Dunkeld, Pitlochry, Nairn, or--?

Nairn.

Many happy memories from when I was a small child and have been several times in adulthood.

That said, if you're in Pitlochry or Dunkeld you've got a whole different type of scenery. Both towns have excellent walking around them.

I'm not sure what they are like currently, but Pitlochry main street particularly gets very busy. It's a popular stop off the A9 for tours and individuals. I've gone in there and it's almost impossible to find somewhere to park and everywhere for eating is packed. Been a while since I've been in Dunkeld, but it's a very accessible spot for folks going up the A9 too.

We stayed for 3 nights in Nairn at the Sunny Brae B&B which overlooks a lovely park and the sea. From Nairn we visited Elgin Cathedral, Glen Moray Distillery, Cawdor Castle and Culloden Battlefield. On our way to Skye we visited Urquhart Castle. All the restaurants we dined at were within walking distance of Sunny Brae. Nairn is great for walks along the water and the harbor. Quiet and peaceful.

We did stop for lunch in Pitlochry which seems to be nice. But I would choose Nairn (because of its seaside location) over Pitlochry. I think Pitlochry is busier than Nairn.

A small nugget from Nairn, at a slight tangent.

I had memories from childhood of my dad telling me about seeing Charlie Chaplin in Nairn High Street, maybe late '60's, early 70's. I looked it up fairly recently and sure enough, Charlie Chaplin would holiday in the Nairn area.

Here's an article that fills in some detail -
https://discoverhighlandsandislands.scot/en/story/famous-visitors-to-the-royal-burgh-of-nairn-charlie-chaplin

My vote would be for Nairn also. As others mentioned, Pitlochry can get a bit crowded and it's more difficult to maneuver around the town. In Nairn, the beach is easy to access and the town itself is very charming.

Nairn is sounding like a great choice. And the Sunny Brae still has rooms available! Thanks for your suggestions, all!