The city of Perth enjoys a beautiful position on the banks of the River Tay, just where it starts to widen on the last stages of its journey to the sea. With a history that stretches back over 8,000 years, Perth has served as it's country's capital and has always been one of the most important political, judicial and commercial centres in Scotland. 42 Scottish Kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny that was kept at Scone, on the outskirts of Perth and Robert the Bruce, Oliver Cromwell and Bonnie Prince Charlie are just three of the famous historical figures who left their mark on the city.

Today, Perth is a bustling city with around 50,000 inhabitants. It acts as the county town for a wide agricultural hinterland and as such, has an excellent choice of shops, cafes and restaurants. Indeed, it is recognised as one of Scotland's premier culinary centres. Perth is also renowned for its parks and flowers, spring being a great time to visit, and has won 'Britain in Bloom' awards on numerous occasions, including 'Champions of Champions' in 2000 and 'Best Large Town' in 2002.

 Perhaps the first aspect of Perth that most visitors notice is its greenery. The North Inch and South Inch are two huge and renowned parkland areas in the city centre beside the river. They are linked by Tay Street, where landscaped promenades and platforms give sweeping views across the Tay to wooded hills. Sometimes seals can be seen frolicking in the river.

The fertile soil and gentle climate of Perthshire have long inspired botanists, gardeners and horticulturalists. Thats why you'll find some of Britain's most colourful gardens here. Gardens such as Branklyn Garden, Rodney Gardens and Bell's Cherrybank Centre complement the colourfull hanging baskets and floral displays you will see throughout the city, thanks to the volunteers of Perth in Bloom.

Lovers of history will find much to explorer in the old Vennels or alleyways of the city centre, many of which have detailed information explaining the diverse trades that they once accomodated. 

Balhousie Castle houses the Black Watch Museum, with over two centuries of the history of this famous regiment.

Local history and art can be enjoyed in Perth Museum & Art Gallery, one of the oldest museums in Britain, and at Fergusson Gallery, devoted to the works of the Scottish colourist, JD Fergusson, and housed in what used to be the city waterworks.

Cross Smeaton's Bridge to view contemporary arts and crafts at Cross Keys Art Gallery.

Attractions in Stirling and Perth

 

 

STIRLING

Dominating the skyline of the city are two monuments to Scottish history : the National Wallace Monument celebrates the life of Sir William Wallace who led the 13th century rebellion against the English and Stirling Castle, perched high above the city upon volcanic rock. The castle was the coronation location for many of the Kiings of Scotland before the Union of Crowns. Just down the hill from the castle is Stirling Old Town Jail. Opened in 1847 as a 'model prison' the Old Town Jail was re-opened as a five-star visitor attraction 10 years ago and is preserved as an excellent example of conditions in a Victorian Prison. Find out more on the City Sightseeing tour of Stirling, as well as getting a bird's eye view of this lovely city.Tour buses are operated by City Sightseeing, who kindly issue discount vouchers for use by Green Express Railtour passengers. These vouchers are issued on the train to give a discount on their Stirling tour buses www.city-sightseeing.com