Drums

The Drums gallery sits just outside Pitlochry, and it's the sort of place that catches you off guard - a proper contemporary art space in what you might otherwise expect to be quiet countryside. The gallery focuses on cutting-edge work from Scottish and international artists, rotating exhibitions that actually make you think rather than just filling wall space. You'll typically spend between one and two hours here, depending on how deep you want to go into each piece.

It works best for serious art lovers and anyone who wants something more substantial than a casual browse. Families with older kids interested in contemporary work will find it engaging, but if you're after something to entertain a restless five-year-old for an afternoon, this isn't it. The space itself is well-designed without being pretentious, which makes a genuine difference.

If you're staying at Blair Castle Caravan Park or the highly-rated Parkdean Resorts Tummel Valley Holiday Park nearby, Drums is a sensible half-day addition to your itinerary - breaks up the outdoor activities nicely. Visit midweek if you can; weekends pull in coach parties from Perth and beyond. The admission policy and exact opening hours are worth confirming directly before you plan your day, as these can shift seasonally.