visit angus scotland

How to visit: Angus

Posted on 20 February 2024

Like so much of Scotland missing from the ‘things to see in Scotland before you die’ lists, the region of Angus between the cities of Aberdeen and Dundee is one of Scotland’s hidden gems. With glacial glens, beautiful beaches and as much fresh fish as you can eat, here is how to visit Angus.

The 10 best things to do in Angus

• Hike the Angus Glens – five dramatic glacial glens that stretch down out of the Cairngorms National Park offering fabulous walking and Munro Bagging.
• Drive the Angus Coastal Route – from Montifeith to Carnoustie, to Arbroath and Montrose, the the  Angus Coastal Route  (the A92) is one of Scotland’s most scenic roads.
• Visit the House of Dun – an 18th-century laird’s home, the House of Dun has stunning interiors and lovely formal gardens.
• Try an Arbroath Smokie and a Forfar Bridie – two of Angus’s most famous delicacies.
• Walk the Arbroath Smokie Trail – and visit the Arbroath Signal Tower Museaum to learn about the Bell’s Rock Lighthouse, one of the seven industrial wonders of the world.
• Go bird watching at Montrose Basin – an enclosed estuary home to over 80,000 migratory birds
• Head to the beach Lunan Bay – regularly appearing on the list of Scotland’s best beaches Lunan Bay is an absolute beauty.
• Explore Glamis Castle – dating back 600 years to the 14th Century, Glamis was the childhood home of the Queen Mother, it is also the birthplace of Princess Margaret.
• Stroll along the Edzell Blue Door Walk - following the river at Edzell up the Highland Boundary Fault through a blue door into the grounds of Burn House up to the Rocks of Solitude.
• Visit Arbroath Abbey – site of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath.

The need to know before you go to Angus 

• Angus is located in the Lowlands of Scotland, but the region stretches from the coast up to the Cairngorms, with the region split by the Highland Boundary Fault – the highest part of the region reaches 1068 m at the top of Glas Moll.
• The Angus Glens are five dramatic glacial glens that stretch down out of the national park – Glen Islan, Glen Prosen, Glen Clova, Glen Lehnot and Glen Esk. One of the best examples of Angus’s glacial landscape can be seen at Corrie Fee. 
• Down on the coast, Angus sits between Dundee and Aberdeen and includes the coastal towns of Carnoustie, Arbroath, and Montrose. Other towns in the hinterland between the sea and the glens nclude Forfar, Brechin, Kirriemuir and Edzell.
• Angus is one of the most historically significant areas of Scotland and is often called Scotland’s birthplace – the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath took place in Arbroath Abbey in 1320 – a letter asserting Scotland’s independence to Pope John XXII. 
• The history of Angus goes back much further than Scotland’s first independence claim, the region is named after a Pictish king – Mormear of Angus – who was the earl of one of the seven Pictish kingdoms that ruled Scotland in the early 10th century.  There are numerous Pictish hill forts and Pictish stones located throughout Angus – with the best to be found at Aberlemno, St Vigeans, Kirriemuir, and Montifieth. 
• Angus’s neighbour, the City of Dundee, is famous for Jam, Jute and Journalism and farms across Angus supply fruit for the city’s jam and marmalade making factories – Mackays and Keillers. Aberdeen Angus beef also hails from Angus, alongside the Forfar Bridie and the Arbroath Smokie. 

Where to stay in Angus

• In Forfar – stay at the self-catering Gardeners Cottage , or the lovely North Lodge , or go camping at Greenhillock .
• In the Angus Glens – stay at Tin Cabin , or at Glen Clova Hotel & Luxury Lodges or Glen Clova Lodges .
• In Kirriemuir – stay at The Bothy , or the Airlie Arms Hotel , at the self catering Thrums Cottage .
• In Edzell – stay at the Glenesk Hotel or The Panmure Arms Hotel .
• In Brechin , try Gramarcy House .
• In Glamis – book into the Drumshademuir Caravan & Camping Park

Things to do in Angus Map

Discover the Angus Glens

The Angus Glens are five dramatic glacial glens that stretch down out of the Cairngorms National Park – Glen Islan, Glen Prosen, Glen Clova, Glen Lehnot and Glen Esk. The five glens offer fabulous walking and Munro Bagging with the highest part of the region reaching 1068 m at the top of Glas Moll, with one of the best examples of Angus’s glacial landscape can be seen at Corrie Fee.

Here are more of my favourite walks in the Angus Glens:

• Walk up Glen Esk past the Queen’s Well Monument before climbing Mount Keen, the most easterly munro in Scotland.
• Discover Reekie Linn Waterfall after a walk through lovely woodlands in Glen Isla.
• Discover the glacial bowl and national nature reserve at Corrie Fee before climbing up to the Cairngorm plateau and tackling munros Mayar and Driesh. 
• Visit Loch Lee and waterfalls with a 10 mile circuit of Glen Esk to visit the Falls of Unich and the Falls of Damff. 

Nearby in the village of Kirriemuir visit the Gateway to the Glens which tells the story of Kirriemuir and the Angus Glens. For kids Kirriemuir also has the unique Peter Pan themed Neverland Playpark and the Star Rock Shop – and even a statue of former AC/DC bass player Mark Evans!

