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Perth Concert Hall

January to June

From January to June, Perth Concert Hall presents a vibrant programme of concerts and live events spanning classical music, contemporary acts, comedy, dance and family entertainment.

The season opens in celebratory style with the Royal Scottish National Orchestra’s Viennese Gala and the Scottish Chamber Orchestra’s Viennese New Year, alongside popular lunchtime classical recitals and major concerts such as Paul Lewis and performances from the Classical Stars series.

Music highlights range from trad and folk with the Scottish Fiddle Orchestra to pop and rock favourites including Mike and the Mechanics and the UK Pink Floyd Experience, as well as tribute shows like The Legends of American Country and Queen of the Night: A Tribute to Whitney Houston.

Cabaret and themed events include Gareth Gates sings Love Songs from the Movies and Queenz: Drag Me to the Disco.

Comedy features strongly with Connor Burns: Gallus and the musical comedy Crooners, while dance fans can enjoy Giovanni – The Last Dance.

A standout event is sure to be The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight, blending rock and orchestral music in an atmospheric setting.

Find out more and book >

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The Last Letter of Mary, Queen of Scots

Perth Museum, 23 January to 26 April

Opening on 23 January 2026 the last letter written by Mary, Queen of Scots will go on display at Perth Museum, leaving the National Library of Scotland’s secure storage facilities for the first time in a generation.

Written in the early hours of 8 February 1587 just before her execution at Fotheringhay Castle, this precious piece of history will be on display at Perth Museum until 26 April 2026, the longest time it has been on display for more than 20 years, and the first time the letter has been displayed north of Edinburgh in modern history.

The letter will be free for all to view.

About Perth Museum

Discover the stories that shaped Scotland at the Perth Museum. Home to remarkable collections and immersive displays, it brings the region’s heritage to life through powerful objects, interactive exhibits, and stunning architecture.

Explore Scotland’s ancient past, uncover local legends, and enjoy engaging events for all ages. Inspiring, educational, and beautifully curated, Perth Museum offers an unforgettable cultural experience at the heart of the city.

Find out more here >

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The Legacy of Mary, Queen of Scots

AK Bell Library, 23 January

Fri 23 Jan, AK Bell Library will display original Robert Burns and Liz Lochhead material, the display complements the upcoming exhibition The Last Letter of Mary, Queen of Scots at Perth Museum.

Sat 24 Jan, where visitors can meet Robert Burns at the AK Bell Library, and Mary, Queen of Scots at Perth Museum.

Thur 29 Jan, Dr Chris Cassells, head of Archives and Manuscripts, will chairing a panel of National Library of Scotland curators, Dr Ulrike Hogg, Dr Ralph McLean and Dr Colin McIlroy, who care for the Robert Burns, Mary, Queen of Scots and Liz Lochhead works, as they reflect on how archive, memory and imagination continue to shape the story of Mary, Queen of Scots.

Thur 26 March, there will also be the opportunity to hear from Hannah Lavery, poet, playwright, and former Edinburgh Makar and Eddie McGurn from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in a session chaired by actor, writer, and performer Kenny Boyle, as the three reflect on Liz Lochhead’s enduring influence on Scottish writing and identity and how her work continues to challenge and inspire audiences today.

Both the AK Bell Library and Perth Museum displays open on Friday 23 January for 3 months only and will be free for all to view. 

Find out more here >

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Simon Howie 5km Puddin’ Race

Dunning, 25 January

Simon Howie is launching the first-ever 5km Puddin’ Race in Dunning, Perthshire, to support SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health).

This family-friendly event celebrates Burns Night with a mixed terrain 5km run where participants receive a medal and a haggis of their choice.

The course travels through private farm tracks, past the Simon Howie factory, through the village of Dunning, and back to the farm.

Best of all, your entry helps support SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health). So sign up, beat those January blues, enjoy the crisp, fresh country air and play your part in supporting a worthy cause.

All finishers wil receive a medal and a choice of haggis (original, vegetarian, or gluten-free).

The winner of the 5K race will be crowned "The Great Chieftain o' The Puddin' Race" and receive a trophy and special winner's T-shirt, and after the run there will be food and refreshments for everyone to enjoy.

