Perrins Centre

The Perrins Centre in Alness carries a remarkable history, deeply rooted in generosity and community spirit.

Origins and Founding
- The building was opened in 1904 by Dyson Perrins, the philanthropist best known for Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce.
- Originally called the Ardross Alness Club, it was created to provide:
- A library
- A reading room
- A billiard room
- Constructed at a cost of around £3,000, it represented a major investment in the wellbeing of the local community.

Purpose and Vision
Dyson Perrins intended the centre to be more than just a social space. His vision was:
“Amusement and relaxation of the young men after their day's work was done… and the providing of sound, wholesome instruction which might induce young men to spend their evenings in mental and moral improvement.”

This ethos reflected his belief in balancing leisure with education and moral growth.

The Perrins Family and Alness
- Although based in Malvern, Worcestershire, the Perrins family purchased Ardross Castle in 1898.
- Their ties to Alness were strong, and they travelled frequently between Malvern and the Highlands.
- The family even enjoyed unique travel privileges:
- A private railway stop at the bottom of their garden in Malvern.
- An exclusive waiting room at Alness railway station.