On a coach day tour out of Edinburgh, many groups want to head to the seaside. If this is the case, St Andrews is a very popular destination and we’ll explore this in another blog.
There are plenty of groups, on the other hand, who wish to see some of the Highlands and, perhaps, participate in an activity to enhance their day. If this is the case, then a visit to Aberfeldy might certainly be something for consideration. This short blog post will examine what might be on offer if a group were to visit Aberfeldy as part of their day tour.
Arguably the biggest attraction in Aberfeldy is Dewar’s World of Whisky. At Aberfeldy Distillery, on the outskirts of the town, you can visit the attractive distillery and learn all about the world famous blended whisky, known as Dewars.
Not only do you receive a guided tour around the working parts of the distillery, you will also see a short film about whisky production at Dewars, learn about blending, and participate in an interactive blending experience – all as part of your visit.
After visiting the distillery, or as an alternative to visiting, you might choose to stretch your legs and explore the town of Aberfeldy itself. Your choice would be to wander around the town’s attractive array of small shops, cafes and restaurants, or you may wish to take a walk down to the river Tay.
In the 18th century, a famous General, named Wade, built a network of military roads and bridges around the Highlands, to help the English soldiers move around. There exists a particularly nice example of one of his bridges, over the river Tay at Aberfeldy.
In an area close to the bridge sits a memorial to the Black Watch. This was a Regiment of soldiers originally raised to secure peace in the Highlands. The dark tartans worn by members of these companies of soldiers led to them being known as the Black Watch. They were disbanded in 1717 and started up again in 1725. In 1970 the Regiment was given the freedom of the Burgh of Aberfeldy.
The monument to the Black Watch was unveiled in 1887. It was split from top to bottom by lightning in 1910 and the repairs, including installation of a lightning conductor, cost £200 at that time.
Other activities possible, in or near Aberfeldy, include a visit to Castle Menzies, a walk through the forest (known as the ‘Birks o’ Aberfeldy’), or for the more adventurous, river rafting on the River Tay!