The Black Watch Castle & Museum
The Black Watch Castle & Museum
The Black Watch Castle & Museum
4.5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Black Watch Castle and Museum is a 5 star multi- award winning visitor attraction located in the Perth. The Black Watch Museum is housed within the historic Balhousie Castle, the origins of which are said to date back to the 12th century. A visit to the ancestral Home of The Black Watch brings this colourful Highland Regiment’s history to life, through artefacts, personal stories and interactive displays. Relax and unwind in the welcome ambience of the Castle Cafe. The seasonal menu offers an appealing selection of meals, snacks, soups, desserts and afternoon tea created with quality ingredients of local provenance. Browse the popular Castle Gift Shop to find a range of quality gifts, regimental memorabilia and branded products with an emphasis on providing an enjoyable shopping experience within a Scottish Castle. The venue is a unique and compelling location which can also host weddings, offer private dining, exclusive use of the Castle, group and bespoke tours.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- Jenny R6 contributionsNot particularly disabled friendlyWe took our semi disabled brother in law here in April 2023. His disabilities mean he struggles to get around tight spaces and could not manage the lift as it is small and slow. However what we managed he found very interesting. We had lunch in the restaurant and food was very good and reasonably priced. All staff wer pleasant and helpful. Plenty of parking both onsite and nearby pay and display. With a wonderful wide open park next door for younger members of the group to let off steam.Visited April 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 6 April 2023
- KevinB9174 contributionsSurprisingly interestingWasn’t sure what the museum was like, but I have to say there’s a lot to see. Plus it’s very well organised and very logical when it comes to getting around so that you do things and see all the rooms in the right order. This makes for an excellent experience and also helps the visitor experience, so that the museum feels safe and clean. We learnt lots about the Black Watch which was presented in an interesting way. Lots to keep visitors interest. Plus the Haunting statue is installed by the entrance to the museum, so big bonus and attraction.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 8 September 2023
- kiwimaxwellAuchterarder, United Kingdom159 contributionsLearn all about The Black Watch!Enjoyed our visit to the museum. Interesting collection of o hectares including serval VCs. Spread over two floors of the castle. We were there around 90 mins. Also a great Bistro/cafe (we had v gd breakfast) and gift shop. Sobering memorial garden. A 15 mins walk from the city centre or parking on site.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 14 November 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.5
1,020 reviews
Excellent
722
Very good
255
Average
34
Poor
3
Terrible
6
Simona K
2 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Visited as part of a mother/daughter trip to Perth and initially spotted the signs for this castle/museum from the nearby park, and thought we’d give it a visit to kill some time. As it turns out, we spent the better part of the mid-morning exploring the beautiful museum. There was so much to see! It covered an incredibly broad period of time. We opted out of the guided tour which we regretted in hindsight, but the lovely gentleman who I presume was the tour guide ended up finding us in a few of the rooms and giving us a mini-tour anyways, which was a very welcome surprise. He was so knowledgeable and warm, his story telling was compelling and we were both hooked. I learned more from our interactions than I would have from just reading each plaque and information sign. He is a true credit to the museum. I cannot stress just how much we enjoyed ourselves!
Written 27 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kiwimaxwell
Auchterarder, UK159 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
Enjoyed our visit to the museum. Interesting collection of o hectares including serval VCs. Spread over two floors of the castle. We were there around 90 mins. Also a great Bistro/cafe (we had v gd breakfast) and gift shop. Sobering memorial garden. A 15 mins walk from the city centre or parking on site.
Written 15 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Flamingo
Glasgow, UK21 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
This is a very interesting museum with a lot of historical detail provided, interactive displays and fascinating objects to view. It covers two floors with plenty to see. The building is beautiful with period features and lovely grounds. There is an impressive huge metal sculpture outside the entrance and a good shop and restaurant. The staff are helpful.
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your visit to the museum and its many exhibits, as well as our beautiful building and grounds.
Written 1 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
red69hoss
Stafford, VA625 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
This is now one of my favorite museums in the world. My tour guide/docent, Jim Paterson, was supremely knowledgeable and interesting. The artifacts and their presentation are beautiful and very moving. The history of the Black Watch is absolutely fascinating and the stories of their spellbinding. The centuries are spellbinding. This museum is a MUST SEE, and I highly recommend you pay the extra money for a guided tour.
Written 9 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for taking the time to write a review and we are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us. We have passed on your kind words to Jim about his Guided Tour.
Written 1 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jasp932018
Glasgow, UK11 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
A most interesting presentation about the role of the Scottish, and specifically the Black Watch in the history of conflicts affecting GB.
The groupings of the many artifacts highlighted the role of the Black Watch in the above.
Needs a bit longer than one day to fully appreciate the whole.
Notwithstanding the need for subdued lighting to protect the exhibits, there were areas where it was difficult to read the information cards - some were a bit in the shadow of the exhibits.
It would have been satisfying to gift-aid the entrance fee.
Thank you
The groupings of the many artifacts highlighted the role of the Black Watch in the above.
Needs a bit longer than one day to fully appreciate the whole.
