There’s something about Dunkeld that makes you want to slow down. Perhaps it’s the River Tay running through the middle of town, the old stone buildings, the woodland paths that disappear into the trees, or the fact that you’re never far from a good walk and a good cup of coffee.
It’s the sort of place where you can have a plan for the day, but just as easily forget about it. Just outside Dunkeld, Deanshaugh is a lovely base for exploring this part of Perthshire. Spend the morning wandering through the town, head into the woods in the afternoon, then come home for a long dinner and an evening around the fire.
Here are a few of our favourite ways to spend a day here.
Take a wander round the town
Dunkeld is small enough to explore on foot, which is part of its charm. Start by wandering through the town’s historic streets, where you’ll find old stone cottages, independent shops, cafés and plenty of places to stop for something to eat.
Dunkeld Cathedral sits right beside the River Tay and is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks. Take some time to explore the cathedral and its grounds before following the river for a stroll. Don’t worry too much about where you’re going. Some of the best bits of Dunkeld are the ones you come across along the way.
Visit The Hermitage
If there’s one walk we’d make time for, it’s The Hermitage. Just a short drive from Dunkeld, this beautiful stretch of woodland follows the River Braan through towering trees. The paths lead towards Ossian’s Hall, with views across Black Linn Falls along the way.
It’s especially atmospheric when the river is running high, but lovely at any time of year. Take your time. Stop to listen to the water. Look up at the trees.
Cross the bridge to Birnam
Dunkeld and Birnam sit opposite one another, joined by the handsome Dunkeld Bridge. On the Birnam side, you can explore the connection between the area and Beatrix Potter, who spent many childhood holidays here. The Beatrix Potter Exhibition and Garden at Birnam Arts is a nice stop for families, with plenty to discover about her time in Perthshire.
You can also seek out the famous Birnam Oak, one of the area’s oldest trees and traditionally associated with Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Spend a few hours at the Loch of Lowes
For something a little quieter, head to Loch of the Lowes. The Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, and there are hides and paths around the loch where you can take your time watching for birds and other wildlife. Binoculars are a must if you have them.
Go for a longer walk or even complete a munro
This is Highland Perthshire, after all. You don’t have to look far for somewhere to stretch your legs. The countryside around Dunkeld is criss-crossed with woodland paths and walking routes, with everything from gentle riverside strolls to longer days in the hills.
For those looking for a bigger day out, several well-known Munros are within reach of Dunkeld. Schiehallion, with its distinctive shape and wide-reaching views, is one of Perthshire’s classic walks. The Ben Lawers range offers a choice of routes and several Munros to tackle, including Ben Lawers itself, Beinn Ghlas, An Stùc and Meall Garbh.
Closer to Blair Atholl, Beinn a’ Ghlo takes in three Munros in one walk, while the hills around Glen Lyon, including the Càrn Mairg group, make for another memorable day in the hills.
And if a Munro feels a little ambitious, there are plenty of shorter walks around Dunkeld and Deanshaugh for days when you’d rather be back in time for lunch.
Find somewhere good to eat
Dunkeld has a lovely collection of independent cafés, restaurants and pubs, making it an easy place to spend a lazy afternoon.
For coffee and pastries, ARAN Bakery is a local favourite, known for its sourdough, buns and excellent coffee. The Clootie Dumpling on Cathedral Street is perfect for homemade soups, cakes and a slice of traditional Scottish baking. If you’re gathering supplies to take back to Deanshaugh, The Scottish Deli is worth a stop for local cheeses, charcuterie and treats for a relaxed lunch or dinner at the house.
For an evening meal, The Taybank sits right beside the River Tay and is a lovely spot for food and drinks, while Redwood Wines is a good option for seasonal food and a glass of wine. Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden is another relaxed choice in the centre of town.
The best thing about Dunkeld’s food scene is that you can make as much or as little of it as you like – coffee before a walk, lunch by the river, or dinner with friends before heading back to Deanshaugh.
Back to Deanshaugh
After exploring Dunkeld and the surrounding countryside, it’s good to have somewhere comfortable to come back to. Deanshaugh is set in the Perthshire countryside, around a 15-minute drive from Dunkeld, so you can be out exploring one minute and back at the house before you know it.
With space for up to 15 guests, it’s made for spending time together. There’s a wood burner for slower evenings, a pool table and table tennis for a little friendly competition, and a sauna, whirlpool bath and gym for when you fancy staying in. But the best part might be the simplest. Get everyone around the kitchen table. Cook something good. Let the day turn into evening without worrying about what time it is.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Deanshaugh from Dunkeld?
Deanshaugh is around a 15-minute drive from Dunkeld, making it easy to spend the day exploring the town and surrounding countryside before heading back to the house.
Are there good places to eat in Dunkeld?
Yes. Dunkeld has a good selection of independent cafés, bakeries, pubs and restaurants. ARAN Bakery, The Clootie Dumpling, The Scottish Deli, The Taybank, Redwood Wines and Z’s Bistro are all worth considering.
What walks are there near Dunkeld?
There are walks to suit all abilities, from gentle riverside and woodland walks around Dunkeld and Birnam to longer hill days. The Hermitage is one of the area’s best-known walks, while the wider area gives access to several Munros.
Which Munros are near Dunkeld?
Schiehallion, Ben Lawers and Beinn a’ Ghlo are among the better-known Munros within reach of Dunkeld. The Càrn Mairg group in Glen Lyon is another option for experienced hillwalkers looking for a longer day.
Is Dunkeld good for a family holiday?
Dunkeld works particularly well for families, with easy walks, woodland to explore, wildlife, cafés and plenty of places to spend time outdoors. Birnam Arts and the Beatrix Potter Exhibition are also good options for a family day out.
What can you do around Dunkeld when the weather isn’t great?
A rainy day doesn’t have to stop you exploring. Spend some time in Dunkeld’s cafés and independent shops, visit Birnam Arts, explore the cathedral, or simply head back to Deanshaugh and enjoy the house. With a wood burner, games room, sauna and plenty of space, staying in can be just as enjoyable as heading out.
How many people does Deanshaugh sleep?
Deanshaugh sleeps up to 15 guests, making it particularly suited to larger families and groups of friends travelling together.
Is Deanshaugh a good base for exploring Perthshire?
Yes. Its location makes it easy to explore Dunkeld, Birnam and the surrounding Perthshire countryside, while also putting some of the area’s bigger landscapes, walking routes and Munros within reach.
