Strageath Mill

The foundations of a Roman fort lie scattered across farmland just outside Crieff, and Strageath Mill marks one of those rare spots where you can actually stand where legions once marched. It's not much to look at if you're expecting towering ramparts - what you get is an archaeological site that demands a bit of imagination, but rewards it handsomely if you're into that sort of thing.

This was a proper frontier garrison, built to control the Tay Valley during Rome's push into Scotland around 80 AD. Walk the perimeter and you can still make out the ditch lines and defensive positions. The site sits on agricultural land, so access can be variable depending on what's being grown, but it's worth ringing ahead or checking with Crieff tourist information before making the journey.

Historically minded visitors will find this genuinely rewarding - the scale of the fort becomes clear once you're standing in it. Casual tourists after a quick photo might feel a bit underwhelmed; there's no visitor centre or interpretation panels, just the landscape itself. Allow an hour if you're thorough, half that if you're just passing through.

It sits well within a wider Perthshire exploring itinerary. Braidhaugh Holiday Lodge just two miles away makes a solid base, though if you want something with a bit more going on, Comrie Croft at Comrie is only six miles off and genuinely excellent. Pair this with walks along the Tay or Turret Water, and you've got a solid day's outing.