Big Tree Country >> Places to See >> Dunkeld & Birnam >> Dunkeld & Birnam Heritage Trees

Dunkeld & Birnam Heritage Trees

There are many significant trees for you to discover in the heart of Perthshire Big Tree Country.

Information

Pedestal Larch at Dunkeld House © Archie Miles

The ancient Birnam Oak (Quercus petraea) is believed to be the last surviving remnant of Birnam Wood, the great oak forest made famous in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.

By comparison, the Birnam Sycamore, at around 300 years old, is a mere youth. The tree, found on the south bank of the River Tay is immense with a girth in excess of 8 metres/ 25 ft and certainly worth noting.

Both of the trees are part of a linear strip of mixed, broadleaved woodland known as the Birnam Riparian Woodland which hugs the south bank of the River Tay from the village of Dunkeld to a small fisherman’s hut.

A well-used and popular footpath runs the length of the woodland strip – known locally as the Birnam Walk, or Beech Walk – and is accessible at all times throughout the year.

Or visit some of the amazing trees in and around Dunkeld Hilton House Hotel.

See the trees as part of the paths described in the Dunkeld & Birnam Paths network leaflet.

Directions

From the A9 take the Birnam & Dunkeld exit.

Facilities

Car parking is provided within villages of Dunkeld & Birnam.
All other facilities including toilets and refreshments are available in Birnam and Dunkeld.