Find out more and book >

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Perth Farmers' Market

South Inch Car Park, first Sat of every month from February 

Perth Farmers’ Market is a celebrated monthly market in the heart of Perth, Scotland, bringing together the best local producers, artisans and makers on the first Saturday of every month (except January) at South Inch Car Park from 9 am to 2 pm. 

It’s a lively destination for fresh seasonal food, quality drinks, handmade crafts and unique gifts.

Shoppers can meet the people behind the products, learn about local farming and craftsmanship, and enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of a bustling community hub. 

More than just a place to buy produce, the market aims to nurture community spirit and support sustainable, ethical local businesses with plenty of character. 

Whether you’re stocking up on artisan treats, discovering new favourites or enjoying a weekend outing, Perth Farmers’ Market is a vibrant taste of Perthshire’s rich food culture. 

Find out more here >

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Perth Theatre

Shows from February to June 

Perth Theatre has unveiled a bold new season subscription model for 2026, with the return of five in‑house productions. Led by Director Christopher Glasgow, the programme places emerging talent and sector development at its core, creating expanded opportunities for artists, audiences, and creative professionals, strengthening Perth Theatre’s role as a catalyst for community and inclusivity, both on and off stage.

The season features:

The Addams Family, a Musical Comedy (Perth Youth Theatre’s mainstage show presented as part of PYT 60, the 60th anniversary of Perth Youth Theatre), offering young actors the chance to work with professional creatives in a fully staged musical;

Saint Joan, a contemporary reimagining of Shaw’s classic, directed by Stewart Laing, explores themes of power, gender, and youth-led change, presented in co-production with Raw Material and Aberdeen Performing Arts in association with Citizens Theatre;

Sunset Boulevard: The Backstage Cut, written and directed by Morag Fullarton, starring Juliet Cadzow, explores the backstage drama of the iconic Hollywood movie; 
Remember you are beauty full, a one-woman play by Matthew McVarish, directed by Patrick Sandford, focusing on resilience and rediscovery;

Sleeping Beauty, Perth Theatre’s annual family pantomime.

The subscription model treats loyal audiences to a 25% discount when booking all four Perth Theatre-produced shows* in 2026 and offers an early booking window for next year's panto, Sleeping Beauty.

Find out more and book >

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Perth Chinese New Year

City Centre, 14 February

Celebrate Chinese New Year 2026 where ancient traditions meet a warm Perth welcome!

As the city centre fills with colour, Perth comes alive with dragon dances, live music, and arts and crafts. We are also delighted to announce that Scottish Ballet will be attending and will be encouraging anyone who wishes to take part to join in the dancing!

Enjoy the Parade
12.30pm
Starts at the junction of George Street and the High Street and proceeds to King Edward Street, St Johns Place, St John Street before returning to 2 High Street.

Join in Activities and Events
Midday to 3pm
PKC Civic Hall, 2 High Street

Whether you are welcoming the Year of the Horse with friends,  or discovering Chinese culture for the first time, Perth offers an unforgettable start to the lunar year and a celebration of community, prosperity, and new beginnings.

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Snowdrop Day

Scone Palace, 21 February

Scone Palace will be hosting a day to celebrate the snowdrop display that grows in the gardens and grounds of this historic site from 10:00am-3:00pm

A waymarked 'Snowdrop Walk' will guide you through the Friars Den, Victorian Pinetum and down the old drive lined with an avenue of lime trees. Join the Palace gardens team as they plant up a wooded area of the grounds for a new snowdrop display. Here you will learn to increase your own snowdrop display at home where lifting, splitting and transplanting will be demonstrated. As a thank you, a gift of a few snowdrops will be given to improve or start your own collection.

A small selection of specialised snowdrops will be for sale from our gift shop and our coffee shop will be open so you can warm up with a selection of tasty refreshments.

£5 winter car parking charge will apply

Find out more >

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Winter Words Festival

Pitlochry Festival Theatre, 12 to 15 February

Pitlochry Festival Theatre is thrilled to announce the Winter Words Festival 2026, running 12 to 15 February and curated by Alan Cumming.

