Press Release: Pott(er)y about Perthshire

Perthshire is celebrating its links to beloved children's author Beatrix Potter as the region prepares for two major milestones and welcomes a new visitor experience inspired by her time there.

Today (28 July) marks the 160th anniversary of Potter's birth, while 2027 will see the 125th anniversary of The Tale of Peter Rabbit.

Although best known for her association with England's Lake District, Potter spent extended periods of her childhood in the beautiful countryside of Dunkeld and Birnam, Perthshire, where she and her family holidayed for up to three months each year.

The region's landscapes, wildlife and natural environment are widely regarded as having helped shape her development as an artist, naturalist and storyteller.

The anniversary comes just weeks after Birnam Arts opened its new Beatrix Potter™ Perthshire Experience, an outdoor visitor experience inspired by the author's connection to Highland Perthshire and the places that influenced her imagination.

Located in the heart of Birnam, the Garden Trail forms part of a wider licensed partnership with Penguin Ventures on behalf of Frederick Warne & Co. Ltd (an imprint of Penguin Random House Children's UK and owner of the Peter Rabbit™ brand).

It invites visitors to immerse themselves in the natural world that inspired Potter and discover more about her longstanding connection to the area.

VisitScotland believes the anniversaries, together with the new attraction, provide an opportunity to shine a spotlight on Perthshire's role in the story of one of Britain's most celebrated authors and inspire more visitors to explore the region.

Research by the national tourism and events organisation highlights the growing appeal of literary tourism, with almost one in five (19%) visitors to Scotland saying film, television or literature helped inspire their trip. Among long-haul visitors, this rises to more than a third (37%).

The research also found that 62% of UK adults associate Scotland with its poets, authors and writers, underlining the country's strong literary appeal among potential visitors.

Caroline Warburton, VisitScotland Destination Development Director, said: "Many people are surprised to learn about Beatrix Potter's strong connection to Perthshire and the role the region  has played in shaping one of Britain's most celebrated authors.

"With two significant anniversaries and the launch of the new Beatrix Potter™ Perthshire Experience, there is a fantastic opportunity to tell that story to new audiences and encourage visitors to discover the places that inspired her.

"Literary tourism continues to be a powerful motivator for travel, and Perthshire has a unique story to share. By working with partners such as Birnam Arts, we can help more people explore the region's rich cultural heritage while supporting local communities and businesses.

"This is an important part of our ambition to make Perthshire an even better place to live, work, do business and visit."

Julia Harriman, Development Manager at Birnam Arts, added: “Beatrix Potter drew endless inspiration from the beauty of the Great British countryside, and it is a joy to celebrate her specifical connection to Perthshire,” said Thomas Merrington, Creative Director, Penguin Ventures. “We are delighted to renew our partnership with Birnam Arts through the launch of this new Garden Trail, marking what would have been the 160th anniversary of Beatrix Potter’s birth.

"Our new garden trail complements our existing Beatrix Potter™ Exhibition by inviting visitors to step into the natural world that sparked Beatrix Potter’s imagination. The trail winds through the landscaped garden adjoining Birnam Arts, incorporating carved sculptures, storytelling, play and interactive elements that celebrate Potter’s legacy and her enduring love for Perthshire. It is a perfect day out for families and Potter enthusiasts!"

For more information please visit:  https://birnamarts.com/Beatrix-Potter