Situated in Scotland’s ‘Big Tree Country’, Perthshire, the burgh of Kinross boasts beautiful scenery, interesting tourist destinations and the enchanting Loch Leven. This post looks at the top things to do in Kinross and the surrounding area.
You will discover so much about Scottish history in Kinross. Hear stories about Mary Queen of Scot’s imprisonment on Loch Leven Castle in 1567 and how she dramatically escaped.
There are loads of things to do in Kinross. That is why tourists from all over the world choose to stay here during your visit to Scotland.
Things to do in Kinross
If you are staying in Kinross during your Scottish vacation, take advantage of all the amazing locations which are scattered around here,
There is the 16 mile Loch Leven Heritage Trail, the beautiful views from Kirkgate park and a wonderful golf course which attracts visitors from all over the world here! The burgh also offers two very different flying experiences – flying lessons and an air balloon experience.
Planning your trip to Kinross? Get a head start with our list of things to do in Kinross.
Loch Leven
If you are looking for peace and tranquillity during your trip to Kinross, take a trip to the shores of Loch Leven.
This is hands down one of our favourite things to do in Kinross.
At this quiet place, you will not hear or see any water sports here as only snake fishing boats and ferries are allowed near these waters.
Loch Leven is the largest of its kind in lowland Scotland. This freshwater loch has been a National Nature Reserve since 1964.
Loch Leven Heritage Trail
Looking for outdoors things to do in Kinross? Check out Loch Leven Heritage Trail.
While visiting this stunning part of Scotland you may want to walk through the Loch Leven Heritage Trail – it is extremely popular with visitors to Perthshire.
Explore this enchanting National Nature Reserve and spot rare Scottish wildlife during your adventure. The trail gives walkers access to the most attractive parts of Loch Leven This part of Kinross is home to the largest concentration of ducks in the UK, thousands ducks geese and swans migrate here every autumn and winter.
Loch Leven Castle
Cross the waters to Loch Leven Castle!
Built between the 14th and 15th century, this historic location was where Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567, she was forced to abdicate here before she escaped.
The tower is still standing on this quiet island and if you are a history nerd, you will be glad to know that you can take a boat ride over to here and follow in this Scottish icon’s footsteps.
Loch Leven Castle is open between March and October.
Kirkgate Park
Families visiting Kinross, often stop off at Kirkgate Park. This tourist attraction in Kinross is close to Loch Leven and the 17th Century landscape of Kinross House.
This glorious space has a play park which is suitable for younger children, areas for picnicking and viewpoints which look over to Benarty or the Ochil Hills.
At the end of the park lies the old Kirkgate Cemetery. At this spooky spot, you will find many interesting gravestones and spectacular views over Lomond Hill and Castle Island.
Kinross House
Locals would say that Kinross House is Scotland’s answer to Downton Abbey!
This grandeur estate is steeped in rich history and is one of the UK’s finest tourist destinations. Many choose to book accommodation at Kinross and spa breaks at the estate’s Coach House.
The Coach House date to 1680 and pre-dates the main building, Kinross House. These days you will find a small Day Spa at the Coach House, which has everything guests need to unwind in this breathtaking setting.
Complete with treatment rooms, a hydrotherapy pool, sauna and relaxation area – we couldn’t recommend a better spa in Kinross!
If you would rather explore the estate during your trip to Kinross House, the host offers secluded woodland trails, perfectly landscaped gardens and smooth lawns that overlook Loch Leven.
The estate also organises several activities for its guests, this includes clay pigeon shooting, archery, falconry, Segway rides, cricket and kayaking.
Kinross Golf Club
Visitors are welcome at Kinross Golf Club.
This popular club which was instituted in 1884 is only a half-hour drive from Edinburgh and about an hour from Glasgow, many visitors travel from cities to enjoy these manicured courses.
On the site, there are two 18 hole golf courses, ‘The Bruce’ and ‘The Montgomery’ which range from fair to challenging.
After a long day, relax at the clubhouse. From here you can enjoy views of this spectacular course and the hills which sit beyond it.
Webster Adventures
Come fly with Webster Adventures. Perfect for thrill seekers, this hot air balloon company based in Kinross flies balloons all over Scotland.
If you and a loved one are looking to add something special to your trip, experience the stunning Scottish scenery from the clouds by taking a flight over Kinross and Perthshire.
Flights with Webster Adventures last around an hour which gives you enough time to enjoy the views below.
Micro Flight Academy
If you would rather see the skies via a cockpit, you can book an air experience trial flying lesson with Micro Flight Academy.
This would be a great gift or surprise for anyone travelling to this part of Perthshire. The lesson will take place in a two seat enclosed cockpit microlight and during your experience, you will see some of the best views of Kinross.
Many have trained here over the years. This flying training school operates from a former WW2 airfield in Balado near Kinross.
Micro Flight Academy is open throughout the year and they offer experiences ranging from 20 minutes to a full training package.
The Court House
One for the foodies! This is a must for your Kinross to do list.
The Court House in Kinross is the place to start if you are looking for the best cuisine in the burgh, The stunning former court house has received a certificate of Excellence from Trip Advisor and locals here will agree that it sells the best wood-fired pizza in the area.
Open all day, the Course House serves breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as cakes and bakes.
More Things to do in Perthshire, Kinross & Angus
- Things to do in Aberfeldy
- Things to do in Blairgowrie
- Things to do in Crieff
- Things to do in Dundee
- Things to do in Dunkeld
- Things to do in Kenmore
- Things to do in Kinloch Rannoch
- Things to do in Montrose
- Things to do in Perth
- Things to do in Pitlochry
- Things to do in Stanley
