating war stories and artefacts from one of Scotland’s most famous regiments. You can dive deep into the gripping tales of bravery and sacrifice from World War II.

Seriously, the exhibits are incredibly detailed, showcasing everything from uniforms and weapons to personal diaries of soldiers. One thing you shouldn’t miss is the Victoria Cross display.

These are awarded for extraordinary bravery, and each one comes with an epic story behind it. Also, check out the interactive displays where you can handle some of the old weapons and gear; it’s pretty cool to get that hands-on experience.

Pro tip: 
Don’t forget to pop by the Red Hackle Café—it’s not just a place to grab a bite but a chance to indulge in some delicious local delicacies.
If you’ve got the kids along, they’ll love the museum trails tailored to young explorers.

Explore haunted tales of Scone Palace

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Website: https://scone-palace.co.uk/ 

Address: Scone Palace

Contact details: +44 173 855 2300

Operating hours: 

  • Thursday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £19.50 (Palace and Gardens), £13 (Gardens only)
  • Family 1 (1 Adult, 2 Children) – £39 (Palace and Gardens), £25 (Gardens only)
  • Family 2 (2 Adults, 2 Children) – £58.50 (Palace and Gardens), £38 (Gardens only)
  • Family 3 (2 Adults, 3 Children) – £65 (Palace and Gardens), £42 (Gardens only)
  • Child (ages 4 to 15) – £13 (Palace and Gardens), £8 (Gardens only)
  • Concession (ages over 65) – £18.50 (Palace and Gardens), £12 (Gardens only)
  • Carer (proof of eligibility required) – Free

If you’re into spooky stuff, Scone Palace is where it’s at! This place is dripping with history and, believe it or not, ghost stories.

Tales of sightings and strange occurrences are part and parcel of this palace’s mystique. The guides are absolute legends, sharing spine-chilling stories about the deceased Earls that supposedly still roam the corridors.

A must-see is the Long Gallery, said to be the most haunted part of the palace. Also, the gardens and grounds are vast and worthy of a good explorer, with some hidden alcoves and ancient trees that look straight out of a gothic novel.

Pro tip: 
Try to visit around dusk if you dare. The eerie twilight adds a whole new layer to the ghostly atmosphere.
Plus, keep an ear out for the special night tours they occasionally run—more chilling details than the daytime!

Join a chilling Perth Ghost Walk night tour

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Website: https://events.perth.ca/default/Detail/2024-10-24-1900-Perth-Ghost-Walk 

Address: Various area in Perth

Contact details: +44 613 267 1947

Operating hours: 

  • N/A

Cost: ££

The Perth Ghost Walk Night Tour takes you through some of the city’s darkest alleys and tells you the creepiest local legends. The guides are incredible storytellers and make you feel the eeriness of the places, from old jail cells to hidden corners.

This isn’t just about spooky vibes; you’ll get a real taste of Perth’s darker history, including witch trials and grisly murders. So prepare for a good mix of history and horror.

This tour often includes spots you wouldn’t normally find on your own, so it feels like you’re uncovering hidden secrets all along the way. Trust me, it’s a wild ride, and you’ll be looking over your shoulder long after it’s over.

Pro tip: 
Remember to dress warmly, no matter the season. Perth’s nights can be chilly, and the tours usually last a couple of hours.
Also, a flashlight can be handy, though maybe a bit less spooky!

Paddleboard along the scenic River Tay

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Website: https://www.rivertaysports.org/sports/stand-up-paddleboarding/ 

Directions

The River Tay is surprisingly calm and gives you some mind-blowing views of Perth from a totally unique angle. You can rent a paddleboard and off you go, cruising down the river while getting a little workout in.

Plus, the other paddleboarders here are friendly and can provide a quick intro if you’re a beginner. One of the best things about paddle boarding here is the chance to see some local wildlife up close, like herons and otters, especially in the early morning.

The views of the old bridges and the riverbanks are fantastic, making it perfect for some Instagram-worthy shots. Keep an eye out for the historical sites you pass along the way; it’s like a mini-history tour but on water!

Pro tip: 
Make sure to book a session during the quieter hours, usually early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the crowds and get a more peaceful experience. And a dry bag for your electronics is a must!

Wander Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park trails

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Directions

Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park offers some of the best trails for both casual walkers and serious hikers. When you hit these trails, you’re rewarded with stunning views over the River Tay and the city of Perth.

There are a bunch of trails to choose from, so if you’re up for a challenge or just a leisurely stroll, you’re covered. One of the key highlights here is the Kinnoull Tower, an old folly that looks almost fairytale-like.

The trails are well-marked, and you’ll come across some intriguing historical sites and informative plaques along the way. Plus, there are a few picnic spots if you fancy bringing a snack and making a day of it.

Pro tip: 
You’ll find decent parking here, but facilities are a bit minimal, so plan accordingly.
Also, wear decent walking shoes, especially if it’s rained recently; it can get a bit muddy.

Delve into history at Stanley Mills

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/stanley-mills/ 

Address: Stanley

Contact details: +44 173 882 5901

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: Free entry

Stanley Mills is a former cotton mill that dates back to the 18th century, now transformed into a visitor attraction. The interactive exhibits here are great; they offer a hands-on way to learn about how textiles were made and the lives of people who worked there.

The old machinery has been beautifully preserved, and seeing it up close really gives you a sense of the engineering marvels of the past. Kids can try their hand at weaving and other fun tasks that mirror the mill’s operations back in the day.

The audio guides are a big help, making sure you don’t miss out on any juicy details. And if all the exploring works up an appetite, the on-site café has a good selection of snacks and drinks.