Explore through the blue door at Edzell

The Blue Door Walk at Edzell is one of my favourite we walks in Scotland. Otherwise known at the Rocks of Solitude river circuit, the walk starts beside the Shakin Brig, a suspension bridge which cross over the River Edzel, before following the river up the Highland Boundary Fault. The walk then heads through a blue door into the grounds of Burn House up to the Rocks of Solitute. The return is on the north side of the river.

Drive the Angus Coastal Route

From Montifeith to Carnoustie, to Arbroath and Montrose, the the  Angus Coastal Route  (the A92) is one of Scotland’s most scenic roads. You can road trip the whole route 58 miles in a day, taking in castles, seaside towns and ports, and beautiful beaches. On the way…

Things to do in Montrose

• House of Dun – William Adam’s Georgian house on the edge of Montrose is one of the most spectacular houses in Scotland. An 18th-century laird’s home, the House of Dun has stunning interiors and lovely formal gardens. Managed by the National Trust, guided tours are available of the house. Admission is free for NTS members or £16 for adults. 
• Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre – established in 1913, Montrose Air Station was the first operational military air station in Great Britain. An airport used as a military base by a military force for the operation of military aircraft, the heritage centre has lots of military planes and exhibits to visit. Admission is £8.80 for adults, children under 16 are free.
• Montrose Basin – The whole Angus coastline is a haven for bird life but Montrose Basin , an enclosed estuary home to over 80,000 migratory birds is a mecca for bird watchers. Managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust there is a visitor centre, walks around the reserve and viewing huts. Admission to the reserve is £4 for adults, children free.
• Lunan Bay – On arriving at Lunan Bay, you can understand why it appears on the list of Scotland’s best beaches for it is an absolute beauty. Plus you can have it all to yourself, as the huge sweep of sand has been left relatively untouched – there is plenty of room for everyone. Lunan Bay Diner provides a campsite, cafe and farm shop.
• The Red castle of Lunan  – Built by King William the Lion to help repel invading Vikings from Lunan Bay, the castle probably most likely used as the King’s luxury hunting lodge. Named after the red sandstone from which it is made, the castle has been many changes of hands since it was built, enduring a siege in 1579 when it was also set on fire and attacked by Lord Gray, Sheriff of Angus. Gray was later evicted from the castle by James VI with the help of local dundonians and a few siege engines. 

Arbroath with its smokie sellers and beutiful harbour is a great place to stop for lunch on your drive along the Angus Coast. Here are the best things to do in Arbroath.

Arbroath Abbey

Built in 1178 and founded by William the Lion (who also built the red castle at Lunan Bay) Arbroath Abbey was home to Tironensian Monks (also of Kelso Abbey in the Scottish Borders) and was set up in memorial to the murdered Archbishop of Canterbury, Thomas Bishop. King William I is also buried in the Abbey, the first monarch not to be buried in Dunfermline Abbey. The Abbey is now managed by Historic Environment Scotland. 

The Abbey was the site of the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath, a letter from Scottish nobel men to Pope John XXII in response to the excommunication of Robert the Bruce in 1306 for the murder of John Comyn. The letter set out Scotland’s case for independence and included the famous line “it is in truth not for glory, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up with life itself.”  

Try an Arbroath Smokie

A ‘smokie’ is a delicacy of the harbour town of Arbroath. Haddock is dried in salt and then smoked over oak and beech chips for about an hour, often over whisky barrels. There are now around 15 small family smokie producers in Arbroath, firmly keeping the local fishing industry alive. 

Hike the Arbroath Smokie Trail 

The Arbroath Smokie Trail takes you from Arbroath to Auchithie along a coastal path. Visit the Arbroath Signal Tower Museaum to learn about the Bell’s Rock Lighthouse (one of the seven industrial wonders of the world) and the Signal Tower, before exploring the pretty Arbroath harbour peeking into all the smokies you can find. The Fit o’the Toon is the oldest part of Arbroath where the fisher families used to live. 

Leaving Arbroath behind, follow the cliff top path looking out for sandstone formations before reaching the sands of Carlingheugh Bay. Reaching Aichithie which is perched on the cliffs and its small harbour below look out for puffins nesting on the rocks.

Visit Carnoustie

• Visit Ardestie Earth House – Whilst called a house, Ardestie is actually a souterrain or a stone-lined underground passage which dates from the first two centuries AD and was associated with the remains of huts and stores which can be seen on the surface. Most likely used for storage, most souterrains were systematically filled in or destroyed in the 3rd century (no one is quite sure why) so it is rare to find one as complete as Ardestie Earth House .
• Discover Barry Mill – a complete working watermill, Barry Mill is one of the only remaining examples in Scotland.
• Head for a round of golf at Carnoustie Golf Links
• Visit East Haven, one of the earliest recorded fishing communities in Scotland.
• Go for a stroll on the sand at Carnoustie Beach

Things to do in Forfar

The Angus town of Forfar is famous for its bridies…

Try a Forfar Bridie 

A Scottish shortcrust pastry made with minced beef, bridies are said to have been invented by a baker in the Angus town of Forfar in the 1850s. The name either comes from the fact they were often served at weddings, or after a Margaret Bridie of Glamis who sold bridies at the Buttermarket in Forfar. Whoever invented them, it is worth a pilgrimage to Forfar to buy a bridie from one of the many popular bakeries. 

