Innerpeffray Library sits beside Innerpeffray Chapel
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Innerpeffray Library Crieff Perthshire

4.9
·54 reviews·, United Kingdom

Scotland's first free lending library, founded 1680. Explore rare books and history by the River Earn.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
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Innerpeffray Library sits beside Innerpeffray Chapel

Innerpeffray Library Crieff Perthshire

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more personal

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Scotland's first free lending library, founded 1680. Explore rare books and history by the River Earn.

4.9
(54 reviews)

"A Scotland gem, truly fascinating and unique experience. You'll regret skipping it!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Guides like Marion and Lara bring the library's history to life with fascinating stories.

Explore the Shop

Don't miss the super little shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rare Book Collection

Rare Book Collection

Main Library Hall

See first editions of Shakespeare and historic Bibles, some over 400 years old. A true bibliophile's dream!

The Library Building

The Library Building

Innerpeffray

A beautiful, historic building that transports you to another era. Its architecture is as captivating as its contents.

Guided Tours

Guided Tours

Library Entrance

Gain fascinating insights into the library's history and its role in Scottish literacy from knowledgeable guides.

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Planning Your Visit

Discover Scotland's Oldest Lending Library

Step back in time at Innerpeffray Library, Scotland's first free public lending library, founded in 1680. Explore a stunning collection of rare books and learn about the history of literacy in Scotland. Plan your visit to this unique historical gem.

Plan Your Visit to Innerpeffray

This historic library offers a tranquil escape. Check opening times and consider booking a guided tour for a deeper understanding of its rich history and fascinating collection. It's a must-see for book lovers and history buffs alike.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more personal
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Guided tours available
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#cityofperth #library #education #perthtok
@cr_dr_ko
2K likes • 131.4K views

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Guides like Marion and Lara bring the library's history to life with fascinating stories. Reddit+1

Explore the Shop

Don't miss the super little shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Reddit

Looking for a simply one-day itinerary of things to do in Highland Perthshire? Then save this for later! Even better, this itinerary can be reached in just over an hours drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow! 1. Dunkeld is a stunning wee historical town. There’s plenty of cool wee shops, but make sure you swing by @aranbakery for breakfast, sweet treats and coffee! 2. Just across the road from Dunkeld ...
@myscottishjournal
2K likes • 59.6K views
📚 🎧Perth Library #perth #studywithme #university
@whatsmaggiedoing
1.8K likes • 21.4K views

Tranquil Riverside Location

Enjoy the peaceful setting on the banks of the River Earn. A perfect spot for reflection. Reddit

Off the Beaten Path

It's a bit hidden, but totally worth the detour. You'll regret skipping it! Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Book a Guided Tour

Highly recommended! Guides like Marion and Lara bring the library's history to life with fascinating stories. Reddit+1

Explore the Shop

Don't miss the super little shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Reddit

Tranquil Riverside Location

Enjoy the peaceful setting on the banks of the River Earn. A perfect spot for reflection. Reddit

Off the Beaten Path

It's a bit hidden, but totally worth the detour. You'll regret skipping it! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(54 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Innerpeffray Library as a hidden gem and a highlight of their trips, particularly for its stunning collection of rare books and the exceptional quality of its guided tours. The tranquil riverside setting and the warm hospitality of the staff are frequently mentioned as making the experience truly special and memorable.

"I visited the library last month with three friends whilst on holiday in Crieff and we were all so impressed with this beautiful library and the wonderful and informative guide that we had. The library is a stunning building in itself with a great collection of fascinating books. Our guide Marion made the visit even more interesting by not only sharing information on the history of the building but giving us very useful context about literacy through the ages in Scotland and how the library came about. We also loved the library's location as well as the super little shop - it was the highlight of our holiday in Crieff!"

Liz Demaison

"Absolutely loved my visit to library and surrounds. Came across by chance. Our helpful guide made the visit, looking out information and answering my many questions. Tranquil spot on the banks of the River Earn with historical interest going back to Roman occupation. Worth a look!"

Evie Mur

"Wonderful historic library, founded in 1680. The first free public library in Scotland, Innerpeffray was lending to the local community until 1968. A tranquil and beautiful place with knowledgeable staff and fascinating books spanning the library's 300 years of education and enrichment."

Beth Dark

What People Like

Rare book collection
Knowledgeable guides
Historic building

What People Dislike

Limited public transport
Can be hard to find

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Innerpeffray Library is located just a short drive from Crieff, often described as being 'off the beaten path'.Reddit Many visitors reach it by car, following local tourist routes.Reddit Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus schedules or considering a taxi from Crieff is advisable. The journey offers scenic views of Highland Perthshire.TikTok

While specific details on direct public transport can be scarce, it's generally recommended to check with local Crieff transport services. Many visitors arrive by car, appreciating the scenic drive through Perthshire.TikTok

The library is often discovered by chance or by following tourist routes in the area.Reddit Using a GPS or a good map is recommended, as it's a bit of a hidden gem.

Yes, Innerpeffray is a great stop when exploring Highland Perthshire.TikTok It's near Crieff and can be part of a day trip from cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Innerpeffray Library is free, as it was established as Scotland's first free public lending library.Reddit However, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this historic site.

