Killin City Guide

About Killin – History and Culture

Killin is a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, at the western end of Loch Tay. Its history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric settlements and early Christian worship. The village’s name derives from the Gaelic ‘Cille Fhinn’, meaning the church or cell of St. Fionn, a missionary from the early medieval period. Over the centuries, Killin developed as a strategic crossing point over the River Dochart, whose spectacular waterfalls – the Falls of Dochart – still thunder through the village today.

During the 18th century, Killin became an important stop on the drove roads, used for moving cattle to market. The arrival of the railway in the 19th century brought Victorian tourists seeking the rugged beauty of the Highlands. Today, Killin retains a strong sense of Highland identity, with Gaelic place names, traditional music, and a calendar of events celebrating local culture. The village is also part of the Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park, ensuring its landscapes are protected.

Modern Killin balances tourism with active local life. The community is tight-knit, with a primary school, village hall, and several churches. The culture is deeply connected to the outdoors – hill walking, fishing, and wildlife watching are daily pursuits. Visitors often remark on the warm welcome they receive, and the village’s pubs and tearooms serve as social hubs. The Falls of Dochart provide a constant, soothing backdrop, making Killin a place of natural and cultural harmony.

• Falls of Dochart – iconic waterfalls in the centre of Killin.
• Moirlanich Longhouse – a preserved 19th-century thatched cottage, now a museum.
• Killin Church – built in 1744, with a distinctive tower and ancient graveyard.
• Loch Tay – famous for its deep, dark waters and ruins of early crannogs.
• Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve – managed by the National Trust for Scotland.
• The Breadalbane Folklore Centre in nearby Aberfeldy.
• Historic Inveraray Castle (day trip) – seat of the Duke of Argyll.
• Killin and Ardeonaig – two villages connected by a historic ferry.
• The ‘Killin Stone’ – a carved Pictish stone found near the village.

Did You Know? – Facts about Killin

Killin may be small, but it is packed with fascinating stories and records. It lies at the confluence of three rivers – the Dochart, Lochay, and the outflow of Loch Tay – making it a water-lover’s paradise. The Falls of Dochart are actually a series of cascades that drop a total of about 7 metres, but their volume can swell dramatically after rain.

Locals take pride in the fact that Killin is one of the driest places in the western Highlands, thanks to its position in the lee of the mountains. The village also boasts an unlikely claim: the famous television series ‘Monarch of the Glen’ filmed nearby, bringing a glimpse of Highland life to global audiences. Additionally, Killin is a gateway to the ‘Rob Roy Way’, a long-distance walking path named after the legendary outlaw Rob Roy MacGregor.

• Killin has a micro-hydro scheme on the River Dochart that powers local homes.
• The village won ‘Best Small Village’ in the 2019 Beautiful Scotland awards.
• The Falls of Dochart were painted by famous artists including J.M.W. Turner.
• Killin is a popular base for climbing all 42 Munros in the southern Highlands.
• The local pub, The Killin Hotel, dates from the 18th century.
• Loch Tay is the 11th deepest loch in Scotland, reaching 150 metres deep.
• The Killin Golf Club is a scenic 9-hole course overlooking the loch.
• In winter, the nearby mountains often receive snow while the village stays rain-free.
• Killin is twinned with the French village of Saint-Thégonnec.
• Ancient crannogs in Loch Tay are being excavated by the Scottish Crannog Centre.

Geography and Climate of Killin

Killin sits at a low altitude (about 100 metres above sea level) in a broad valley carved by glaciers. To the north rise the sprawling slopes of Ben Lawers (1,214 metres), while to the south the hills of Glen Ogle and the Trossachs begin. The village itself is compact, straddling both banks of the Dochart, connected by the historic stone bridge. The surrounding landscape is a mosaic of farmland, native woodland, and heather moorland.

The climate is typical of Highland Perthshire: relatively mild and wet by UK standards, but with local variations. The annual rainfall is around 1,100 mm, lower than many western parts of Scotland because the mountains to the west capture much of the moisture. Summers are cool, with average highs of 18°C, and winters are chilly but not severe, with occasional snowfalls that can close the higher roads. The best seasons for visiting are late spring and early autumn, when the weather is stable and the hills are either green or golden.

