Perth Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Perth Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Perth sits in a fantastic position for exploring central Scotland. The city itself has plenty to offer with its Georgian architecture and riverside walks. Start at the Perth Museum and Art Gallery (78 George St, PH1 5LB, open Tue-Sun 10am-5pm, 4/5 TripAdvisor) which houses important collections relating to the area's past.

Scone Palace (PH2 6BD, open daily Apr-Oct 9:30am-5pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) is just 2 miles north of Perth. This is where Scottish kings were crowned for centuries on the Stone of Destiny. The palace gardens are worth a visit alone - look out for the peacocks that roam freely!

The Black Watch Castle and Museum (Balhousie Castle, Hay St, PH1 5HR, open daily 9:30am-4:30pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) tells the story of Scotland's oldest Highland regiment. We think it's one of the best military museums in Scotland.

For whisky fans, the Famous Grouse Experience at Glenturret Distillery (The Hosh, Crieff PH7 4HA, open daily 10am-6pm, 4/5 TripAdvisor) is Scotland's oldest working distillery and just a 25-minute drive from Perth.

Pet Friendly

Perth is brilliant for dog owners. Many cottages with hot tubs welcome pets - just check if there are any size restrictions when booking. The area has loads of walks where dogs can run free.

Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park on the eastern edge of Perth offers excellent dog walking trails with amazing views over the Tay Valley. Dogs will love the mix of woodland paths and open spaces.

For eating out, The Old Mill Inn in Pitlochry (Mill Ln, PH16 5BH) has a dog-friendly bar area and even offers treats for four-legged visitors. Willows Coffee Shop in Perth (14-16 St John St, PH1 5SP) welcomes dogs inside and provides water bowls.

I recommend bringing towels specifically for your dog - especially if you're staying in a cottage with a hot tub. Perth can get muddy after rain and you don't want dirty paw prints everywhere! Many cottages provide outdoor taps for washing down muddy dogs before they come inside.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Perth

The River Tay is Perth's lifeblood and a walk along its banks is essential. Start at the North Inch park and follow the path south past Perth Bridge. The river is famous for salmon fishing - if you're lucky you might spot fishermen landing a catch. One visitor wrote: "We spent hours watching the herons fishing from the riverbank - better than any TV show!"

Branklyn Garden (116 Dundee Rd, PH2 7BB, open daily Mar-Oct 10am-5pm, 4.5/5 TripAdvisor) is a hidden gem. This compact 2-acre garden contains rare plants from around the world including Himalayan blue poppies and Chinese rhododendrons. The National Trust property punches well above its weight. A recent visitor commented: "I'm not even a gardener but was blown away by the colours and scents."

Perth Theatre (Mill St, PH1 5HZ) is one of Scotland's oldest and most respected producing theatres. After a £16.6m renovation, it's now a state-of-the-art venue with an excellent programme of shows. Even if you don't catch a performance, the café-bar is worth visiting. The building beautifully blends historic features with modern design.

What's the best time to visit Perth?

May to September offers the best weather for enjoying your hot tub and exploring. Perth comes alive in summer with events like the Perth Festival of the Arts (May) and Perth Show (August). Winter visits have their charm too - imagine sitting in your hot tub while snow falls around you!

Do I need a car in Perth?

While Perth has decent public transport, a car gives you freedom to explore the surrounding countryside and reach more remote cottages. Many of the best hot tub cottages are in rural locations without bus service.

What's the weather like in Perth?

Perth has a temperate climate with average summer temperatures around 18°C (64°F) and winter averages of 3°C (37°F). It's drier than western Scotland but still bring waterproofs! The hot tub will be brilliant whatever the weather.

Are there good restaurants in Perth?

Yes! Try 63 Tay Street (63 Tay St, PH2 8NN) for Scottish fine dining using local ingredients. For casual eating, Tabla Indian Restaurant (173 South St, PH2 8NY) consistently gets top reviews. Perth Farmers' Market (first Saturday of each month) is great for stocking up your cottage with local produce.

Can I go swimming in the River Tay?

Wild swimming is possible but the Tay has strong currents - stick to designated areas like Quarrymill Woodland Park. Remember your cottage hot tub offers a safer way to soak!

What should I pack for a Perth cottage break?

Walking boots, swimwear for your hot tub and layers for changeable Scottish weather. Binoculars are useful for wildlife spotting - red squirrels and ospreys are found in Perthshire.

Some helpful links:

1. Perth City Official Tourism Site
2. VisitScotland Perthshire Guide
3. Perthshire Walking Routes