Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Strathearn
West of Perth, the wide strath (valley) of the River Earn was once a great forest where me-
dieval kings hunted. The whole area is known as Strathearn, a very attractive region of un-
dulating farmland, hills and lochs. The Highlands officially begin in the western section of
Strathearn.
DUNNING
POP 900
If you think you've entered spooky country around here, you may just be right. On the
way into Dunning, about a mile west of the town by the B8062, there's a strange cross on
a pile of stones, etched with the words 'Maggie Wall burnt here 1657 as a witch'.
The village is dominated by the 12th-century Norman tower of St Serfs Church (HS;
www.historic-scotland.gov.uk ; admission free; 9.30am-5.30pm Apr-Sep) , but most of
the building dates from 1810. The main reason to come is the magnificent 9th-century
Dupplin Cross , the finest Pictish cross known. Originally located near Forteviot (3 miles
from Dunning), it's now the regal centrepiece here. The fascinating symbolism and artistic
influences will be explained in superb detail by the warden. It's rare to get such detailed
insight at these places, and you'll walk out feeling like you've learned something new.
Dunning is about 8 miles southwest of Perth. Stagecoach ( 01382-227201;
www.stagecoachbus.com ) bus 17 runs from Perth (40 minutes, eight Monday to Saturday,
two Sunday).
CRIEFF
POP 6579
Elegant Crieff is an old resort-style town, as popular with tourists today as it was in
Victorian times. It sits in a valley amid some glorious Perthshire countryside. With excel-
lent eating and accommodation options, it's a fine base for exploring this part of the coun-
try.
Sights
In the basement at the tourist office is a small but interesting free exhibition of the town
stocks, the Drummond Cross (1400-1600) and a formidable 9th-century Pictish cross
slab.
At noble old Glenturret Distillery, 1 mile north of town, the Famous Grouse Experien-
ce ( www.thefamousgrouse.com ; standard tour adult/child £8.95/7.50; 9am-6pm, last
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