Get out on foot for wildlife watching 

Visit Forfar Loch Country Park a country park near Forfar, the loch can be strolled around on a 2.5 m circular route. Nearby Murton Farm, Tea Room and Nature Reserve is just outside Forfar and has a network of paths for birdwatching in a variety of lochs and wetlands. The farm offers animal handling and the tea room offers coffee and lunches. 

Things to do in Brechin

• Brechin Cathedral and Round Tower – dating back to the 13th century, Brechin Cathedral is a beautiful A listed church and round tower in Brechin. Despite its name, the church was never actually a cathedral (it never had a bishop etc) and the building closed as a church in 2021. There are now plans to restore the building for community use. Next to the cathedral is the round tower which dates back to 1000 AD and is 86ft high and topped with a spire – Brechin’s Round Tower is one of the best examples in Scotland. 
• Ride the Caledonian Railway – the Caledonian Railway is a 4 a mile heritage rail line which runs between Brechin and the Bridge of Dun. Catch a heritage diesel or steam train along the line – why not try some of the local Gin Bothy gin on the train, or go for lunch at the station in Brechin. 

Things to do in Glamis

Glamis castle .

Home to the Earl of Strathmore and Kinghorne, Glamis Castle dates back 600 years to the 14th Century. The childhood home of the Queen Mother, it is also the birthplace of Princess Margaret. The castle sits in 14000 acres of parks and gardens and a stunning arboretum featuring trees from all over the world. 

The castle is home to plenty of legends, including the ‘Monster of Glamis’ – legend has it that a vampire is born to every generation of the family who lives at Glamis and is kept in the castle all their lives, trapped in a bricked up room…

The Earl of Glamis who insisted on playing cards on a Sunday and with no one agreeing to playing with him became so furious that he claimed he would play until the devil himself joined him. On sitting down, he was joined by a stranger who had just arrived at the castle, who took his soul, condemning him to pay cards until doomsday arrived.

Don’t mess with the devil in Angus!

Love from Scotland x

Kate Hopper

Love from Scotland is your guide to how to travel Scotland like a local. My name is Kate and on my site you will find everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Scotland – from destination guides to the best places to stay.

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10 of the Best Historic Sites in Angus

From roman forts to georgian estates, discover 2,700 years worth of history in the scottish county of angus..

21 Jul 2022

The Scottish country of Angus can boast an extremely rich historical legacy. The name of the county itself came from the Pictish King Óengus I, who reigned from 732 to 761. To this day visitors can find ancient Pictish stones , which are uniquely decorated. But Angus not only impresses with its early medieval sites, it also houses a Roman fort from the first century AD and Iron Age forts that are almost 2,700 years old.

Many of the historic sites in Angus played a pivotal role in Scottish history, most remarkably Arbroath Abbey, where the Declaration of Arbroath was written. Glamis Castle was the family home of the Queen Mother and the birthplace of   Princess Margaret .

Here’s our pick of the top 10 most magnificent historic sites in Angus.

1. Glamis Castle

Though the area upon which it stands has been occupied from at least the 11th century, Glamis Castle itself traces its roots back to the 14th century, when it became the residence of the Lyon family who would later become the Earls of Strathmore. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle was extensively renovated, taking on the trappings of a  French chateau  and leaving much of what can be seen by visitors today.

Today, Glamis Castle is still the residence of the Earls of Strathmore however it is also open to the public at certain times of the year. With magnificent furnishings and a mixture of 14th and 17th century architecture, the beauty of the castle is hard to rival and provides a fascinating look into around 700 years of history.

2. Stracathro Roman Camp

The fort was one of many which were established during the late first century AD – most likely some time during the campaigns of Julius Agricola in AD 78-84. Many of these camps were reoccupied during the reign of emperor Septimius Severus about a century later. The site comprises of a large Roman fort, which was originally one of a series of auxiliary forts screening the Agricolan legionary fortress at Inchtuthill.

Today, some of the earthwork remains of the fort are visible. It makes for a scenic walk for outdoor and history enthusiasts alike, though do be aware that at times the site is inaccessible due to livestock. It’s best to ask within the area for the precise location of the camp, since the remains are sometimes difficult to decipher.

3. House of Dun

Overlooking Montrose Basin, the elegant Georgian estate provides a glimpse into the life of the 18th century privileged class. The site was home to an older medieval tower house, built in the 14th century. It was demolished to make room for the new House of Dun. When visiting the magnificent complex, one should not overlook the beautiful gardens and woodland walks. The main building is open to the public all year round.

4. Invermark Castle

The 16th century tower house can be found east of Loch Lee. It sits on the site of an earlier 14th century fortification, which belonged to Clan Lindsay. For three centuries Invermark Castle was a formidable strategic building, before being abandoned in 1803. The interior of the building is inaccessible to visitors, though one can enjoy the dramatic views outside the stone structure.

5. The Caterthuns

The Caterthuns are a pair of Iron Age hill forts that overlook Strathmore. It is not clear for what purpose these fortifications were built, though they likely served both as military and ceremonial centres. One of the hill forts has visible stone dry walls, causing it to be known as ‘White Caterthun’, while the other one has large earth ramparts, giving it the name ‘Brown Caterthun’. The sites were possibly constructed between 700 to 200 BC.

