Innerpeffray

A Unique Place in History

Turn the pages of history with a visit to Innerpeffray.  This tranquil place in rural Perthshire, at the heart of Scotland, is home to a multi-layered story waiting for you to explore. 

Central to the site is The Library:  Scotland’s first free public lending library founded in 1680.  Used by people from the local community until 1968, today you can still read the rare books in its diverse collection and trace the families who took the time to cross the fields in pursuit of knowledge, education or just fun.  Regular guided tours are available. 

Wander through the graveyard to the medieval St Mary’s Chapel of Innerpeffray to view some rare wall painting and experience the timeless atmosphere and beautiful acoustic.

A Roman road passes through Innerpeffray and the cutting from the river ford is still clearly visible today.  On the far bank the land rises to the site of Strageath Fort, an important staging post and supply depot for the Romans during their time in Scotland.

Innerpeffray School was founded at the same time as the Library and was operational until 1947.  The current building was built in 1847 and today hosts teas and events. It is available for hire.

Our Heritage Trail, opened in 2019 can be explored all year round. Trail markers tell the story of Innerpeffray through the centuries. Relax outdoors and soak up the peaceful scenery.

Contact

Phone: 01764 652 819

Email: info@innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk or fill in our form

Innerpeffray, By Crieff, Perthshire PH7 3RF

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Opening hours

The Library reopened for visits on 1st March 2024. Opening hours are Wednesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sundays 2pm – 5pm until the end of October. Admission price is £10, under-16s free.

March is Madertie Month

Throughout the month of March entry to the Library is free in honour of our Founder, David Lord Madertie. This free entry is sponsored by Friends of Innerpeffray Library and we hope you will take the opportunity to pay us a visit.

National Lottery Open Week

We’re delighted to be taking part to say #ThanksToYou to National Lottery players. Free entry and show your lottery ticket or scratchcard for a free gift! National Lottery Open Week runs from Sat 9th to Sunday 17th March 2024.

Important Information

It has come to our attention that a series of emails has been sent out to contact forms on websites purporting to make an appeal on behalf of our “volunteer ladies of Innerpeffray”. Each appeal seems to contain details specific to the organisation targeted.  These are not genuine. They do not represent our situation or staff in any way. We believe them to be AI generated. If you have received one please pass it on to us and if you have any concerns, please get in touch.

Look at our ‘What’s On‘ page for current and upcoming events and activities.

If you are not able to visit you can take one of our armchair virtual tours themed on some of the many topics in this unique collectionclick on Virtual Tours below for more information. And you can read more about the Innerpeffray collection in our blog – scroll down this page for the link.

The Library will continue to respond to research requests, shop purchases and please revisit the website for news and online activities.

The Heritage Trail and grounds are open for visitors throughout the year. Please be respectful to wildlife and take care beside the swift flowing river.

Refreshments

Take away hot drinks are available in the schoolroom during opening hours. Occasionally the schoolroom may be closed for other events, do check to avoid disappointment.

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