Pitlochry Highland Games, Saturday 9th September 2023

The Pitlochry Highland Games in early September is pure spectacle - grown men hurling tree trunks, athletes tossing the caber like it weighs nothing, and the constant wail of bagpipes echoing through the Perthshire hills. It's genuinely impressive to watch in person, far more so than on telly. You'll see traditional Scottish heavy athletics, dancing competitions, and pipe bands from across the country all competing on the same day. The whole thing has an infectious energy that even non-sports types find gripping.

Families with kids will either love it or find their children bored after an hour - depends whether yours are the type to sit through multiple rounds of tossing events. Serious Highland Games enthusiasts and sports fans absolutely should make the trip. The authenticity beats any staged version you might catch elsewhere.

Timing-wise, you'll need a good four to five hours to see the main events without rushing. The exact admission cost and gates opening time aren't readily confirmed online, so ring ahead or check closer to September. Pitlochry itself is a proper Highland town with cafes and shops for pre-match browsing.

For a caravan holiday, Milton Of Fonab is your obvious choice - just a ten-minute walk from the games - or Faskally Woods if you want slightly more space. Both put you well within Perthshire's broader attraction radius. The games make for a solid day out if you're already in the area, though don't travel hours specifically for it unless you're genuinely keen on the sport.