Tour
the stunning scenery around Auchterarder
Looking
across from the steep sided glens of the Ochil Hills across
the broad strath of the River Earn Auchterarder is set amongst
some of Scotland's most stunning scenery.
It is not a city but it has stood in the path of a thousand
years of history. As long ago as 1200 it gained the title
of Royal Burgh. Kings and generals stayed here in the great
houses around the town. In 1715 Auchterarder was burned
to the ground by retreating Jacobites but thanks to the
handloom industry it was later to rise again.
Auchterarder, in Perthshire, is known locally as " The Lang
Toon, " a name derived from the extended High Street. Today,
little of the original Burgh of 1200 remains. Indeed you
will notice that the town dates largely from the 18th Century
and is now famous for the quality of its shops.
The rolling fields and woodlands of the area lead into narrow
Glen Eagles, a name derived not from birds but from the
Gaelic " eaglais " meaning church. Enjoy the panoramic views
that were the inspiration for the location of the world
famous Gleneagles Hotel built in the 1920's. Unsurprisingly,
this whole area abounds in challenging golf courses in Auchterarder,
Whitemoss, Aberuthven, Dunning, and of course you can choose
a deluxe golfing experience at Gleneagles itself.
There is no end to the variety of activities throughout
the Auchterarder area. History buffs can explore Pictish
forts, Roman roads, Celtic chapels, Benedictine abbeys and
Innerpeffray Library. (Scotland's oldest surviving public
library)
Braco, a small village nearby, is close to the ancient Ardoch
Roman Camp guarding the approach to the Antonine Wall.
On the way to Braco you can visit Tullibardine Chapel a
perfect example of a 15 & 16th century church.
At Dunning the 12th century Norman Tower of St Serf dominates
the charming village. To the west is a monument to Maggie
Wall who was burnt at the stake as a witch in 1657.
