The Victorian Town of
Pitlochry

Places To See > Town of Pitlochry

When I first stopped here I was very impressed with the stone architecture and the floral displays, so I wasn't surprised when the town of Pitlochry received a gold at the Britain in Bloom Awards 2007.

Pitlochry is a small town with a population of just over 2,500 so it is difficult to imagine that it is a favourite destination for tourists. Much of that is due to major attractions like the Enchanted Forest, a sound and light show that takes place in October each year, and running alongside that is the Pitlochry Autumn Festival, with around 20,000 visitors.

What's remarkable about these events is that the town will only just be recovering from the Pitlochry Highland Games, which is usually held in September, so a lot of credit is due to the residents and organisers.

Queen Victoria stayed here in 1842, and She was full of praise for the area, so that is possibly the reason why the town of Pitlochry has retained its Victorian character.

The Castle dates back to the 13th century. With around 30 rooms open to the public, displaying some fine paintings, furniture, and armour, it is one of the most visited castles in Scotland, but many come just to see the piper who plays there every day.

Blair Castle Caravan Park is in the Castle grounds, set in 30 acres of beautiful parkland and countryside, which is ideal for woodland walks.

Other attractions in the town of Pitlochry include the Pitlochry Festival Theatre, with the biggest ensemble in Scotland, and they say that if you stay six days, you can see six plays. But perhaps the icing on the cake for a lot of visitors is that the town has TWO whisky distilleries, Edradour Distillery, the smallest in Scotland (production wise), and Blair Atholl.

Blair Atholl Distillery produces a 12 year old single malt whisky. They also have tours, and there is a £5 charge for adults, which includes a discount voucher, redeemable in the gift shop. With restricted opening, it's advisable to book in advance.

Now, with two whisky distilleries, you should not be surprised to hear that New Year celebrations are a bit on the lively side, and the biggest bash is the New Year Street Ceilidh. Imagine that, a Ceilidh on the street.

The main street, Atholl Road, is closed to traffic on New Year's day, and the revellers take to the street to have their Ceilidh, with free food supplied by the local butcher. What a great way to start the New Year!

At any other time of year Atholl Road is great for shopping with gift shops, fashion and knitwear, along with everything else you will need. You'll also find plenty of hotels, guest houses and self catering accommodation, and some good pubs and restaurants. (You won't go hungry here. See my Favourite Pitlochry Restaurants). Community spirit is high in the town of Pitlochry, and it's a fabulous place for a holiday or day trip in Scotland.

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