6. Hospitalfield House

The estate stands on the site of a former 13th century hospital, built to support the local Benedictine Abbey in Arbroath. Following King Henry VIII’s religious reforms , the grounds were bought by the Reverend James Fraser. The main building has been greatly remodelled during the Victorian era , making it a significant example of early Arts & Crafts architecture. The building operated as a school from 1902 onwards and is these days still an important centre of art.

Visitors can enjoy Hospitalfield House on four open weekends per year and on the first Wednesday of each month.

7. Ardestie Earth House

This ancient structure was created around the first century AD. It did not serve as a permanent dwelling, but instead as a 24 metre long underground passage. Similar builds can be found in Brittany, Ireland and Cornwall . It has been widely debated for what the Ardestie Earth House was used, with some suggestions being that it was utilised as a storage space for grain. Most of these structures were destroyed in the late second century AD.

The Ardestie Earth House can be found west to the city of Dundee, near the settlement of Monifieth.

8. Arbroath Abbey

Founded by Scottish King William I in 1178, Arbroath Abbey has played a crucial role in the history of the country. The religious complex was intended to be a memorial to the murdered Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury. The site is best known for being the place where the Declaration of Arbroath was written in 1320. It was a letter sent by Scottish barons to Pope John XXII denouncing English attempts to subjugate their homeland .

Arbroath Abbey continued its religious duties until the arrival of Protestantism . The buildings were partly dismantled in 1580, leaving most of the once grand religious site to wither away. The site is open to the public and can be easily found in the town of Arbroath.

9. Edzell Castle and Garden

The 16th century fortifications have seen many famous visitors throughout the centuries, with the most noteworthy being Mary, Queen of Scots in 1562 and James VI in 1580 and 1589. These days the structure stands as a ruin, with a marvellous renaissance garden adjacent to it. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds that are located near the village of Edzell.

10. Aberlemno Pictish Stones

These early medieval stones can be found around the village of of Aberlemno. Created between 500 to 800 AD, they are a rare survivor of the Pictish legacy in Scotland. The stones have multiple different types of engravings, from Pictish symbols to Christian motifs. Possibly the most magnificent one is the churchyard cross-slab, depicting an ancient battle scene.

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The predominantly agricultural county of Angus, east of the A9 and north of the Firth of Tay, holds some of the northeast’s greatest scenery and is relatively free of tourists, who tend to head further west for the Highlands proper. The coast from Montrose to Arbroath is especially inviting, with scarlet cliffs and sweeping bays. Dundee, although not the most obvious tourist destination, has in recent years become a rather dynamic and progressive city, and makes for a less snooty alternative to Aberdeen.

The Angus coast

The angus glens and around.

In the north of the county, the long fingers of the Angus glens – heather-covered hills tumbling down to rushing rivers – are overlooked by the southern peaks of the Grampian Mountains. Handsome if uneventful market towns such as Brechin, Kirriemuir and Blairgowrie are good bases, extravagant Glamis Castle is well worth a visit, and Angus is liberally dotted with Pictish remains.

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Highland Tour: Isle of Skye, Loch Ness and Edinburgh

Discover the beautiful region of Perthshire, the famous Loch Ness and Inverness – the capital of the Highlands. Get a chance to admire Europe’s oldest mountain, stroll along sandy beaches on the Scottish West Coast, and visit the mysterious Isle of Skye.

Two roads link Dundee to Aberdeen and the northeast coast of Scotland. By far the more pleasant option is the slightly longer A92 coast road, which joins the inland A90 at Stonehaven, just south of Aberdeen. Intercity buses follow both roads, while the coast-hugging train line from Dundee is one of the most picturesque in Scotland, passing attractive beaches and impressive cliffs, and stopping in the old seaports of Arbroath and Montrose.

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Since it was settled in the twelfth century, local fishermen have been landing their catches at ARBROATH, about fifteen miles northeast of Dundee. The town’s most famous product is the Arbroath smokie – line-caught haddock, smoke-cured over smouldering oak chips and still made here in a number of family-run smokehouses tucked in around the harbour. One of the most approachable and atmospheric is M&M Spink’s tiny whitewashed premises at 10 Marketgate; chef and cookery writer Rick Stein described the fish here, warm from the smoke, as “a world-class delicacy”.

Immediately north of Dundee, the low-lying Sidlaw Hills divide the city from the rich agricultural region of Strathmore, whose string of tidy market towns lies on a fertile strip along the southernmost edge of the heather-covered lower slopes of the Grampian Mountains. These towns act as gateways to the Angus glens, a series of tranquil valleys penetrated by singletrack roads and offering some of the most rugged and majestic landscapes in northeast Scotland. It’s a rain-swept, wind-blown, sparsely populated area, whose roads become impassable with the first snows, sometimes as early as October, and where the summers see clouds of ferocious midges. The most useful road through the glens is the A93, which cuts through Glen Shee, linking Blairgowrie to Braemar on Deeside. It’s pretty dramatic stuff, threading its way over Britain’s highest main road, the Cairnwell Pass (2199ft).

Meigle Museum

The tiny settlement of MEIGLE is home to Scotland’s most important collection of early Christian and Pictish inscribed stones. The exact meaning and purpose of the stones and their enigmatic symbols is obscure, as is the reason why so many of them were found here. The most likely theory is that Meigle was once an important ecclesiastical centre that attracted secular burials of prominent Picts. Housed in a modest former schoolhouse, the Meigle Museum displays some thirty pieces dating from the seventh to the tenth centuries, all found in and around the nearby churchyard. The majority are either gravestones that would have lain flat, or cross slabs inscribed with the sign of the cross, usually standing. Most impressive is the 7ft-tall great cross slab, said to be the gravestone of Guinevere, wife of King Arthur.

