The buzzing little town of Aberfeldy has lots to offer the tourists who come for a Scottish break during their vacation. With attractions, activities, and fascinating natural sights, you can bet there are many things to do in Aberfeldy in Highland Perthshire, Scotland.
Nestled by the River Tay, Scotland’s longest river, Aberfeldy was brought into the limelight when the famed bard Robert Burns wrote a poem about The Birks of Aberfeldy in 1787. Since then, Aberfeldy has grown into a respectable town surrounded by enchanting woodlands, the Tay Valley, and Glen Lyon. It’s a prime destination — whether you’re staying for a few days or just passing through.
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14 Things to do in Aberfeldy
This small market village is delightful and has a vibrance and natural harmony that you can only get from Aberfeldy.
It’s impossible to mention this town without speaking about the bountiful nature and woodlands that surround it. There are woodland hiking trails, waterfalls, Highland Safaris, red squirrels, and so much more to discover. With something for everyone on the list, you won’t be left disappointed at the end of your stay in this scenic Scottish town in Perthshire.
Many visitors come here to recount the steps of Robert Burns, enjoy their stag/hen dos, and even try tastings of the fine whisky that they brew here. It isn’t easy picking which attractions or locations to see, so read our guide for the top things to do around Aberfeldy.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
Keen to taste the Highland’s most refined whiskey and explore a heritage exhibition? Make sure you add the Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery when considering what to do in Aberfeldy.
Dewar’s World of Whisky is open all year round, offering a look into the nineteenth-century life of John Dewar. This Aberfeldy distillery is one of the most popular attractions in Aberfeldy, perfect for anyone aiming to hit Scotland’s best distilleries during their holiday. Visitors are easily able to book a tasting or tour and enjoy delicious whisky.
The Birks of Aberfeldy
When people ask, “What is Aberfeldy famous for?” the go-to answer is undoubtedly the Birks of Aberfeldy.
If the Scottish Bard’s poem, ‘Birks of Aberfeldy’, is anything to go by, the Birks are a natural circular walk for the ages! Taking a trip through this famous nature trail is one of the top things to do near Aberfeldy, especially if you’re visiting with a few friends and family.
On the way to the Birks, you can enjoy a walk up the steep gorge of the Moness, where you will find many majestic waterfalls, a water mill, and local wildlife. As the legend goes, this location inspired one of Robert Burns’s most famous poems.
The Birks of Aberfeldy offer the chance to take photos aplenty in one of the most magical forests in Scotland, with the stunning Glen Lyon nearby.
Aberfeldy Watermill
A watermill in Aberfeldy is not an uncommon sight around the River Tay. They’ve been here since the 1600s and are sure to brighten up your holiday.
The Aberfeldy Watermill has been transformed into a cultural hub and bookstore, complete with a café – perfect for a coffee served with baked goods and delicious deli meat.
Looking for a quiet place to chill and read a book, maybe wondering about things to do in Aberfeldy in the rain? The Aberfeldy Watermill is regarded as one of the best attractions in town for adults and kids alike.
Highland Safaris
This fantastic five-star attraction in Aberfeldy has won many outdoor awards and is just a few miles west of town. Highland Safari tour guides take guests on a journey of discovery over land and loch, exploring the breathtaking Scottish landscape around them.
You can choose between the Loch Tay, Mountain, or Forest Safari — all of which offer beautiful views of this part of Scotland. Highland Safaris recommends the Forest Safari for families, as you’re driven around Aberfeldy, Scotland, in a warm and comfortable Land Rover rather than having to trek on foot.
Castle Menzies
For over 500 years ago, the mighty Castle Menzies was the home of the mighty Clan Menzies. Today, it sits as one of the premier attractions in Aberfeldy.
This 16th-century Scottish castle is architecturally fascinating and historically significant. The castle’s stone shows wear and tear from previous battles and erosion. The Castle has been host to incredible Scottish figures like Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Duke of Cumberland.
The building is stunning, holds great importance in Scottish history, and has many artefacts within the walls — what more could you ask for?
Black Watch Memorial
One of the most iconic memorials in Perthshire, the Black Watch Memorial, stands tall and proud — overlooking the Wade Bridge. With a statue of a soldier adorned in the original Black Watch Regiment uniform, the Black Watch monument at the Memorial is excellent to take pictures with. This is an attraction that many history buffs visiting Perthshire will love.
