Birnam Arts and Conference Centre in Perth & Kinross

Popped in for coffee and a bun; lovely venue, made to feel very welcome and to cap it all, the coffee was the best we had had during our wee tour of the area

Perfect wee exhibition of Beatrix Potter and her time in Perthshire. The quotes were fabulous and brought her to life. It was a small exhibition but perfect for those who are not so able to wander round big places. The children who were there seemed to enjoy themselves immensely. The food in the cafe was delicious.

Was here for a friends Wedding on the 8th June Brilliant venue, excellent Auditorium and layout highly recommended , excellent location

We held an event here today and everything was perfect. The space is great, staff great and catering totally brilliant. Plus a lovely gift shop. Loved it - thank you.

We visited to see the Beatrix Potter Exhibition with family who were visiting and spent a lovely hour going around the exhibition, however our nice time was rudely interrupted by the elderly lady working in the cafe with dyed black curly hair. We have one child with serious allergies, so instead of one child feeling left out and risking cross exposure, we packed safe snacks for all the kids - going anywhere with allergies is an absolute nightmare, so we always do this. Most places are trained and appreciative of how hard it is to eat out with allergens and happy to make reasonable adjustments for this. All four adults ate from the cafe. When part of our order was delivered, we were told “this isn’t a picnic area, you can’t eat your own food, you wouldn’t take food in to McDonald’s” (whilst looking at the 2 year old eating her snacks) when I responded yes I actually would, we have a child with allergies, she asked if it was serious allergies to which I said yes and she scoffed and left, no apology, nothing. I must add that whether the children would be eating or not, they would still have to sit at the table and take up the same amount of space. Would the children also be prevented from sitting because they didn’t buy from the cafe? Still waiting on my food order twenty minutes later and having already finished my coffee and frustrated at the wait, I asked for a refund as we now felt hurried to leave because of how upset she was at the children eating snacks at the table without purchasing them in their cafe. I got the refund for my missing meal and we left without going to the shop or seeing the other art, it has left a bad taste in my mouth. We spent just shy of £100 in the place and to be spoken to like that was horrible. The elderly employee with dyed black hair really needs some training on customer service and manners. The way she looked at us as we left was awful, we will not be returning. This place is not welcoming of children or those with allergies - I dread to think how they would react to someone who is tube fed, probably told to eat outside - just avoid.

Choices were very limited. The quallity of the food was good. Unfortunately I found the prices to be rediculously inflated for what was on offer.

We popped in after a long walk for a sugar rush. The lady who served us was lovely. The tea was spot on, cakes superb and the lady serving us sorted out a Teddy bear cone for the ice cream for my daughter. It was a lovely atmosphere and that coupled with the Beatrix Potter exhibit was a great way to spend an hour.

My friend and I stopped in twice: on the way to Lochinver and then on the way back a couple of days later. Lovely, friendly atmosphere and a stunning location. I had the full Scottish breakfast on both visits and it is without a doubt the BEST full breakfast I've ever had. Extremely good value for money.

We were driving home from Gairloch to Edinburgh, and were looking forward to lunch here after an hour's driving in the rain on the A7. We know this is a good cafe as we've stopped here making similar journeys in each of the past three years. But: things had been disrupted by a bad thunderstorm, putting some of their systems out of action. We ordered smashed avocado on toast and a brie and cranberry toasted sandwich. To be followed by a slice of good-looking cake. And sat and waited … After waiting 30 minutes, no food arrived. And it transpired that our order had not reached the kitchen ! So we came home for tea instead.

As the local coffee shop was surprisingly closed on Jubilee Sunday afternoon, we looked for an alternative place and found the lovely Birnam Arts Centre. The staff were extremely helpful. What a surprise to find such a vast menu in this lovely venue just off the main road. I have walked past it many times before not knowing what a lovely coffee shop they had. The outdoor terrace area was lovely on a warm afternoon. Now that we know what delights are here, we will be back. Thank you.