• Killin lies within the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park.
• Proximity to Loch Tay moderates temperatures, preventing extreme frost.
• The village is sheltered from prevailing westerly winds by surrounding hills.
• The River Dochart can rise rapidly after heavy rain, sometimes flooding low-lying areas.
• Average July temperature: 14°C – 18°C.
• Average January temperature: 1°C – 5°C.
• Snow cover typically lasts a few days at lower levels, but longer on mountains.
• The main residential areas: Main Street, Bridge Street, and Acharn Road.
• Nearby natural features: Ben Lawers, Meall nan Tarmachan, Glen Lochay.

Things to Do in Killin

Killin offers a remarkable range of activities for a village its size. From the moment you step onto the historic bridge, the roar of the Falls of Dochart invites you to explore. Whether you seek adrenaline, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Killin delivers all year round.

Food & Dining

Killin’s food scene is small but mighty, emphasising fresh Scottish produce and traditional dishes. The Killin Hotel offers a fine dining experience with views of the falls, while the Morenish Lodge (a short drive) serves award-winning pub food. For a lighter bite, The Dolphin Tearooms and the Killin Bakery provide homemade cakes and sandwiches. Seafood is sourced from the west coast, and local lamb and venison feature on many menus.

For those who prefer self-catering, the Killin Co-op and a local butcher provide all the essentials. Several farm shops in the surrounding area sell fresh eggs, cheese, and seasonal vegetables. The village also hosts occasional food festivals celebrating local produce, such as the Highland Perthshire Food and Drink Trail.

• Killin Hotel – traditional Scottish fare, haggis, neeps and tatties, salmon.
• Morenish Lodge – steak pie, fish and chips, and weekly curry nights.
• Dolphin Tearooms – cream teas, scones, and paninis.
• Killin Bakery – artisan bread, sausage rolls, and cakes.
• Loch Tay Inn – cosy pub with real ales and bar meals.
• Self-catering: pick up supplies from the Co-op (open 7am–10pm).
• Wild Venison from local estates available at the butcher.
• Fish from Loch Tay (perch, pike, trout) – try the Killin Hotel’s catch of the day.

Festivals & Events

Killin bursts into life during its annual festivals. The Killin Music Festival, held in spring, showcases folk, Gaelic, and contemporary acts across multiple venues. The Killin Highland Games (usually in August) bring caber tossing, Highland dancing, and piping competitions to the village green. For whisky lovers, the nearby Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery hosts tastings and tours year-round.

Smaller events include the Killin Amateur Dramatic Society’s pantomime, the village hall’s monthly ceilidh, and the ‘Killin Comes Alive’ series of outdoor concerts in summer. The village also marks St. Andrew’s Day with a community dinner and ceilidh, inviting visitors to join the festivities.

• Killin Music Festival (April/May) – three days of live music.
• Killin Highland Games (August) – traditional sports and fun.
• Loch Tay Boat Rally – classic boats converge on the loch (July).
• Killin Craft Fair (seasonal) – local crafts and jewellery.
• Winter Lights Festival – lantern parade in December.
• Aberfeldy Whisky Festival (nearby, September).
• Ceilidhs at the Killin Hotel – every Friday night in summer.
• Ben Lawers Challenge – sponsored hill walk for charity (May).

Cultural Attractions

Killin’s cultural offerings are deeply rooted in Scottish history. The Moirlanich Longhouse is a must-visit, offering a glimpse into 19th-century rural life. The nearby Scottish Crannog Centre on Loch Tay (reopening in 2024) reconstructs an Iron Age lake dwelling. For art lovers, the Killin Gallery on Main Street sells paintings and prints by local artists.

The village also has a strong storytelling tradition. The Falls of Dochart themselves are the subject of many local legends, including tales of water spirits and hidden treasures. Walking tours with local guides can reveal these stories and more. The Killin Church graveyard contains old graves with symbolic carvings, and the church building itself hosts occasional concerts.

• Moirlanich Longhouse – guided tours from April to October.
• Scottish Crannog Centre (reopening 2025) – Iron Age roundhouse and exhibits.
• Killin Church – historic building and graveyard.
• Killin Gallery – contemporary Scottish art and crafts.
• Falls of Docharf viewpoint – interpretive panel with history.
• Rob Roy Way – walk part of the trail and learn about the outlaw's life.
• Breadalbane Folklore Centre – in Aberfeldy, 12 miles east.
• Local storytelling evenings at the Killin Hotel.

