Best things to do near Gleneagles

The area of Gleneagles is probably best known for the famous Gleneagles Hotel.  Situated in the heart of Perthshire, in Central Scotland, it is a superb location for visitors to Scotland to explore and enjoy everything on offer. 

Gleneagles Hotel

The Gleneagles Hotel has exceptionally comfortable bedrooms and suites to stay in and offers several different dining experiences for guests including the Michael Fairlie Restaurant which is the only restaurant in Scotland to hold 2 Michelin stars.  There is also a whole host of outdoor activities to enjoy from traditional country pursuits to golf (on one of the three top golf courses in Scotland).  There is an equestrian school, cycling, hiking and walking, gun dog training, a ferret school, the British School of Falconry and off-road driving amongst other activities on offer.  If you’re looking for some peace and tranquility there is also the Spa & Wellness Centre to relax and wind down in after an action packed day. Gleneagles also has a fascinating history that is well worth taking a look at.

Auchterarder House is just 5 minutes drive away from the Gleneagles Hotel and for guests of Auchterarder they can enjoy many of the facilities on offer at there.  However, there are many other activities which can be enjoyed in the Gleneagles area or on site at Auchterarder House, many of which are listed here.

Do it Outdoors

If you’re looking for fun and wild outdoor activities, this is the place to go (although they will come to Auchterarder House).  They can organise axe throwing, bushcraft courses, archery, camp cook outs, fly fishing instruction and eco team building events.  It doesn’t matter what age you are.

Skydiving Strathallan

Near Gleneagles is Strathallan Airfield.  Why not test your nerves and try skydiving from 10,000 feet with the Scottish Parachute Club?  They provide a safe and professional environment in which to try out a skydive and enjoy the fabulous views as you drop towards the earth.  Completely exhilarating!  10 minutes drive from Auchterarder House.

Bicycling

We can hire bikes for everyone and have them delivered to Auchterarder House for you to enjoy during your stay.  There are lots of great roads and tracks to enjoy nearby.

Fishing

The lochan at the house is stocked with trout and guests are very welcome to try their luck.  There is also trout fishing on the slightly larger, Lindores Loch nearby which is fun for guests of all ages as well as Orchill Trout Fishery which is just 20 minutes away.  Boats and tackle can be hired by the day and you can take a picnic.  If guests are keen to do some salmon fishing, the River Tay is just 30 minutes drive from Auchterarder.

Scone Palace

Visiting Scone Palace offers an exciting and colourful history for those interested in Scotland’s past.  Fifteen hundred years ago it was the capital of the Picts.  Since then it has been the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of the Kings of Scots, including Macbeth and Robert the Bruce.  There is an outstanding collection of antiques, paintings and rare artefacts and the grounds are well known throughout the world.  There is plenty for children to do including the wonderful ‘tartan’ Murray Star Maze. 

White Water Rafting

Just one hour away from Auchterarder is Aberfeldy where guests can do white water rafting which can include just gentle rides or a full-on water adventure.

The Isle of May

Guests can take a boat from the village of Anstruther to see the puffins on the Isle of May.  A one hours drive to Anstruther and a fun excursion.

Glamis Castle

The childhood home of HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, Glamis Castle is a magical place to visit, not least because of the centuries of Royal connections.  Just one hours drive from Auchterarder House.

The House of Bruar

An extraordinarily popular retail spot in the middle of the Scottish Highlands.  There is a fabulous food hall full of local delicacies and other foodie delights as well as beautiful tweeds, woollens, designer clothes and gifts.  Local crafts are on display from talented craftsmen/women and there is a café as well as some of the best fish and chips.

Off-road Driving

This can be organised locally and is great fun for guests with an adventurous streak and those looking for a challenge.

If you’re interested in visiting Gleneagles but don’t wish to stay on their grounds, take a look at staying in our luxury private manor house in the Scottish Highlands. Get in touch today or make an inquiry here.

The Author