Stopped here today with my daughter and 2yr old granddaughter for a drink and snack. We'll impressed with the range on offer especially the gluten free items. The food was delicious. The staff were friendly and extremely helpful. They were prepared to cater to the most serious aspects of dietary requirements in a knowledgeable and sensitive manner. Can most definitely say I will be back in the near future

We tried somewhere else for a cuppa but the wouldn’t let us in as they where shutting in 55mins!!!!!!!!!!!! Thankfully we wondered further along the road and found this little gem of a cafe. Staff were very friendly and the scones were amazing. Five different types of jam available, I had the raspberry and it was so tasty. Will definitely be back 👍👍

Very nice food. Dog friendly. Helpful staff. Lovely displays of art and craft work. Good gift shop. Beatrix Potter area for children.

Lovely cafe inside this spacious art centre. The food was delicious (my toastie was perfect and so was my partner's soup) and the ladies behind the counter were lovely. They persuaded us to try some of their homemade cakes and they were so right! They were perfectly moist and delicious. So, if you're looking for a place to have a bite in Birnam, give it a go. Food is good and the prices are super reasonable.

Amazing lunch. Hot smoked Salmon salad, humus sandwich, carrot with ginger soup and a bacon roll went down very well with our family. Also oat milk coffee and gluten free bread was a win :).

Really high quality food with exceptional service (staff couldn't do enough for our great grandson. Soup is recommended.

We’ve been meaning to try the cafe here for ages. We finally made our first visit this week for lunch and would certainly return. Our homemade soup with sourdough bread was very tasty and we followed up with some really delicious chocolate cake and carrot cake, which were both really light. All of the people who served us were very friendly and welcoming. Good value for money given the quality provided.

We love this place but have a plea - please please bring back your smoked haddock fish cakes they were fantastic (I know you need to refresh your menu from time to time but a burger or a halumi burger is no substitute!)

We visited for a late lunch with three of the family requiring gluten free choices. Nothing was too much for the very helpful and welcoming staff. The soup was delicious and served with gluten free bread as wss the blt sandwich. Even coffee was available using a choice of non dairy milks. Thoroughly enjoyed and recommended.

Coffee was delicious and was accompanied by a freshly iced and jamed empire biscuit. I actually can't describe how nice it was. The staff were lovely and the giftshop had loads of nice... Gifts. It specialised in Peter rabbit stuff which my son was on board with. We bought him a plate, of which there were many to choose from.

Great place to go for a lovely freshly baked scone. So often the jam let's the scone down but not here! Delicious raspberry jam to complement a fluffy scone. Then if you fancy you can visit the Beatrix Potter exhibition (free) or browse on the shop. A lovely place to visit-highly recommend it.

Enjoyed 2 lunches at this venue while staying at a nearby hotel. delicious soups on both occasions (spinach and butternut squash, orange & ginger), nice sandwiches and tasty frittata. Also had very moreish Stewarts' chocolate orange ice cream. Eclectic programme and interesting photographic exhibition while we were there.

Came her for a musical event, was picking up the ticket at the box office, so went off start time for event on facebook which wasnt the same time it started, so unfortunately missed first half, was ushered in like a naughty school child, had travelled along way on public transport from North West England shame I didnt feel welcomed, it kind of spoilt my night. Good selection of local beers at the bar, seemed like a nice venue and the sound was good, just a bit unfriendly to out of towners, thankfully my hotel was friendly and welcoming

Great cafe for breakfast, lunch or brunch. Food always good and service faultless. There is usually a great selection of cakes. I love coming here, it is a bright and interesting space.

We enjoyed a lovely lunch and an afternoon with our children at the Peter Rabbit exhibition. An ideal way to spend a rainy afternoon.

Met up with family here for a bite of lunch. A limited choice on the menu but perfect for a snack lunch and it was very good. The town is very busy and it’s difficult to park, so this was ideal.

Terry was thrilled to discover that she could enjoy a coconut milk latte !! There's only a few specialist coffee shops (usually the larger chains) that cater for folks with specific dietary issues, so finding a small independent coffee shop in this tiny, tiny place just made Terry's day.

After a visit to the Beatrix Potter Gatden, we poped in here for a browse. We ended up having lunch, very satisfying. Pleasant helpful staff, prompt service and decent prices. I would definitelyrecommend this venue.

