A handy guide to Perth for Noel Gallagher

15 Feb 2018

BBC Music’s Biggest Weekend is coming to Perth as part of a four day music event across four nations. Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, Simple Minds, Amy MacDonald and The Shires will all be performing at Scone Palace on Saturday 26th May, a place steeped in history with stunning Gothic architecture.

It's set to be a fantastic weekend for the city in central Scotland. But what will our Noel most enjoy when he's up there? Here's our beginner's guide to Perth, created specially for the Oasis songwriter turned solo star.

The capital of Scotland in ancient times, Perth is a small and beautiful city perched on the banks of the River Tay. It's sometimes called the "Gateway to the Highlands," and local residents have a huge amount of glorious countryside on their doorsteps.

Although he grew up in the industrial metropolis of Manchester, Noel's wife Sara is Scottish, and their two children are half Scottish. So there's no doubt that the self-professed 'honorary Scotsman' will be totally inspired by Perth and its sublime surrounding scenery.

"Although it has all the conveniences of a city, its small status means it's easy to walk around, and indeed walk out of," says Amy Condon, a local resident and freelance sub-editor.

"Just a few minutes out of the city centre, and you can be climbing Kinnoull Hill for some spectacular views over the Carse of Gowrie down towards Dundee, or north to the Cairngorms. In the town itself, both the South Inch, and the riverside North Inch are lovely places to walk."

Perhaps the glorious views will inspire Noel to write a new song? We can only wait and see.

Culture vultures like singer-songwriter Noel have plenty to keep them occupied in Perth, which has a thriving arts, theatre and music scene. "There are really interesting collections at both Perth Museum and Art Gallery, and the Fergusson Gallery," says Amy. "The Concert Hall and newly-reopened Theatre welcome some incredible shows."

The River Tay Public Art Trail is also a brilliant experience, with a collection of stunning public artworks laid out along the picturesque river.

Perth's George Street is a great place for Noel to go and browse some of the city's many independent shops, with everything from vintage clobber to fresh flowers on display.

He'll need to keep his strength up, and luckily the city is also packed with nice places to grab a drink and a snack. "Perth has no shortage of great wee cafes," says Amy. "Us locals are sometimes branded 'Sconies' thanks to all the baked treats consumed!"

Perth is a pretty, bustling city, and the local residents can't wait to show it off. So Noel, when you head there for BBC Music's Biggest Weekend, you've got some great exploring to look forward to.

BBC Music's Biggest Weekend takes place in Perth on 26 and 27 May 2018. It's part of four special BBC Music events taking place across the UK.

Get more information here

Like us on Facebook, on Instagram at bbcradio2, or follow us on Twitter @BBCRadio2