Looking for the best things to do in Pitlochry? You’re in the right place. This charming Highland town is packed with scenic walks, whisky distilleries, chocolate shops, dramatic viewpoints and even a riverside theatre. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or road-tripping through Scotland, Pitlochry ticks a lot of boxes.

Scenic landscape in Pitlochry with a clock tower, trees, and rooftops, set against a backdrop of misty hills and forests.
View over Pitlochry
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If we haven’t met yet, hey there! 😊 I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger always hopping between London and the Highlands for work (and play). I’m on a mission to explore every corner of Scotland and share the best finds with you.

Here are my top 13 things to do in Pitlochry – plus a map at the bottom, hotel tips, and FAQs too.

1. Marvel at the Queen’s View 🌄

This immense spot overlooks Loch Tummel and the rolling hills beyond, and yes – it’s every bit as majestic as it sounds.

A scenic view of a river winding through a valley in Pitlochry surrounded by autumn trees, under a clear blue sky.
The Queens View over Loch Tummel

Queen Victoria stopped here in 1866 and assumed it was named after her. Spoiler: it wasn’t. Turns out Queen Isabella, wife of Robert the Bruce, got there first – by a few centuries.

The viewpoint is open year-round, and it’s especially magical in autumn. There’s a cafe, visitor centre and toilets, and parking costs £3.

2. Wander Around Loch Faskally 🌊

Loch Faskally is a peaceful place for a stroll or a gentle paddle. It’s artificial (thanks, hydroelectric scheme!) but you’d never guess – it’s full of charm and surrounded by forested trails.

A serene loch near Pitlochry in Scotland surrounded by a forest of colorful autumn trees. Several small boats, including red ones, float on the water.
Loch Faskally. Photo © George Robertson.

If you’re lucky, you might spot red squirrels darting through the trees. There’s a nice cafe near the dam for post-walk cake. You’ve earned it. 

3. Visit the Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder 🐠

This is hydroelectricity meets wildlife spectacle.

A hydroelectric power station at Pitlochry beside a river with a dam structure, surrounded by greenery and a cloudy sky.
Pitlochry Dam

The dam includes a unique fish ladder that helps salmon migrate upstream. In spring and summer, you might see them leaping heroically.

A concrete fish ladder with multiple steps and metal railings on both sides, surrounded by greenery and industrial structures in the background.
The fish ladder

The visitor centre has interactive exhibits and an excellent cafe (order the strawberry tart if it’s on). It’s genuinely interesting and very photogenic.

A serene lake reflects clouds and a forested hill, with a narrow bridge crossing the water under a cloudy sky.
Pitlochry dam

4. Catch a Show at the Pitlochry Festival Theatre 🎭

Set right by the river, this little gem puts on a rotating lineup of plays, musicals and concerts. It’s nicknamed “Theatre in the Hills” for a reason.

A modern glass and brick building in Pitlochry with colorful banners on the lower level, surrounded by a grassy lawn and trees. Flags are displayed on the roof against a cloudy sky.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre

In summer, they run six different shows on rotation – so yes, you can see something different every night. Perfect if you fancy mixing culture with countryside. See what’s on here.

5. Explore the Enchanted Forest 🌟

Each October, Faskally Wood turns into a kaleidoscope of lights, music and magic. The Enchanted Forest is a sound-and-light show that feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

A forest illuminated with vibrant purple and pink lights is reflected in a body of water at night, near Pitlochry in the Scottish Highlands.
Enchanted Forest

It’s wildly popular, so book your tickets early if you’re planning an autumn trip. Kids love it, adults secretly love it more.

6. Stroll to Black Spout Waterfall 🌧️

This woodland walk starts right from town and leads to a spectacular 60-metre waterfall.

A tall waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush green foliage.
Black Spout Wood waterfall. Photo © Wollertz.

It’s a lovely, leafy trail that passes Atholl Distillery and takes you to a viewing platform above the cascade.

It continues uphill to the now-closed Edradour Distillery, but the walk alone is well worth it – quiet, green, and good for the soul.

7. Sample Local Food and Drink 🍷

Pitlochry does Highland hospitality very well.

Grab a bite at The Old Mill Inn (live music and generous portions), or sip something from the Moulin Brewery at the charming Moulin Inn.

Outdoor seating area with white umbrellas labeled "Old Mill," surrounded by colorful flower barrels. People walk along a cobblestone path near stone buildings and leafy trees.
Stone building of The Old Mill Inn with two windows above the entrance, surrounded by colorful flowers and outdoor seating with umbrellas.

Expect menus with Scottish staples like venison, smoked fish, and local cheeses. And of course, a solid whisky selection.

👉 Read more: 18 Traditional Tastes of Scotland.

8. Indulge at the Highland Chocolatier 🍫

Just a 15-minute drive away in Grandtully, Iain Burnett’s award-winning chocolate shop is dreamy. The truffles are almost too pretty to eat (almost).

Street view of a stone building housing a restaurant with large windows, decorative signs, and colorful plants in front. A road and clear sky are visible.
Highland Chocolatier Grandtully

Do the tasting flight, pop into the wee exhibition, and take a box home – if it lasts that long.

