An Autumn Guide to Dunkeld & Birnam
Being situated in the heart of Big Tree Country, autumn is arguably one of the best times of year to visit Dunkeld and Birnam when the surrounding forests and woodlands create spectacular displays of colour. From outdoor activities and country pursuits, local music and foraging, discover some of best things to see and do during an autumn stay at The Taybank.
Taybank Autumn Gathering
To celebrate the change of the seasons this year we will be hosting an autumnal weekend of feasting, live music, dancing, rugby screening and a pop-up market between Friday 29th of September and 1 October. On the Friday evening we have our last long table dinner, followed by a ceilidh in the gardens. On Saturday we’ll be screening the Rugby World Cup, including the Scotland v Romania match on our outdoor cinema screen. On Sunday we’ll be serving brunch in the restaurant and will have a pop-up mini vintage and local makers market in the gardens. Here you’ll be able to browse a selection of secondhand objects and vintage clothes. You’ll also be able to get your hands on beautiful pots by local ceramicist Cara Gutherie, seasonal flower arrangements by Dungarthill and North Lodge Flowers, plus some goodies from The Taybank store. We’ll be reconfiguring our stretch tents so there’s plenty of cosy spaces to hang out in over the weekend, and our garden kitchen and bar will be open as usual.
Salmon leaping at the Hermitage
Take a walk along the river past pretty Inver to the Hermitage – a beautiful stretch of forest on the banks of the River Braan. You’ll find yourself surrounded by towering Douglas Firs and other giant trees. At Ossian’s Hall you might spot salmon leaping up the roaring Black Linn Falls in an incredible attempt to return to the place of their birth to spawn.
Age-old country pursuits
We are within close reach of some of Scotland’s most beautiful country estates (Atholl, Murthly, Kinnaird) and salmon beats on the Tay and River Isla. If you have an interest in fishing or stalking, we would be happy to put you in touch with some of the most knowledgeable local guides in the area.
Live music sessions in the bar
We love a cosy music session in our downstairs bar! Fire on, drink in hand and hearing from a range of talented local musicians. Every Wednesday evening we have the wonderful Boat Road Session playing live bluegrass, Americana and country music. On Thursday nights we have our popular Scottish trad sessions where you can expect to hear from dozens of talented local musicians, or bring along an instrument and join in yourself! We’re also excited to host some weekend performances and sessions this year. Keep an eye on our events page or sign-up to our newsletter to see who’s playing.
Woodland walks
Where better to be when the leaves start turning than in the heart of Big Tree Country? There are many beautiful woodland walks in the area where you can enjoy the autumn colours. From the Taybank you can walk along the river to the ancient Birnam Oak or Fiddler’s Path, west into Craigvinean Forest or north to Atholl Woods. We have more info on walks in the area in our local guide.
Corbenic Poetry Path
Set in the grounds of the old Drumour Shooting Lodge and estate, this magical walking trail meanders through ancient native woodlands, open hillside, moorland and riverbanks. The path was created and is maintained and used regularly by those who live in or attend the Corbenic Community and features the work of several Scottish poets and sculptors.
Autumnal road trips
There are a number of driving and cycling routes starting in Dunkeld that take in stunning autumn scenery. Head along the ancient pass Sma’ Glen to Crieff and Comrie, stopping for a picnic by the River Almond. Or past Trochry (pop into Little Trochry farmstand) and Glen Cochill to Aberfeldy where you can explore the birks made famous by Robert Burns. Further west is the charming village of Fortingall and Glen Lyon – a beautiful glen that’s ablaze with ochres, reds and golds through October and November. If you’re staying in one of our rooms, our team can make you a picnic hamper full of delicious treats for your trip.
The Enchanted Forest
Set in the magical Faskally Wood, The Enchanted Forest is an immersive sound and light show that takes place between the 5th of October and the 5th of November Bringing together the talents of some of the UK’s leading production companies, the experience includes a dazzling light show choreographed against an original music score – a unique and memorable way for families to explore the autumnal woodland.
Check room availability during The Enchanted Forest.
Foraging for wild foods
From September there’s an abundance of mushrooms, berries and other seasonal wild produce growing here in Perthshire. Chanterelles, ceps, chicken of the woods, sloes, hawthorn berries and much more can be found in the area. Why not head out on a woodland walk and keep an eye out for what’s growing. If you’re a beginner, always make sure you’re 100% of anything that you eat. Scotland’s Wild Harvests is the perfect handbook for Scottish foragers.
Clay pigeon shooting
County Clays, the largest sporting clay pigeon range in Scotland is only a short walk away. With over 50 targets to choose from and other activities including archery and falconry, it’s a great place to spend the afternoon.
The Birnam Book Festival
The Birnam Book Festival showcases literature from Scotland and beyond in our beautiful corner of Perthshire, nestled between the hills and the great River Tay. With a wide range of talks, events, workshops and music performances with a literary theme, this is an inclusive event for all ages. This year’s theme is Legends, Lore, Stories and Song and takes place on the 21-22 October 2023. Please visit the Birnam Book Festival website for more details.
The House of Bruar
Scotland’s largest country department store The House of Bruar is less than 30 minutes drive north on the A9. It’s a good option for a rainy day with a large food hall and cafe, galleries, country clothing and gifts set in rooms with big open fires. It’s also situated right next to the Falls of Bruar – an attractive woodland walk with waterfalls and old stone bridges.