Pitlochry Festival Theatre sits beside the River Tummel in Pitlochry, across the water from the town centre. Its programme runs throughout the year, with drama, music and other live events in the main auditorium and Studio. Inside, comfortable seats and clear sightlines help keep the stage in view, while the sound carries well around the room. Leave time to see the gardens on the hillside beside the theatre, then stop at the cafe or browse the shop. Check the programme before you go to choose a performance.
A theatre founded in 1951
Pitlochry Festival Theatre began with a promise made by its founder, John Stewart. During the Second World War, he visited Pitlochry and resolved to return after peace was declared to establish a festival. The first festival took place in 1951, opening with a production of Maxwell Anderson’s Mary of Scotland.
For its first three decades, the theatre performed in a tent. The permanent building at Port-na-Craig opened in 1981, giving the festival a home on the banks of the River Tummel. The venue has since been extended, with a glass, brick and timber addition completed in 2022.
Performances in the auditorium and Studio
The theatre presents work throughout the year, with a programme that includes plays, musicals, comedy, music and talks. The summer season has included several productions in rotation, so a longer stay in Pitlochry can make it possible to see more than one show. Check the schedule for the dates of individual performances and which space they use.
Shows take place in the main auditorium and the Studio. The auditorium has comfortable seating, good views of the stage from different parts of the room and clear sound. Productions have ranged from classic works to contemporary plays and musicals.
Gardens and riverside access
The Explorers’ Garden occupies the slope beside the theatre and gives you another reason to visit before or after a performance. The theatre is across the River Tummel from the town centre, and pedestrians can reach it by the suspension bridge. The riverside setting also looks towards the surrounding hills.
There is a cafe and shop in the venue, along with parking. Access facilities include wheelchair-accessible seating, an entrance, toilets and parking, as well as an assistive hearing loop. If you are planning a visit around a show, check the programme and give yourself time for the garden and the walk over the river.
Preguntas frecuentes
How do you get to Pitlochry Festival Theatre from the town centre?
The theatre is across the River Tummel. You can walk over the suspension bridge to reach it.
Does Pitlochry Festival Theatre have a cafe?
Yes. The venue has a cafe, as well as a shop.
Are there accessible facilities at the theatre?
The venue has wheelchair-accessible entry, seating, toilets and parking, plus an assistive hearing loop.
What kind of performances are on at Pitlochry Festival Theatre?
The programme runs throughout the year and includes plays, musicals, comedy, music and talks. Check the schedule for current events.
