Perthshire for Apple Orchards

One of Scotland’s main apple growing areas, dating back 800 years, was the Carse of Gowrie, situated between Perth and Dundee, to the north of the River Tay. The old Scottish Orchards once numbered tens of thousands of trees and, as part of the celebrations of its 200th anniversary, the Royal Caledonian Horticultural Society wants to encourage the planting of new orchards. Native varieties include The James Grieve, The Coul Blush, The Bloody Ploughman, The Cambusnethan Pippin, The Lass O’Gowrie and The White Melrose.

A Perth & Kinross Countryside Trust survey found that, of 50 recorded orchards, only 17 remainand only 9 of those have any commercial potential. This year’s apple conference will be held at the Botanic Garden in Edinburgh and hopefully the blooming of more apple trees will follow; good for us, our environment, our insects and and birds.

Don't forget to look at the What's On and Places to Visit sections on Abade. Remember that late season can be a wonderful time to visit. Book a short break or longer to enjoy some spectacular autumn colours.

Perthshire for archaeology

Much work has been done over the years on excavating sites of archeological interest. Visitors are familiar with the Roman Camp at Ardoch and the fine reconstruction of the ancient settlement at the Crannog near Kenmore where underwater survey continues.

Recently a rare 4000-year old Bronze Age grave has been uncovered at Forteviot only a few miles from Perth. Covered with a huge 4-ton sandstone slab that was removed by a crane, the grave is described as “spectacular” by experts. The site where the find was made is where Kenneth McAlpin, the first king of a united Scotland, died in AD858

A Historic Scotland spokesman said, “ Bronze Age cist burials are not uncommon finds in Scotland, but early indications from this new discovery, both the quality of the grave goods and also the careful construction and decoration of the burial cists, suggest that the individual buried here was someone of the highest social standing – and that is very rare and very exciting.”

Visit our Places to Visit and What's On pages for fascinating visits to make during your Perthshire holiday.

Scone Palace Orchid Show

The Orchid Show at Scone Palace

A vist to Scone Palace is worthwhile at any time. It’s open between April and October. Scone Palace was the crowning place of the Kings of Scotland and the original home of the Stone of Destiny which now lies in Edinburgh Castle.

On the first weekend in August, there is an Orchid Show in the grounds. The Head Gardener at the Palace for over 20 years, Peter Timony, produces a wonderful show of orchids in the Palace and is renowned for his knowledge and experience on how to grow orchids.

A Jazz Band played in the grounds, the sun shone, Scots Chef, Kevin MacGillvray ran a barbecue and it was a wonderful day out.

Remember to look at the Places to Visit and What’s On sections of our website. There are so many reasons to holiday in Perthshire.

The Gathering 2009

The Gathering of the Clans in Holyrood Park

An estimated 30,000 people gathered at Holyrood Park, at the foot of Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh on the last weekend in July for The Gathering 2009. There was music from popular bands, Capercaillie and the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, Pipe Bands, Highland dancing, readings from Alexander McCall Smith and Ian Hamilton, who talked about his involvement with the Stone of Destiny, and a whole host of other things. We watched some spectacular caber tossing.

There were dozens of Clan tents where visitors could find out more about their family roots, and staff from of the General Register for Scotland giving advice on genealogy.

It was a well run event, with visitors from all over the world. Crafts were of very high quality, catering well run and litter pickers everywhere. There was a real sense of family coming together from every part of the world and a warmth and friendship that was worth the visit alone.

Late breaks in August update

Grab a late break in August from one of the following offers

For 4 people
Tuarach in Comrie £340 for full week from 18th August. Glenmhor in Auchterarder at reduced weekly rate £625.50 (£695).

For 6 people
The 5 Star Barossa Apartment in Perth, sleeps 6, available from 21st August for 7 nights at £736 (normally £836).

To see full details of each holiday home and make a booking, visit the website or call us on telephone number 01764 684100