Queen’s View is one of Perthshire’s most celebrated viewpoints, looking west along Loch Tummel to the peak of Schiehallion in the distance. It sits a few miles from the Victorian town of Pitlochry, on the edge of the Tay Forest Park, and has drawn visitors for well over a century.
The town of Pitlochry is often a quick stop for whisky ice cream at Scotch Corner, but the viewpoint above it is the real draw — especially when the surrounding hills turn gold in autumn.
The View Over Loch Tummel
A short, level path from the car park leads to the main viewpoint, making it one of the easier great views in Scotland to reach. There is a visitor centre run by Forestry and Land Scotland, plus longer woodland trails if you want to make more of the visit. Despite the name, the ‘Queen’ is probably medieval rather than Victorian, though Queen Victoria did visit in 1866.
Best Time to Visit: Autumn
This is autumn-viewing country. From late October into early November the birch and larch light up in yellows and reds, and Queen’s View is one of the best places in the country to see it. Arrive early on autumn weekends, as the car park fills quickly and the light is best in the morning.
Pitlochry & Nearby
Pitlochry itself has a Victorian high street, a salmon ladder at its dam and the Enchanted Forest light show in autumn. The distilleries at Blair Athol and Edradour are close by. For more of the region, see our guide to Perthshire destinations.
Practical Tips
- Queen’s View is about 10 minutes’ drive from Pitlochry on the B8019
- There is a parking charge at the visitor centre car park
- Visit on an autumn morning for the best colour and light
- The main viewpoint is a short, mostly level walk from the car park
- Combine it with Pitlochry’s dam, distilleries and high street for a full day
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Queen’s View?
The name predates Queen Victoria, who visited in 1866; it may refer to an earlier queen, possibly Isabella, wife of Robert the Bruce. Victoria’s visit made it famous either way.
When is the best time to visit Queen’s View?
Autumn, from late October to early November, when the birch and larch around Loch Tummel turn gold and red. Mornings give the best light and quieter car parks.