Excellent coffee and tea. The scones were so fresh we had to wait for them coming out of the oven. Also so good to be offered a selection of different jam. Thank you

A lovely cafe, great cup of coffee and pleasant staff. All cakes are covered and served by staff, good for hygiene. Dishes being served to others looked appetising and prices were reasonable. Avery positive experience.

I attended the SCDA One Act Festival here over three nights. The venue is excellent and the range of arts and crafts is worth seeing. The venue is spacious and clean with very polite and helpful staff. Would thoroughly recommend a visit.

Came here for a workshop this week. Can honestly say that this was the best conference lunch I’ve had (in the UK), ever. Really great homemade food, imaginative salads, tasty and certainly not the usual curled sandwiches and out of season fruit. The weather was cold this week, but the auditorium was freezing despite some heaters being provided. Everyone sat with coats and scarves on for the whole 2 days

Attracted by the Beatrix Potter exhibition in the building but found the Arts Centre of interest too. Worth a visit and a chance for a meal/snack in it's restaurant although fairly pricey for what you get

I’ve attended this venue on various occasions in the past for conferences and found it very welcoming.

Had been attending workshop in centre & decided to grab lunch before heading off. Table service, but it was v slow and seemed that other diners did better by going to counter & ordering. Seem to be plenty of staff - just a bit disorganised. Ordered soup & sandwich combo - really delicious homemade pea & courgette soup & sandwich generously filled, with salad on the side. All really fresh, and excellent value, just need staff to be more on the ball.

As I was with a group, I didn't have the opportunity to select the food we had for lunch. However, I found the arrangements a bit chaotic and twice had to chase up my coffee. Staff were overworked.

Has an amazing photo exhibit of Scottish landscapes on at the moment. Good coffee, close to Birnam station.

Stopped off at Birnam Arts Centre yesterday. I travel solo a lot and this venue is perfect if you just want to relax and read a newspaper in relative peace and quiet. Tables were spotlessly clean and waitress was very attentive and friendly. Ordered the full breakfast and a coffee, both arrived together and were piping hot. The breakfast was incredibly fresh and tasty, the black pudding was a highlight - simply delicious ! just one gripe - the sausage was rock hard to the point I couldn't even cut it which was a pity as everything else on the plate was perfect. Lovely place to stop off on travels though, toilets were immaculate and whilst I didn't do the Beatrix Potter exhibition, I did make some purchases in the shop and the staff there were also very friendly.

I had long had my eye on visiting this centre after seeing several photos of the Beatrix Potter Garden. It did not disappoint. The Potter exhibition was beautifully designed with elegant vintage style toys, exceptionally crafted dressing up clothes and imaginative play areas for my children to enjoy. This left me free to be able to read the information boards and find out about the fascinating history of the area. All of our family came away having enjoyed a relaxed and fun visit. My only wish it that there was a small guide book or booklet with some of the information from the exhibition which I could take away with me (for a price of course!) But otherwise...perfect!

I've been here for different reasons, most recently for a lunch to meets friends. Good food and service,clean toilets, light and airy space, exhibition up stairs. Interesting, clean well stocked shop, good for presents. There's also the Beatrix Potter exhibition area (didn't visit) They have an amazing range of events and speakers in their largest room, attracting well known people and plays.

This was a nice place to meet friends. It was clean and had lots of outdoor seating. The food was simple but lovely. It was unfortunate that two of our group got served their meals 20 minutes before the rest of us. It would have been nicer to eat together.

We had a lovely breakfast here (delicious scrambled eggs on toast - others had breakfast rolls) but were so tempted by the ice cream we had to come back after our walk.

I was early for check-in, so stopped off at the cafe here. It was packed and noisy, and although there was supposed to be table service, the staff seemed overwhelmed. But, a place to sit down, and a toilet, I am glad to have found it. They look to have interesting shows.

We arrived early as lunch starts at 12 but the took our order and it was ready not long after 12. We had children and it was child friendly . The shop is well stocked and small garden god for children to get rid of some energy although it would be good to see more Beatrix Potter animals hiding. Perhaps we did not look hard enough.

