Aberfeldy, Scotland
Things to Do, Attractions & Visitor Guide
Aberfeldy is a small but characterful market town in Perthshire that’s easy to miss on a map, but surprisingly hard to forget once you’ve visited. Sitting on the banks of the River Tay and surrounded by woodland and Highland scenery, it’s the kind of place people come to slow down, walk, and properly explore the landscape around them.
Sitting close to Loch Tay and within easy reach of Pitlochry, the town offers a peaceful atmosphere while still providing plenty to see and do. Whether you’re visiting for a short break or passing through
Perthshire, Aberfeldy is well worth adding to your itinerary.
Where Is Aberfeldy?
Aberfeldy is located in central Scotland, within the county of
Perthshire. The town sits along the River Tay, around 90 minutes’ drive from both Edinburgh and Glasgow. While Aberfeldy does not have its own railway station, regular services run to nearby Pitlochry, with onward travel by bus or taxi.
Once in town, the centre is compact and easily walkable for visitors who enjoy exploring on foot.
Things to Do in Aberfeldy
Aberfeldy offers a mix of scenic walks, historic attractions and unique local experiences, all set within some of Scotland’s most beautiful countryside.
The Birks of Aberfeldy
One of the town’s most popular attractions is The Birks of Aberfeldy, a picturesque woodland walk made famous by a poem from Robert Burns. The trail follows Moness Burn through waterfalls, stone bridges and peaceful forest paths before opening out to views across the surrounding countryside. At around 1.5 miles, it’s an accessible and rewarding walk for most visitors.
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
Whisky lovers should not miss
Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, where Dewar’s single malt has been produced since 1898. The distillery experience includes guided tours explaining the whisky-making process. A museum that gives further insight into the Distillery’s history, and tastings of their award-winning blends.
Wade’s Bridge
One of Aberfeldy’s most recognisable landmarks is the iconic Wade’s Bridge. Built in 1733 by General George Wade as part of the military road network through the Highlands. The stone arches still span the River Tay today, and it’s well worth taking a few minutes to walk across the bridge. On a calm day, you can enjoy peaceful views of the river.
Castle Menzies
Just outside Aberfeldy, you will find
Castle Menzies, a 16th-century castle and former seat of Clan Menzies. The castle has strong Jacobite connections and famously sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746. Visiting feels much more personal than at many larger castles. You are allowed to explore the Castle at your own pace, with access allowed to most rooms in the Castle.
Highland Safaris
For something a bit different,
Highland Safaris offers guided 4x4 mountain safaris, nature walks and wildlife experiences in the hills around Aberfeldy. This is a great option if you want to explore the landscape without tackling long hikes. Their Red Deer Centre offers visitors the chance to get close to Scotland’s iconic red deer and learn more about the local environment.
Why Visit Aberfeldy
Aberfeldy suits visitors who prefer quieter towns with plenty of character rather than busy city centres. It combines woodland walks, whisky heritage and historic landmarks with easy access to outdoor activities on the River Tay and nearby Loch Tay. It’s an ideal base for exploring Highland Perthshire at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Getting to Aberfeldy & Nearby Places
Aberfeldy is easiest to reach by car, with scenic routes connecting it to
Edinburgh,
Glasgow and the Scottish
Highlands. While the town doesn’t have its own railway station, regular train services run to
Pitlochry, with buses and taxis available for the final part of the journey.
Nearby attractions include Loch Tay and small Highland villages such as
Kenmore. The surrounding landscape offers a wide range of walking, cycling and water-based activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Aberfeldy in Scotland?
Aberfeldy is located in
Perthshire, central Scotland, on the banks of the River Tay, around 90 minutes from
Edinburgh and
Glasgow by car.
What are the best things to do in Aberfeldy?
Top attractions include the Birks of Aberfeldy woodland walk, Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery, Castle Menzies, Wade’s Bridge and wildlife experiences with
Highland Safaris.
Is Aberfeldy worth visiting?
Yes. Aberfeldy offers scenic walks, historic landmarks, whisky experiences and easy access to some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.