Notwithstanding the need for subdued lighting to protect the exhibits, there were areas where it was difficult to read the information cards - some were a bit in the shadow of the exhibits.
It would have been satisfying to gift-aid the entrance fee.
Thank you
Written 15 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KevinB91
Leek, England, United Kingdom74 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Wasn’t sure what the museum was like, but I have to say there’s a lot to see. Plus it’s very well organised and very logical when it comes to getting around so that you do things and see all the rooms in the right order. This makes for an excellent experience and also helps the visitor experience, so that the museum feels safe and clean. We learnt lots about the Black Watch which was presented in an interesting way. Lots to keep visitors interest. Plus the Haunting statue is installed by the entrance to the museum, so big bonus and attraction.
Written 8 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Team S
1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Couples
Thoroughly enjoyed our visit to this amazing place. Loads to learn & see, with this extensive & comprehensive collection. The staff couldn't have been more friendly & helpful. Food in the Bistro was lovely. Lots of beautiful & fairly priced gifts & interesting items in the gift shop.
Written 6 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pamela C
4 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Loved it. So much interesting history about the Black Watch that I didn't know. All so well presented.
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessica K
15 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
We happened upon this on a map and decided to visit. We learned so much and it was so interesting. The staff was super nice too
Written 3 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Scottish Traveller
London, UK13 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
The customer service was first rate, such a lovely lady that was running the ticket desk and shop. Good parking, useful guide map and nice range of gifts in the shop.
Written 14 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helen B
1 contribution
Could not see The Loos painting where The Queen Mother's older brother was killed. She was Colonel in Chief of The Black Watch. Most appropriate for this painting to be displayed. Very disappointed. Los Angeles California
Jim M
Stainburn, UK62 contributions
Did you look very carefully ?
. Can you please send a photo of this painting and then it can be looked for. Is it in Glamis Castle ?
Catherine C
Houston, UK13 contributions
Can you park at the museum
Mark W
Harpenden, UK74 contributions
Yes you can, just in front of the building there is a large car park that cars & coaches use. When we went there was a member of staff helping customers to park
Tanao45
Madrid, Spain702 contributions
Es posible utilizar la Travel pass en este museo?
Gracias
Is it possible to hire a wheelchair for a tour of the museum?
dmjm88
Melbourne, Australia32 contributions
I dont know but i would ring the museum and ask them if they have hire wheelchairs and is the place fully wheelchair accessable
catherine c
Renfrew, UK27 contributions
does the black watch museum have a free car park
Jim M
Stainburn, UK62 contributions
yippee, large enough and free.
My Grandfather served in the black watch would love to find information about his service his name was James Johnston and he was a sargent and was awarded the military medal at the battle of the Somme he was from moss end or possibly bells hill but this is all I know would love to find out more but don't know where to start can you help please
Heather G
Newtonhill, UK34 contributions
There was a whole room dedicated to the battle of the Somme. With lots of memorabilia. There was also people on site who could point you in the right direction. There was roles of honour in each room that was dedicated to various battles throughout the ages.
Hanka P
10 contributions
Hi, we will have probably only one hour in Perth. Will be worthy to visit this museum or do you recommend us something else? (with rent car so the distance is not a problem)
Thanks
Blackbeauty46
Scottish Highlands, UK17 contributions
as far as i remember it only took an hour to go round,wasn't my cup of tea,more my husband's but it was very interesting
Nalpick
Melbourne, Australia280 contributions
Hello looking at our schedule we will be near you about 0800hrs, noting you open at 0930hrs. Can we walk around the grounds before opening?
Also we will be near you mid June this year, will the poppies be on display?
Many thanks
iseen
Carnoustie, UK45 contributions
Hi. Little late with answer as have been away. Don't think you will be able to walk around the grounds as gates will probably be locked. As to poppy display, dates for growing are on the website.
nsmdsolo
Kendall Park, NJ
Are Balhousie and The Black Watch Castles one and the same or are they two separate attractions? What are your days / hours of operation? How far is it from the Perth train station and what is the best way to get to the castle(s) from there?
charlesg260952
Stockport, UK2,660 contributions
Hi, Sorry I have no idea if they are the same venues, I think they are open every day, but would check on that as most start closing earlier at this time of year. When we went there was a free bus from the park and ride, and the Railway Station.
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Black Watch Castle & Museum
- The Black Watch Castle & Museum is open:
- Mon - Mon 10:00 - 16:30
- Tue - Sun 10:00 - 16:00
- Hotels near The Black Watch Castle & Museum:
- (0.16 mi) Rosebank Guest House
- (0.16 mi) Dalvey Bed & Breakfast
- (0.18 mi) Scotia Bed and Breakfast
- (0.16 mi) Almond Villa Guest House
- (0.16 mi) Westview Guest House
- Restaurants near The Black Watch Castle & Museum:
- (0.06 mi) The Black Watch Castle & Museum
- (0.34 mi) The Mexican
- (0.36 mi) Deans Restaurant
- (0.49 mi) The North Port Restaurant
- (0.54 mi) Effies of Perth