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  • 10 Reasons The Old Stables in Alyth Is the Perfect Rural Getaway

    10 Reasons The Old Stables in Alyth Is the Perfect Rural Getaway

    10 Reasons The Old Stables in Alyth Is the Perfect Rural Getaway

    River or stream flowing through the den of Alyth hillside.
    Den of Alyth

    If you’re looking for a proper escape to the countryside, there’s nowhere quite like Alyth. Tucked between rolling Perthshire hills and peaceful woodland, the town has the kind of slow, steady rhythm that makes you breathe a little easier as soon as you arrive. And right at the heart of it all is The Old Stables — a cosy, beautifully restored spot that’s become one of my favourite places to recommend when people ask where to stay in Alyth.

    Here are 10 honest reasons why The Old Stables is the perfect rural getaway.

    1. You’re Surrounded by Nature From the Second You Arrive

    Alyth is known locally for its wildlife and woodland, and The Old Stables sits right where the countryside begins. You’ll see red squirrels darting around in the mornings, hear birdsong instead of traffic, and feel that sense of calm you only get when you’re genuinely “away from it all.”

    2. It Feels Secluded — But You’re Still Close to Everything

    One of the things visitors always mention is how peaceful it is, yet the centre of Alyth is only a short walk or drive away. Whether you want a pub lunch, a wander through the shops, or to pick up groceries, you’re never far from what you need.

    3. The Renovation Has Kept Its Character

    A lot of places call themselves “cosy,” but The Old Stables genuinely has that warm, old-world charm you hope for when booking a rural stay. The stonework, beams, and little touches throughout show real care was taken to keep its original character intact — without sacrificing comfort.

    4. It’s Perfect for Exploring Perthshire

    Alyth is one of the best bases in this part of Scotland. From here you can easily reach Dunkeld, Pitlochry, Blairgowrie, Glamis Castle, and the Cateran Trail. Whether you’re into long walks, local history, or simply discovering new cafés and villages, you won’t run out of things to do.

    5. Walking Trails Start Practically at the Doorstep

    This is proper walking country. Alyth Den, the Hill of Alyth, and endless woodland routes are right on your doorstep. You don’t even have to get in the car — just lace up your boots and head out.

    6. It’s Ideal for Couples, Friends or Small Families

    The layout makes it feel spacious without being too big, which is a rare combination. Couples love it for quiet weekends, families love it for the safety and open space, and friends use it as a base for golf trips. It works for just about everyone.

    7. Alyth’s Friendly, Down-to-Earth Community

    People often say that Alyth feels like a place where time slows down a bit — and they’re right. Locals actually say hello to you, the shops are run by real families, and there’s a genuine warmth to the town that visitors pick up on straight away.

    8. The Golf Scene Here Is Brilliant

    Alyth has not one but three great golf courses on its doorstep — Alyth Golf Club, Glenisla, and Strathmore. If you’re planning a golf weekend in Scotland, staying at The Old Stables puts you right at the centre of it.

    9. It’s Dog-Friendly, and the Area Is Made for Dogs

    Alyth is packed with woodland paths, river walks, and wide open spaces, so if you’re travelling with a dog, you won’t find a better location. The Old Stables is set up perfectly for pets — they can enjoy the fresh air as much as you do.

    10. It’s the Kind of Place You Want to Come Back To

    Ask anyone who’s stayed. The Old Stables has that “home away from home” feeling that makes you want to return every year. It’s peaceful, it’s comfortable, and it gives you that proper breath of fresh air you don’t realise you need until you get here.

    Planning Your Stay?

    If you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic rural getaway in Scotland, The Old Stables in Alyth is as good as it gets. Whether you’re here for walking, wildlife, exploring the Angus and Perthshire countryside, or simply switching off for a few days, you’ll struggle to find a better base.