Went for lunch with my daughter (11 months) after hearing it was a good baby friendly cafe. Certainly is, great food and really friendly and helpful staff. Will definitely be back more often '

As someone who regularly travels the A9 this is a pleasant alternative to the overpriced "destination" stops at Bruar and Bankfoot and as community venture one can forgive the wee faults you might find if you were a fussy so & so . Nice atmosphere to relax in

A crowd of us met here for lunch. We just had soup and sandwiches but the quality was excellent. The bread was particularly soft and delicious. Good staff too.

On the way north we stopped in Birnam for coffee and cake. Modern but not much character, young but polite staff. Vary average coffee in this day and lemon drizzle cake moist but not lemony.

A largish group of friends ate here after exploring the local paths network. Although it was lunchtime and after the declared time for the breakfast service, the staff were helpful and happy to give us a range of breakfast rolls. Being an awkward bunch we all chose something different - bacon, egg, sausage, black pudding in various combinations. The vegetarian sausages were deemed to be some of he nicest of their kind.

We had a good bowl of soup and some tasty scones. Interesting Art work and a very attractive shop. Haven't been able to try the various concerts but some interesting sounding evenings.

A wonderful Arts Centre supporting local exhibitions and functions includingTheatre/Music/ Comedy. There is a large cafe/restaurant serving a good selection...

A group of 6 of us dropped in for lunch. Great atmosphere. Friendly cheery service and lovely food. Good choice...

My husband performed here and the audience and staff were wonderful. A real love for chamber music and a very...

Aparecimos en el almuerzo. Es el servicio de mesa, pero no era totalmente claro, así que estábamos de pie un poco antes nos dimos cuenta. Teníamos dos sopas y dos tazas de té. La sopa estaba bien y venía con tortas. Buen lugar para almorzar.

Me gusta comer aquí. Comida fresca y los precios muy razonables. Espacio aireadas y siempre hay interesantes exposiciones de arte. Bonito tienda de regalos también.

Visiting Dunkeld, we were advised by the lady in tourist information to walk to Birnam, we gazed in awe at the famous oak tree and then made our way here for lunch. Salmon salad and soup and toastie combo were both tasty and service was excellent. Fascinated to learn about the Beatrix Potter connection too.

We live in Dunkeld so this place is a regular treat for us. Great for breakfast, lunch or coffee n cake! Also they usually have good exhibitions, workshops and shows and the shop is nice too!

Travelling with a man from Melbourne makes it tricky to find a cup of coffee that will make him happy - but Birnam Arts centre managed it! Lovely little cafe perfect for a bit of lunch and a coffee whilst on the road.

I have parked near this place numerous times over the years but always thought it was just a conference centre, but I couldn't have been more wrong as it had a lovely cafe where we bought delicious scones with what tasted and looked like home made jams and the coffee's were delicious too. We also visited the shop that was filled with Beatrix Potter Items and other interesting and quality things and then booked a visit to see Doug Allan the Wildlife Cameraman in July in the Theatre. Well satisfied

came to this place to hear all about a young adventurer and his travels.. the staff were so friendly and pleasant,, and the place is very well laid out,, and was quite busy..

Great exhibition on when I visited. Welcoming, friendly staff. Good food and coffee. A great place to catch some brilliant touring theatre or music. Well worth a stop.

I normally like this place but my scone was very disappointing - pale, undercooked and a bit tasteless. I would recommend you put some effort into getting the baking right.

What a show, great personal venue. Will definitely look for more shows coming there as not too far from Dundee and loved the place. Seann Walsh, if you've never seen him, go do it, he was brilliant.

The exhibition is reasonably informative and there are activities for children. Parking was a bit of a nightmare.

Waited for ages at an uncleared table. Eventually my son and his friend went up to make an order. The girl was very abrupt and there was no apology for the long wait. When the food arrived , the table still uncleared, we had to ask for sauce. No cutlery, napkins or straws given or offered nor a smile or an acknowledgement. Very disappointed.

What a grand building and I assume a lot for what it is intended for is very good.However the bit I witnessed was disappointing. The cafe area with it's cold atmosphere and not good value for what you get. As for the poor effort of trying to squeeze the association of Beatrix Potter to gain revinue out of tourests is tacky and cheap to say the least. What, a little play room at £3, adults and children. I am just glad I did not have any children with me to disappoint.Ok, the little themed park just outside was free but could of been a lot better.

