Living in Perth

This vibrant city presents a strong case for buyers seeking the perfect area to call home. With a great retail and leisure scene, beautiful natural surroundings, and a welcoming community – Perth has a lot to offer. But what could your life look like living in Perth? Read on to find out.
 

History of Perth

Perth has a rich history that dates back centuries, and so the city is steeped in heritage. Dating back to ancient times, Perth served as the capital of Scotland during the mediaeval period and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history.

One of Perth’s most renowned historical attractions is Scone Palace, located just a few miles north of the town. Scone Palace was the crowning place of Scottish kings and queens, with a history dating back to the 9th century. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, stroll through the magnificent gardens, and learn about the palace’s fascinating past.

St. John’s Kirk, a striking Gothic-style church located in the heart of Perth, is another iconic historical site. Built in the 15th century, the church is known for its impressive architecture and its connection to the Reformation. Inside, visitors can admire intricate stained glass windows and discover the rich history of the building and its significance to the local community.

The Black Watch Castle and Museum is another prominent attraction, offering a glimpse into the history of the Black Watch Regiment, one of Scotland’s most famous military units. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, delve into the regiment’s history, and learn about its notable contributions.
 

Culture in Perth

Perth is brimming with cultural activities and events that cater to diverse interests and tastes. Throughout the year, residents and visitors alike can immerse themselves in a vibrant cultural scene that showcases the town’s artistic and creative spirit.

Perth hosts a variety of festivals and events that celebrate different aspects of its culture. The Perth Festival of the Arts, held annually, brings together renowned musicians, performers, and artists from around the world, offering a diverse range of concerts, theatrical performances, and visual arts exhibitions. The Southern Fried Festival, a celebration of American roots music, attracts music lovers with its line-up of acclaimed artists.

For those interested in visual arts, Perth is home to the Perth Art Gallery, which houses an impressive collection of artworks and historical artefacts. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions featuring local and international artists, providing a platform for creativity and artistic expression.

Music enthusiasts can enjoy live performances at venues such as Perth Concert Hall, which showcases a range of genres, including classical, contemporary, and traditional Scottish music. The city also has a vibrant live music scene, with various pubs and bars hosting regular gigs by local bands and musicians.

Perth’s cultural scene extends beyond music and visual arts. The town is known for its community events and gatherings, such as the Perthshire Amber Festival, celebrating folk music and storytelling, and the Perth Show, an agricultural show highlighting rural traditions and heritage.

In addition, there are numerous art galleries, theatres, and cinemas that offer a diverse range of cultural experiences. From independent film screenings to local theatre productions, there is always something to engage and inspire the culturally inclined.
 

Food and Drink in Perth

Perth offers a vibrant and diverse food and drink scene that has seen a lot of development over recent years. The charming city boasts an array of popular, loved, and unique establishments.

For those seeking hearty local fayre, The North Port Restaurant is a favourite, known for its modern Scottish cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients. Another gem is The Bothy Restaurant, where visitors can savour traditional Scottish dishes in a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.

When it comes to bars, The Venue and Greyfriars Bar are beloved for their lively ambiance, live music, and extensive drink menus.

Perth’s food and drink scene also celebrates international flavours. Tabla Indian Restaurant is renowned for its authentic Indian cuisine, while Cridos Restaurant serves lovingly prepared Mediterranean dishes.
 

Shopping in Perth

Perth’s shopping scene offers a mix of mainstream brands, independent boutiques, and specialty stores, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable retail experience for all shoppers.

For fashion enthusiasts, the pedestrianised area of the High Street and St. John’s Shopping Centre are popular destinations. Here, you can find a variety of well-known clothing stores, shoe shops, and accessory boutiques. Additionally, the Perth City Centre offers a mix of independent fashion retailers, showcasing unique and locally made garments.

Perth also boasts a thriving artisan and craft scene, with regular markets and craft fairs that allow visitors to explore handmade and locally produced goods. The Perth Farmers’ Market is a highlight, offering a wide range of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal treats.

For those seeking home furnishings and décor, the Perth Home and Garden Centre is a treasure trove of inspiration, featuring everything from furniture to gardening supplies. The city also has several specialty stores that cater to specific interests, such as bookshops, antique stores, and art galleries.
 

Sports and Outdoor Pursuits in and around Perth

Perth and its surrounding areas provide a plethora of sports and outdoor pursuits, catering well to the active and adventurous lifestyles of its residents. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Perthshire countryside and the breath-taking beauty of the River Tay.

Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in a wide range of activities, such as hiking and hillwalking in the nearby Perthshire hills, including the renowned Kinnoull Hill and the Ochil Hills. The River Tay offers excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing, allowing water sports enthusiasts to embrace their passion.

Golfers can indulge in their favourite sport at the various golf courses in and around Perth, including the prestigious Rosemount and Lansdowne courses at Blairgowrie Golf Club.

Mountain biking and cycling enthusiasts can explore a variety of trails and routes, including the stunning Perthshire Cycle Network, which spans across the region.

Furthermore, residents can enjoy a range of team sports, with facilities available for football, rugby, cricket, and tennis. Perth also hosts sporting events, such as the Perth 10K race and various football and rugby tournaments.

Overall, Perth and its surroundings offer a wealth of sports and outdoor pursuits, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area while pursuing their favourite activities.
 

Transport Links from Perth

Perth boasts a well-connected transportation system that enables residents and visitors to navigate the city and beyond. The road network serves as a primary mode of transportation, with major arteries like the A9 and M90 providing easy access to nearby cities.

Perth is also serviced by a train station, offering regular services to destinations such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. For local travel, an extensive bus network operates throughout the city and surrounding areas. Cyclists can enjoy dedicated cycle routes and paths, promoting sustainable commuting and leisurely rides.

The closest airports are Dundee Airport, located approximately 25 miles east, and Edinburgh Airport, which is about 40 miles south of Perth.
 

Economy and Job Market in Perth

The economy and job market within Perth is strong and relatively diverse. The city’s economic landscape is characterised by a range of industries, with some key sectors standing out. The retail industry plays a vital role, supported by the presence of major retailers like Tesco, Asda, and Morrisons.

Perth also has a strong focus on renewable energy, with SSE and ScottishPower Renewables being prominent employers in the sector. The food and drink industry is another important contributor, with companies like Highland Spring, a leading bottled water supplier, and AG Barr, the manufacturer of popular soft drink brands like Irn-Bru.

Additionally, the financial services sector has a notable presence, with institutions like Aviva and Santander providing employment opportunities. The city also benefits from its strategic location, attracting tourism and hospitality-related businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and event venues.

Overall, Perth’s economy showcases a mix of industries, fostering growth and offering diverse employment prospects.
 

Schools and Education in Perth

One of the factors behind Perth’s desirability to families is the excellent choices of schools in the area. The city is home to several highly regarded primary and secondary schools, providing a strong foundation for students’ academic and personal development. Notable primary schools include Oakbank Primary School and Inchture Primary School. For secondary education, Perth High School and Kinross High School are both excellent institutions.

In terms of further education options, Perth College UHI serves the city and surrounding areas, offering a range of vocational courses which cater to students pursuing higher education or specialised training.

The city’s commitment to education is further demonstrated by the presence of independent schools like Strathallan School, which provides a private education alternative.
With its excellent educational institutions and supportive community, Perth is a favourable location for families seeking quality education for their children.