Outdoor Activities

Killin is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The area offers some of the finest hill walking in Scotland, with Ben Lawers as the prime objective. For a less strenuous option, the Killin Circular Walk (about 4 miles) takes you along the loch shore and through woodland. Fishing permits for Loch Tay can be obtained from the Killin Post Office; the loch is famous for its wild brown trout and occasional salmon.

Water sports are also popular – kayaking and paddleboarding on Loch Tay are unforgettable experiences, with the mountains reflected in the calm water. The local cycling routes range from gentle family rides along the loch to the challenging climb over the Ben Lawers Pass. In winter, the nearby ski resort at Glen Shee is about an hour’s drive, and Killin’s hills often have sufficient snow for snowshoeing.

• Hill walking: Ben Lawers, Meall nan Tarmachan, Beinn Ghlas.
• Killin Circular Walk – easy route with interpretation boards.
• Fishing – brown trout, pike, Arctic char (season March–October).
• Kayaking/canoeing – hire from Loch Tay Centre.
• Paddleboard hire available at Killin Hotel.
• Cycling – Killin to Kenmore along the loch (tarmac, undulating).
• Mountain biking – Glen Ogle trail (red/black grades).
• Wildlife watching – red deer, osprey, golden eagle.
• Golf – Killin Golf Club, 9-hole course with stunning views.
• Horse riding – at nearby stables, book in advance.
• Winter activities – snowshoeing, ice climbing (when conditions permit).

Economy and Key Industries

Killin’s economy is dominated by tourism, which supports most of the local businesses – hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, outdoor activity providers, and retail. The village also serves as a service centre for the surrounding farming and estate communities. Agriculture plays a role, primarily sheep farming on the hills and some cattle grazing on lower ground. Forestry is also significant, with commercial plantations managed by Forestry and Land Scotland.

The whiskey industry indirectly impacts Killin through the nearby Aberfeldy Distillery and other distilleries in Highland Perthshire. Additionally, renewable energy has grown: the Falls of Dochart micro-hydro scheme provides electricity to the village, and several wind farms are visible on the surrounding hills. Small-scale food production, such as the Killin Bakery and local preserves, adds value.

Despite the small size, there is a growing interest in remote work and digital employment. The broadband connectivity has improved in recent years, allowing some residents to work from home for companies elsewhere. However, job opportunities within the village are limited, and many young people move to cities for work. The local council and community trust are working to attract more businesses and retain talent.

• Tourism – accommodation, guiding, activity hire.
• Agriculture – sheep, cattle, and some arable.
• Forestry – timber production and management.
• Retail – Co-op, gift shops, bakery, butcher.
• Food and drink – Killin Hotel, Morenish Lodge, tearooms.
• Accommodation – over 20 B&Bs, self-catering cottages.
• Construction and maintenance – local tradespeople.
• Renewable energy – micro-hydro and wind.
• Arts and crafts – galleries and workshops.
• Consulting/remote work – emerging sector.

Where to Live in Killin

Killin offers a range of housing options, from traditional stone cottages to modern homes. The central area around Main Street and Bridge Street is the most vibrant, with easy access to shops and pubs. Properties here often have historical features but can be noisy due to the river and tourist traffic. The quieter residential streets like Acharn Road and Kenmore Street offer larger gardens and loch views.

For those seeking more space and privacy, the outskirts of the village – such as the areas towards Morenish or along the south shore of Loch Tay – have attractive detached houses and small holdings. The market for buying is fairly active among retirees and second-home buyers, but prices remain lower than in the central belt. Rental properties are scarce and tend to be in high demand. New housing developments are limited due to the national park restrictions.

Living in Killin means embracing a slower pace of life, surrounded by nature. The community is welcoming to newcomers, but integration can take time as many social circles revolve around long-term residents. Essential services like the GP surgery, primary school, and Post Office are within walking distance. For secondary education, children travel to Lochearnhead or Crieff. Overall, Killin is ideal for families, retirees, and nature lovers, but less suited for those needing constant urban amenities.

• Main Street – village centre, period properties, close to falls.
• Bridge Street – near the bridge, mix of shops and homes.
• Acharn Road – residential, quieter, views of Ben Lawers.
• Kenmore Street – short street near the loch, detached houses.
• Loch Tay south shore – more remote, larger plots, stunning water views.
• Morenish – hamlet west of Killin (1.5 miles), village atmosphere.
• Ardeonaig – tiny village across the loch, accessible by ferry or road (longer drive).
• Glen Lochay – rural, off-grid potential for self-builds.
• Property prices: average cottage £180,000–£250,000; larger houses £300,000+.
• Rental market: very limited, expect to pay £600–£900 pcm for a 2-bed house.
• Council tax band: typically Band D around £1,500 per year.

