St Fillans: Village History, Art and Walks

On the eastern edge of the national park lies St Fillans, a village designated as a Conservation Village. Gabled stone houses, chapels and the history of Dundurn make the village an interesting destination for anyone looking to combine landscape and culture. There are also different ways to experience the area, from a walk along the River Earn to artworks, golf and waterside activities.

Discover the village character and history

Many of the gabled stone houses along the main street date back to an earlier era. Together, they give the village a spa-town character. Those interested in the history of the area will also find different historical connections at two chapels. St Fillans Chapel, southeast of the village, is an old, historically significant ruin. It is believed to be a 16th-century building on the site of an earlier chapel founded by St Fillan.

The Chapel of Dundurn has served as the burial place of the Stewarts of Ardvorlich since 1586, and continues to do so today. Another notable name is Dundurn: the summit, also known as St Fillans Hill, is recognised as a Scheduled Ancient Monument. Its designation takes account of its national importance and its former religious significance to Christians and Picts. These historical connections give the area more than one perspective on its story.

Art and walks in different forms

The BLiSS Trail links a series of artworks at locations in the national park and passes through the four communities of Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans. The entire route can be enjoyed as a scenic drive; walking or cycling is possible on individual sections. This gives you the choice of taking in the route as a whole or exploring selected sections.

The Circle the Village Walk offers a different perspective. It first follows the River Earn, then passes behind the village and ends with a view of Loch Earn and the hills beyond. The route description was updated in February 2021. For the Hydro-Power Station Surge Shaft Walk, a route description dated 2021 gives the St Fillans Information Point and the footbridge as the start and end points. As path conditions and wayfinding can change, check the route details before setting off.

Two more sections of the Loch Earn Railway Path have been upgraded to “all ability” status. As the project status may change, it is a good idea to check the current classification if it is important for your plans. The term here reflects the designated status of the sections; it does not replace your own assessment of the conditions on each one.

Golf and waterside activities

St Fillans Golf Club has a nine-hole course on the other side of the River Earn. It was designed by Willie Auchterlonie, a professional from St Andrews and Open Champion. The Countess of Ancaster hit the opening shot on 8 August 1903. Visitors can book and pay for a tee time online through the club’s website or via the Scottish Golf app.

Loch Earn Sailing Club is on the north shore of Loch Earn, near the St Fillans end of the loch. It is popular with members and offers relaxed family sailing as well as training in modern, fully equipped facilities. Loch Earn is described as one of Scotland’s most scenic inland sailing waters. The club holds two open charity regattas each year, which non-members can also enter. Dates may vary. Check them, along with seasonal operating details, before your trip.

At Drummond Trout Farm, during the 2026 season, you can fish for brown trout, rainbow trout and Arctic char on the shore of Loch Earn, or hire one of the business’s boats. Fishing rules and availability may change, so check in advance. Together with the walking routes, the BLiSS Trail and the golf course, this gives you a range of options for different kinds of holiday activities.

Find the right holiday rental

When looking for a holiday rental in St Fillans, you can start by considering which experiences you want to shape your stay: village history and walks, art along the way, golf or waterside activities. If you want to combine different interests, you can weigh up these options when planning your days.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Dull, Invergowrie, Bridge Of Cally, Kinfauns, Dunning, Coupar Angus, Glenalmond, Kinross.

For the main travel overview: Perth And Kinross.