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  • Discover the Magic of the The Enchanted Forest

    Discover the Magic of the The Enchanted Forest

    Discover the Magic of the The Enchanted Forest

    If you’re staying with us at The Old Stables in Alyth during October, there’s one event we always recommend adding to your list – The Enchanted Forest. It’s an award-winning sound and light show held every autumn in Faskally Wood, just outside Pitlochry, and it’s genuinely one of the most magical experiences you can have in Scotland.

    Every year the show has a different theme, and it transforms the forest into something straight out of a fairytale. Lights ripple across the trees, music plays softly through the woods, and reflections shimmer across the loch – it’s breathtaking. Many of our guests have been, and every single one has come back glowing about it.

    Getting There from Alyth

    Getting to The Enchanted Forest from Alyth is straightforward. It’s about a 45 to 50-minute drive to Pitlochry, depending on traffic. You can head north through Blairgowrie, then follow the A9 towards Pitlochry. Once you arrive in town, you’ll park in one of the designated car parks, as no private cars are allowed directly into the forest itself.

    From there, a shuttle bus takes you from Pitlochry to Faskally Wood. The buses are well organised and part of the experience — everyone heading up together creates a real buzz of excitement. The ride itself only takes around ten minutes, and the drop-off point is right at the entrance to the forest trail.

    Tickets and Timing

    Tickets have to be booked in advance, and they sell out quickly every year, especially for weekends and earlier evening slots. Each ticket has a specific entry time, which matches the shuttle bus departure, so make sure you arrive in good time.

    Once you’re in the forest, you can wander at your own pace. Most people spend around an hour to an hour and a half walking the loop, but there’s no rush — the show is designed to be explored slowly. There are food and drink stalls dotted around too, so you can grab a hot chocolate or something to eat as you go.

    Tips for Visiting

    • Dress warmly and bring waterproofs – you’re in the woods and it can get chilly at night.

    • Wear proper shoes or boots as the paths can be muddy if it’s been raining.

    • Bring a camera or phone with good low-light settings – the reflections on the loch are amazing.

    • If you can, try to book a slot around dusk. Seeing the forest transition from daylight into full darkness adds an extra layer of magic.

    Why Our Guests Love It

    There’s something lovely about staying in quiet, peaceful Alyth, then heading off for a night of lights and music in the forest. It’s a nice balance – cosy countryside mornings, and then a little bit of wonder in the evening. Some of our guests have even made it part of their annual tradition.

    If you’re planning a stay with us in October, The Enchanted Forest is absolutely worth the trip. It’s one of those experiences that captures everything that’s special about autumn in Scotland – crisp air, golden trees, and a touch of enchantment.

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  • Alyth’s Summer 2025

    Alyth’s Summer 2025

    Alyth’s Summer 2025

    Blog - The Old Stables Alyth

    Nestled in the heart of Perthshire, the picturesque town of Alyth is gearing up for a vibrant summer filled with events that celebrate its rich heritage, community spirit, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Scotland’s scenic landscapes, Alyth offers a delightful array of activities to make your summer memorable.

    The highlight of Alyth’s summer calendar is undoubtedly the Alyth & District Agricultural Show, taking place on Saturday, 14 June at Bogles Field, Blairgowrie. This traditional event showcases the best of rural life, featuring livestock competitions, dog shows, arts and crafts, food marquees, children’s rides, and a public bar. It’s a fantastic day out for families and anyone interested in Scotland’s agricultural heritage. More details are available at alythshow.co.uk.

    Music enthusiasts will be delighted by the Alyth Choral Society’s summer concert, “A Season to Sing,” on Sunday, 6 July. The performance includes a brand-new choral adaptation of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons by Joanna Forbes L’Estrange, promising an evening of uplifting melodies and communal harmony. Visit alythchoralsociety.wordpress.com for more information.

    For those who appreciate the great outdoors, the St Andrews & North East Fife Ramblers are organizing a guided walk up the Hill of Alyth on Wednesday, 18 June. This 6.5-mile trek offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty. The walk begins at 11:00 AM from Market Square, Alyth. Details can be found at standrewsnefiferamblers.com.