This four-day programme celebrates Scotland’s literary and cultural life with leading authors, poets, journalists, and chefs.

Highlights include Ian Rankin, Amy Liptrot, Nicola Sturgeon in conversation with Val McDermid, Sally Magnusson, Jen Stout, Jonathon Porritt, photographer David Eustace, and Cumming himself, who will also DJ on Saturday night.

The festival features discussions ranging from politics, history, and the environment to football, photography, and supernatural fiction, with contributions from Alistair Moffat, Jennifer Morag Henderson, Paul Goodwin, Ken Currie, Elaine Thomson, Heather Parry, and others.

Poetry events include Hannah Lavery, Stewart Sanderson, and Taylor Strickland.

Special events include literary lunches with top Scottish chefs, rehearsed readings, and creative workshops led by Anne Brusatte & Steve Brusatte and Claire Hunter. 
The festival is supported by Pine Trees Hotel.

Find out more and book > 

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GLASS

Perth Art Gallery, 4 April 2025 to 22 February 2026

This exhibition will bring together never-before-seen treasures and exquisite examples from Perthshire and around the world for the very first time, celebrating the industry and craftspeople that made the region famous.

Whilst most of the larger factories have now been replaced with artisan glassmakers and craftspeople, Perthshire glass remains highly prized worldwide.

With Perth now designated as the UK’s only UNESCO City of Craft and Folk Art, could this spark a renaissance of glass in the region?

From unique pieces by contemporary glass artists and more traditional manufacturers such as Monart and Perthshire Paperweights, to exquisitely-detailed 19th-century Blaschka sea creature models, Venetian Crystal or Cristallo, and Syrian glass, some of which are almost 2,000 years old!

Visitors will be taken on a dazzling journey linking Perthshire to traditions in Spain, Germany, Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia, and beyond.

Advance tickets for GLASS are available to book now through Perthshire Box Office, and discounted combi tickets with the upcoming Macbeth exhibition at Perth Museum are also available.

Visitors can purchase at Perth Art Gallery on the day of their visit, but advance booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

Find out more and book >

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Perth Racecourse Summer Season

Perth Racecourse, 22 April to 24 September

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Scone Palace and Perthshire’s rolling countryside, Perth Racecourse is Scotland and the UK’s most northerly racecourse, making it a go-to destination for fans across the country. 

With 12 thrilling events planned for 2026, there is something for everyone, the calendar mixes classic fixtures with family‑friendly fun and feature days such as Gold Cup Day, Ladies Day and Stone of Destiny Raceday, plus the much‑loved Family Raceday where under‑18s go free.

You can be sure whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first‑timer, every visit will combine top‑class action with delicious food, lively betting, and a vibrant atmosphere.

With options for grandstand viewing, picnic enclosures and hospitality packages, summer at Perth Racecourse is the perfect day out for friends, families or corporate groups

Find out more and book >

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Literary Escape Festival

St Matthew's Church, 9 May

The Literary Escape Festival is coming to Perth for a celebration of books, creativity, and storytelling.

Taking place on 9 May 2026, this one-day event brings together book lovers, independent authors, and talented small businesses for a truly inspiring experience.

Visitors can meet and support at least 10 independent authors, with opportunities to browse, purchase, and have books signed throughout the day. Alongside the authors, a carefully curated selection of local makers and crafters will be showcasing handmade gifts, artwork, and bookish treasures.

Whether you’re an avid reader or simply curious, the Literary Escape Festival offers a warm, welcoming space to discover new voices and creative talent.

Time: 10am - 2.30pm

Ticket price: £3.50 availalable on eventbrite and website. Eventbrite

Find out more and book >

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Perth Festival of the Arts

Various venues, 21 May to 30 May

Perth Festival of the Arts 2026 runs from 21–30 May 2026 across venues including Perth Theatre and Perth Concert Hall, celebrating visual and performing arts with theatre, music, classical, comedy and dance.

Confirmed highlights include an immersive concert of Secret Byrd by Gesualdo Six and the legendary Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra performing a special concert on 21 July with guests including Roachford, Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka. (More below).

