The Major's Grave

You'll find yourself standing at a modest stone cairn on the hillside above Crieff, paying respects to a man most people have never heard of. The Major's Grave marks the resting place of Major James Small, an 18th-century figure whose story is bound up with the Jacobite rebellions and the upheaval that reshaped Scotland. It's not a grand monument - there's something quite affecting about that. The setting itself rewards the walk: moorland stretches out, views open up across Perthshire, and you get a genuine sense of remoteness despite being within reach of town.

History buffs and those interested in Scottish folklore will find this worthwhile. It's the sort of place that rewards curiosity more than casual passing trade - you need to want to understand the story to get the most from it. The walk up takes a bit of effort, but nothing that deters determined ramblers. Allow 45 minutes to an hour including the ascent and time to absorb the location. There's no visitor infrastructure to speak of, so come prepared for moorland weather.

It pairs well with a Perthshire holiday if you're based at one of the parks nearby. Loch Earn Leisure Park sits just a couple of miles away, making this an easy morning outing. If you're staying at Balquhidder Braes further afield, it's still within reach for a half-day excursion. The grave sits on open access land, free to visit year-round, though autumn and early spring offer the best light for the views.