Pro tip: 
Try to visit on a weekday if you can. Weekends can get a bit crowded, and you’ll want as much personal space as possible to enjoy the interactive displays and take your time with the exhibits.

Stroll through historic Greyfriars Burial Ground

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Directions

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 4 PM

Greyfriars Burial Ground might not be on every tourist’s radar, but it’s a gem for anyone interested in history. It’s one of Perth’s oldest graveyards, dating back to the 16th century, and wandering through it is like taking a step back in time.

The gravestones are fascinating; some of them are quite elaborate, with detailed carvings that tell the stories of those buried there. You could spend hours reading the inscriptions and researching the historical figures resting there.

It’s often not very crowded, so you can take your time exploring without the rush. There are a few notable graves to check out, like the markers for Civil War soldiers and the well-known Perth weaver’s memorial.

Pro tip: 
If you have time, visit the local library or the museum beforehand to get some background info on the notable people buried here. It’ll make your walk through the graveyard even more enriching.

Uncover rare books at Innerpeffray Library

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Website: http://www.innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk/ 

Address: Crieff

Contact details: +44 176 465 2819

Operating hours: 

  • Wednesday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 2 PM to 5 PM

Cost: 

  • £10

Innerpeffray Library is something special for book lovers. It’s Scotland’s first lending library, founded in 1680, and the collection of rare books is absolutely incredible.

The dedicated staff offer guided tours, which are well worth it if you want to learn the stories behind some of the volumes. One key highlight is the Borrowers’ Register, which dates back to 1747.

You can actually see who borrowed what and when—it’s a unique peek into the reading habits of people from centuries ago. The library also has a small museum area with artefacts that tell the story of its long history.

Pro tip: 
As it’s a bit off the beaten path, it’s not usually packed, making your visit feel quite personal.
Remember to check their website ahead of time for any special events or exhibitions. They occasionally have readings, special tours, or guest speakers, and those can add a lot to your visit.

Hunt for hidden gems in Scottish Antique & Arts Centre 

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Website: http://www.scottish-antiques.com/ 

Address: Abernyte, Perthshire

Contact details: +44 182 868 6401

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cost: ££

The Scottish Antique & Arts Centre is a treasure trove packed with an incredible range of antiques. Expect to wander through a maze of booths filled with everything from classic furniture and vintage jewellery to some incredibly rare antiques.

And let’s not forget the art! There’s an impressive selection of paintings, sculptures, and even some contemporary pieces that make for great conversation starters.

And hey, when you get tired of exploring, they’ve got a pretty great café on site. This is where you get to rest those feet, grab a cup of coffee, and maybe even enjoy a slice of cake.

Pro tip: 
Sometimes they offer discounts or run special events, so it’s worth checking their website or giving them a call before you go.
If you’re into garden décor, they’ve also got a garden centre right there. So, make sure to explore outside as well!

Experience tranquility at Branklyn Garden

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Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/BranklynGarden 

Address: 116 Dundee Rd.

Contact details: +44 173 862 5535

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4 PM (Feb. 12 to Feb 16, 2025)
  • Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM (Mar. 31 to Oct. 31, 2025)

Cost: 

  • Adult – £8.50
  • Concession – £7
  • Family – £24
  • One adult family – £16
  • Child – £5
  • Young Scot – £1

Branklyn Garden offers a peaceful escape with its gorgeous plant collections and vivid colors. The garden is renowned for its collection of rare and unusual plants, including a national collection of Meconopsis, which are these stunning blue poppies.

Strolling along, keep an eye out for the various rock gardens and heather gardens that make the place so special. And if you’re into photography, this is your spot—every turn presents another picture-perfect scene.

There’s also a quaint little tea room where you can sit back with a cup of tea and a slice of homemade cake, making the whole visit even more delightful.

Pro tip: 
Try to visit in late spring or early summer to catch the blue poppies in full bloom—it’s a sight you won’t want to miss!

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Website: https://www.julianjardine.co.uk/ 

Address: 45 New Row

Contact details: +44 173 862 1836

Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cost: Free entry

The Jardine Gallery & Workshop mainly showcases wildlife-based artwork. Whether you’re into paintings, sculptures, or mixed media, this gallery has something for every art lover.

One of the coolest things about this place is the variety. They support around 40 artists from the UK and abroad, so you’re literally seeing a global canvas under one roof.

The pieces come in a wide range of materials, so expect to see anything from ceramic and metal sculptures to detailed paintings. If you’re lucky, you might even get a chance to see Julian the owner at work or have a chat with him about his creative process.

Pro tip: 
Don’t miss out on the chance to participate in one of the gallery’s regular workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete newbie, there’s a class for you.
Also, check out their event calendar; they often host special exhibits and artist talks that are totally worth attending!

Visit nearby Elcho Castle’s enchanting ruins

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Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/elcho-castle/ 

Address: Elcho

Contact details: 

Operating hours: 

  • Monday and Tuesday, Friday to Saturday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM

Cost: 

  • Adult – £7.50
  • Concession – £6
  • Child (ages 7 to 15) – £4.50
  • Child (ages 6 and below) – Free

A short drive from Perth, Elcho Castle is an absolute must-see for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. This semi-ruined 16th-century tower house offers a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s past.

As you explore the castle, you’ll find intriguing features like hidden staircases and magnificent views from the top. Despite its age, parts of Elcho Castle are remarkably well preserved.

The kitchen, cellars, and some of the chambers still give off a sense of their original grandeur. Kids and adults alike will love exploring the winding staircases and imagining mediaeval banquets in the great hall.

Pro tip: 
Be sure to look out for the carved stone details that showcase the craftsmanship of the time. It’s also not uncommon to spot wildlife around the property, adding to the charm of your visit.

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