exhibitions

Perth Art Gallery and Museum presents exhibitions that illustrate the development of local industry particularly whisky, which remains very important to the area along with the insurance industry. Silverware is also on display fashioned by the county's craftsmen of three centuries and there are good depictions of Perth 's local history. The Fair Maid's House situated behind Charlotte Street in North Port was the home of Sir Walter Scott's heroine, Catherine Glover and is one of the oldest houses in Perth. It contains a well-stocked and popular craft and gift shop.

Farmers' markets have seen something of resurgence in recent years in the UK and Perth 's Farmers' Market is arguably the best known in Scotland. Taking place throughout the year on the first Saturday of each month, Perth 's Farmers' Market is something of a showcase for local producers and growers and is a rewarding visit in its own right. Look out for fish, meat and game, baked goods, fruit wines and liqueurs, honeys and preserves, fruit and vegetables, sweets and herbs. Sounds tempting? Many stallholders offer free tastings and welcome visitors on site to find out more about their particular specialities.

One of the special joys of a visit to Perthshire is the opportunity to view some of the area's traditional, and not-so-traditional, crafts. From whisky to waterwheels, pottery to paperweights - Perthshire's craft industries create high quality products, which are exported all over the world. Many workshops, as well as larger factories, welcome visitors.

Marvel at the skills of glass blowing, work up an appetite with the smell of traditional Scottish delicacies being made or watch glassmakers engrave fabulous pieces of crystal ware