9. Hike the Ben Vrackie Trail 🏔️

This one’s a bit of a leg-burner, but so worth it.

Stone trig point on a hilltop with a wide view of a green valley, distant hills, patches of sunlight, and scattered clouds in the sky.
View from the top of Ben Vrackie. Photo @ Lukaszkochanek.

The 841m summit of Ben Vrackie offers panoramic views over Pitlochry and beyond.

It’s well-marked and doable for anyone with moderate fitness. Pack water, snacks, and your smug face for the top.

10. Visit Blair Castle and Gardens 🏰

Just a short drive away, this snow-white castle in Blair Atholl is full of history, turrets, and Highland glamour.

A hand holds a brochure in front of Blair Castle & Gardens, with an expansive lawn and pine trees under a partly cloudy sky.
A vibrant park scene with tall trees displaying autumn colors of green, yellow, and orange under a blue sky with clouds.

Wander the formal gardens, see antique weaponry, and learn about the only private army in Europe. It’s a cracking day out.

11. Walk the Glen Tilt Trail 🏖️

Another Blair Atholl gem, Glen Tilt is a lush, quiet glen with forest walks and views that make you want to write poetry (or at least take 47 photos).

A small stream flows over rocks in a green valley with grassy hills and trees under a partly cloudy sky in Glen Tilt near Blair Atholl.
Glen Tilt. Photo © Rambling Tog.

The circular route from Old Bridge of Tilt is scenic and well-signposted. Bonus points if you spot a deer.

12. Taste Whisky at Blair Athol Distillery 🫒

Despite the name, this distillery is right in Pitlochry town and dates back to 1798. It’s now part of the Johnnie Walker family, but still does its own single malts.

Blair Athol Distillery with ivy-covered stone buildings, a picnic table, and a copper distillation pot on a cloudy day.
Blair Atholl Distillery

Tours are fun, the shop is great for souvenirs (including 12 year old bottlings), and the cocktails at the bar are surprisingly classy.

Fun fact: In case you were wondering why you haven’t heard of Blair Athol whisky, it’s because they sell almost all of their production to Johnny Walker.

13. Try the Highland Fling Bungee Jump 🏋️

Not for the faint of heart! The Garry Bridge bungee jump (between Pitlochry and Blair Atholl) is one of the most scenic leaps in the UK.

Two large concrete bridge pillars vertically frame a view of lush green trees and a small rocky stream below.
Highland Fling Bungee. Photo © Kalina Toteva.

If you don’t feel like throwing yourself off a bridge for fun (who would blame you), the area is still worth a visit for its beautiful surroundings and the dramatic views over the river gorge.

Where to Stay in Pitlochry 🏨

Here are three top picks for hotels in Pitlochry:

🛌 Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa: Luxury in a lochside castle. Spa, fine dining, gorgeous rooms.

🛌 Atholl Palace Hotel: Grand and historic with lovely gardens, spa, and epic views.

🛌 The Old Mill Inn: Cosy, central, and great food. Live music too.

Map of things to do in Pitlochry.

This Google Map shows all of the things to do in Pitlochry, as listed in this post. If you are viewing on a phone, you can use two fingers to pinch and drag the map.

FAQs for things to do in Pitlochry 💡

Planning a trip? Here’s what people often ask about Pitlochry:

What’s the best time to visit Pitlochry?

Spring and autumn are especially stunning – think blooming wildflowers or golden leaves. Summer is lively, winter is cosy.

How do I get to Pitlochry?

Pitlochry is right off the A9, with direct trains from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Easy peasy.

Is Pitlochry good for hiking?

Yes! From gentle forest trails to proper hill hikes like Ben Vrackie, it’s a walker’s dream.

Can I visit a whisky distillery in Pitlochry?

Yes – Blair Athol is in town, and offers fab tours and tastings.

What’s the Enchanted Forest?

An annual sound-and-light show in Faskally Wood every October. Magical, colourful, and hugely popular.

Any good wildlife nearby?

Try Loch of the Lowes for red squirrels and ospreys. Or take a Highland safari!

Is Pitlochry a good weekend getaway?

100%. You can squeeze a lot into two days – and still have time for cake.

Is Pitlochry a good base for exploring other areas?

Yes, it’s within easy reach of the town of Aviemore at the gateway to the Cairngorms National Park, Loch Rannoch, and Loch Tay. You can also visit towns like Aberfeldy, Dunkeld, and Blair Atholl, each with unique attractions. Click here to see hotels in Pitlochry.

Final Thoughts on Pitlochry ✨

For a wee Highland town, Pitlochry seriously over-delivers. Whether you want to hike a hill, taste some whisky, or just sit by the river with a brew, there are so many things to do in Pitlochry all wrapped up in one tidy, charming package.

Below are some posts related to this article on things to do in Pitlochry.

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Autumn scene in Pitlochry, Scotland, with colorful trees and a small lake. Rowboats are moored at the water's edge. "Things to Do in Pitlochry" is text on the image.

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