Perth & KinrossCentral Scotland & TaysideRegions of Scotland

The Enchanted Forest

The Enchanted Forest is a spectacular outdoor event set in Faskally Wood in Perthshire. This popular nighttime show uses the dramatic background of the autumnal woods as the stage for an incredible light and sound experience. Discover everything you need to know about The Enchanted Forest in this complete visitor guide.

Enchanted Forest
Address:Pitlochry,
Perthshire,
PH16 5
Opening Hours:29th September – 30th October
Admission Price:Child Under 3: Free
Child 3 – 15: £13
Adult: £23
Family Ticket: £65
Parking:Paid car parks in Pitlochry. No parking at the event.
Contact:tickets@enchantedforest.org.uk
Facilities:Disabled access, toilets, food and drink stalls, shuttle bus

Overview

Set in the beautiful Faskally Wood just north of Pitlochry, The Enchanted Forest is a spectacular outdoor event that uses the dramatic background of the autumnal woodland as the stage for a light and sound show. The event takes you on a walk through one of Forestry Commission Scotland’s most picturesque sites, where you’ll be dazzled by an array of dancing lights that play across the trees, accompanied by music and sounds.

Faskally Wood is worth visiting at any time of the year as this section of Tay Forest Park offers a multitude of enjoyable walks on easy-access paths. On a sunny afternoon with the sun reflecting off the waters of Loch Dunmore, it has to be one of the most scenic locations in Perthshire – but the colours go into overdrive when The Enchanted Forest event starts in October.

This multi-award-winning event has been running since 2002 and is now renowned for being one of Scotland’s most elaborate art shows, with elements of coloured lights, classical music, and water combining to produce a feast for the senses.

It’s a family-friendly occasion too, and it’s an event that anyone can enjoy, from toddlers to pensioners. If you’re looking for a unique experience that can be enjoyed by all ages, you’re going to love The Enchanted Forest.

The Enchanted Forest

The Highlights

1: The Enchanted Forest event is renowned for its awe-inspiring light shows. Set in the stunning woodland setting of Faskally Wood near Pitlochry, the event features innovative and immersive light displays that transform the forest into an enchanted wonderland. Each year, a unique theme is chosen to shape the light show, so returning the following year is always a new experience.

2: The event is very family-friendly and has excellent facilities including a story-telling tent and food stalls. Just be prepared to have deep pockets for the little knick-knacks and kids’ toys that are sold across the site.

Visiting Tips

1: I recommend booking one of the twilight tickets so you can see The Enchanted Forest in two different settings – just as the light is fading and again when it’s full darkness.

2: On-site food and drinks are quite pricey, so if you want to save money I recommend eating in Pitlochry before you depart. There are several cafes in the town as well as a few hotel restaurants.

3: Looking for other attractions in the area? Two recommended places to visit within ten miles of Faskally Wood are Blair Castle and The Birks of Aberfeldy.

Enchanted Forest

Tourist Information

You might think a woodland walk with a few lights flashing about sounds a bit lame, but you honestly can’t appreciate what a spectacle it is until you see it in person. As you leave the tour bus that drops you at the edge of the woods you initially hear classical melodies played over a series of loudspeakers, but it’s only on entering the woodland that you truly get a feel for the scale of the artwork.

Faskally Wood is centred around Loch Dunmore, and paths running around the loch let you watch light shows playing out across the water as well as surrounding you on all sides. As you walk around the pathways you’re thrown into a world of timed lights and musical soundscapes projected against the forest, with each year showcasing a new theme so that no two visits are ever the same.

My recommendation is to take the time to walk around the site both clockwise and anti-clockwise as there’s so much going on you’ll likely miss something on your first walk. And for another top tip – try to book an early evening show as you’ll get the opportunity to see the spectacle both in the twilight and the dark of night, which are two entirely different experiences.

Families are particularly well catered for and there are plenty of activities to keep children entertained thanks to a storytelling yurt that tells tales of ancient folklore, wee gift kiosks that sell light-up toys, and catering vans selling hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows. There are also artisan beefburgers and hotdogs in case the cold night air makes you long for something more substantial.

Note that access for private vehicles to The Enchanted Forest is allowed for disabled visitors only. All other visitors must travel to the event on the official shuttle bus which departs from the centre of Pitlochry. Your ticket includes a transfer to and from the centre of Pitlochry to Faskally Woodt with no additional charge. Also, be aware that it isn’t possible to take a taxi to the site except for disabled blue badge holders who will be given specific instructions on booking.

Enchanted Forest

Things to Do

Exploring the Enchanted Trail: Discover the magic of Faskally Forest with The Enchanted Forest Trail. As you wander through the woodland you’ll be greeted by stunning light displays that transform the trees into a riot of colour, while sound installations play a symphony of accompanying music.

Interactive Art Installations: The Enchanted Forest is not just about passively observing the light show, but also about becoming a part of it. Interactive art installations scattered throughout the forest invite guests to engage with the art, altering colours, creating sounds, and letting their imaginations run wild.

Storytelling Sessions: Add a touch of whimsy to your visit with the storytelling sessions held in the forest. Talented storytellers weave enchanting tales inspired by local folklore which are best accompanied by a delicious cup of hot chocolate and a stick of toasted marshmallows.

Eat in Pitlochry: After a visit to The Enchanted Forest, head back to Pitlochry and enjoy a meal in one of the town’s many pubs and restaurants. There’s a great selection of family favourites to choose from, from traditional Scottish dishes to international cuisine.

The Enchanted Forest

Things to Do Nearby

Craigower. Pitlochry PH16 5LB. 30-minute drive.
Scenic point in Tay Forest Park.

Tay Forest Park. Pitlochry PH16. 20-minute drive.
Large forest park featuring a collection of managed and off-road paths and walking/biking trails.

Linn of Tummel. Pitlochry PH16 5NP. 8-minute drive.
A nature reserve that’s known for its tumbling waterfalls.

Pitlochry Fish Ladder. Pitlochry PH16 5BF. 6-minute drive.
A location on the River Tummel where Salmon can be seen swimming upstream.

Blair Athol Distillery. Perth Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5LY. 5-minute drive.
Whisky distillery featuring guided tours, tasting experiences, a café and a gift shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the first Enchanted Forest in Pitlochry?

The first Enchanted Forest event in Pitlochry took place in 2002.

How long does The Enchanted Forest take?

Visitors should expect to take 60 to 90 minutes to complete a walk of The Enchanted Forest light show, excluding time for drinks and snacks.

What time does The Enchanted Forest show start?

The enchanted forest times change with the hours of darkness. The time of each event is listed when purchasing tickets. Visit The Enchanted Forest tickets page for the current times.

How long does the shuttle bus take?

The shuttle bus between Pitlochry and Faskally Wood takes approximately 10 minutes.

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Craig Neil

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest, Facebook, and YouTube.