Aberdalgie & Dupplin Church

Two medieval churches standing a few hundred metres apart near Perth sounds like the sort of thing you'd skip on a rainy Tuesday, but Aberdalgie and Dupplin are proper worth the detour if you're into Scottish ecclesiastical architecture. Both date back to the 12th century, which means they've been here longer than most of us will be, and you can still see it in the stonework.

Aberdalgie is the more substantial of the pair - a solid little church with some genuinely interesting carved stones inside if you can get in (access is variable, so check locally before making the journey). Dupplin, nearby, is smaller and more atmospheric, sitting alone in its churchyard with the kind of view across Perthshire that reminds you why people built things in these spots. The walk between them takes minutes.

This is really one for history types and church enthusiasts rather than casual visitors. If you've got a specific interest in medieval Scotland or early Christian sites, you'll find it rewarding. Families with young kids will probably get restless after twenty minutes. Walkers should add it to a wider loop around the area - it's not a destination in itself.

There's no visitor infrastructure, so bring water. Perthshire's got proper caravan parks nearby like Maycroft Retreat and Luxury Hideaways if you're basing yourself in the region for a few days. These churches work best as part of a wider exploration rather than a standalone trip. Quiet, underfussed, and genuinely old - exactly how they should be.