Formalities and Visas in Killin

As part of the United Kingdom, Killin follows UK immigration laws. Visitors from outside the EU/EEA typically need a Standard Visitor visa to enter for tourism (up to 6 months). EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens can visit visa-free for short stays but must apply for the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from 2024. For longer stays, such as work or study, appropriate visas must be obtained from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Those planning to move to Killin permanently will need a visa based on their circumstances. Common routes include the Skilled Worker visa, Family visa (if joining a UK citizen or settled person), or the Innovator Founder visa for entrepreneurs. Since Killin is a small village, there are no local visa processing centres; applications are handled online with biometric appointments at centres in cities like Glasgow or Edinburgh.

After arriving in the UK, all new residents must report any changes of address to the Home Office, and if they have a Biometric Residence Permit, they should keep it updated. It’s also important to register with a local GP (doctor) and obtain a National Insurance number for work. The Killin Post Office can provide some immigration-related forms, but most processes are now digital. Community support groups in the area assist with integration, but English proficiency is essential, as Gaelic is not widely spoken in daily life.

• Tourist visa: Standard Visitor (valid 6 months, can extend for medical reasons).
• EU/EEA/Swiss: ETA required from 2024 (online, $10).
• Skilled Worker visa: points-based, job offer from approved sponsor.
• Family visa: for partners/spouses of UK residents or citizens.
• Student visa: for full-time courses at recognised institutions (mostly in cities).
• Innovator Founder visa: for business owners with innovative ideas.
• Temporary work: Seasonal Worker visa for agricultural or hospitality jobs.
• Application processed online; fees start at £115 (visitor) up to £3,000+ (settlement).
• Biometric appointments at Glasgow or Edinburgh.
• Healthcare surcharge (IHS) paid with visa application – £624 per year.
• After arrival: register with NHS GP in Killin (Killin Surgery).
• National Insurance number needed for work: apply via gov.uk.
• Police registration: not usually required for most visas except some from high-risk countries.
• Settlement: Indefinite Leave to Remain after 5 years for most work visas.

Working in Killin

The job market in Killin is limited, but opportunities exist in tourism, hospitality, and local services. Hotels, B&Bs, and restaurants often seek seasonal staff – chefs, waiting personnel, cleaners – with many positions available from March to October. Guiding and outdoor activity instructors are also in demand, particularly those with mountain leader or kayak coaching qualifications. The Killin Post Office and Co-op employ local people, and the village school occasionally has teaching assistant vacancies.

For professionals, options are scarce. Remote work has become more viable, with some residents employed by companies in Edinburgh or Glasgow. There are also a few small businesses run from home – consultancy, arts, IT, and accounting. Starting your own business is a common route, especially if it complements tourism, such as a craft shop or café. Local regulations within the national park can be strict for new builds or expansions, but existing premises can be leased.

Working culture in Killin is informal and friendly. Many employers are part-time or flexible to accommodate school hours and seasonal fluctuations. The minimum wage applies, but many jobs in hospitality pay above because of tips. Commuting to larger towns like Crieff or Callander for work is possible (around 30 minutes), but public transport is limited. Overall, work in Killin requires adaptability and a willingness to take on varied roles, especially during peak tourist season.

• Tourism/hospitality – hotels, restaurants, B&Bs (year-round and seasonal).
• Retail – Co-op, local shops, Post Office.
• Outdoor sector – walking guides, kayak hire, fishing ghillies.
• Education – Killin Primary School (Fiona Gordon, headteacher).
• Healthcare – Killin Medical Practice (GPs and nurses).
• Construction – local builders, joiners, electricians.
• Remote workers – increasing number due to improved broadband.
• Self-employment – crafts, photography, consultancy.
• Agriculture/forestry – part-time and seasonal work.
• Average salary: £18,000–£25,000 for typical roles.
• Zero-hours contracts sometimes used in hospitality.
• National park may affect business expansions; check with local council.
• Union membership available via Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC).

