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Looking across from the steep sided glens
of the Ochil Hills across the broad strath of the River Earn
Auchterarder is set amongst some of Scotland's most stunning scenery.
It is not a city but it has stood in the path of a thousand years of
history. As long ago as 1200 it gained the title of Royal Burgh. Kings
and generals stayed here in the great houses around the town. In 1715
Auchterarder was burned to the ground by retreating Jacobites but thanks
to the handloom industry it was later to rise again.
Auchterarder, in Perthshire, is known locally as " The Lang Toon,
" a name derived from the extended High Street. Today, little of
the original Burgh of 1200 remains. Indeed you will notice that the town
dates largely from the 18th Century and is now famous for the quality of
its shops.
The rolling fields and woodlands of the area lead into narrow Glen
Eagles, a name derived not from birds but from the Gaelic " eaglais
" meaning church. Enjoy the panoramic views that were the
inspiration for the location of the world famous Gleneagles Hotel built
in the 1920's. Unsurprisingly, this whole area abounds in challenging
golf courses in Auchterarder, Whitemoss, Aberuthven, Dunning, and of
course you can choose a deluxe golfing experience at Gleneagles itself.
There is no end to the variety of activities throughout the Auchterarder
area. History buffs can explore Pictish forts, Roman roads, Celtic
chapels, Benedictine abbeys and Innerpeffray Library. ( Scotland's
oldest surviving public library )
Braco, a small village nearby, is close to the ancient Ardoch Roman Camp
guarding the approach to the Antonine Wall. On the way to Braco
you can visit Tullibardine Chapel a perfect example of a 15 & 16th
century church.
At Dunning the 12th century Norman Tower of St Serf dominates the
charming village. To the west is a monument to Maggie Wall who was burnt
at the stake as a witch in 1657. |
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