The history of Crieff dates back to Roman times when it was the main north-south crossing on the broad River Earn. Crieff has always been a key link between the Highlands and Lowlands. Throughout medieval times, it was a major political and judicial centre that developed into a lively cattle trading town. Highlanders would make long journeys to sell their livestock at the local tryst.

However, it was not until the 19th century that Crieff became a fashionable holiday resort as elegant hotels were built to cater for the growing number of affluent city dwellers eager to escape to the fresh air and scenic surroundings of Strathearn.

Today Crieff still retains a relaxed affluent air with many speciality shops and restaurants that cater for visitors and residents alike. At the south of the town traditional and not so traditional crafts can be enjoyed at The Ceramic Experience. Crieff Visitor Centre incorporates a ‘Discover the Highland Drovers’ exhibition and the Waterford Crystal factory shop retails a variety of crystal and china ware. In the town centre paintings and applied art are exhibited at Aiton Fine Art and Strathearn Gallery, while you can watch traditional confectionary being made at Gordon and Durward.

Just west of the town, The Famous Grouse Experience is an exciting interactive visitor centre that tells the story of one of Scotland’s best known whiskies. You’ll find it at Glenturret Distillery, the oldest working distillery in Scotland.

For the active among us, Macrosty Park boats a host of facilities such as tennis, putting and trampolines all set in impressive mature parklands. Strathearn Recreation Centre offers a swimming pool and fitness suite, while the great outdoors beckon at Crieff Gold Club and Crieff Hydro’s Strathearn Stables.

A programme of entertainment is organised in the town centre most week-ends during the summer and, for the real spectacle, don’t miss the Crieff Highland Gathering in August with pipers, dancing and heavyweight competitions. The Crieff & Strathearn Drovers Tryst in October is quickly establishing itself as a key highlight of Perthshire’s calendar with its programme of walks, trails and entertainment focusing on the areas cattle droving heritage.