Let's start by tackling the pronunciation of Alyth, which can catch people off guard. It's pronounced "AY (as in hay)-lith" - simple once you know it!
This quaint town in Perthshire is a place that many don't know about, but those who discover it are often charmed.
Stumbling Upon a Hidden Treasure
So, why did we choose Alyth?
Actually, we didn’t – it sort of chose us. You know how these things go. You spot a house online and drive past to rule it out. Then you decide to view it – just to rule it out, of course. And before you know it, you've fallen in love and that's it!
Two of my many criteria – quite high up on the list actually – were to find a house that was close to a lovely village and with walks from the doorstep.
Lucky me, both of those boxes were well and truly ticked.
Don't expect a tourist town; do expect a friendly, thriving community
Alyth may be a town, but it has a wonderful village-like feel. This is perfectly exemplified by the local charity shops – Thrifty One and Thrifty Two. Here, you'll find all sorts of gems and enjoy a good chat too, with all proceeds benefitting local groups.
For everyone's convenience there are a range of useful stores. These include a butcher, a well-stocked Co-op, chemist, hardware store and a wonderfully old-fashioned grocer. There are also cafes and small gift and craft shops enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The monthly publication, 'The Alyth Voice', is adept at keeping everyone abreast of the plethora of clubs, societies and events happening through the year. Most of these are of course for the locals, but there is plenty in Alyth for visitors too.
Exploring Alyth's Historic Sites
Alyth is full of fascinating historical landmarks that reflect the town's rich heritage.
The Pack Bridge, one of the oldest masonry bridges in Scotland, was built to carry packhorses loaded with side bags or panniers across the Alyth burn. The Market Cross at the top of Tootie Street reflects the fact that Alyth was once a prominent market town in the area.
Then there's the 'Auld Arches' on the site of a 13th Century church; a Pictish Stone within the entrance to the Parish Church and some wonderful streets and buildings reflecting Alyth's fascinating past.
The Heart of the Community
The town square gives Alyth a natural heart – it's particularly pretty at night with the trees lit up, or in December with the Christmas lights. Across the river sits the Alyth Hotel, recently refurbished and, as I type, nominated for several awards. A great spot to stop for a drink or good pub-grub.
There's a biannual market where you will find lots of local stalls. In summer a duck race and at Halloween this year there was even a fabulous Haunted Scarecrow Trail!
Embracing the Charm of Alyth
If Alyth sounds like the sort of place you'd like to get away to, we'd be delighted to welcome you to Craigellie House. Come and enjoy the charm and community spirit of this beautiful rural town and vicinity for yourself. It's little wonder that the community action plan group have the caption LOVE ALYTH. Who wouldn't?
