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
Stay in touch on Social Media:
Opening hours
The Library is open for visitors Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sundays 2pm – 5pm until the end of October.
We have a varied and fascinating programme of events throughout the year: see our What’s On Page for details.
Online Catalogue Launch
The Library is excited to launch our new catalogue on Wednesday 30th April. Click here to book a place at one of our online webinar events: 10am | 4pm (BST).
Reading Forms : A new exhibition
2nd-31st May 2025: Textile artist Helen Gallogly presents a new exhibition of textile sculpture inspired by the Library’s collections. Details and booking here.
The Heritage Trail and grounds are open for visitors throughout the year. Do come and see our wonderful display of snowdrops in the grounds in Spring. Please be respectful to wildlife and take care beside the swift flowing river. The schoolroom is open for hot drinks (honesty box) during opening hours 10am – 4pm. Occasionally the schoolroom may be closed for events, we can arrange refreshments for groups if booked in advance.
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 collection – click 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.
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.