Fantastic experience. After a rather long jaunt around The Hermitage, we popped into the Centre for mid walk cuppa. Found the staff hugely helpful, placing tables and chairs outside in order that we could sit with the dogs. The 2 ladies in the gift shop were lovely and over and above helpful when making enquiries about the area.Would definitely recommend a visit. 5* :D

Good food and service and reasonably priced. As it is open plan with events, shops, play area it can sometimes be a little noisy. It is very popular place and can be busy.

I attended a privately organized workshop here recently and was very impressed with this lovely venue and its facilities - there are hotels in big cities that could take a leaf out of these guys' books! The refreshments and food laid on was of a high standard and dinner in the evening was also very tasty (and they had no problems catering to the needs of a coeliac in our party). The staff were very friendly and accommodating too.Going back to the cafe the next day after a walk in the Hermitage, I can confirm that the cakes are seriously good!Oh, and it's very handy for the train station.

We attended a wedding reception here. The food was very nice and the service was good too. This is a nice, simple venue for a wedding reception. It was light and airy and the hall was very clean and nicely decorated.Clean toilets and good baby changing facilities.

Just off the A9 and close to Dunkeld this facility offers such a lot for a modest sized community. There is a cafe that provides basic meals throughout the day. It is a great center for culture,art and there is a library, A Beatrix Potter shop and a range of activities. This is not Edinburgh, it is small town pleasant, geared for the locals who will welcome you.

Small gallery's of art nothing to write home about more of a cafe Wanted £3 to see the small display of Beatrix potter as it was very small considered not worth the £3 each to have a look

Didn't notice any of the art and gave the shop a body-swerve but the grub is fantastic. Had to dodge some rampaging rug rats - you might be luckier.

Excellent service as always. Was disappointed that the 5 and 7 piece breakfast choice has been replaced with a set Scottish breakfast. Also would have expected lorne sausage and potato scone not link and Irish soda scone. Was still delicious but not what I was looking forward to.

Perfect for a quick soup and a sandwich lunch. Very tasty made on the premises and served with a smile. Perfect too if you're in a hurry. In the evening it's a theatre too with a good variety of entertainment. I saw a show and loved it. First class all round.

Always stopped off on our way to our holidays for a quick lunch, the staff are very smiley, polite and helpful. On top of that the food is fantastic, especially the wedges, it's great value and will continue to return.

We decided to have a hearty breakfast before doing some hill walking and were able to choose between a five or seven item breakfast. There were no hash browns available that day but plenty of other choices for us. The atmosphere was relaxed and very friendly and I noticed that a couple of people were busy on their laptops as there was wifi in the coffee shop.

We wanted to see both the Beatrix Potter Exhibition and go into Birnam Wood and managed to do the first, as well as see the harden dedicated to the authors memory&tales, however it was pouring with rain and we couldn't see the Birnam Oak Tree in the forest, so we decided on a pistol at the arts centre. We had scampi and wedges and a toastie. Both enjoyable and fresh, seen lots of modern stuff and lots of kids and families enjoying themselves. Nice to see.

We were meeting friends here as the younger children could pay at the Beatrix Potter exhibition. I enjoyed the selection of local arts work on display and would like to return when the theatre is showing. The coffee shop has a wide range of foods available, which we enjoyed.

We've come here a few times over the years. Initially it was for the Beatrix Potter exhibition, a great way to while away time with small children whatever the weather. The shop also has interesting bits and pieces in it. Now that our son is older we still come back for the excellent food, cakes, coffees and today hot chocolate. Service is always really friendly and the free wifi is an added bonus.

This was a venue for concert during The Perthshire Amber festival. Well run venue with comfortable seats and good sound. Fairly modern wit bright and clean architecture. Nice cafe with interesting art exhibitions on display. Prices seemed reasonable. The overall programme of events and productions was mixed and varied. I would have preferred to see more contemporary music in the programme, The Perthsire Amber events were the only music evensts that appealed to me

A pleasant cafe in an airy modern building. Great split pea soup with black pudding rolls. We followed our meal with coffee and teas. Service was quick by pleasant well mannered staff.

