Perth to Dunkeld
The route runs north from the North Inch in Perth and continues on a traffic-free path alongside the River Tay, with a splendid view of Scone Palace, where Scotland’s kings were crowned. It then follows tracks beside the River Almond to Almondbank. passing near Huntingtower Castle, and continues along quiet roads through the pretty village of Pitcairngreen to Bankfoot.
The route then follows minor roads through Birnam Wood (of Macbeth fame) and joins a dedicated cycle route alongside the A9 through the Pass of Birnam. It goes past Dunkeld and Birnam railway station and into the village of Birnam, where you can visit the Beatrix Potter Garden and the Birnam Institute (café), Just over half a mile further on across the river lies Dunkeld. Dunkeld was Scotland’s first ecclesiastical capital, and its cathedral contains a wealth of Scottish history.
From Dunkeld you can ride back to Perth, return by train, or continue northwards along National Routes 77 and 7 to Pitlochry (about 10 hilly but beautiful miles) or to the railway station at Blair Atholl (about another 7.5 miles).
Natural attractions:
- River Tay
- River Almond
Visitor attractions:
- Huntingtower Castle
- North Inch Park
- Beatrix Potter Garden
- Dunkeld Cathedral
Route submitted by: Sustrans
Tags
Route map
Comments
Key route details
- Region/Area:
Central Scotland
- Distance:
16½ miles
- Time needed:
2 to 3 hours
- Classification:
Easy
- Traffic:
On road
- Surface:
Mixed
- NCN Route:
National Route 77
- Start:
Perth
- Finish:
Dunkeld
- Access:
Train stations at Perth and Dunkeld & Birnam
- Maps and guides
- Weather:
-
Sat
max: 7°C min: -2°C
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Sun
max: 5°C min: -2°C
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Mon
max: 6°C min: -5°C
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Tue
max: 1°C min: -6°C
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