The full 2026 programme has yet to be announced, but typically features classical and choral events, jazz and rock, theatre and family shows as part of the ten-day celebration of international and emerging artists making Perth come alive with creativity and cultural diversity.

Find out more and book >

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Spring Market and Open Studios

Perth Creative Exchange, 23 and 24 May

This vibrant event celebrates the diverse talents of local artists and makers, including several Perthshire artisans.

Building on the success of previous years, this year’s Spring Market features a carefully curated selection of work from resident studio holders and the wider creative community.

Visitors can explore the stalls showcasing a wide range of arts and crafts, including jewellery, textiles, illustration, painting, glasswork, woodwork and ceramics.

Upstairs, open artists’ studios offer the chance to meet makers, learn about their creative processes and gain behind-the-scenes insight.

The Spring Market and Open Studios event presents a wonderful opportunity not only to connect with local artists and engage in discussions about creativity but also to discover unique gifts and support small independent businesses.  

Find out more here >

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Scone Palace Garden Fair

Scone Palace, 29 and 30 May

Scone Palace Garden Fair is Scotland’s premier gardening event, set within the stunning grounds of historic Scone Palace.

A favourite with gardeners and families alike, the fair brings together specialist plant nurseries, garden designers, makers and artisan producers from across the country.

Visitors can enjoy expert talks, practical demonstrations and hands on workshops, alongside inspiring garden displays and creative competitions. The popular Scottish Garden Design Competition showcases innovative ideas, while the Pallet and Planter Challenge encourages imaginative entries of all ages.

A dedicated children’s area offers crafts and activities, making it a relaxed and welcoming day out for everyone.

Food stalls, refreshments and the palace coffee shop provide plenty of choice throughout the day. Admission includes access to Scone Palace’s gardens, woodland walks, Victorian Pinetum and the famous Murray Star Maze, offering fun at every turn.

Find out more and book >

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Perth Ford and Classic Car Vehicle Show

City centre, 30 May

Rev up your engines for the Perth Ford & Classic Car Vehicle Show, back in the heart of Perth city centre.

This beloved free-to-attend event brings together vintage Fords and an eclectic mix of classic cars for a spectacular open-air display along Tay Street, drawing car enthusiasts and families from across Scotland.

Enjoy up-close views of beautifully restored vehicles spanning decades of automotive history, all set against the stunning riverside backdrop.

With something for every classic car fan, this friendly, family-oriented show is one of Perth’s must-see summer highlights.

 

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Highland Laddies

The Black Watch Castle and Museum, 8 Sep 2025 to May 2026

Highland Laddies tells the story of some of the youngest soldiers to have served in The Black Watch.

From the 18th and 19th centuries through to the First World War, boys enlisted in the regiment as drummer boys, buglers, stretcher bearers and, in some cases, as front-line soldiers. Some joined seeking adventure, while for others it offered escape from poverty or difficult circumstances.

The exhibition also looks at the wider context of enlistment ages, then and now. During the First World War many young men lied about their age to enlist, some with the knowledge of their superiors.

Today, while under 18s cannot be sent to war, the UK remains the only country in Europe where young people can still enlist at 16.

Through personal stories and objects, this exhibition reveals the realities of life for underage soldiers.

Price: Included in museum entry ticket.

Find out more and book >

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Pitlochry Festival Theatre Summer Season

Pitlochry Festival Theatre, June to September

Pitlochry Festival Theatre’s Summer 2026 season is the first full season with Alan Cumming at the helm as the Creative Director. 

It opens with the Scottish premiere of Once (23 May–27 Jun), followed by the studio production Inexperience (13 Jun–4 Jul). 

Shakespeare’s Lear runs in the auditorium (4 Jul–1 Aug) alongside the studio staging of I Can Die Too (11 Jul–2 Aug). A History of Paper (8 Aug–12 Sep) then takes the main stage, while the provocative Wiping My Mother’s Arse plays in the studio (15 Aug–6 Sep). 

The season continues with the world premiere I’ll Be Seeing You (12 Sep–11 Oct) and the immersive musical Ceilidh (24 Sep–17 Oct). Beyond summer, the line-up also features The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie (4–7 Nov) and a revival of My Fair Lady (21 Nov–31 Dec).