    Alyth Town Hall continues to be a hub for cultural events, with a lineup of theatrical performances scheduled throughout the summer. From classic plays to contemporary productions, there’s something for every theatre lover to enjoy. Keep an eye on the schedule at ticketsource.com to catch upcoming shows.

    The Alyth Development Trust is hosting a variety of community events this summer, including workshops, local markets, and family-friendly activities. These events provide wonderful opportunities to engage with the local community and experience the town’s welcoming atmosphere. Visit lovealyth.org.uk for a list of upcoming events.

    With its blend of cultural events, outdoor adventures, and community gatherings, Alyth offers a rich tapestry of experiences this summer. Whether you’re interested in agriculture, music, theatre, or simply enjoying the Scottish countryside, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check event schedules and book tickets in advance where necessary.

    Perth Racecourse 2025: A Season of Thrilling Racing and Unforgettable Events

    Perth Racecourse, nestled in the scenic grounds of Scone Palace Park, is set to deliver an exhilarating lineup of horse racing events throughout 2025. From the prestigious Perth Festival to family-friendly race days, there’s something for every racing enthusiast and casual visitor alike.

    April 23–25: The Perth Festival

    The season kicks off with the renowned Perth Festival, a three-day extravaganza featuring top-tier talent from the UK and Ireland. Highlights include the British EBF Gold Castle Novice Listed Hurdle and the QuinnBet Highland National Handicap Steeple Chase. The festival combines high-stakes racing with vibrant entertainment, making it a must-attend event for racing fans.

    May 14: Murrayshall Estate Race Evening

    Experience an evening of thrilling races supported by the esteemed Murrayshall Country Estate and Hotel. Gates open at 4:30 PM, with the first race commencing at 6:30 PM and the last at 9:00 PM.

    May 15: Edinburgh Gin Ladies Day

    One of the most anticipated events on the calendar, Ladies Day offers a blend of fashion, fun, and fierce competition on the track. Gates open at 11:30 AM, with races starting at 2:18 PM and concluding at 5:02 PM.

    June 8: bet365 Gold Cup Day

    Join us for the 26th Perth Gold Cup, a highlight of the racing season. This weekend meeting promises top-class racing action, with gates opening at 11:30 AM, the first race at 2:12 PM, and the last at 5:42 PM.

    July 3: Horizon Parking Summer Raceday

    Soak up the summer sun and enjoy an afternoon of jumps racing at the UK’s most northerly track. Gates open at 12:00 PM, with races running from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

    July 13: Family Raceday

    A day dedicated to families, featuring fun activities for children and thrilling jump races. Gates open at 11:30 AM, with the first race at 2:00 PM and the last at 5:00 PM.

    August 16: Stone of Destiny Raceday

    Celebrate the return of the Stone of Destiny to Scotland with a day of historic significance and world-class horse racing. Gates open at 2:00 PM, with races from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

    September 8: Auto Services Perth Ltd Raceday

    Don’t miss the excitement of the Auto Services Perth Ltd Raceday. Gather your friends and family for a day of adrenaline-pumping action. Gates open at 12:00 PM, with races from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

    September 24–25: Glorious Finale

    Conclude the racing season with our oldest fixture, the Glorious Finale. Experience some of the most exciting racing of the year as we wrap up the 2025 season in style.

    October 21: Charity Raceday

    Support a good cause while enjoying top-class racing. Previous winners at this fixture have gone on to make their mark in races throughout the UK. Gates open at 12:00 PM, with races from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

    For more details and ticket information, visit the official Perth Racecourse website: Perth Racecourse Fixtures

    Experience the thrill of horse racing amidst the stunning backdrop of Perthshire. Whether you’re a seasoned racegoer or a first-time visitor, Perth Racecourse offers an unforgettable experience for all.

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