Studying in Killin

Killin itself has one primary school – Killin Primary School – which provides education for children aged 4 to 11. The school is small, with around 60 pupils, and offers a nurturing environment with a strong emphasis on outdoor learning, thanks to the surrounding environment. After primary, most children attend Loch Earnhead Primary and Secondary or travel to Crieff High School (approx 20 miles). There are no further education institutions in the village.

For higher education, students typically move to universities in cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, Stirling, or Aberdeen. Stirling University (about 50 minutes away) is a popular choice due to its scenic campus and strong arts and environmental courses. Perth College (branch of UHI) offers some degree and vocational courses, and is about an hour's drive. For adult education, the Killin Community Centre occasionally hosts evening classes in computing, languages, and crafts.

International students considering Killin as a base for study would need to be enrolled at a recognised institution elsewhere and commute or live remotely. However, for those seeking a quiet place to write a thesis or conduct research, Killin can be ideal. The local library (part of the community centre) has limited resources but can order books through the national network. Study spaces are also available at the Killin Hotel's lounge, which has Wi-Fi.

• Killin Primary School – Ofsted rating ‘Good’, roll ~60 pupils.
• Lochearnhead Primary and Secondary – small school in nearby village (7 miles).
• Crieff High School – comprehensive, 19 miles east.
• Stirling University – 50 minutes by car, strong in environmental science.
• Perth College UHI – vocational and degree courses, 1 hour drive.
• Edinburgh/ Glasgow universities – 2 hours drive or 3 hours by public transport.
• Adult learning: community centre classes – call 01567 820369.
• Library services: mobile library visits weekly; interlibrary loan available.
• Online courses: most residents study via Open University or other distance learning.
• School catchment area includes parts of Glen Lochay and Ardeonaig.
• Transport: school bus provided for secondary students.
• Cost of school uniforms: around £50–£100 per year.

Finance and Banks in Killin

Killin has no bank branch, but the Post Office on Main Street provides basic banking services, including cash withdrawals, deposits, and bill payments. Most residents use online banking with major UK banks such as Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), Lloyds, or Barclays. The nearest bank branches are in Crieff (RBS and Bank of Scotland) or Callander (Lloyds). Cash machines are available at the Co-op and the Post Office.

For day-to-day transactions, contactless debit and credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also common. While cash is still used, it is less necessary. Opening a UK bank account generally requires proof of identity (passport), proof of address (utility bill or tenancy agreement), and sometimes a visa. Many banks allow online applications, but for non-UK residents, a branch visit may be required.

Taxes in the UK are deducted at source through PAYE for employees. Self-employed individuals need to register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and file a Self Assessment tax return. The village has no local financial advisers, but there are several in Crieff and Aberfeldy. For mortgages, local brokers can assist. The cost of living includes standard VAT (20%) on most goods and services, with some items exempt or reduced.

• Post Office (Main Street) – cash withdrawals, balance inquiries, bill payments.
• Cash machine: Co-op, Main Street (free).
• Nearest banks: RBS, Bank of Scotland, Lloyds – all in Crieff.
• Opening a UK account: Monzo, Starling (online-only) easy; high street banks need proof of address.
• International transfers: Wise (TransferWise) or Revolut popular for lower fees.
• Tax: Income tax bands 20% basic, 40% higher; National Insurance 12% on earnings up to £50,284.
• Self Assessment: annual return due 31 January.
• Mortgage advice: Crieff Mortgage Centre or online brokers.
• Financial advisers: call around Crieff – fees typically £150–£250 per hour.
• VAT: 20% on most goods; some items zero-rated (food, children's clothes).
• Local currency: Pound Sterling (£).

Health Care in Killin

Killin has a small medical practice, the Killin Surgery (part of the Tayside Health Board), located on Main Street. The surgery offers GP appointments, nurse consultations, and some minor treatments. For emergencies, the nearest accident and emergency department is at Stirling Royal Infirmary (about 45 minutes away). The surgery is open Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, with an out-of-hours service accessed via NHS 24 (dial 111).

Dental services are limited; the nearest NHS dentist accepting new patients is in Crieff (Breadalbane Dental). Similarly, opticians are only in Crieff. For anyone with serious health concerns, living in Killin requires either a car or good planning to access specialist care. The community also has a small pharmacy (at the surgery) and a home delivery service for prescriptions.

