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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Innerpeffray Library Crieff Perthshire
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scotland's first free lending library, founded 1680. Explore rare books and history by the River Earn.
"A Scotland gem, truly fascinating and unique experience. You'll regret skipping it!"

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.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Guided Tours
Library Entrance
Gain fascinating insights into the library's history and its role in Scottish literacy from knowledgeable guides.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Scotland's Oldest Lending Library
Plan Your Visit to Innerpeffray
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Tranquil Riverside Location
Enjoy the peaceful setting on the banks of the River Earn. A perfect spot for reflection.
Off the Beaten Path
It's a bit hidden, but totally worth the detour. You'll regret skipping it!
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.
Explore the Shop
Don't miss the super little shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts.
Tranquil Riverside Location
Enjoy the peaceful setting on the banks of the River Earn. A perfect spot for reflection.
Off the Beaten Path
It's a bit hidden, but totally worth the detour. You'll regret skipping it!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Innerpeffray Library is located just a short drive from Crieff, often described as being 'off the beaten path'. Many visitors reach it by car, following local tourist routes. 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.
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.
The library is often discovered by chance or by following tourist routes in the area. 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. It's near Crieff and can be part of a day trip from cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Innerpeffray Library is free, as it was established as Scotland's first free public lending library. 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.
Yes, you can explore the library independently. However, a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history and the collection.
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. Explore the beautiful historic building and learn about Scotland's literacy history. Guided tours offer in-depth insights.
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.
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. 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' 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
📚 Book Lovers & History Buffs
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Innerpeffray Library
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. Unlike many museums, these historical texts are often accessible, with curators sometimes carefully presenting them for visitors to examine.
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.
Experiencing Innerpeffray: A Traveler's Perspective
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. 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.
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. 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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