Day Trips
Local Towns & Wider Destinations
There are just so many places to visit around Perthshire and within and hour's drive – here are some favourite day trips to enjoy with friends or family.
The Kelpies at Falkirk
Dunblane
The Cromlix Hotel, Dunblane
​
Approximately 12 miles drive South on the A9 – you will come to the home of our tennis supremo, Sir Andy Murray. Look out for the Gold Olympic Postbox. Sir Andy bought and renovated the gorgeous Cromlix Hotel and people come far and wide for the afternoon tea … so much so there is a long waiting list – so check first. They pack up what you don’t eat in a “doggy bag”…. which is just as well as you would be going some to finish it! Cromlix is still worth a visit even if not for the tea and the town itself has lots of shops and cafes etc – being a larger town than Auchterarder. (www.cromlixhotel.com)
Andy Murray Gold Post Post in Dunblane
​
Bridge of Allan
A very attractive Scottish town – the home of Stirling University. Some lovely little shops – especially if you are a fan of vintage. A fantastic Bar / Restaurant called the “Jam Jar” (book ahead) with open fire in the winter and amazing burgers! Or, in the Summer, take a picnic down to the University large idyllic pond an while the time away watching the swans and feeding the birds.
The Strathearn Gallery in Crieff
Falkirk & Linlithgow
Head South on the A9 / M9 for about 40 mins to Junction 5 of M9 and you cannot fail to see the awe inspiring Kelpies (gigantic horse head sculptures). Visit on a blue-sky day for the best pictures (steel doesn’t look so good against white clouds!). Then, head a little further south to Linlithgow where you can visit Linlithgow Palace and wander the High Street. Then for something to eat, head for the “Chop n’ Ale” House on the outskirsts of Linlthgow (the informal relation to the highly reputed Champney Inn).
Swans at Pond in Bridge of Allan
​
Crieff
So many activities and walks – one day may not be enough - only 8 miles from Otter Lodge. If just visiting for a look around, the High Street is on a hill and full of little shops – a bit like Auchterarder. A number of pubs, cafes and eateries. Visit the Caithness Glass and Creiff Visitor Centre next to each other on the outskirts – sometimes some bargains to be had on crystal ware. Also The Strathearn Gallery at the foot of the High Street is one of the best galleries in Scotland to view and purchase works from some of Scotland’s most well known contemporary artists such as Pam Carter, Marion Drummond and John Lowrie Morrison OBE
The Kelpies at Falkirk
Pretty Shops at Dunkeld
​
Pitlochry
A little bit further North – approx 50 miles and 50 minutes …. Very pretty town – with lots to see and do. Worth a visit to see the Pitlochry Hydro Dam and Fish Ladder. Some very nice shops and galleries.
​
Stop off at The House of Bruer for fantastic shopping and places to eat.
Dunkeld
Approx 25 miles and half an hour from Auchterarder – a very pleasant town with some nice shops (my favourite is Jeffries Interiors), pubs, cafés and restaurants. Stop for lunch at Howies Bistro or picnic by the River and Ancient Cathedral
The High Street, Pitlochry
​
Wemyss Malts
​
St Andrews
Head East to the Kingdom of Fife and visit the university town of St Andrews (Prince William and Kate fame!). Two bustling high streets with shops and good pubs, cafes and ice cream parlour. Stunning on a sunny day. Visit the Kingsbarns Whiskey Distillery on the outskirts and sample Wemyss Malts and Darnley Gin.
Stirling
Stirling is a large Scottish town and aside from visiting the Castle and the Wallace Monument, steeped in history of our famed "freedom fighter", William Wallace - a great way to find out about the City are pre-organised “Treasure Hunts”. Check out : www.huntfun.co.uk or www.treasuretrails.co.uk
The Wallace Monument, Stirling
​