Dunkeld in Perthshire has been named one of the UK's 10 best small towns to visit in 2026 by travel experts at WorldAtlas, who highlighted its cathedral, riverside views and autumn woodland walks.
On Tuesday, October 27, WorldAtlas shared its list of "2026's 10 best small towns to visit in the UK", based on factors such as views and landmarks. Dunkeld, a cathedral town on the northern bank of the River Tay, was among the locations featured.
The town is known for its idyllic views over the river, its woodland walking trails, and its wealth of independent shops and food and drink venues. It also holds historical significance as an early centre of Christianity in Scotland.
Cathedral and Hermitage singled out
WorldAtlas singled out Dunkeld Cathedral and The Hermitage as top destinations in the town. Dunkeld Cathedral is a landmark with a history stretching back to the 9th century, while The Hermitage is described as one of the "best places to see autumn colours" in Scotland.
The experts wrote: "Dunkeld sits on the northern bank of the River Tay in Perthshire. The town is famous for its Cathedral, a ruined medieval church on the riverbank whose surviving stone structures date primarily from the 13th to the early 16th century. It includes a choir from the 13th and 14th centuries, a largely 15th-century ruined nave, and a chapter house completed around 1457."
WorldAtlas added: "The Hermitage, a National Trust for Scotland woodland walk a mile west of the town, follows the River Braan through towering Douglas firs to Ossian's Hall, a restored Georgian folly above the Black Linn waterfall. The town itself is compact and entirely walkable, with a cathedral street of restored 17th-century houses that forms one of the finest examples of architectural conservation in Scotland."
Food scene and local highlights
Dunkeld is also renowned for its food scene, with the small town home to a wealth of restaurants, cafés, and pubs. Among the top eateries are the artisan ARAN Bakery and the family-run Clootie Dumpling café, which is named after the traditional Scottish pudding.
Images of Dunkeld accompany the article, and the full list of the 10 best small towns to visit in the UK in 2026 can be found on the WorldAtlas website. The town is described as a peaceful and picturesque destination famous for its autumn scenery and independent businesses.
