Perth

Today we visited the town of Perth. Helen booked us train tickets in advance. We boarded at 8am for a 1.5 hour trip that crossed the Firth of Forth, and doubled back along the other side providing grand views of the Edinburgh waterfront, the bridges, and the various settlements along the way. After perhaps 30 minutes the train headed inland but the views were no less spectacular.

Stepping out of the train on arrival, we noticed how it seemed colder than when we left Edinburgh. Not put off, we began our day’s walk around town. Firstly we found the information centre, to find out about the town and see what’s available within a day trip. The town centre is large enough to keep one entertained for a day, but compact enough to see all by foot easily.

We made a beeline for the centre of town, where farmer’s markets were on. We indulged a little there. Helen purchased a couple of oysters from a vendor, for £1 each, where they were shelled on the spot and eaten fresh. We also purchased some uncooked lorne sausage to try as I’d never heard of it before. We also bought some honey & mustard pork sausages. All were local fresh produce.

Next we headed down to the River Tay, so enjoy the view and eat lunch. Although we sat in the sun, it wasn’t particularly warm. We even took a cut lunch from home, we’re on hard times you know!



We walked up and down the river, crossing each bridge to take in the view.





Next we visited the Perth Museum and Art Gallery, which was beautifully presented inside and out. It contained a mix of classic "butterflys on pins" and "stuffed animals" museum exhibits, plus art, local and Scottish history, and more. Worth a look.





We then zigzagged across town to The Fergusson Gallery, the old town water works converted into a gallery containing the works of artist J.D. Fergusson.



With some day remaining, we walked around town some more, checking out the High Street shops and inside the local mall. Finally we sat and watched the world go by. What really caught our eye is that there seemed to be plenty of money in the town. It was well presented, clean and well kept. Most people dressed well, most people are carrying shopping, but what caught our eye most were the cars in the town. All (and I mean all!) were rather modern, and there were a large proportion of European cars. Endless BMW, Mercedes, Audi, VW etc were driving by.

We boarded the train at 4:40pm to return home, by which time it was nearly dark outside. The trip home was relaxing if uneventful.