Perth: History, Trails and Culture

If you’re looking for a hotel in Perth, choosing the focus of your stay can help with planning your trip: architectural history, trails or cultural attractions. Perth combines historic sites with trails through downtown and a changing programme of theatre and film. The differences below can help you decide what to do.

Historic sites in the centre

Matheson House was built in 1840 and is a National Historic Site. The Perth Bandstand dates from 1852; it stands behind City Hall, beside Stewart Park. The five-acre park is in the centre of Perth. Gardens, old trees and bridges over the rivers shape its grounds. You’ll find a range of historic points of interest here, as well as parkland in the centre of town.

Code’s Mill also tells the story of Perth’s architectural history: the complex consists of five different buildings dating from 1842. Another architectural feature is the dry stone bridge. It was built without mortar in 2016 as a Bicentennial project. Opposite Code’s Mill stands a bronze statue honouring Ian Millar and Big Ben. These sites offer different points of interest—from historic buildings to a construction project and public art.

The Perth Museum houses the original pistols from Canada’s last fatal duel. If you want to plan for this part of the town’s history, check the pistols’ exhibition status before your visit. A guided walk, “Stories from the Settlement,” is led by the Perth Town Crier and explores the buildings, history and stories of historic Perth. Tour scheduling is seasonal and may change, so check the dates if you’d like to include the tour in your trip.

Trails and waterways

The Rideau Trail runs through downtown Perth and along the historic Tow Path. The Tay River Trail has its own historical connection: it is a historic trail and portage site, with a history dating back to the military founding of Perth-upon-Tay in 1816. The two trails therefore differ in their historical context. Conditions and notices for the Rideau Trail may change; check for current updates before planning your visit.

The Tay Canal provides another connection, linking Perth with the Rideau Lakes system. This connection adds a waterway to the town’s history. Conditions on the waterway may vary. If you’re planning a trip, check current notices in advance.

Theatre, films and local art

Studio Theatre Perth presents live theatre productions and also screens films, including selections from the TIFF Film Circuit and recent releases. The film and theatre programme changes over time; check current listings for your travel dates. The theatre’s lobby gallery features rotating works by local artists from Perth and the surrounding area. Together, the stage, films and gallery offer different ways to explore the town’s cultural scene.

The sights and trails offer a range of themes, while tour dates, exhibitions and performances may vary over time. This lets you plan your trip around the interests that matter most to your stay.

Discover more destinations: Lanark, Smiths Falls, Carleton Place, Almonte, Mcdonalds Corners.

Return to the main travel overview: Lanark County.