Just a 40-minute drive (20 miles) from Crieff along the A85 and sat north of Perth, for a little day trip, visit Scone Palace.
Rich in history, Scone was originally the site of an early Christian church and, later an Augustinian Prior. From the 9th century, the Kings of Scots would be crowned at Scone, in fact no king could reign until they had ben crowned at Scone upon the Stone of Scone also known as the Stone of Destiny. Shakespeare's Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were among 38 kings who took their first regal steps at Scone.
Today, it's one of the Scotland's leading tourist attractions and thousands take the royal palace tour every year where you'll take a peek at the Palace State Rooms - Queen Victoria and Prince Albert dined in here in September 1842. Admire stunning portraits of Kings and Queens and wander through the gothic library.
A visit to Scone Palace wouldn't be complete without a tootle around the castle grounds and beautiful landscaped gardens - a little gem for horticultural enthusiasts. There's so much to enjoy in the gardens, the snowdrops at the start of spring followed by blooming daffodils, an explosion of colour in the summer as the Rhododendrons and Azaleas take off. And right at the heart of the gardens The Murray Star maze - named after the first Lord Scone. Challenge yourself and the family to find the quickest route to the centre - it's actually only 30 metres but generally takes people a lot longer.
For younger families, there's falconry shows, an adventure playground and acres of grounds for smaller visitors to run around and burn up energy whilst you picnic and take in the view over the River Tay.
To find out more and book tickets to visit Scone Palace click here.
