Charming, vibrant, and full of character, Aberfeldy is a firm favourite among visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and culture. Surrounded by stunning Highland scenery, Aberfeldy and Loch Tay offers a rich mix of activities, attractions, and local experiences. Whether you’re into hiking, history, water sports, or browsing independent shops and galleries, there’s plenty to discover in and around this welcoming town.
First made famous by Robert Burns, Scotland's national poet, today Aberfeldy is Scotland's first Fairtrade town and retailers and attractions throughout the area do their best to promote Fairtrade, organic and environmentally friendly products. Burns is celebrated with a statue at the foot of the Birks of Aberfeldy Walk.
Wades Bridge (also know as Tay Bridge) is a historic, five arch bridge crossing the River Tay bulit in 1733. It is one of fourty such bridges built by General George Wade, and is the only one still in use today.
Just six miles west of the town, Loch Tay is the largest loch in Perthshire, framed by majestic mountains and hillside farms and cottages. As well as being the popular playground of sailors and watersports enthusiasts, the loch is home to 18 ancient dwellings called crannogs. Nearby to the north, Glen Lyon is often described as the longest and loveliest glen in Scotland, and has a wonderfully mystical atmosphere.
We hope you enjoy exploring the area.
An integral part of Aberfeldy’s cultural scene, The Birks Cinema screens a mix of mainstream and arthouse films, alongside regular National Theatre and Met Opera broadcasts. Their programme of films and events changes everyweek so make sure to check their listings for the most up to date information.
The nearby, breathtaking Loch Tay is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Surrounded by spectacular scenery, the loch offers paddleboarding, kayaking, and a variety of watersports. You can hire canoes, fishing boats, water trampolines, and more from Taymouth Marina. For those seeking relaxation, there’s even a lakeside sauna to unwind in after a day of adventure.
Located on Loch Tay, this interactive heritage centre offers a fascinating glimpse into life 2,500 years ago.
The award-winning reconstruction of an ancient loch-dwelling is popular with families and history buffs alike.
Discover more on a museum tour and get hands-on with demonstrations of ancient crafts.
One of the many castles in Highland Perthshire, Castle Menzies in Aberfeldy is a spectacular 16th-century fortress. Unlike many restored castles, it remains largely as it was built, allowing visitors to imagine its original rugged charm.
The entire castle is open to the public, making it a unique historic experience.
Set on the banks of the River Tay, the Bolfracks Estate boasts stunning views, sprawling gardens, an organic farm, forestry, fishing spots, and abundant wildlife. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely afternoon walk or a day surrounded by nature.
Take a tour of this award-winning 1890s distillery. Visit to learn the history, heritage and story behind how they make Scotland's finest single-malt whisky.
There's a Whisky Lounge and Cafe, well stocked distillery shop, and public as well as private tours available.
Journey across the waters of one of Scotland's deepest loch. Surrounded by stunning and dramatic landscape, this is an area steeped in wildlife, history, myths and folklore.
The Breadalbane Community Campus offers visitors swimming facilities, fitness classes, a gym, and ea climbing wall—great for keeping active during your stay. There's also spots to wild swim in the River Tay at Wades Bridge and in Loch Tay.
Aberfeldy’s independent shops offer everything from gifts to outdoor gear and local crafts.
Here are a few favourites:
Set in a beautifully restored, Grade A-listed former watermill, this award-winning bookshop offers an extensive collection of titles, including a dedicated children’s section. The on-site café serves delicious treats, while the gallery space features regularly changing art exhibitions.
Don’t forget to visit Homer, it’s sister shop selling design-led European, Scandi and global homeware and vintage furniture.
Open since 1983, this gallery has showcased the best of Scottish art, with rotating exhibitions and original works for sale.
The Gallery represents over 50 artists and makers from across Scotland at any one time and is recognised for its diverse range of contemporary art.
Discover inspiring sculptures by local artist Heather M. Cummings, whose work adorns many parts of Highland Perthshire.
Held every summer, this event features local artists and photographers, with all proceeds supporting the arts community.
It showcases paintings, photography, ceramics, furniture, sculpture, fused glass and jewellery created by circa 30 artists each year.
A premier craft destination, set in stunning Highland Perthshire, near Kenmore, Aberfeldy.
It is a crafter's paradise, offering a vast array of yarn and fabric for sales, as well as being an authorised seller of Brother Sewing machines.