Explore the unique landscape of the River Tay and its tributary the River Earn from the water. The Tay is the longest river in Scotland, running from the Highlands down to the North Sea. For millennia people have paddled these historic waters. Indeed, archaeologists recently excavated a 3,000 year-old logboat from the mud beside the Tay at Carpow.
The lower section of the River Tay, near the confluence with the Earn, is a great place to discover by canoe, with stunning views of one of the most beautiful and historic regions of Scotland. The Lower Tay Canoe Trail provides online resources for paddlers planning trips in the area around Perth, Newburgh, and Bridge of Earn.
The trail is great for newcomers building their skills as well as for experienced paddlers. You can paddle from Bridge of Earn to Ferryfield of Carpow (where the Earn meets the Tay), or from Perth to Newburgh, or mix and match. The main starting points are:
This is a great trail for newcomers building their skills as well as for experienced paddlers. You can paddle from Bridge of Earn to Ferryfield of Carpow, where the river Earn meets the Tay or from Perth to Newburgh – or mix and match. The main starting points are:
- Almondmouth
- Stanners Island
- Willowgate Activity Centre
- Newburgh
- Bridge of Earn
Go to the map page to discover more about each of these sites.
Remember when paddling to prepare well and stay safe. Make sure you have sufficient skills – or go
with someone who does. Never paddle on your own. A guided tour is a good way to explore this
trail.
Always bring, or hire, safety equipment and be aware of risks and hazards:
- Ships use the river to and from Perth Harbour
- The river is tidal and can be in spate – check before you start
- Avoid the mudflats and a sewerage outflow shown on the map
- Avoid touching giant hogweed – it causes blisters and scars
- Avoid the conservation areas shown on the map
In an emergency, phone 999 – there is no dedicated river rescue service in this
area.
The River Tay from Open Virtual Worlds on Vimeo.