Moncreiffe Island

Moncreiffe Island is a river island near Perth that divides the River Tay into two channels, covering about 46 hectares of land. The landscape contains open fields, a golf course, and garden plots spread across its length.

The island formed over time through natural river erosion and sediment deposits. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the northern section housed an innovative water filtration system that improved drinking water supply to the city of Perth.

The King James VI Golf Course shapes much of the island's character and daily use. The Perth Working Men's Garden Association maintains vegetable plots in the northern section where local gardeners tend their land.

The island is accessible from Perth via pathways and the viaduct, though access to specific areas may vary depending on the section. It helps to check which areas are publicly available before your visit, especially if you want to explore the gardens or golf course.

The island often goes unnoticed despite being Scotland's sole inhabited freshwater island outside Loch Lomond. Only a handful of people lived there permanently according to the last census, making it remarkably isolated for a place so close to the city.

Location: Perth and Kinross

Part of: River Tay

GPS coordinates: 56.38267,-3.42120

Latest update: December 21, 2025 16:05