Visited this cafe after a walk at the Hermitage and were impressed by the homemade food on offer. There is also a Beatrix potter exhibition and shop to keep the kids happy

Whilst visiting nearby Pitlochry, we picked up a brochure for Birnam Institute and booked to see a life act "The Rainbow Girls". This is an excellent venue, with a decent sized theatre and large stage. The bar/restaurant area is modern, clean and welcoming and although we didn't have any food on this occasion, the menu looked very good (we'd already eaten elsewhere). There is a good range of reasonably priced drinks (which we did sample). Although Birnam itself is a relatively small place, it is great that they have such a good arts centre. In the words of Arnie Schwarzanegger "We'll be back"

Stopped en-route north up A9 after reading reviews. We had coffee and home made scones with beautiful homemade jam.A great place for coffee or a light meal if travelling as only 5 minutes from main road with plenty of free parking

Attended Birnam Arts Centre for a wedding reception I couldn't have the buffet as I am gluten intolerant but the staff made me a tasty chicken salad with rice cakes. It was wonderful they went out of their way for me which was lovely.

Visited the arts centre at the weekend for our Yoga teacher training course and love the underfloor heating, this is a treat when lying relaxing on our yoga mats! Great service, our lunch provided was fab and I'd love the recipe to make it again!

Great smoked salmon salad, lovely coffee and usually a healthy homemade soup. Great outside space too if the weather is nice... staff are always amazing!

The center provides a number of helpful things. Tasty snacks, a library and wifi. The Beatrix Potter exhibition is the same shared entrance. The home bakes are delicious and we found the staff truly helpful.

Great choice of home baking and simple but well prepared and tasty savoury foods. Good choice of drinks, relaxed atmosphere, interesting art exhibits, lovely outside area and friendly staff.Well worth a pitstop for lunch or to visit for a show in the evening

In a two week stay had breakfast here 3 times! Just couldn't resist the Lorne sausage, bacon, black pudding combo although you can choose. The service was friendly and efficient. The breakfast was simply yummy, great taste, not greasy, good portions and the coffee is also great. Well worth a visit, lovely ambience.

5 of us had lunch here. Soup and toasties were fab. Big bowl of soup and plenty of fillings in toasties. Tuna Baked potato was ok but a wee bit dry! Friendly, quick service. Good value for money. The cakes and scones looked amazing but we were too full to try them. Lots of choice of specials as well.

Birnam Arts Institute is not only a great creative centre for exhibitions, shows and concerts their cafe is great place to eat too.The menue offers good freshly made food with a nice variety of sandwiches, soup and main meals.They also serve a good range of homemade goodies. The staff are friendly and helpful.If you are visiting Perthshire I would recommend a stop off here and then have a wander around the lovely wee town of Dunkeld.

Nice friendly cafe inside the Birnam Arts centre, coffee, tea, great cakes and light meals. Shop worth a browse, there is a (pay to get in) exhibition about Beatrix Potter and her links to Perthshire and a beautiful free Beatrix Potter garden at the side.

Friendly, nice environment. Good food - nice lunches & great cOffee / cakes. Very varied programme of events for all ages. Excellent place to go with the family - Beatrix Potter experience lovely for younger children.

We nip in here for lunch regularly. You know that you can always get a good selection of omnivore and veggie food, a decent cup of tea/ coffee and a bit of peace. Their soups are excellent - served with good bread, rolls or rice cakes, they can be a meal in themselves. It's the kind of place that people are happy to sit alone and work and eat, whilst others bring their families as it's well set up for children. The menu changes frequently and they've got a licence, so there's always the option of a sneaky beer or wine. The get a lot of repeat business because they're good at what they do.

Had a great night at the twin atlantic concert with my daughter.Very friendly staff,hard worked as a very busy venue.

A lovely cafe... and open on a cold Sunday in January. .. thank you! So glad to find you today! Now for the riverside walk before it gets dark. ..

This community centre is right in the middle of Birnam with plenty free street parking.There is a gift shop.meeting rooms for arts events and shows good toilets and a café serving a wide range of meals served by a young enthusiastic staff.

An excellent buffet meal as part of our yoga training course. The creamy mushroom pasta was delicious! And the morrocan veg with cous cous was very tasty! The Birnam Arts Centre was a fantastic venue. Thanks to everyone for looking after us so well.