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.
Woodland walks
Where better to be when the leaves begin to turn than in the very heart of Big Tree Country? Dunkeld and Birnam are blessed with some of Scotland’s most glorious autumn scenery, where every path seems to glow with fiery foliage. From the Taybank you can follow the river to the legendary Birnam Oak, or wander the gentle Fiddler’s Path past the golden Mother larch. For those craving more adventure, head west into Craigvinean Forest, where towering Douglas firs create a cathedral-like canopy, or north to Atholl Woods with sweeping views across Strathtay. A stroll up the Braan Path offers dramatic waterfalls framed by old stone bridges, while the paths around Loch of the Lowes give you a chance to spot red squirrels and migrating birds as well as burnished autumn leaves. And if you fancy a hill climb, Birnam Hill and Newtyle Hill both reward your efforts with beautiful views of the Tay Valley in autumn colour.
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.
The Taybank Harvest Party
Join us at The Taybank as we bid farewell to summer and welcome the golden season in the heart of Big Tree Country with our Harvest Party. Following last year’s end-of-summer celebration, this family-friendly weekend promises hearty harvest specials from the walled garden kitchen, seasonal drinks, and plenty of autumnal fun. On Saturday 27th, enjoy garden games, a walled garden veg stand, activities including a squash hunt with The Toy Shed, and live music from the fabulous Killerhorns – a brass-fuelled blast of joy to get you dancing. On Sunday 28th, the festivities continue with more seasonal treats, garden games, and our Big Garden Quiz in the riverside stretch tent. For more information please visit the event page.
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, with Ossian’s Hall offering a dramatic view of the roaring Black Linn Falls, where you might even spot salmon leaping in their incredible bid to return and spawn. The Hermitage is a deservedly popular spot and can get very busy, so we recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the evening for a quieter experience. If you’re travelling from outside the area, we encourage arriving by train to Dunkeld & Birnam station and following the signed path through Inver – a scenic approach that avoids traffic and parking pressures. If you do come by car, please respect the area by parking in the designated National Trust for Scotland car park, and never park on roadside verges or attempt to cross the A9 on foot – for your safety and the safety of others.
Live music sessions in the bar
We love a cosy music session in our downstairs bar! Fire crackling, drink in hand and hearing from a range of talented local musicians. Every Wednesday evening, the wonderful Boat Road Session fills the place with bluegrass, Americana, and country sounds. On Thursdays, our much-loved Scottish trad sessions take centre stage: expect the room to be brimming with fiddles, pipes, and songs, or even bring along your own instrument and join the fun. Throughout the year we also host some weekend performances. Keep an eye on our events page or sign-up to our newsletter to see who’s playing.
Dunkeld & Birnam Community Orchard Big Apple Day
Celebrate the season at Dunkeld Community Orchard’s annual Apple Day, a delightful autumn tradition for all ages. Visitors can enjoy apple pressing, taste a variety of local and heritage apple varieties, and explore the orchard’s beautiful grounds by the River Tay. There are family-friendly activities, community stalls, home baking and opportunities to learn more about sustainable growing. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the local community, savour the flavours of Perthshire, and embrace the harvest spirit. Visit their website for more details.
Corbenic Poetry Path
Set in the grounds of the old Drumour Shooting Lodge and estate, this enchanting walking trail winds its way through ancient native woodlands, open hillsides, moorland, and peaceful riverbanks. Created, cared for, and regularly enjoyed by the Corbenic Community, the path is brought to life with thoughtful works by Scottish poets and sculptors, making it as much a cultural journey as a natural one. At the end of the trail, you are invited to leave a donation to support the upkeep of the path and the wonderful work being done at Corbenic Camphill.
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. And if you’re staying in one of our rooms, our team will be delighted to prepare a picnic hamper packed with local treats to enjoy along the way.
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 onwards, Perthshire’s woodlands and hedgerows are bursting with seasonal wild produce. Chanterelles, ceps, chicken of the woods, sloes, hawthorn berries, and much more can be found for those willing to look closely. Why not set out on a woodland walk and see what you can discover? If you’re new to foraging, always be absolutely certain of any mushrooms or berries before tasting them. Scotland’s Wild Harvests is an excellent handbook for beginner and experienced foragers alike, offering guidance and inspiration for exploring Scotland’s edible wild treasures. If you’re not a confident forager, you can still enjoy the season’s wild flavours in our own restaurant – book a table and taste the best of autumn in Perthshire.
Clay pigeon shooting
County Clays, Scotland’s largest sporting clay pigeon range, is just a short walk away. With over 50 targets to test your aim, it offers something for both beginners and seasoned shooters. Beyond clay shooting, the estate also hosts a variety of other outdoor activities, including archery and falconry, making it perfect for an afternoon outdoors.
The Birnam Book Festival
The Birnam Book Festival showcases literature from Scotland and beyond in our beautiful corner of Perthshire, at the wonderful Birnam Arts. With a wide range of talks, events, workshops, and music performances with a literary theme, this is an inclusive event for all ages. The festival is taking a break this year and will return in 2026. Please visit the Birnam Book Festival website for the latest updates and details on the next festival.
The House of Bruar
Scotland’s largest country department store, The House of Bruar, is just a short 30-minute drive north along the A9. A perfect option for a rainy day, it offers a spacious food hall and café, galleries, country clothing, and gifts – all set in charming rooms with roaring open fires. Just next door, the Falls of Bruar beckon with a picturesque woodland walk, where cascading waterfalls tumble over rocky ledges and historic stone bridges add to the storybook charm of the scenery.