Pitlochry Hotels

In the scenic valley of the River Tummel, this pleasant community grew to prominence in the early Victorian period, when a leisurely visit by Queen Victoria gave this region of Scotland groundbreaking publicity.

The Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Locally nicknamed the 'Theatre in the Hills', the The Pitlochry Festival Theatre opened to the public in 1951 and now welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year. The venue, which organises new shows every night of every week, was originally based in a large tent but has been at its current site since May 1981.

Ben Vrackie

This striking mountain, which is 841 metres high, is popular with many hikers staying in Pitlochry hotels and is renowned for its superb panoramic views over the valley. In fact, from Ben Vrackie, which is known as 'speckled mountain' in English, observers may even be able to spot the hill of Arthur's Seat in Edinburgh if there is particularly good visibility.

Loch Tay

This wonderful freshwater loch is almost 15 miles long and was once inhabited by Iron Age tribes who lived on crannogs (artificial islands). The loch is more than 150 metres deep at its deepest section, and is overlooked by the towering mountain of Ben Lawers, one of Scotland's highest.

Blair Castle

Just a short drive to the north west of Pitlochry, Blair Castle is a prestigious category A listed building and accommodated Queen Victoria in 1844. The castle, which has medieval origins, was remodelled on multiple occasions between the 15th and 19th centuries, and is now a leading tourist attraction and exquisite wedding venue.

Dining ideas

If you're a big fan of mouthwatering British cuisine, you can dine at the Fonab Castle Hotel Brasserie, or consider the Logierait Inn for some tasty Scottish classics. Other acclaimed restaurants in the area include the British and European-themed Restaurant at Knockendarroch and The Scottish Deli.

Where to stay

For a truly memorable, romantic experience, book a stay at the Fonab Castle Hotel, or choose the elegant Scotland's Hotel & Spa or Atholl Villa. For great, budget-friendly accommodation, choose stylish Birchwood, or try the opulent, majestic Atholl Palace Hotel.

Best places to stay in Pitlochry

The main attraction of Pitlochry, of course, is its proximity to Scotland’s wild countryside. You’ll find numerous options for invigorating day trips within a two-hour drive. If you prefer to stay close, you can set off on various walks and hikes from the town itself and explore Tay Forest Park and Faskally Forest.

Just ten minutes down the road, Nae Limits adventure centre offers white-water rafting, canyoning, tubing, gorge walking and much more to keep adventurous souls entertained. In the town itself, you’ll find a visitor’s centre at the dam, some small ruins of a former castle, and Blair Athol Distillery, running tours and tastings. On the edge of town, there’s a golf course and the enchanted forest – a big hit with children and adults alike. It’s a visual extravaganza, a trail of light and sound leading through the forest, capturing the imagination.

Where to stay with your family in Pitlochry

Pitlochry is small, peaceful and very safe, so any part of town is perfectly family-friendly and equally convenient for the sights – since most of your activities will probably involve day trips in the car. McKays Hotel Bar & Restaurant is an ideal base for your family holiday in Pitlochry, close to the train station and with a warm and inviting restaurant for dinner. The décor is cosy and colourful, and you can book a convenient family room with a double bed and twin beds or bunk beds – often for under £150/night.

Where to stay as a solo traveller

As a solo traveller exploring the Scottish countryside, your most convenient area might be close to the station in Pitlochry. The station road forms the main high street with plenty of cafes, eateries, and even a handy fish and chips takeaway. Fisher’s Hotel is in prime position, close to the station, on the high street and a short walk to the distillery and river. The modern hotel even has single rooms, especially for solo travellers. There are two restaurants and a lounge bar. The hotel also runs Murder Mystery weekend breaks in collaboration with a theatre company, which could be a fun way to meet others. Close by, the Old Mill Inn is equally well-located and a little more luxurious (room at less than £300/night). It’s family-owned and runs, hosts live music events throughout the year and promises a fantastic roast and real ales.

Where to find cheap hotels in Pitlochry

Pitlochry Backpackers comes top for budget options, with rooms for as little as £50 per night (including free parking). It’s right on the high street, with hostel-style dorms, shared bathrooms, and living facilities. Similarly, Pitlochry Youth Hostel is dog-friendly, offering beds from £22 and rooms from £60. Buttonboss Lodge is slightly more expensive but is still thoroughly budget-friendly, with rooms often under £100 and some great breakfast-included deals. The BnB has a homely feel, classic Scottish décor, and a sun-trap garden for guests too.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

Knockendarroch Hotel is a four-star establishment in green surroundings with a reputation for excellent dining. The interior is a mix of traditional Scottish elements and sleek, modern upgrades, with cosiness as the priority throughout. Evenings start in the lounge with pre-dinner drinks and canapés before you enter the restaurant to sample the head chef’s menu, which changes daily. The focus is locally sourced ingredients – like samphire, local bacon, smoked Kintyre cheddar and guineafowl – prepared into an exquisite, photo-worthy dish.

Spa hotels

Scotlands Spa Hotel is the best, budget-friendly spa residence within Pitlochry. It’s a cosy hotel with spacious rooms, a modern fitness suite, and a generously sized indoor pool and hot tub. You can also indulge in a massage, facial or beauty treatment, with Spa Days starting at just £68.

Exceptional hotels

You won’t find a grander, more dramatic setting for your Scotland holiday than Atholl Palace Hotel. This sprawling, Baronial residence is framed by trees and a backdrop of rugged highlands. Inside is no less grand, with luxurious décor in the standard rooms, four-poster rooms and the ever-so-elegant turret suites. You can sample an afternoon tea and dine in the Verandah Restaurant for an exceptional view or the cosy and inviting Stag’s Head bar. There’s also an on-site spa and a spacious indoor pool for ultimate relaxation.

Luxury hotels

For luxury in Pitlochry, make a beeline to the stunning Fonab Castle Hotel with a lake view in its historic grounds and buildings. Original features reign in the elegant rooms, which have all the modern luxuries you could wish for. You can also stay in the modern woodland wing or the sprawling penthouse suite. Several exquisite dining options include cosy outdoor pods for dinner with a view. The whisky lounge is a sophisticated place to end the evening. You can also dip into the spa for treatments and use the pool, sauna, steam room and outdoor hot tub.