The Scottish Crannog Centre
On the outskirts west of Aberfeldy sits the Scottish Crannog Centre, overlooking the stunning views of Loch Tay and the nearby Tay Forest Park.
The Centre provides those who visit with an unparalleled look into the past. You can look forward to guided tours that immerse you into the Iron Age World, complete with historical exhibits, musical renditions, and artefacts crafted in a bygone era. Many of the artefacts have been restored for your viewing pleasure.
The centre is open-air, adding to the atmosphere and uniqueness of this incredible attraction.
Wade’s Bridge
Wade’s Bridge is one of the most well-designed bridges in Scotland, constructed by Lieutenant-General George Wade in 1725. It can still be admired today and serves well to support traffic, which is a testament to Wade’s robust design!
Appointed by King George, Wade created over 250 miles of military roads — the first time roads were engineered since the Romans departed. Wade’s Bridge in Aberfeldy is stunning, with beautiful stonework and pleasing architecture.
For the history buffs, keep an eye out for a panel dedicated to the Latin origins of Wade Bridge and its contributions to routes in the British Isles, one of the many inspirations of George Wade.
Cluny House Gardens
Come and see over 150-year-old trees when you visit the Cluny House Gardens, just a short trip north of Aberfeldy.
These magnificent gardens were cultivated in the 1950s by Bobby & Betty Masterton, although the towering 150-year-old Wellingtonias were already there. They created many beautiful plants and trees you’ll see today, including Tibetan Cherries, Perennials, and even Meconopsis!
Wandering through the flourishing gardens of Cluny House is a real treat that everyone who has the pleasure of taking a trip to Aberfeldy should undertake.
Aberfeldy Gallery
Aberfeldy is a creative well with no sign of going empty anytime soon, and nowhere else is this showcased more than at Aberfeldy Gallery.
This inspiring space exhibits excellent Scottish contemporary artists, and you can immerse yourself in diverse styles and methods. You can stop by the gallery in the heart of Aberfeldy at any time and enjoy the works of established and up-and-coming Scottish artists.
If you find something you like, there’s a chance it’s available for purchase, so go ahead and make the most of visiting one of the best art galleries in the Highlands.
Falls of Moness
One of the best sights in Aberfeldy is the tranquil Falls of Moness — a picturesque waterfall featured in a poem by that genius Scottish bard guy (remember him? Robert Burns)
The Falls are part of an excellent trail walk that also features a statue of the famed poet Robert Burns. Within a cave, Burns envisioned the Birks of Aberfeldy that brought such acclaim to the region. Delightful woodlands and the serene stream of Moness Burn await you as you navigate the trail to spot the towering waterfall at its very end.
The Falls of Moness, Moness Burn, and the Birks of Aberfeldy are found south of the town and easily accessible — perfect for an early morning hike amongst Scottish scenery.
Victoria Park
When the sun is shining, and there are no clouds in the sky, there’s no better place to enjoy the warmth than spending a couple of hours at Victoria Park.
Victoria Park is Aberfeldy’s largest and most popular park, so it’s not uncommon to see joggers and dog walkers all day. The park features a play park that will amuse your children, a vintage steam roller, and even a skate park.
If you’re bringing your family to the south side of Aberfeldy, then consider an evening here with some light snacks for a picnic. It’s one of the best Aberfeldy things to do.
Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier
For those travelling with a sweet tooth, following the River Tay north from Aberfeldy will lead to a chocolate shop you can’t say no to.
The shop’s design is spectacular, evoking memories of one’s cheery youth and the thrill of visiting a new candy gift shop. There’s no chocolate experience quite like the Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier (Seriously, their praline and truffle chocolates are superb). You’ll be spoilt for choice and astonished at the sheer number of chocolates you can choose from.
Birks Cinema
Have an afternoon free when you visit Aberfeldy? The Birks Cinema prides itself on showing both the latest and classic movies.
This business is a unique state-of-the-art rural theatre that anyone can respect. Situated in the heart of Aberfeldy, you can’t miss this handsome theatre next time you’re in town. Not only do you have access to great movies at this location, but it also has a café bar and a community hub where you can socialise with movie lovers.
Do yourself a favour; check out their website for movie times, and get in contact for reservations. You won’t regret it.
Other Things To Do in Perthshire, Kinross & Angus
- 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 Kinross
- Things to do in Montrose
- Things to do in Perth
- Things to do in Pitlochry
- Things to do in Stanley
