5 Festive Things To Do & See Near Pitlochry
During the winter season, the Scottish highlands tend to cosy in and quiet down. With tourism significantly diminishing during the colder months, small highland towns use this time to lock up shops, cafes, and activities and refresh for the following summer tourist season. While tourists turn from the villages in the highlands and flock to the festive markets of the cities, this leaves some questions about how to celebrate the festive season north of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
But unlike many of its neighbours, the small town of Pitlochry is still buzzing with activity. The village shops are busy with Christmas shoppers, people wander into cafes with the aroma of hot chocolate, and local businesses decorate with fairy lights and more. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city during the festive season and head north to the lively small town of Pitlochry.
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
Something about the theatre always brings me back to the holidays. This year, the Pitlochry Festival Theatre is hosting a showing of The Sound of Music from November through December.
“We’re famous for producing large-scale plays and musicals to delight theatregoers of all ages, but we’re more than a theatre – in fact, you might say our performances are just the beginning of your journey with us.”
Join the theatre for its ‘Big Festive Weekend’. Meet the man of the hour, Santa Clause, watch this year's Nativity Production, enjoy season choir songs, and wander the booths of local artists to finish your Christmas shopping.
Wreath Making & Afternoon Tea at Dunkeld House Hotel
Looking for something creative to kick off your festive season? Grab some friends and head to the nearby countryside Dunkeld Houe Hotel for a crafty afternoon, making a fabulous wreath to bring home with you, followed by a festive afternoon tea.
‘Come join us for a delightful afternoon of creativity and relaxation at Dunkeld House Hotel. Learn the art of wreath making with our talented instructors from Victoria Bloom Florists, who will guide you through creating a beautiful wreath to take home. After getting crafty, treat yourself to a delicious afternoon tea spread with sandwiches, scones, and sweets. It's the perfect way to unwind and get into the festive spirit. Don't miss out on this wonderful event!’
You can book tickets here.
Hot Chocolate at Cafe Calluna
After spending the day picking up last-minute gifts and wandering through the many quaint shops, stop into Cafe Calluna for Pitlochry’s best cup of hot chocolate. Decorated with a display of fairy lights and bright red Christmas baubles, this buzzing cafe has a selection of cakes and sandwiches as well as festive cocoa and other hot drinks to enjoy.
Local resident Brooklyn Roberston says: “I recommend Cafe Calluna to all visitors, any time of year! During the festive season, they always have fabulous hot chocolate! Plus, they look so cute and festive with their fairy lights. I buy my Christmas cards from here every year as 100% of proceeds go to charity.”
Visit the Cairngorm Reindeer
If you are willing to travel a bit farther afield, visiting the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd just past Aviemore is something truly special. This free-range herd is the only one in the entirety of the UK. A selection of these magical deer are used for a Christmas tour across the UK.
Choose between a guided hill trip, which takes you into the reindeer's habitat, up close and personal. You usually are also able to visit these animals in central paddock blocks. However, they will be under construction this year. Keep the newly refurbished paddocks in mind for Christmas 2025! Both interactive experiences are ticketed events, so be sure to book in advance and watch their social media pages closely for any sudden changes due to weather.
Fonab Castle Christmas Break
If you want to add more decadence and sparkle to your festive season, what would be more magical than waking up Christmas morning in a Scottish castle?
Fonab Castle offers a three-night Christmas break, including dinner, bed, and breakfast. With a curated itinerary filled with activities, entertainment and overall merriment, enjoy this Christmas like never before.
“We welcome you with open arms and invite you to enjoy the festivities with us. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with drums & bagpipes along with warm Mulled cider & fruitcake to welcome you.”
Not quite ready to say goodbye to the festivities? Stay for a Hogmanay break – ring in the new year in style and luxury.
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