As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, Blairgowrie begins to glow with the rich colours of autumn. The woodland paths are scattered with golden leaves, red squirrels are busy preparing for winter, and there’s a gentle hush over the countryside.
It’s a wonderful time to slow down, wrap up warm and discover a quieter side of Scotland.
Whether you’re staying with us at Ericht Holiday Lodges or simply exploring the area, we’ve gathered some of our favourite autumn experiences in and around Blairgowrie — from riverside walks and seasonal wildlife to memorable days out across Perthshire.
The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
8 October – 8 November 26
One of Perthshire’s most magical autumn experiences returns to Faskally Wood near Pitlochry. This year’s 25th anniversary show, Stop The Clock: The 25th Hour, brings spectacular lighting, music and imagination to the woodland after dark.
It’s a wonderful evening out for couples and families alike. Tickets often sell out, so booking ahead is essential.
Discover The Enchanted Forest and book tickets
Look Out for Leaping Salmon
Autumn is an exciting time along Scotland’s rivers as Atlantic salmon make their remarkable journey upstream to their spawning grounds.
Here in Blairgowrie, the River Ericht flows right past our woodland lodges, making riverside walks particularly special at this time of year. After autumn rainfall, you might be lucky enough to spot salmon battling their way upstream.
For another lovely day out, head to Pitlochry, where you can explore the riverside around the famous Pitlochry Dam and learn about the salmon’s incredible journey.
Of course, wildlife never performs to a timetable, but that’s part of the magic of exploring Scotland in autumn. Even without a salmon sighting, the riverside scenery is well worth enjoying.
Autumn Adventures at Glamis Castle
With its magnificent turrets, centuries of history and beautiful grounds, Glamis Castle makes a wonderful autumn day out from Blairgowrie.
There’s plenty happening during October, including Pumpkin Patch Fun on 24, 25 and 31 October, and the atmospheric Ghouls and Gore Halloween tours on selected evenings between 23 and 31 October.
For a quieter visit, explore the castle’s fascinating history and enjoy the changing colours of its gardens and woodland before the main visitor season ends on 1 November.
Discover what’s on at Glamis Castle
Autumn Colours at Scone Palace
Just outside Perth, Scone Palace is a wonderful place to enjoy the changing colours of autumn. Famous as the crowning place of Scottish kings, the palace is surrounded by magnificent grounds, mature trees and peaceful woodland walks.
Autumn is a particularly lovely time to explore the gardens, with golden leaves, rich seasonal colours and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh Perthshire air.
Look out for seasonal events too, including the Autumn Tree Tour with the Head Gardener on 7 November 2026.
The palace’s main visitor season ends in October, with more limited access to the grounds during winter, so do check opening times before setting off.
Explore Scone Palace and upcoming events
Farm Shops, Pumpkins and Local Autumn Traditions
Autumn is a wonderful time to discover the farm shops and seasonal traditions of Perthshire, from freshly harvested produce and homemade treats to pumpkin picking and community celebrations.
The Barrie Box, near Blairgowrie
At Colbeggie Farm, The Barrie Box is a lovely place to discover locally grown produce, Scottish food and homemade treats. Its new farm shop and café make it an ideal stop for breakfast, lunch or coffee while exploring the countryside.
Marshall’s Farm Shop, Alyth
Just a short drive from our lodges, Marshall’s is another favourite local stop. It’s a great place to browse seasonal produce and enjoy a taste of the local countryside. The pumpkins are out, the little corners are ready, and there’s plenty to discover, from picking pumpkins and playing outside to getting creative, jumping on the inflatable and warming up with a pumpkin latte.
Visit Marshall’s Farm Shop, Alyth
Whether you’re wandering through crunchy leaves, sipping something warm at a local café, or heading out to explore castles and countryside, autumn in Perthshire is a season to savour.
Alyth’s Haunted Scarecrow Trail — 25–31 October 2026
Just a short drive from Ericht Holiday Lodges, the lovely town of Alyth is getting into the Halloween spirit with its Haunted Scarecrow Trail.
From 25–31 October, imaginative and spooky scarecrows will appear around the town, creating a fun way to explore Alyth’s streets and discover its independent shops and local character.
We loved last year’s trail, and it’s wonderful to see this community event returning for 2026. A great little autumn outing for families and anyone who enjoys a bit of Halloween fun!
Find out more on the Alyth Haunted Scarecrow Trail Facebook page
A Little Culture for Autumn Evenings
Autumn isn’t always about wellies and woodland walks! When the evenings draw in, it’s a lovely time to enjoy a night at the theatre.
Perth Theatre and Dundee Rep both offer varied programmes throughout the season, from drama and comedy to music and family performances.
Why not combine a show with a meal out and make an evening of it? Both Perth and Dundee are within easy reach of Blairgowrie.
Check the latest performances and book ahead:
Your Autumn Escape to Blairgowrie
There’s something rather special about Perthshire in autumn. The changing colours, crisp woodland walks, welcoming cafés and quieter roads make it a wonderful time to explore this beautiful corner of Scotland.
And you don’t have to travel far to enjoy it all.
At Ericht Holiday Lodges, our six cosy woodland lodges offer a peaceful base for your autumn adventures. Wander along the River Ericht, watch for red squirrels among the trees, or stroll into Blairgowrie for a coffee and a bite to eat.
Spend your days discovering the best of Perthshire, then return to the peace and quiet of your own woodland lodge.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away, a few days exploring with your dog, or simply a chance to slow down, we’d love to welcome you.
Discover the Slower Side of Scotland.