Blairgowrie and Rattray

See Blairgowrie for other places of this name.

Blairgowrie and Rattray (Blairgowrie - likely Scottish Gaelic Blàr Ghobharaidh and Rattray - possibly from an English language cognate of Scottish Gaelic ràth, meaning fortress + a Pictish term cognate with Welsh tref, meaning settlement) is a burgh in Perth and Kinross, Scotland.

The twin burgh lies in the Strathmore valley and straddles the River Ericht, which flows into the River Isla and then the River Tay. Rattray is on the east bank and Blairgowrie is on the west.

The town expanded greatly in the 19th century around the many jute mills on the river. It is the market town for the surrounding area and a centre for holidaymakers. Blairgowrie is well known as a passing point for tourists and ski-ers. The town of Rattray dates back to the mid 11th century.

Much of the expanding population works in the nearby cities of Dundee and Perth. Soft fruits such as raspberries and strawberries are grown locally.

The ski centre at Glenshee is some 18 miles to the north on the A93 Braemar road.

The Rattray ball game

The traditional ball game of Rattray no longer takes place, but the Rattray silver ball which was the trophy retained by the winners is still in existence. It is believed to have been donated by Sylvester Rattray of Nether Persie who became minister of Rattray in 1591 and continued there until his death in 1623. [1]

The Rattray silver ball is now kept at Perth Museum and Art Gallery. [2]