The beautiful little UK town absolutely rammed with cute family-run shops
This mysterious little town won't be known by many - but it should be at the top of everyone's travel bucket list.
A beautiful little UK town has caught the attention of hardcore travellers after they realised it was abundant with quaint family-run shops, making the visit a "magical" experience.
The tiny town of Crieff is nestled in the Lowlands of Scotland near Perth and Stirling - but it has a unique identity, totally independent of its neighbours. It is a beautiful market town in the heart of the country, and the capital of Strathearn.
Crieff is famous for its excellent whisky and fascinating history of cattle drovers. The Glenturret Distillery is Scotland’s oldest working distillery and is located in the heart of Crieff.
It offers tours to visitors, who love to see the inner workings of the malt production. Its malt whisky is still hand-crafted today and uses the only remaining hand-operated mash tun in Scotland.
Dan from Derby said the tour gave a “brilliant insight into the history of the distillery and the magic needed to make the perfect drop, all rounded off with a free dram”. He recommended checking out the Lalique Gallery in the gift shop, too.
Crieff has a population of only about 7,000 people but its town centre is absolutely bustling with life. It boasts a range of family-run businesses offering the best of food and drink, as well as clothing, gifts, arts and crafts.
Crieff Hydro Resort was opened more than 150 years ago as a hydropathic spa. In addition to the 215 bedroom hotel, there are 56 self-catering lodges and cabins located across the 900 acre estate.
The hotel is home to its flagship restaurant The Terrace, where traditional Italian flavours meet Scottish cuisine. The restaurant also has a great selection of spirits and cocktails and even a menu dedicated to its selection of gins.
A little bit of history
The pretty little town’s growth was rooted in cattle droving, which became increasingly popular in the lowlands of Scotland during the 1700s.
The town gradually gained a reputation for its many beautiful attractions, and even became known as the main entry point to the Scottish Highlands.
From there, it is now still easy to drive up to various northern attractions like Glencoe, Fort Augustus and Loch Ness. Aberdeen is also not far away, while the royal residence of Balmoral Castle is not too far, either.