Perth’s brand new museum, which cost £27 million to build, has seen a surge in popularity, attracting almost 225,000 visitors by the end of 2024. The museum, located in Perth and also showcasing the Stone of Destiny exhibition, opened its doors in March. Managed in collaboration by Perth and Kinross Council and Culture Perth and Kinross, the museum narrates the story of Perth’s historical importance in both ancient and modern Scotland. Some of the notable artefacts on display include the heaviest British rod-caught salmon (weighing 29kg) caught in the River Tay in 1922, a pre-Reformation portrait of St Bartholomew from the 15th-century St John’s Kirk in Perth, and the Carpow Longboat dating back 3000 years, discovered in the Tay estuary in 2001.
Praised by VisitScotland as “hard to fault,” the museum has earned accolades for its friendly staff, exceptional hospitality, cleanliness, catering, retail facilities, and overall visitor experience. A spokesperson from Culture Perth and Kinross expressed their delight at the overwhelming support from the community and the unexpected positive feedback received. They look forward to the year ahead with plans for new exhibitions and a continued warm welcome to visitors.
In a significant milestone, a Perth grandmother and her family marked the 100,000th visitor to the museum in July. Visitors can also marvel at the Stone of Destiny, a symbol used in the coronation of Scottish monarchs, with a tumultuous history, including being taken to England in 1296 and ceremoniously returned to Scotland in 1996. The Stone played a role in the coronation of King Charles III in May 2023 before finding its way back to Perthshire last year following a notable campaign.
Despite some controversies, including accusations of political propaganda, the museum remains a non-political entity, as confirmed by Culture Perth and Kinross. Visitors have been left intrigued by specific instructions such as removing coats due to the temperature of the Stone of Destiny exhibit. The museum ensures a comfortable viewing experience with groups of 15 visitors entering the exhibit in ten-minute intervals.
The museum’s success in attracting visitors highlights the cultural significance and historical intrigue that such institutions bring to a region. It serves as a testament to the community’s support and interest in preserving and celebrating the heritage of Perth. As the museum looks ahead to 2025 with plans for exciting new exhibitions, it continues to be a beacon of cultural enrichment and historical education for locals and visitors alike.