Dunblane, Scotland, is home to Scottish Hero Andrew Murry and has an incredible and long history. Legend has it that this town was discovered in 602 by the Celtic missionary, St Blane, at a ford in the Allan Water. You’ll find that there are many things to do in Dunblane!
The town is an excellent base for travellers who want to explore Stirling and Doune’s nearby areas. The surrounding areas of Dunblane have lots to offer families – everything from summer camps to festivals.
Things to do in Dunblane
There are plenty of things to do in Dunblane, situated a few miles north of Stirling. It is a great holiday destination for families and couples that want to explore one of the most attractive areas in the central belt of Scotland.
It’s home to a wide array of attractions and things to do. Check out our guide for the top things to do in Dunblane!
Dunblane Cathedral
This majestic medieval church in Dunblane dates as far back as the 12th century.
These architectural churches enchant visitors to the town, and it is a four-star VisitScotland attraction.
The building stands among a clutch of historic buildings, including the 17th century Dean’s House, which has a small museum with exhibits on local history.
Doune The Rabbit Hole
This festival in Doune happens once a year in July. For those staying in Dunblane, it will take you about ten minutes by car to get here, making the town one of the best locations to remain for festival-goers that want to be close to the site.
This family-friendly festival has live music throughout the weekend and DJ workshops, yoga for kids, and a food market with a great selection of vendors (including vegan and vegetarian options).
You can also camp throughout the weekend – glamping options are available for those that want to go all out in this stunning area of the Trossachs.
Dunblane Sports Club
If you are a tennis fan, Dunblane Sports Club is a must-see spot in Dunblane. This club was where it all started for world-famous tennis players Jamie and Andy Murray, who hail from the town.
Summer camps run at this location during July and August, and they are extremely popular with locals and tourists that want to plan something for their kids.
Blair Drummond Safari Park
One of Scotland’s top family attractions is not far from Dunblane – Blair Drummond Safari Park.
During this day out, you have the opportunity to see 350 rare and exotic animals. This location is home to Scotland’s only giraffes and Chimp Island, and visitors can take a boat over to see the chimps hanging around.
Blair Drummond is part of a worldwide network of zoos that cares for rare species and supports conservation projects throughout the UK and worldwide.
Dunblane New Golf Club
This famous golf club in Dunblane invites visitors to join them on their course, located in the Cathedral City of Dunblane.
Golfers can enjoy 18 hikes in one of the most picturesque areas of Perthshire, as they are spoiled with panoramic views over the Forth Valley and the Campsie Fells.
Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park
The fantastic Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park are but a half an hour’s journey from Dunblane and one of the most popular places to visit while in Scotland.
The National Park boasts excellent trail walks, camping sites, and wildlife for you to explore. Thanks to its proximity and great things to do, it draws thousands of visitors every year.
Laighhills Public Park
Make some time to enjoy the verdant Laighills Public Park while in the town of Dunblane.
This exemplary town park is a great place to bring your children and family a day of picnicking and a few hours in the play park.
This Public Park in Dunblane is one of the best places in town to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Dunblane Museum Trust
The Dunblane Museum Trust is a fascinating attraction established in 1943 and provides an excellent insight into the town of Dunblane’s history!
You can see the Trust’s fantastic collection of paintings, artefacts, and prints that depict Scotland’s beautiful churches, buildings, and sights.
Make sure to give the Dunblane Museum Trust a visit!
Ben Gunn’s Cave
Novel fans will love Ben Gunn’s Cave, one of the inspirations for the classic story of ‘Treasure Island’.
You can find the Cave between Dunblane and the Bridge of Allan and have your own treasure hunt as you spot the many hidden gems and secret references to this beloved novel.
This is one of the landmarks in Dunblane that you won’t want to miss.
Clan MacRae Monument
On the east side of Dunblane sits the Clan MacRae Monument, a stunning memorial used to commemorate the Battle of Sheriffmuir in 1715.
The Clan MacRae Monument was erected 200-years afterwards and now has the information about the Battle carved into a beautiful stone monument. This attraction is perfect for those who are just as in love with Scottish history as we are!