J.M. Barrie in Kirrie

The presence of a statue of Peter Pan in Kirrie is justified, since the town was the birthplace of his creator, J.M. Barrie (1860–1937). A local handloom-weaver’s son, Barrie first came to notice with his series of novels about “Thrums”, a village based on his home town, and he wrote the story of Peter Pan, the little boy who never grew up, in 1904 – some say as a response to an upbringing dominated by the memory of his older brother, who died as a child. Barrie’s birthplace, a plain little whitewashed cottage at 9 Brechin Rd, has been opened up as a visitor attraction, with a series of small rooms decorated as they would have been during the author’s childhood, as well as displays about his life and works.

Skiing at Glen Shee

Scotland’s ski resorts make for a fun day out for anyone from beginners to experienced skiers and, given that Glen Shee is both the most extensive and the most accessible of Scotland’s ski areas, just over two hours from both Glasgow and Edinburgh, it’s as good an introduction as any to the sport in Scotland.

For information, contact Ski Glenshee, which also offers ski rental and lessons. Ski rental starts at around £16 a day, and a 90min lesson is around £15. Lift passes cost £24 per day or £96 for a five-day (Mon–Fri) ticket. For the latest snow and weather conditions, phone the centre itself or check out the Ski Scotland website. For cross-country skiing, there are some good touring areas in the vicinity; contact Braemar Mountain Sports for information and equipment rental.

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10 Things To Do In Angus: All With Fascinating Stories

Published by Graeme on November 16, 2023 November 16, 2023

There are so many things to do in Angus, but it’s easily one of Scotland’s most underrated regions. Visitors often drive through it to reach the castles of Aberdeenshire or round it towards the alluring Highlands. Unfortunately, those who do are missing out on a whole host of activities and some fascinating Angus stories .

No matter what you’re interested in, you can find it on a visit to Angus. From the coastal towns and beaches, to lavish castles and historic ruins, to the solitude of the Angus Glens and hills. If you want access to a bustling city then Dundee is just a short trip away . The only thing you might struggle finding is enough time to see it all.

If a visit to Angus sounds like something you’d like to do with an experienced guide, then send me a message now about  booking a Scotland’s Stories tour!

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Visit Angus’ Most Popular Home – Glamis Castle

I’m not supposed to have favourites, but it’s hard to look past the incredible Glamis Castle. This place is packed full of stories, making it one of the most popular things to do in Angus. 2022 saw the castle celebrating 650 years since John Lyon was first named Thane of Glamis so there’s a lot of history here.

There are a plethora of ghosts hiding out here including a page boy who likes to trip guests up, a grey lady in the chapel and a mysterious hidden room. A previous Lord of Glamis is said to be trapped inside, doomed to play cards with the Devil for eternity. From outside the castle, there appears to be one window with nothing but a stone wall behind it.

Not every story is spooky however, Glamis Castle is also the former home of the Queen Mum. Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon wasn’t born here but her father inherited the castle when she was just a few years old. Glamis became a popular summer home for her and she even helped run it as a home for wounded soldiers in WWI. Even as a royal, the Queen Mum would regularly visit Angus to stay in her old home.

I ended up dedicating an entire article to cover all of the stories crammed inside these walls.

Enjoy Smaller Stories In Kirriemuir

Not every thing to do in Angus centres around great nobles, bloody battles or ghastly ghosts. In fact, Kirriemuir should probably be known as the town of wee stories.

The Star Rock Shop is the oldest sweet shop in Scotland, run by Liz Crossley-Davies today using the same recipe as David Ferguson did in 1833. David was a stonemason by trade but had tragically been forced to give up his livelihood after an accident. Instead of giving up like many might, he created Star Rock to sell from his front room!

Another famous son of Kirriemuir was Bon Scott from AC/DC who lived here until the age of 6. He is remembered by bagpipe holding statue and the annual festival of Bonfest .

Kirriemuir’s most famous international story though, has to be Peter Pan. The author JM Barrie grew up in the little town, second youngest of 10 children. Inspiration for his classic tale is thought to have come from a family tragedy.

Barrie’s elder brother and his mother’s favourite son died at 13 years old. The biggest consolation for the grieving woman was that their lost boy would never grow old. He remained an innocent child in her memory. Next time you’re visiting Angus in the summer, make sure to stop by the JM Barrie Birthplace!

Step Back Into Angus History At The Meffan Museum

When it comes to Angus history, don’t miss the region’s elaborately carved Pictish stones. While some of Scotland’s best examples are found in Aberlemno, they are covered in winter to protect them from the weather. Conservation groups have difficult decisions around these important historic monuments. Is it best to limit how well visitors can see them but ensure they can remain out in the wild?

The Meffan Museum in Forfar has done the opposite. Amongst their other fascinating exhibits such as a stone burial cist and 1000 year old log boat, are a collection carved Pictish stones. Safely indoors and with perfect lighting, we can see the shapes and symbols so much easier. It also makes it perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Angus on a rainy day!

We might have no idea what they mean, but just the stones alone tell us some of the very oldest stories from Angus.

