Willowgate Activity Centre

Some places just make you want to ditch your phone, roll up your sleeves, and dive straight into the fun. Willowgate Activity Centre is one of those spots. Tucked along the banks of the River Tay, just a short hop from Perth city centre, it’s where fresh air meets pure adventure. Whether you're after a peaceful paddle or something to get the heart racing, Willowgate knows how to deliver a good day out.

Get on the water

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as a bit of a paddle pro, this is the place to prove it (or at least have a good laugh trying). The River Tay is your playground here, and there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it.

You can glide along in a kayak or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard — easier said than done when the Scottish breeze picks up! For something a bit different, there’s paddleboarding yoga. Yes, yoga... on a board... in the river. It’s as tricky as it sounds, but that’s half the fun.

Canoeing is also on offer, perfect if you prefer a more chilled-out way to explore the water with a pal. And if you’re feeling brave, there’s open water swimming sessions — surprisingly refreshing once you get over the initial ‘Scottish temperature’ shock!

Land adventures

It’s not all about getting your feet wet. Back on dry land, Willowgate keeps the energy going. Axe throwing is a must-try — there’s something oddly satisfying about landing a bullseye after a few wild throws.

Archery is another favourite. Whether you're channelling your inner Robin Hood or just hoping to hit the target, it’s great fun and harder than it looks.

For those who like a bit of strategy, there’s bushcraft sessions. Think fire-lighting, shelter-building and survival skills — ideal if you’ve ever watched those survival shows and thought, I could do that.

Family fun and group days

Willowgate isn’t just for adrenaline junkies. It’s a brilliant spot for families, friends, or even work teams looking for something different. They offer tailored packages for group activities, so whether it’s a birthday, a school trip, or a team-building day, they’ve got it covered.

Kids will love the mix of adventure and nature, and there’s always a friendly instructor nearby to guide you through the activities (and have a bit of banter along the way).

The Willowgate Café

After all that action, you’ll be more than ready for a cuppa and a bite to eat. The on-site café is a cosy spot with views over the river — perfect for warming up with some homemade soup or rewarding yourself with a slice of cake. If the sun’s out, grab a seat outside and soak up the peaceful surroundings.

Good to know

Willowgate is open year-round, but some activities are seasonal or weather-dependent — this is Scotland, after all. It’s best to book ahead, especially during school holidays and weekends.

There’s parking on-site, changing facilities, and all equipment is provided, so you just need to bring yourself (and maybe a towel if you’re hitting the water).

Whether you're looking to try something new, spend time outdoors, or just have a laugh with friends, Willowgate Activity Centre is a gem of a place that proves you don’t need to head to the Highlands for a proper Scottish adventure.

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