Photo credit : Tommy Ga-Ken Wan

Find out more and book >

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Heartland Festival

Pitlochry, 26 to 28 June

Heartland Festival returns to Pitlochry Recreation Ground for a spectacular summer weekend of live music, community and Highland hospitality.

Set against the beautiful backdrop of riverside Perthshire, this vibrant festival celebrates creativity with a mix of established performers and rising Scottish talent across multiple stages. 

Expect headline‑grabbing performances from beloved acts such as Marti Pellow, Peat & Diesel, Starsailor, Skipinnish, Torridon, Ben Walker, Kim Carnie and Billy Reekie and with additional emerging artists showcased on the Discovery Stage. 

More than just music, Heartland offers a warm, family‑friendly atmosphere with food, crafts, local vendors and opportunities to support community charities.

Whether you’re a festival vet or a first‑timer, Heartland Festival 2026 delivers unforgettable live moments, great company and the very best of Scottish summer vibes. 

Find out more and book >

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The GWCT Scottish Game Fair

Scone Palace, 3 to 5 July

The Game Fair at Scone Palace—officially The GWCT Scottish Game Fair—is Scotland’s premier countryside and outdoor living event, set in the historic parklands of the palace near Perth.

Held over three days each July, it celebrates rural heritage with a wide range of activities for all ages, including shooting and fishing demonstrations, falconry, working dog displays, off-road driving and family-friendly entertainment.

You’ll also find expert talks, cookery showcases, food and drink stalls, and trade stands showcasing outdoor gear and services.

The fair is organised by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust and offers visitors a chance to explore traditional skills, wildlife conservation, and countryside pursuits against the stunning backdrop of one of Scotland’s most iconic historic estates.

Find out more and book >

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Jools Holland and His Rhythm & Blues Orchestra

Perth Festival of the Arts Special, 21 July

Pianist, bandleader, singer, composer, television presenter and multiplatinum recording artist, Jools Holland returns to Perth for a one-off special show for Perth Festival of the Arts.

Accompanied by the sound of his unforgettable 19-piece Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and starring special guest star Roachford, and guest vocalists Ruby Turner, Louise Marshall and Sumudu Jayatilaka, this is certain to be a night to remember. 

Jools first came to the Festival in 1998 to play in Perth City Hall and is a great favourite with the Festival audience in Perth. Guaranteed to be a fantastic night out, this is a show that always sells quickly, so book your tickets early.

Find out more and book >

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Perth Show

South Inch, 31 July and 1 August

The Perth Show is a longtime highlight of Scotland’s agricultural calendar, organised by the Perthshire Agricultural Society.

This two-day event celebrates the best of rural life with livestock competitions featuring cattle, sheep, horses and ponies, alongside displays of vintage machinery, show jumping and equestrian events.

Visitors can explore stalls showcasing local food and drink producers, crafts and country goods, enjoy children’s activities and family attractions, and watch demonstrations throughout the showground.

With its unique city-centre setting on the South Inch, the show attracts farmers, families and visitors from across the region for a vibrant blend of tradition, community and entertainment against the backdrop of Perth’s scenic parklands.

Find out more and book >

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Replay Festival

South Inch, 15 and 16 August

Replay Festival is a fresh two-day music event landing on the South Inch in Perth on 15–16 August 2026, created by the team behind Pitlochry’s Heartland Festival and designed to celebrate the feel-good sounds of the 80s, 90s and 2000s. 

Over the weekend, expect live performances from iconic artists across pop and rock. Saturday night’s headliner is Natalie Imbruglia, famed for hits like Torn, while Sunday features British pop favourites Blue.

Other acts set to perform include 10cc, Toploader (Dancing in the Moonlight), B*Witched, Bay City Rollers, D:Ream, a1, Rowetta and BMX Bandits, making this a nostalgia-packed weekend of music. 

The festival promises a family-friendly atmosphere, with under-13s free, food and drink stalls, space for dogs, accessible viewing areas and plenty of activities for all ages.  Early-bird weekend tickets are limited and on sale now, offering excellent value for a summer celebration of classic hits and live entertainment in the heart of Perth. 

