Dunkeld Town Centre – Dunkeld Cathedral loop from Dunkeld

Hiking trails & Routes

Dunkeld Town Centre – Dunkeld Cathedral loop from Dunkeld

Hard

4.5

(6)

hikers

Dunkeld Town Centre – Dunkeld Cathedral loop from Dunkeld

02:31

8.90km

160m

Hiking

Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 16, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that may be dangerous

A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.

After 3.44 km for 6 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

1.27 km

View of the River Tay from Dunkeld Bridge

Highlight • Viewpoint

Dunkeld Bridge was built by Thomas Telford in 1809 and was the main road north to Inverness until the A9 was built in 1977. Today, it provides excellent views up and down the River Tay.

Tip by

1.36 km

Dunkeld Town Centre

Highlight • Settlement

Choice of 2 national cycle routes from Dunkeld heading north.

Tip by

4.22 km

Polney Loch is a scenic little lochan above the Tayside village of Dunkeld. It's surrounded by lovely mature woodland and features on the popular Atholl Woods circuit walk. The lochan is frequented by a range of birdlife, including herons and moorhens.

Tip by

6.80 km

Dunkeld Cathedral

Highlight • Religious Site

There's been an important place of worship here since the early Celtic Church of the 9th century, but no trace of this building remains. The present cathedral dates from 1318. It was damaged during the reformation in 1560.

The choir is now roofed and holds regular Sunday services, but the rest of the cathedral is ruined. It's preserved as a historic monument by Historic Scotland.

In winter 2022, the Cathedral was closed due to dangerous stonework. It's currently under repair and should open again soon but there is no set date. Check dunkeldcathedral.org.uk for updates.

Tip by

7.15 km

Stanley Hill Woodland

Highlight • Natural

"A small patch of woodland between the main street and the Dunkeld House Hotel Ground, and next to the main car park. The hill was landscaped by the 2nd Duke of Atholl in 1730, and still has an ice house. There are lots of steps and roots to scramble over, and it is a great place to go with the kids when visiting Dunkeld." Source: woodlandtrust.org.uk/visiting-woods/woods/stanley-hill

Tip by

7.34 km

Dunkeld Town Centre

Highlight • Settlement

A lovely town along the River Tay, Dunkeld is a wonderfully picturesque town in Perthshire.

The town centre feels like a step into history, albeit with delicious modern bakeries, cafés, restaurants, and independent shops.

Tip by

8.83 km

Beatrix Potter Garden

Highlight • Structure

The Beatrix Potter Garden and Exhibition Centre, nestled in the heart of nature, celebrates the life and work of the beloved author and illustrator. Visitors explore enchanting exhibits and lush gardens, immersing in Potter's timeless charm and creativity.

Tip by

8.90 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.20 km

3.10 km

1.33 km

600 m

471 m

124 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.24 km

2.50 km

1.50 km

940 m

445 m

181 m

105 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (160 m)

Lowest point (50 m)

Weather

Today

Monday 9 November

7°C

0°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Fog is expected during your activity. Consider wearing some high-visibility clothing so you’re easier to see.

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

Comments

April 7, 2023,Dunkeld Wander

Finally getting out again! I returned to one of my favourite places in Scotland, the beautiful Dunkeld. I didn't do exactly what I had planned due to a time limit but I'm just glad to be out walking.