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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211 within 3 miles
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78 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- Avril O35 contributionsA Day at the museumEnjoyed a very informative and fascinating visit to the museum. We were looked after by Jim who is so knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. The museum hosts an incredible collection of historic items and tells the story of the Black Watch in a really engaging way. The castle provides a stunning backdrop for the collection. We had a really tasty lunch in the Bistro, great choice and value. Thank you to the whole team for a great day out, you are all amazing. Interesting to know that the majority of the team are volunteers.Visited March 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten March 26, 2023
- Jenny R7 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 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 6, 2023
- Bobby C39 contributionsFantastic. Friendly staffThe Food here is fantastic..serious. Eat here... great soups. Delicious. The gift shop has many nice items. Good price. The museum. In awe of these brave men ! This was our second visit from Canada. My oldest brother had it on the bucket list. We went again. it was just as amazing second time around with a few new items. great staff. Awesome tribute the the Red hackle ! Paid parking is very cheap. was 1 pound. Highly recommended !Visited May 2023Written May 21, 2023
- Juljen1122 contributionsVery good museum and tourPleasant welcome to the museum. Offered a tour by tour guide Rodger who was very knowledgeable and informative. Excellent value for a one hour tour and we learnt a lot. Grateful thanks to Rodger for the experience. Good little cafe. Museum seems to have lots of events for families too.Visited June 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten June 14, 2023
- H-DaisybellMiddlesbrough, United Kingdom56 contributionsBrilliant interesting museumThe museum was really interesting and well set up. Easy to follow the route. I did a guided tour, with a lovely lady who was really informative and it bought the museum to life. Then I did bits on my own afterwards. I really enjoyed learning the history and visit.Visited June 2023Traveled soloWritten July 29, 2023
- Team S1 contributionAbsolutely top class!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.Visited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 6, 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 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 8, 2023
- jasp932018Glasgow, United Kingdom13 contributionsFascinating historical exhibitionA 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 youVisited September 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten September 15, 2023
- red69hossStafford, Virginia630 contributionsFantastic in Every WayThis 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.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 November 1, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled soloWritten October 8, 2023
- FlamingoGlasgow, United Kingdom21 contributionsA very interesting museumThis 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.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 November 1, 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2023Traveled with familyWritten October 21, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,023 reviews
Excellent
725
Very good
255
Average
34
Poor
3
Terrible
6
Anthony H
Suffolk, UK83 contributions
Sep 2020 • Friends
What a great little Museum. Friendly welcoming staff, well thought out and executed COVID-19 precautions both in the museum itself and in the shop & cafe as well.
Anyone wanting to learn about the history of the Black Watch will find plenty of information and exhibits and the route through the building gives an easy to follow chronological sequence from the foundation to the present day.
Anyone wanting to learn about the history of the Black Watch will find plenty of information and exhibits and the route through the building gives an easy to follow chronological sequence from the foundation to the present day.
Written September 4, 2020
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 your 5 star review.
Written September 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lorraine Z
19 contributions
Sep 2022 • Couples
Very much wanted to visit the Black Watch Museum on a recent visit to Scotland having had a father who had been in the regiment during WWII. The guided tour was probably one of the best tours we've ever had. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and put things across in such a way as to make it interesting but also very poignant. The Castle itself is a beautiful building. Nice cafe.
Written September 17, 2022
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.
Avril O
35 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
Enjoyed a very informative and fascinating visit to the museum. We were looked after by Jim who is so knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. The museum hosts an incredible collection of historic items and tells the story of the Black Watch in a really engaging way. The castle provides a stunning backdrop for the collection. We had a really tasty lunch in the Bistro, great choice and value. Thank you to the whole team for a great day out, you are all amazing. Interesting to know that the majority of the team are volunteers.
Written March 26, 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.
carolliddell3
Edinburgh, UK3 contributions
Aug 2020 • Couples
Bought an itison voucher for brunch and tour nov 2019.Booked the brunch and tour for24th March 2020.On 20thMarch they called and cancelled due to Covid lockdown but they would get in touch when they opened again.Never happened so as we are going into level 0 I called to use my voucher. Too late apparently and I have to fight Itison to get my money back . They offered me a complimentary tour and suggested I buy my own brunch ! They say my contract is with Itison not them yet it was them that “ deferred” not cancelled my visit . Very disappointed. The complimentary tour offered is the same price as the money I have already paid so not really complimentary for me.
Written July 15, 2021
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.
Harry D
South Shields, UK89 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
Visited the castle and while there had a tour around the museum which is full of interesting artefacts and excellent displays about the regiment . As we have family ties both my father and uncle served in the watch we found it especially interesting.
Afterwards we had refreshments in the cafe , which is very reasonable priced.
Well worth a visit if your in Perth , or just a military history buff. Highly Recommended .
Afterwards we had refreshments in the cafe , which is very reasonable priced.
Well worth a visit if your in Perth , or just a military history buff. Highly Recommended .
Written August 6, 2021
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 give us your feedback. We are pleased to hear you enjoyed your Bistro visit and found the Museum interesting, which can be especially moving when you have family ties to the Regiment.
Written August 16, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Giulia Z
Durham, UK125 contributions
Aug 2022
We visited this museum as it was one of the closer on foot, and we were well rewarded. I knew absolutely nothing about the Black Watch, let alone about Scottish military history. This museum was very informative, with a great range of exhibition styles and really wonderful staff. I loved that it was a well-balanced museum, with lots of interesting things but not too much stuff that bores you out. A good mix of interactive, antiques, modern, and good captions too. Really fantastic stuff, a great surprise and a worthwhile stop to learn about the history of Scottish pride, clothing and a military regiment that is entwined with it.
Written August 8, 2022
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 giving us 5 stars Giulia.
It's wonderful to hear you appreciated the Museum and the story told within.
We are delighted to choose you to visit us during your trip.
Written August 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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 November 27, 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 so much for sharing your wonderful experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that our museum provided you with an educational and memorable experience. We're delighted that our tour guide was able to provide you with an impromptu mini-tour and share their knowledge on The Black Watch with you both. We'll be sure to pass along your kind words to them
We hope to welcome you back again soon for another delightful visit!
Written March 1, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Pickinmypocket
Glasgow, UK57 contributions
Oct 2022
This is a well managed and very well presented museum, which tells the story of the Black Watch without descending into sentiment or military cliché. That being said, there are touching moments of bravery and sacrifice throughout the exhibits, and they are very moving. The number of Victoria Crosses on display speaks for itself, and the manner in which they were earned is both inspiring and touching. Staff were helpful, friendly and informative. The castle stands in lovely grounds and has an excellent café attached along with very good parking. Altogether an excellent visit and highly recommended.
Written October 14, 2022
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.
MKPaul
Gruissan, France60 contributions
May 2022
Fascinating history brought to life, showing the origins of the Black Watch regiment at the heart of the Scottish national story. There are four elements - memorial garden, well-labelled, museum galleries, café, and gift shop.
Guide materials are also available in French, German and Spanish. Free parking. Outstanding Bistro café is popular with locals, so you're advised to book to guarantee a lunch table (but breakfast is less crowded). Gift shop is not aimed at children.
Guide materials are also available in French, German and Spanish. Free parking. Outstanding Bistro café is popular with locals, so you're advised to book to guarantee a lunch table (but breakfast is less crowded). Gift shop is not aimed at children.
Written June 3, 2022
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 your 5 star review.
Written August 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jenny R
7 contributions
Apr 2023 • Friends
We 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.
Written April 7, 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
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