Pitlochry Highland Games - Visit Heathergems
The Pitlochry Highland Games return on Saturday 12th September. If you’re there to compete, cheer on the athletes or simply to take in the spectacle and atmosphere, you can take some time to visit Heathergems.
The Heathergems Factory Shop is just a 5-minute walk from the Recreation Grounds where the Pitlochry Highland Games take place.
Once there, you’ll be able to learn all about the process of creating heather gems, see your favourite pieces be manufactured and even pick up some stunning jewellery - with some items exclusive to the Heathergems shop.
Contact Heathergems to find out more.
About the Pitlochry Highland Games
Held on the Recreation Ground beside the River Tummel, the Pitlochry Highland Games are one of the longest-running gatherings on the Highland Games calendar.
First staged on 10 September 1852, they have run on the second Saturday of September almost every year since, pausing only for the World Wars and the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 2026 Games take place on Saturday 12 September, with gates opening at 9.30am and competition running through to around 5.30pm.
The day builds around the classic Highland Games disciplines.
Heavy events draw the biggest crowds, with caber tossing, hammer throwing and stone putting testing raw strength on the arena's open ground.
Alongside these, a full track and field programme covers running, cycling and children's races, giving the day something for younger visitors as well as competitive athletes.
Piping and dancing run throughout the day, from solo piping heats to Highland dancing competitions in various age categories.
The afternoon brings a tug of war championship, and the Games close with a real spectacle: massed pipe bands, spanning grades 1 to 4 plus novice and juvenile sections, parade around the field, backed by a drum majors' demonstration.
Pitlochry has traditionally been one of the last fixtures of the pipe band season, and in some years has attracted more than twenty bands from across the world for their final competitive outing of the year.
Book your tickets for the Pitlochry Highland Games.
Visiting Heathergems
With the games running from 9.30am to 5.30pm, you may want to take a break from the crowds to take a walk round the beautiful town of Pitlochry.
Visiting Heathergems is a must when exploring Pitlochry. Our friendly, experienced staff will be on hand to help you find the right piece of handmade Scottish jewellery for you.
You’ll also be able to view our skilled craftspeople create the unique jewellery and accessories you’ll find in our store - whether online or in person.
Find out more about visiting Heathergems or browse the range online.