Sheriffmuir Paradise Pools
These amazing shallow pools are scattered throughout the woodland trails around Dunblane, offering visitors a chance for a spontaneous and fun experience.
You can find multiple pools, some of which are shallow enough to be perfect for any children who want a unique and extraordinary swimming adventure. The Paradise Pools are one place you’ll want to visit while in Dunblane.
Dumyat Summit
South of Dunblane and West of Stirling is the Dumyat Summit, with some of Scotland’s best views.
The trek up to the Summit should take about 2-hours to complete and is pretty easy, except for a few steep inclines here and there. Make sure to take a bottle of water with you!
National Wallace Monument
The National Wallace Monument is found between Dunblane and Stirling and is one of the most magnificent structures in Scotland.
This 220-foot tower marks where William Wallace led his troops to victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge! It’s one of Scotland’s most famous landmarks and one you come to visit while near the area; you won’t regret it!
Golden Royal Mail Post Box
These eye-catching Post Boxes are somewhat of a rare find in the United Kingdom, with only 11 of them repainted to this golden hue!
The Post Boxes were repainted to honour the 110 medal winners of the London 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games! Dunblane’s was repainted because of Andy Murray’s victory over Roger Federer – As any fan of the tennis player would know!
Dunblane War Memorial
The mighty Dunblane War Memorial is a relic filled with Dunblane’s history of wars through its time. The perfect destination for anyone who wants to learn more about its past!
The Memorial is located near Dunblane primary school, also the home of a tragedy committed by Thomas Hamilton in 1996.
The War Memorial is a great attraction for anyone interested in Dunblane’s involvement during the world wars or those with ancestry in the town.
Sheriffmuir Atlantic Wall
This massive structure leaves you feeling in awe when you first see it!
Britain used the Atlantic Wall to test weaponry to prepare for the attack on the Atlantic Wall in Normandy. While in this part of Dunblane, Scotland, you’ll feel the air of history that this impressive site gives off when you first see it.
Budding historians who’ve come to Scotland to experience its history will be delighted when they come to see the Atlantic Wall.
David Stirling Memorial
As you’re en route from Dunblane towards Loch Lomond, you should stop by the David Stirling Memorial.
This Memorial has stood since 2002, near Sir David’s ancestral home, and commemorates the lives lost in the Special Air Service Regiment. The statue is certainly impressive and is well worth the trip while checking out the other attractions on the way.
Deanston Distillery
The Deanston Distillery in Dunblane is not your average distillery, and they pride themselves on their unique brand of single malt whisky.
You can enjoy it in whatever you please: neat, in a cocktail, or with a drop of water. No matter your tastes or preferences, Deanston Distillery has the perfect blend for you to try at their taste testing.
We won’t fault you for taking a bottle home with you!
Explore Dunblane High Street
The Dunblane High Street is packed full of incredible things to do!
The High Street contains numerous amounts of shops, accommodations, and activities for all ages and budgets. The High Street also has some of Dunblane’s foremost attractions just sitting on its corners like churches, the Golden Royal Post Box, Dunblane Museum Trust, and more!
Dunblane’s High Street is one of the closest and more jam-packed places to visit while in town.
Leighton Library
Welcome to Leighton Library, the oldest private library in Scotland!
This ancient built-for-purpose library was constructed by Robert Leighton, who even used pieces of the nearby ruined Bishop’s Palace. You can explore this historic site in the town of Dunblane and peruse its collection of over 4,500 books!
The wonderful Leighton Library is well worth the visit, and budding historians will love the humbling antiquity of this prominent site!
Doune Moto Parc
Experience the thrills of offroad motocross when you visit Doune Moto Parc, home to sand-packed jumps and routes to try out and get your heart pumping!
The Moto Parc caters to children as well, who can join an experienced motocross driver and go up and down the tumbling trails of the park.
You won’t want to miss out on this thrill ride!
More things to do in Central & West Scotland
- Things to do in Balmaha
- Things to do in Biggar
- Things to do in Drymen
- Things to do in Falkirk
- Things to do in Grangemouth
- Things to do in Lochearnhead
- Things to do in Loch Lomond
- Things to do in Stirling