Dig Into The Angus Archives At Restenneth

I’ve always enjoyed the quiet Restenneth Priory. It’s tucked away well off the usual roads, surrounded by farmed fields and blissfully peaceful. The oldest section of the spire might actually be one of the first stone built churches in Scotland. Around 710AD the Pictish King Nechtan asked a Northumbrian abbot for assistance in building a stone church and this is a very likely location.

The most common reason that people might visit isn’t actually the priory though. An unassuming building passed on the short drive is home to the Angus Archives . Inside you can explore Angus stories, family histories and records that may help trace your ancestors from this region. It’s completely free to browse the burgh records along with their collection of public and private diaries and letters.

Hike Up To The Caterthuns

High in the hills behind Edzell, the short hike up the Caterthuns is one of my personal favourite things to do in Angus. These strangely named mounds are the remains of two Iron-Age forts, with a car park in the middle. The White Caterthun has ramparts made of stone, carried up over 2000 years ago. The Brown Caterthun is defended by simple ramparts of earth and heather.

It only takes around 10 minutes to hike to the top of the White and take in the immense size of the stone fort. The views in every direction over the rolling Angus hills are worth it. It takes slightly longer to walk up the Brown Caterthun, more like 25 minutes and it’s much harder to make out the shape of any remains.

We don’t really know how the Caterthuns were used. Were they were truly defensive forts, a thriving settlement or maybe even a ritualistic site? However, they do provide some great legends!

Fairies are said to live beneath these hills, a pot of gold is buried here somewhere and the White Caterthun was of course built by a witch. She shifted thousands of stones to build the impressive oval fort, in just one morning while carrying them in her apron!

Things To Do In The Angus Glens

If you like a taste of the Highlands, then you don’t need to leave Angus for that. There are plenty of things to do in the Angus Glens and each has their own unique character. I love Glen Esk in particular, where you can find a castle, hike a Munro , explore a peaceful loch and discover plenty of great stories.

It’s a long, winding road to the carpark at the end of Glen Esk, but even the drive is relaxing. Once there you have the choice of heading to the peaceful, old kirk at Loch Lee, or into Glen Mark.

Glen Mark was once the hideaway of James Carnegy the Laird of Balnamoon. He was a Jacobite on the run after the 1746 Battle of Culloden. Knowing he couldn’t return to his ancestral home, Carnegy spent most of his time hiding out in a secret cave deep in the glen. The rebel Laird was eventually betrayed by the local minister and dragged to London for trial.

Fortunately, he had taken his wife’s surname shortly before the Jacobite rising. The arrest warrant only showed his former name so he got off on a technicality to return to Angus and live the rest of his life in peace.

Visit Arbroath Abbey For National History

Tucked away on the coast, Arbroath Abbey is closely associated with one of the most significant events in Scottish history. When it comes to incredible Angus stories, you can’t possibly miss it out! Back in 1320, this was the location for the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath . It was a letter to the Pope, not from the King but from the Barons of Scotland.

The declaration called for the Holy Father’s support in recognising Robert the Bruce as the rightful King of Scots and an end to war with the English. The most stirring section reads:

“ As long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule. It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours, that we are fighting, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself .”

A less well known story is the Battle of Arbroath in 1445, a clash that took place right outside the abbey gates. Alexander Lindsay was upset that he had been replaced by Alexander Ogilvy as the Abbey’s Bailie of Regality. He brought a large army to Arbroath, badly outnumbering Ogilvy and his allies.

Lindsay’s father the Earl of Crawford arrived, rode in between the two sides and called for calm heads. One of the Ogilvy men mistook his shouts for an order to attack, launching a spear and killing him instantly. The following battle was long and bloody, but the Lindsays eventually came out on top.

Fill Your Stomach With An Arbroath Smokie

You simply can’t visit Angus and not try an Arbroath Smokie. This local delicacy is protected by law and must be made by traditional means within 5 miles of Arbroath. Fresh haddock are gutted, split, salted and dried then hung in pairs inside a special barrel above a smoky wood fire.

Enjoy walking the Arbroath Smokie Trail from the Signal Tower Museum, past the new harbour and the site of the old at Danger Point. The trail then leads along the top of the cliffs, all the way to Auchmithie where the smokie was first invented. Don’t forget to pick one up on your walk and enjoy a surprisingly sweet and delicate treat.

The method of preparing smokies has probably been around for a long time, maybe even brought over by the Vikings. There is a more entertaining story that explains the origin of the fish dish in Auchmithie though. Haddock had been tied in pairs and hung from the rafters inside a fishing cottage when a fire broke out. The cottage was burned to the ground, but the smoked fish was retrieved from the ashes and the smokie had been born!

Live The High Life At House of Dun

The perfectly symmetrical House of Dun , built in 1730, is a great thing to do in Angus for the whole family. Taking 13 years to finish, this Georgian masterpiece replaced a medieval towerhouse that had been home to the Erskine family for centuries. The family continued to live here right up until 1947 when the house was gifted to the National Trust for Scotland along with all of the furnishings.

Easily the most iconic feature from House of Dun is the incredible plasterwork in the saloon. For some of the trickier objects such as woven baskets or stringed violins, the real object was dipped in plaster and hung on the wall. Inside that plaster case is a perfectly entombed 300 year old object!

