When driving into Perth yesterday on the A93, I was suddenly struck by the imposing splendour of the Beech Hedge at Meikleour near Blairgowrie (see photo). I have driven past this for the best part of 20 years and just accepted it as part of the landscape, but for some reason yesterday - perhaps the sunlight on it, I realised it really is spectacular.
It stands 120ft tall at the highest point and is approximately 600ft long. Since 1966 it has had the accolade of the tallest beech hedge in the world and it has a romantic history. It is said it was planted by a woman named Jean Mercer and her husband Robert Nairne. Both lived in the small nearby village of Meikleour. Robert Nairne, it is believed, was later killed on the battlefield of Culloden. The hedge is now maintained by the Meikleour Trust and it takes 4 men around 5 weeks to keep it looking good.
Unless you know it is there, it's quite easy to miss. On the A93 from Blairgowrie it is just at the end of the long straight on the right hand side. Coming from Perth on the A93 it's not so easy to see. Once you're over the Isla bridge (with the traffic lights) continue along and round the slight right hand bend. You will see a small lay-by on your left. Park there if you can. The hedge is above you but the best view is from the north side. There is a pavement which you can use to walk the length of it. Shame it does not have a larger sign, as it has such a 'claim to fame' with a world record, but now you know where it is at least!
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