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Innerpeffray Library website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

No, admission is free. The library's mission has always been to provide access to knowledge for everyone.Reddit

Yes, you can explore the library independently. However, a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and the collection.Reddit+1

While not strictly required for general entry, booking a guided tour in advance is a good idea, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and a personalized experience.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can marvel at a collection of rare books, including first editions of Shakespeare and historic Bibles.Reddit Explore the beautiful historic building and learn about Scotland's literacy history. Guided tours offer in-depth insights.Reddit+1

Yes, guided tours are a highlight! Knowledgeable staff, like Marion and Lara, share fascinating stories about the library's 300-year history and its impact on education.Reddit+2

While the focus is on historic books, children can appreciate the unique atmosphere and the stories shared during tours. It's a quiet, educational experience.

Photography policies can vary. It's best to ask the staff upon arrival if photography is permitted, especially for personal use, to respect the historic nature of the books and building.

Visitors describe it as a tranquil, beautiful, and time-warp-like experience.Reddit+1 It offers a peaceful escape and a deep connection to history.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Innerpeffray Library itself does not typically have a cafe or restaurant. However, there is a 'super little shop' Reddit that might offer light refreshments or local treats. Crieff, a nearby town, offers various dining options.

Picnicking is usually best enjoyed in designated areas outside the library, perhaps by the River Earn. It's advisable to check with staff about any specific rules regarding food consumption within the library premises.

The town of Crieff, a short drive away, offers a range of cafes, pubs, and restaurants to suit different tastes and budgets. Some visitors might find local bakeries or tearooms in smaller villages nearby.

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the historic building, the tranquil riverside setting, and the unique interior with its shelves of old books offer beautiful photographic subjects. Ask staff about interior photography rules.

Photography rules can change. It's always best to inquire with the staff upon arrival. They can advise on whether personal photography is permitted to protect the delicate books and artifacts.

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for the interior. A wide-angle lens can capture the architecture, while a macro lens might be useful if close-ups of book details are allowed.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Innerpeffray Library offers a unique educational experience for families. While it's a quiet environment focused on historical books, children can be captivated by the stories shared during guided tours.Reddit+1 The sheer age of the books, some dating back centuries, can spark curiosity about history and reading. The tranquil riverside location also provides a pleasant backdrop for a family outing. Consider it a calm, enriching stop on a larger itinerary.

📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs

This is your paradise! Innerpeffray Library is a dream come true, housing an incredible collection of rare books, including early editions of literary giants and significant historical texts.Reddit The opportunity to see these items up close, often outside of a typical museum display, is unparalleled. The library's history as Scotland's first free lending library adds a profound layer of significance for anyone passionate about the evolution of knowledge and access to literature.

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Innerpeffray Library is a perfect, enriching stop for those exploring Highland Perthshire.TikTok It's easily accessible by car and offers a unique cultural experience that breaks up a longer journey. Many visitors discover it unexpectedly and are delighted by its charm and historical depth.Reddit Combine it with a visit to nearby Crieff or other attractions in the region for a well-rounded day trip.TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Innerpeffray Library

Founded in 1680 by David Drummond, 3rd Lord Maderty, Innerpeffray Library holds the distinction of being Scotland's first free public lending library.Reddit Its establishment was a pioneering move, aiming to provide educational resources to the local community long before public libraries became commonplace. The library continued to lend books until 1968, accumulating a remarkable collection over its centuries of operation.Reddit

The library's collection is a treasure trove, featuring books that span over 300 years of history. Visitors have reported seeing incredible items such as first editions of Shakespeare's works, the King James Version of the Holy Bible from 1611, and even the Great Bible from King Henry VIII's reign in 1539.Reddit Unlike many museums, these historical texts are often accessible, with curators sometimes carefully presenting them for visitors to examine.Reddit

Beyond the books, the library's location on the banks of the River Earn adds to its charm. The tranquil setting, combined with the rich historical context of literacy and education in Scotland, makes Innerpeffray a truly unique and enriching destination. The dedication of its staff, often referred to as 'keepers of the books,' ensures that this historical gem continues to be a place of learning and wonder.Reddit

Experiencing Innerpeffray: A Traveler's Perspective

Many visitors stumble upon Innerpeffray Library by chance, often while following tourist routes, and are immediately struck by its charm and historical significance.Reddit The experience is frequently described as stepping into a 'time warp',Reddit offering a peaceful escape from the modern world. The library's location, nestled by the River Earn, contributes to its tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation.Reddit

One of the most consistently praised aspects of a visit is the quality of the guided tours. Staff members, such as Marion and Lara, are lauded for their extensive knowledge and engaging storytelling, which bring the library's history and its collection to life.Reddit+2 These tours provide invaluable context about literacy through the ages in Scotland and the library's foundational role. The staff's hospitality and willingness to answer questions are frequently highlighted as making the visit even more special.Reddit+1

While the library is a bit off the beaten path, the consensus among visitors is that it is an absolute must-see and a highlight of any trip to the Crieff or Perthshire area.Reddit The unique opportunity to see and even carefully handle incredibly rare books, combined with the warm welcome from the staff, makes Innerpeffray a truly memorable and highly recommended destination.

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