If you know what you’re looking for then you can even spot hidden messages in the imagery. The Erskines were secret Jacobites, opposed to the Union of the Crowns but also employed by the British government. To show his disdain, David Erskine hid his sympathies in images such as the God of War standing on the English crown with a defeated lion peaking out. There are also white roses, thistles and Fleur-de-lis scattered around.

Visit Angus’ Last Working Watermill

Found not far from Carnoustie, I think Barry Mill might be the best kept secret in Angus!

For hundreds of years, watermills were a vital part of life and without them people didn’t eat. Unfortunately, there are very few left in working condition, which is what makes Barry Mill so important!

There has been a mill on this site since at least 1539, although most of this building is from the 19th Century. Amazingly, Barry Mill was still running as a commercial operation just over 40 years ago. The process has barely changed in all that time, with every step powered by water from the Barry Burn. Kids and adults alike will be hypnotised by the intricate combination of levers, pullies and cogs.

You can see the enormous kiln where the grain was dried after delivery. Then follow the process where it’s poured down a chute, shovelled into sacks and pulled up to the loft by a chain. Next the grain is poured into a hopper and filtered down to the first set of grinding wheels.

An automated elevator of cups lifts it all back up and into the second set of stones. That’s where the oats are properly ground into oatmeal, ready for delivery. It’s incredible to see how innovative people were and how intricate a process like this is.

Scotland has a lot of stories about millers and grain, this place brings them to life!

Where To Eat In Angus

Glenesk Folk Museum – If you’re enjoying a day out up Glen Esk then there’s no better place for soup and a cake than the Glenesk Folk Museum!

Armstrong’s Bar & Restaurant – Not far from Glamis, you’ll find the family friendly Armstrong’s serving good, local food.

But n Ben, Auchmithie – Serving lunch and dinner, you’ll want to book ahead to grab a spot at the traditional wee But n Ben in Auchmithie. A treat if you like seafood in particular!

Where To Stay In Angus

Airlie Arms Hotel – Stay in the wee red town of Kirriemuir at the Airlie Arms, central enough to explore all of Angus!

Tigh Na Leigh – In the quiet town of Alyth you’ll find one of the most luxurious guest houses in Scotland at Tigh Na Leigh!

One Strathview, Forfar – Forfar is a main hub so a perfect place to stay in Angus. One Strathview makes a great B&B to use as a base too!

Old Brewhouse, Arbroath – How about a dog friendly hotel right on Arbroath’s waterfront? Just don’t eat smokies in the bedrooms…

If you enjoyed discovering these fun things to do in Angus, then head north and explore the City of Aberdeen!

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Writer and Storyteller

Wendy S. · April 11, 2022 at 3:20 pm

SO , so much to tell about a district that might(?) get driven past !!!…endless , stories and facts that really ‘tweak’ the imagination and interest … but , in one word …. ‘Glamis 🏰’ is sheer magic … ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿!!!

Graeme · April 20, 2022 at 6:11 pm

Glamis is just incredible! That’s only the tip of the Angus iceberg though, so many less well known places to stop and explore!

Rita Davidson · April 20, 2022 at 12:34 pm

I rarely go on facebook anymore. Glad I saw this today. A gem . Often I find more to my liking things that seem of much substace are off the beaten path. Thanks for sharing . Indeed this would be a destination for me if ever I were to travel . Beautiful vistas that giveaway to peaceful contemplation. History that too gives a feeling of a people past and my own need to feel connected.

Graeme · April 20, 2022 at 6:09 pm

I’m glad you spotted it today as well! It’s often the best way to travel, just a little off the beaten path where you have the chance to enjoy places that others are missing.

It’s the history that attracts me most!

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Choose your adventure: 13 things to do in angus.

Angus is a hidden gem on the Scottish east coast, full of spectacular scenery, interesting history and outstanding adventures. From dramatic coasts to dreamy castles and stunning glens , the Angus Tour route makes it easy to explore the highlights of the region away from the main roads. Here are some of my favourite things to do in Angus and a travel guide to help you make the most of your trip.

This post was commissioned by Visit Angus .

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Most people don’t think twice about visiting Angus, a region on the east coast of Scotland – they simply don’t. Instead, they make their way up the road north as quickly as they can.

But they don’t know what they’re missing!

I’ve been to Angus on several occasions and every time I discover something new. To me, there are many reasons to visit Angus:

• Angus is very dramatic coasts to dreamy castles and stunning glens . Whether you want to visit mountains and glens, picturesque rural towns or beaches and cliffs, it’s all there.
• Angus is amazing for outdoor activities in the water and in the mountains.
• It’s manageable in size . You don’t have to decide between visiting the coast or the mountains – it’s all so close together.
• It’s easy to reach and less than 2 hours away from the Glasgow and Edinburgh.
• There are no crowds in sight . That is, for now!

This travel guide includes some of my favourite experiences in Angus and lots of practical travel advice, such as how to get there, where to stay and where to find delicious vegan food.

The Angus Tour: Adventure Designed by You

The Angus Tour is a new route designed to help you discover the best of Angus whether you want to explore the outdoors, learn about history and heritage, indulge in food and drink, entertain the kids or travel with your dog. There are things to do in Angus for anyone!

However, the Angus Route is a road trip with a twist. Rather than one fixed route, it allows you to pick and choose from a number of suggested itineraries – exploring one theme across the region, or experiencing a mix of activities and places to see in a specific area. It turns your Angus road trip into an adventure designed by you.

