Highland Games have been a part of Scotland’s culture for hundreds of years and are just as popular today as they ever been. 

Showcasing the traditional skills and talents of the heavyweights, Highland dancers and pipers, they are a great way to experience the sense of community and heritage of a place – and east Perthshire has three to choose from.

The annual gathering of the Glenisla Highland and Friendly Society, held in August in a natural arena on the banks of the River Isla, is one of the most traditional Highland Games on the circuit and recently celebrated its 150th anniversary with a visit from none other the HRH the Duke of Rothesay himself.

 Strathardle Highland Gathering and Agricultural Show in Kirkmichael is usually held on the fourth Saturday in August. As well as the traditional events, Kirkie Games – as they are known locally – also has an agricultural show and craft tent and is one of the biggest social events in the village’s calendar.

Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games is held on the first Sunday in September, the day after the famous Braemar Gathering just up the road, and is a fantastic fun day out for all the family. It is also home to the Ardblair Stones challenge, a test of strength that everyone is welcome to have a go at – come along and see how many of the increasingly heavy stones you can lift on to a barrel.