Though not as impressive as Scone, Huntingtower Castle, three miles west of Perth on the A85 to Crieff, is well worth a visit. Huntingtower offers a peek into the past and holds many surprises for its visitors. Entry is either by a flight of steps from the courtyard that lead to the first floor of the Western Tower, or into the ground floor of the East Tower.
It consists of two complete towers dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, linked by a 17th-century range, and features some fine 16th-century painted ceilings and coat of arms still apparent in the west window recess. The castle, once owned by the Ruthven family, has some interesting history of its own. Prior to the building of the range, a daughter of the house once leapt between the two towers to avoid being caught in her lover's bedroom. Huntingtower is said to be haunted by this young lady.
Another legend says that the water in the St Conval's Well, which is situated near the castle has powers to heal. Those who fetch the water should collect it in silence and any word spoken on the outward or return journey renders the water useless. Huntingtower is also known for its resident colony of pipistrelle bats, which live here all year round.
Admission Prices - 2011
- Adult - £4.20
- Child - £2.10
- Seniors - £3.20
