From Birnam Wood to Dunsinane Hill, the story of Macbeth is woven into the landscape of Perthshire. Our latest exhibition at Perth Museum explores the iconic Shakespearean play that has captivated audiences for centuries, alongside the story of the real King Macbeth, who reigned in Scotland 900 years ago. From the seventeenth-century stage to contemporary cinema, theatre, music, art, and even whisky, Macbeth continues to fascinate us. The exhibition will take visitors on a sumptuous, immersive journey through historical record and theatrical fantasy, getting up close and personal with treasures such as Shakespeare’s First Folio, where the tragedy of Macbeth was first printed, a medieval sword from the era of the real King Macbeth which has never been on public view, as well as costumes and objects from theatrical and film productions around the world. What better place to explore Macbeth than at Perth Museum, surrounded by the landscapes and places that inspired this iconic Scottish story. Under 16s and Culture Perth and Kinross Supporters go free.

Power. Betrayal. Legacy. Macbeth is a name that echoes through history and literature, but how much of the legend is truth? Join our expert curators for an exclusive, in-depth tour of Macbeth. In this captivating exhibition, we unravel the real and imagined Macbeth, the King and Legend. Discover how Shakespeare’s tragic antihero compares to the real King of Alba and explore the play’s profound cultural impact across centuries. From medieval battlefields to Jacobean politics, from regicide to royal propaganda, this exhibition reveals Macbeth’s enduring power in shaping Scottish identity. Walk among rare historical artefacts, dramatic theatrical relics, and cinematic treasures as you uncover the truth behind the myth. See history come to life – Stand before a rune-inscribed warrior’s sword, a remarkable and rare survivor from the 11th century that connects us directly to King Macbeth’s time. Experience Shakespeare’s Macbeth like never before – Get up close with the dramatist’s First Folio, perhaps the most famous publication in literary history. Uncover the power of kingship – examine King James VI’s treatise on witchcraft, The Demonology, the guidebook to an era of persecution, national paranoia, and appalling injustice. Led by our expert curators, this tour offers a rare opportunity to dive deeper into the objects, stories, and symbolism behind the legend. The ticket includes access to Macbeth: An Exhibition. Tickets cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers.

Step into the world of power, intrigue, and legacy with an exclusive whisky tasting like no other. This bespoke experience offers a rare opportunity to savour Act 2 of the exceptional Macbeth Collection – a collaboration between some of the most revered names in whisky and literature. This intimate tasting, curated by Livingstone Rare, specialists in ultra-rare and collectible spirits, will guide you through the artistry, history, and craftsmanship behind these extraordinary drams. Discover how the finest whiskies selected by Elixir Distillers, with character notes by renowned whisky writer Dave Broom and stunning illustrations by Sir Quentin Blake, ensure that this collection is a true testament to the power and depth of Macbeth, capturing the essence of Shakespeare’s iconic characters in every bottle. As you sip, immerse yourself in the dark and dramatic world of Macbeth, exploring the themes of power, fate, and ambition that mirror the complexity of the whisky in your glass. With limited places available, this is an unmissable experience for whisky connoisseurs, collectors, and literary enthusiasts alike. Event for Adults aged 18 and over. A full list of Whiskies is available on our website. As the witches say, “Time, thou anticipat’st my dread exploits.” Don’t miss your chance.

Step into a world of magic, mystery, and disgusting potions to discover some of the spookiest and strangest characters from Shakespeare’s Macbeth: the three witches, or “Weird Sisters,” as they’re also known. As part of the Macbeth exhibition at Perth Museum, join us for a fun family event filled with newts’ eyeballs, bat fur, and frogs’ toes. Hear about the witches and their role in the story in a reading from a modern children’s retelling of the play, and explore the song they sing as they add all kinds of gross ingredients to their bubbling cauldron. The audience will then be invited to help create a new, even more revolting spell in a group poetry activity.

Step into the world of medieval Scotland and design your own family crest! As part of the Macbeth exhibition at Perth Museum, join us for a hands-on, family-friendly adventure exploring the fascinating world of Scottish heraldry. The real King Macbeth ruled in a time of warriors and clans, where symbols and colours told stories of power, loyalty, and identity. But how did heraldry shape Scotland’s history? And what might Macbeth’s own crest have looked like? In this interactive session, families will discover the meanings behind medieval shields and emblems, learn how they were used in battle and politics, and even see how they connect to modern Scotland. Then, put your creativity to the test by designing and crafting your very own shield to take home—will you choose fierce animals, bold colours, or powerful symbols to represent your family? Perfect for young knights, history lovers, and creative minds—come and make your mark in Scotland’s story! Free drop-in session for children and families.

Walk in the footsteps of Perth’s past and discover more about its connections to the Jacobite Wars. Walking through the modern city, your guide will take you back in time with stories of the 1700s and what life would have been like for those fighting for and against the Jacobite cause in Perth. Find out where the Bonnie Prince took up residence during his stay here and of Perth’s gift to the victorious Duke of Cumberland. Additional Information: Attendees should arrive 10 minutes prior to tours. The tour begins and ends outside Perth Museum (North Entrance). Please be aware this is an outdoor event and may include steps or uneven surfaces. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Walk in the footsteps of Perth’s great past as your guide takes you back in time with stories of Perth’s Mercat Cross and the old Perth Harbour, transporting you into the medieval hub of life it once was. From clan battles to the murder of a king, the punishment of a wolf, and religious revolution, Perth has played an important role in Scotland’s medieval past. Additional Information: Attendees should arrive 10 minutes prior to tours. The tour begins and ends outside Perth Museum (North Entrance). Please be aware this is an outdoor event and may include steps or uneven surfaces. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Walk in the footsteps of Perth’s great past as your guide takes you back in time. From Viking trade connections to World War II, this tour will explore many aspects of Perth’s rich history, including stories of Perth Harbour, Cardinal Beaton, John Knox, the Scottish Reformation, Jacobite battles, and much more. Additional Information: Attendees should arrive 10 minutes prior to tours. The tour begins and ends outside Perth Museum (North Entrance). Please be aware this is an outdoor event and may include steps or uneven surfaces. Children must be accompanied by an adult.