Private healthcare is available in cities; the nearest private hospitals are in Stirling and Edinburgh. Travel insurance is essential for visitors, as NHS care is free at point of use for UK residents but visitors may be charged (except for emergencies). The Killin area is generally healthy, with few air quality issues, but alcohol consumption and smoking rates are slightly above national average, as in many rural areas. The local initiative ‘Healthy Killin’ promotes walking events and healthy eating.

• Killin Surgery (GP) – Main Street, phone 01567 820238.
• Pharmacy – attached to surgery, limited hours.
• Dentist – Breadalbane Dental, Crieff – 01764 655111.
• Optician – Boots Opticians, Crieff.
• Hospital – Stirling Royal Infirmary (45 min) or Perth Royal Infirmary (50 min).
• NHS 24 – dial 111 for urgent but non-emergency advice.
• Ambulance – 999, response time typically 15–30 minutes.
• Health visitor – for new mothers and young children, via Killin Surgery.
• Mental health support – Perth & Kinross Community Mental Health Team, based in Perth.
• Physiotherapy – available at Crieff Community Hospital.
• Private healthcare – BMI Stirling (private hospital) – about 1 hour.
• Vaccinations – at the surgery for flu, childhood immunisations.
• Healthy Killin group – meets monthly at village hall.

Accommodation in Killin

Killin offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors and new residents. Short-term stays range from luxury lakeside lodges to cosy B&Bs and self-catering cottages. The Killin Hotel and the Morenish Lodge provide hotel rooms with catering. For campers, there is a small caravan and camping park at Killin Camping and Caravanning Club, plus several basic wild camping spots around Loch Tay (strictly follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code).

For long-term accommodation, rental properties are scarce and often only advertised locally – through the Killin Community Council Facebook page or estate agents in Crieff. Purchasing property is more common. Most houses are traditional stone cottages or modern bungalows. Flats are rare. Due to the national park, new building is tightly controlled, so supply is limited and prices can be high relative to local wages. Share of ownership or live-work units are not common.

• Killin Hotel – 18th century, 18 rooms from £80 per night B&B.
• Morenish Lodge – boutique lodge, 5 rooms, restaurant, from £100.
• Loch Tay Highland Lodges – luxury holiday homes, sleeps 4–8, from £200 per week.
• B&Bs: ‘The Willows’, ‘Tayview’ – around £70 per night.
• Self-catering cottages: ‘The Old Mill’, ‘Dochart Cottage’ – from £500 per week.
• Camping: Killin Camping and Caravanning Club – £20–£30 per night for pitch.
• Long-term rent: 2-bed house £600–£900 pcm (rare).
• Buying: 2-bed cottage around £180,000; 3-bed bungalow £280,000.
• New housing developments: occasional, e.g., ‘Craggan’ scheme (5 homes) in 2018.
• Real estate agents: MacRae & Co., Crieff (01764 655654).

Planning Your Move to Killin

Relocating to Killin requires careful planning, especially if moving from abroad. First, secure your visa (if needed) and gather all essential documents – passport, visa letter, marriage/birth certificates. Arrange for accommodation at least one month in advance, as rental competition is high. If buying, expect the process to take 2-3 months; use a solicitor familiar with Scottish property law. Register with a GP as soon as you have an address – the NHS number can be transferred.

You’ll need to open a bank account, register with the local council for council tax, and set up utilities (water, electricity, broadband). Water is provided by Scottish Water; electricity by SSE or similar; broadband via Openreach – but speeds may be slower than urban areas. Many people in Killin rely on oil or LPG for heating, so check the property’s heating system. It’s also wise to buy a car – public transport is limited, and many errands require driving.

Join the Killin Community Council Facebook group to introduce yourself and get advice. Attend the community council meetings (monthly) to meet people and understand local issues. Also, check the school catchment if you have children. The move itself can be done via a removal company from larger cities, but for a village of this size, hiring a van and doing it yourself may be cheaper. Be prepared for a slower pace of life and limited shopping – the closest large supermarkets are in Crieff or Stirling.

• Visa steps: check UKVI, apply online, biometrics in Glasgow/Edinburgh.
• Proof of address: utility bill or tenancy agreement.
• Bank account: Monzo/Starling (online) easier than high street.
• Council tax: contact Perth & Kinross Council to set up direct debit.
• Utilities: Scottish Water (0800 0778 778), SSE (0345 026 2658).
• Broadband: check Open