Blairgowrie

Blairgowrie is a town and civil parish in Perth and Kinross, Scotland. It lies in eastern Perthshire in the valley of the River Ericht near the foothills of the Sidlaw Hills. The town forms part of the combined settlement of Blairgowrie and Rattray.

The name Blairgowrie derives from Gaelic Blàr Ghobhraidh or Blàr Gowrie, meaning Gowrie’s plain or Gowrie’s battlefield, reflecting historic ties to the Gowrie family.

Historically, Blairgowrie developed as a market town serving agricultural communities in Strathmore and the surrounding glens. In the 18th and 19th centuries it expanded with crafts and trade, and it later became a centre for fruit growing in the region.

Today, the area is known for its soft fruit industry, particularly raspberries and strawberries grown in the surrounding Strathmore valley. The town supports services for residents and visitors, including shops, schools, and cultural events, with outdoor recreation in the nearby hills and countryside.

Notable features include the River Ericht running through the town and local green spaces; Blairgowrie Golf Club is a longtime local sports venue.

Blairgowrie is served by roads and bus services, with the nearest rail links located in Perth. The town hosts community events and has educational facilities such as Blairgowrie High School.