Perth is a hidden gem in Scotland, brimming with natural beauty, historical landmarks, and serene riverside walks. This is the story of my one-day trip to Perth by bus—an adventure that didn’t go entirely as planned but left me with unforgettable memories.
If you're considering a day trip to Perth, here’s everything you need to know, including tips to make your journey smoother than mine!
Table of contents
Getting to Perth by Bus
Perth is easily accessible by public transport, with multiple bus options connecting it to cities like Edinburgh. Here are the top choices for your journey:
CityLink M90: A popular choice offering frequent departures. Tickets start at £10 one way one way when booking online.
FlixBus: A budget-friendly option, with fares as low as £5 depending on availability. While schedules vary, it’s great for travelers on a tight budget.
Ember Bus: For an eco-friendly option, take the Ember Bus. Powered entirely by electricity, it’s a sustainable way to travel. Ember buses are equipped with Wi-Fi and charging ports, with tickets starting at just £7. Launched in 2020, this service connects Edinburgh, Perth, and other cities with frequent departures.
Bus journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes..
Another alternative is traveling to Perth from Edinburgh by train, with ScotRail operating services on this route. However, train tickets, even the off-peak return ones are pricier compared to those of buses. They are about £21. if purchased about a week in advance.
Morning in Perth: Riverside Serenity
I arrived in Perth around 10:00 AM, welcomed by the tranquil beauty of the River Tay. As Scotland’s longest river, the Tay offers stunning views, especially during autumn when the foliage transforms into a canvas of golds and reds. Take a leisurely stroll along the riverside paths, where you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities and quiet spots to soak in the scenery.
A Quick Stop: M&S Foodhall
By 11:30 AM, I made a quick stop at M&S Foodhall, conveniently located near the Premier Inn. Their fresh sandwiches, snacks, and drinks are perfect for a quick and budget-friendly meal before heading out for more adventures.
Afternoon Adventure: Kinoull Hill
At 12:00 PM, I set off for Kinoull Hill, Perth’s iconic viewpoint. However, reaching it turned out to be more complicated than I expected. Google Maps directed me to a spot also labeled “Kinnoull Hill,” but it was completely different from the Kinoull Hill Woodland Park where the summit and trails are located. Instead, I found myself walking along Dundee Road (A85), heading in the wrong direction.
The walk along the A85 was nothing short of spectacular. Rolling hills, vibrant greenery, and charming countryside scenery made the hour-long walk a joy in itself. I even snapped some of my favorite photos of the day along this route.
Determined to reach Kinoull Hill, I retraced my steps and found the entrance to Kinoull Hill Woodland Park. By the time I reached the entrance to Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, it was late afternoon. Unfortunately, I didn’t have enough time to climb to the summit. However, the trails within the park are captivating in their own right, with vibrant autumn colors and a serene atmosphere.
What I Missed: Historical Landmarks Worth Visiting
- Scone Palace: Once the crowning place of Scottish kings, this grand estate is steeped in history and surrounded by gorgeous grounds.
- Black Watch Castle and Museum: A fascinating dive into Scotland’s military heritage.
- Perth Art Gallery and Museum: Home to impressive exhibits that celebrate Perthshire’s cultural and natural history.
If you have more than a day or start earlier, these spots might worth a visit!
Heading Back: A Lesson in Planning
Unfortunately, my return trip didn’t go as smoothly as my arrival. A delayed local bus in Perth caused me to miss my connection to Edinburgh. With the next bus hours away, I opted for the train—a costly decision, as last-minute tickets are significantly more expensive.
Tips for a Perfect Day Trip
- Always check bus schedules in advance and account for potential delays.
- Add contingency time to your schedule to avoid being caught off guard when something goes wrong.
- Return tickets are cheaper across all services, and fares vary based on the time of travel.
- Booking earlier offers better rates and ensures a stress-free journey.
- Avoid overly complicated routes. Start your journey by taking a bus to Edinburgh City Center, then transfer to a direct bus to Perth. In this trip, I tried a multi-bus route suggested by Google Maps, but delays caused me to miss connections, leaving me scrambling for an expensive last-minute train ticket.
- For a smoother walk to Kinnoull Hill, check local signs and ask residents for recommendations.
- Best time for autumn colours: Mid to late October is the perfect time to enjoy the vibrant autumn colours in Perth.
- Stay Open-Minded: Some of the best experiences come from unplanned moments—like my scenic walk along A85.
- Pack Essentials: Bring snacks, water, and a portable phone charger to stay energized and connected.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear sturdy walking shoes and bring layers for Scotland’s unpredictable weather.
Why Perth Should Be Your Next Day Trip
Despite a few hiccups, my day in Perth was one to remember. The combination of riverside serenity, scenic walks, and the thrill of exploring new places makes it a perfect escape. Whether you’re snapping photos along the River Tay, marveling at the views from Kinoull Hill, or enjoying the charm of Perthshire’s countryside, this trip offers something for everyone.
Take these tips, plan your journey, and set out for an incredible day exploring Perth. Who knows? You might just stumble upon your own hidden gems along the way.
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