New JD Wetherspoon pub recalls history of Blairgowrie

A £1.35 million Perthshire pub will open its doors next week.

Pub operator JD Wetherspoon is to open its new Blairgowrie premises on Tuesday, with the creation of 40 jobs. The pub is on site of the former Woolworths, and then Poundsworth discount store, in Allan Street.

Named the Fair o’Blair, the pub will be managed by Ranald Duncan, who was previously at the Counting House in Dundee.

The practice of holding fairs and markets at the nearby Wellmeadow began in 1824, including the famous Fair o’Blair, which was staged annually in July for many years.

That nod to the past continues inside, with the walls adorned with photographs and information boards relating to the history and characters of the area.

Artwork has also been commissioned. Wetherspoon said the pub, which features a beer garden to the rear, would specialise in real ales.

Ranald said: “Myself and my team are looking forward to welcoming customers into the pub and we are confident that it will be a great addition to Blairgowrie’s community.”