Crieff, Perthshire

Crieff is situated on the fringes of Perthshire in an area known as Strathearn, Crieff is the second largest town in Perthshire. Strathearn is known for its beautiful country walks where you can enjoy the views of the Strathearn valley with views of Ben Vorlich and Ben More in the distance.

When in Crieff why not visit Scotland's oldest distillery - Glenturret and enjoy a wee dram, or the amazing gardens of Drummond Castle?

Visitors to Crieff will see a bustling and prosperous town offering a variety of accommodation, shopping and attractions.

Crieff: The Town of the Highland Games

Located on the south border of the Scottish highland, just below the wooded hill of the Knock, is the main town of Strathearn, Crieff.  Once a Scottish ‘frontier town’ and an important cattle market, Crieff is Perthshire’s second largest town. 

Crieff History

Crieff history is rich and colour, and can be dated back to the 12th century.  In 1218, it was granted its Charter.  Like many highland towns, it experienced a lot of fighting between local clans.  The Murray and the Drummond clans were at loggerheads here. In 1511, the Drummond and the Campbell attacked the Murrays who were attending mass inside the church of Monzievaird. They set fire to the church and only one Murray survived the attack, having been rescued by a Drummond.  Seen as a traitor for rescuing a Murray, the rescuer had to flee to Ireland.

Many famous people in history had visited the town, including Rob Roy MacGregor, who used to come here to sell cattle during the cattle market.  Bonnie Prince Charles had his last meeting with his council here, in Drummond Arms Hotel, before the Battle of Culloden, where he was finally defeated in 1746.  The pretty town of Crieff was also a favourite destination for the Victorians. 

One of Scotland’s most striking parks: Macrosty Park is also located in Crieff.  The park has Turret Burn running through it and it also has an extensive collection of mature trees.  With two children’s play area and a number of picnic tables dotted around, the place is perfect for a family picnic on fine summer days.

In August of every year, visitors in the area can enjoy the town’s major event, the Crieff Highland game.  It is a great family day out and a great celebration of the highland tradition.  Often, a celebrity chieftain presides over the games.  One of the most famous celebrity chieftains that graced the game is Ewan MacGregor.

Crieff Walks

Crieff walks are some of the finest in the area.  In autumn, Crieff holds the Drover’s Tryst, a walking festival.  It offers a variety of guided walks, educational walks in the Strath and hill walks.  Whatever type of walker you are, there will be something suitable for you.

One of the local attractions not to miss is the Lady Mary’s Walk.  Gifted by Sir Patrick Murray of Ochtertyre, this was his daughter’s (Lady Mary) favourite walk.  The trail is a stunning 1500m beech lined avenue that runs along the side of River Earn.