Find out more and book >

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Scone Palace International Horse Trials

Scone Palace, 27 to 30 August

This four-day equestrian festival has quickly become one of the UK’s premier horse trials, blending elite international competition with a vibrant countryside atmosphere. The event features world-class CCI4*-L dressage, cross-country and showjumping alongside grassroots classes, British Showjumping competitions, pony club games, native breed showing and more. 

Beyond the sporting action, visitors can enjoy a lively lifestyle village with artisan food and drink, shopping, family-friendly entertainment and hospitality options.

Set against the historic backdrop of Scone Palace the trials offer a memorable combination of sport, heritage and rural celebration for equestrian enthusiasts of all ages.

Camping, Member's Marquee and General Admission Tickets are all on sale now. 

Find out more and book >

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The Enchanted Forest

8 October to 8 November

This much-anticipated annual event transforms Faskally Woods near Pitlochry into a spectacular outdoor sound-and-light experience that draws tens of thousands of visitors each autumn. 

Set against the stunning backdrop of woodland paths and shimmering autumn colours, the Enchanted Forest invites visitors to walk through a series of choreographed light installations and soundscapes that illuminate the trees, water and natural features of the forest. First created over two decades ago, the event has grown into one of Scotland’s most beloved autumn attractions, celebrated for its creativity, family-friendly appeal and immersive atmosphere. 

Tickets (including shuttle transport from Pitlochry) typically sell out quickly, so early booking is recommended for this magical seasonal highlight. 

Find out more and book >

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Winter Market and Open Studios

Perth Creative Exchange, 5 and 6 December

Looking for beautifully crafted, original gifts for your Christmas list, or a unique arts event to enjoy this winter?

Come along to Perth Creative Exchange for another fantastic Winter Market and Open Studios weekend. 

Explore an inspiring range of work including painting, drawing, ceramics, jewellery, felt work, embroidery, mixed media, artists’ books, printmaking, textiles, illustration and homewares, all under one roof.

Meet local professional artists and makers, buy directly from the people who create the work, and step inside real working studios.

Enjoy demonstrations, creative conversations and behind-the-scenes insight.

Regular visitors can expect exciting new work alongside much-loved favourites.

More info to follow.

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The Stone of Destiny

Perth Museum, ongoing

The Stone of Destiny is an ancient symbol of Scottish monarchy and kingdom. A king-making stone, it was used in the inauguration of Scottish monarchs at Scone, 3 miles upriver of Perth on the River Tay.

Its first documented use was in 1249 for the inauguration of the boy-king, Alexander III.

Taken as war loot by King Edward I of England fifty years after Alexander became king, the Stone was carried to Westminster Abbey in London; a symbol of Edward’s victory and his perceived right to rule.

Returning home to Perthshire for the first time in 700 years, this iconic artefact is still used to crown kings and queens of the United Kingdom today, including the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023.

Visitors will be taken on a 10-minute immersive journey through the Stone's long and mysterious history before being provided with an up-close encounter with the impressive object itself.

Tickets are free and can be acquired from the Box Office. Tickets are timed at 10-minute intervals.It is recommend booking in advance to guarantee your spot.

A limited number of tickets are also available to book in-person at the Museum on the day of your visit, on a first come, first served basis.

Find out more and book >

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Cultural Event Venues in Perthshire

The following venues offer a year round selection of events, shows, and days and nights out.

• Perth Theatre
• Perth Concert Hall
• Perth Art Gallery
• Perth Museum
• Scone Palace
• The Black Watch Castle & Museum
• Strathearn Arts
• Pitlochry Festival Theatre
• Birnam Arts

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Accommodation Ideas in Perthshire

If you're travelling from further afield, why not make a short break or holiday of it and book into one of our fantastic hotels, guest houses or glamping pods! 

Check out more ideas for a fantastic Perthshire break here:

- Quirky Accommodation in Perthshire >
- Spa Breaks and Hot Tub Hideaways >
- City Centre Restaurants >
- Think Big Perthshire Activities >

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for full updates on all of the events and festivals listed below, and the new ones yet to come.