North & South Methven Street

Offering everything from life's essentials – beer and buttons – to truly specialised items, this glorious stretch of shops, cafes and bars, starts at the beautiful St Ninian’s Cathedral and runs down to The Silvery Tay pub.
Street Signs Web Methven

Proudly independent, there are no multi-nationals and no more-of-the-same chains. Instead, you will find a street packed full of the wonderful, family-owned businesses that make Perth unique and galvanise our Scotland-wide reputation as a place for speciality shopping. 

So, whether you're looking for a commission on a diamond engagement ring, a wee poke of sweeties, or a cup of great coffee, Methven Street is worth a second look!

Independent Retail

Boasting hundreds of years of trade between them, long-standing favourites such as Marian’s of Perth, Lorna Davies Florist, and WTG Henderson Jewellers, have welcomed the next generation of independent shopkeepers in the Craft Beer Bottle Shop. 

Restaurants, Cafes and Bars

From authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine at Everest Inn and popular local favourites such as Tikka 'n' Talk, to cosy coffee stops like North Street Café, the streets offer something for every taste. Meanwhile, venues including The Half Moon and The Bank Bar & Beer Garden help give the area its sociable and relaxed atmosphere, making Methven Street a popular destination for both daytime visits and evenings out in the city centre.

Perth Playhouse

Perth Playhouse is one of Perth’s best-loved entertainment venues located on Murray Street, just around the corner from North and South Methven Street. The historic cinema first opened in 1933 and remains a popular destination for film lovers, combining classic cinema character with a modern viewing experience.

Known for its distinctive Art Deco styling and welcoming atmosphere, the Playhouse screens a wide range of new releases, family favourites, live broadcasts, and independent films throughout the year. Over the decades, it has become an important community venue where generations of local residents and visitors have gathered to enjoy cinema, special events, and shared cultural experiences.

Alongside its main screenings, the Playhouse regularly hosts seasonal showings, live theatre and music broadcasts, and community events, helping it remain a vibrant part of Perth’s cultural scene. Its central location also makes it an easy addition to a wider visit exploring Perth’s restaurants, cafés, shops, and nearby attractions.

North & South Methven Street FAQ's

North and South Methven Street are known for their strong independent spirit and welcoming local atmosphere, offering a side of Perth city centre shaped almost entirely by independent businesses rather than national chains or large franchises. From cafés and restaurants to pubs, salons, specialist shops, and everyday local services, the streets have developed a character that feels distinctly personal, community-focused, and closely connected to the people who run the businesses there.

This independent identity is one of the things that makes the area stand out within Perth city centre. Visitors will not find rows of familiar chain brands here — instead, the streets are filled with locally owned cafés, family-run restaurants, traditional pubs, and businesses built around personal service and local reputation.

North and South Methven Street have developed organically over time, attracting smaller independent businesses rather than large commercial retailers. Their slightly quieter location just beyond the busiest shopping areas has helped create a supportive environment for local cafés, restaurants, pubs, and specialist businesses.

Yes. North and South Methven Street mark what was once the western edge of medieval Perth. The junction where Methven Street meets the High Street was historically the site of the West Port, one of the main gateways for merchants into medieval Perth. Travellers, traders and visitors approaching from the west would have entered through this point, making it one of the busiest and most important appeoaches to medieval Perth.

Many visitors consider them to be. While they sit only a short walk from the High Street, the streets have a quieter and more independent atmosphere, making them popular with people looking to discover local cafés, restaurants, and businesses away from the busiest shopping areas.

Yes. Both streets sit just a short walk from Perth High Street and connect easily to wider city centre, making them easy to explore on foot.

Yes. The streets are home to a varied food and drink scene, with cafes, restaurants, pubs, and takeaway spots offering everything from coffee and light lunches to international cuisine and evening dining.

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