The themed itineraries take one to three days and range from wildlife experiences to fascinating history, delicious local produce and breathtaking scenery. You can find the suggested itineraries here .

Angus is a stop on my East Scotland itinerary . If you like what you read here, why don’t you follow it on your next trip to Scotland?

Angus Travel Guide

Where is angus.

Angus lies on the east coast of Scotland, north of Fife across the River Tay, east of Perthshire and south of Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorms National Park.

No matter where you arrive, Angus is easy to reach – just over 1-hour drive from Edinburgh or Aberdeen and under 2 hours from Glasgow.

Angus is a great place to stay as you can reach many places in East Scotland within a short drive. From the Cairngorms National Park to the picturesque forests of Perthshire, the coast of the East Neuk of Fife or the beaches of Aberdeenshire, your adventure doesn’t stop in Angus.

How to get around Angus

A car will give you the greatest flexibility when visiting Angus, but there are also great public transport links.

The train connects the coastal towns from Dundee to Montrose which makes it easy to explore the Angus coast by public transport. Further inland, you can make use of a great network of local buses which connects all the major towns from Brechin to Kirriemuir.

How long to stay in Angus

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Angus to get a taste. That way you can spend one day on the coast, one in the rural countryside and one in the glens.

Of course, there is plenty to do to fill up an entire week in Angus if you have the time to explore longer!

Where to stay in Angus

There are many great places to stay in Angus. You could base yourself in one central location and explore from there, or book several accommodations in different parts of the region.

Here are some of my top accommodation picks in Angus:

Newton Farm Holidays is a great B&B on a small working farm near Forfar. There is one en-suite guest room which can also serve as a family room with a pull-out sofa. Guests have access to a small fridge to store any essentials and an atmospheric dining room. The farm is about 20 minutes from Forfar and ideally located to explore the countryside of Angus.

Lodge on Lochside is a B&B in the serene settings of the Lintrathen Nature Reserve near Kirriemuir. There are five en-suite rooms as well as a guest lounge and kitchen, that is fully equipped to prepare breakfast or even an evening meal. The B&B is well located to visit the Angus Glens. The cafe on-site serves breakfast, lunch and cakes from early morning.

Glen Clova Hotel is a beautiful 4-star hotel at the top of Glen Clova, a picturesque glen at the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. The hotel has 18 bedrooms and 9 self-catering lodges, each with its own private hot tub. There is a great restaurant on-site and many hiking trails that start at or near the hotel.

All of these accommodations also have dog-friendly rooms.

13 Things to do in Angus

Visit glamis castle.

From the mile-long scenic driveway across the grounds to the playful turrets and towers of the castle, a visit to Glamis Castle is a feast for the eyes. The castle was the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. It looks back at a long and legendary history.

Join a guided tour of the castle, explore the formal gardens or wander the generous grounds to discover this fascinating place.

Hike the Angus Glens

Nestled on the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park, the Angus Glens are a true hidden gem in the Scottish mountains. From Glen Esk past Glen Lethnot, Glen Clova, Glen Doll and Glen Prosen to Glen Isla in the west, these glens are tranquil and picturesque places to visit.

Enjoy the landscapes from the roadside, go on a hike or bag a Munro, and join a wildlife tour to spot some of the wild animals in the glens – these are among my favourite things to do in Angus.

Corrie Fee and Loch Brandy at Glen Clova/Glen Doll and the Loch Lee circuit at the top of Glen Esk are my top picks for walks in Angus.

Discover history at Arbroath Abbey

While there are many older historic sites to visit, when it comes to the more recent political history of Scotland – Arbroath is the place to be.

In 1320 Scottish noblemen sent a letter to Pope John XXII to declare the independence of the Kingdom of Scotland. This document is known as the Declaration of Arbroath and it is believed that it was drafted and written at Arbroath Abbey.

Visit the ruins of the 12th-century abbey and learn about its political and cultural significance at the award-winning visitor centre.

Afterward, enjoy a wander down to the harbour of Arbroath and the Signal Tower lighthouse.

Birdwatching at Montrose Basin

The Montrose Basin is a large estuary of the River South Esk, just west of Montrose. Before the river meets the sea, it forms wide mudflats that offer food and shelter for over 100,000 migratory birds. During the summer months, many of them arrive here to form large breeding colonies, but there are also birds that live here year-round. It’s the perfect place for birders!

The visitor centre has panoramic views and many telescopes and binoculars to spot wildlife. There are also a few hides around the basin that can be reached on a network of trails. From September to February this is a great place to see kingfishers!

Another great place for birdwatching is the RSPB nature reserve at Loch of Kinnordy near Kirriemuir. There are three hides along the loch shores.

You might also like: 11 Educational & Science-Based Tourism Experiences in Scotland

Chase waterfalls at Reekie Linn

There are many waterfalls in Angus, especially in the Angus Glens. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region is Reekie Linn on the river Isla. The waterfall has its name from the powerful spray that fills the gorge with mist – “reekie” means smokey.

The walk from the car park to the waterfall is very short – about 20 minutes – but the ground can be quite wet and the slopes of the gorge are steep, so take great care. There are several picnic benches along the river, which makes this a great spot for a lunch break.

Indulge in local (vegan) cuisine

Angus is Scotland’s larder on the east coast. The region is known for abundant farming and rich fisheries, from the obvious favourites like Aberdeen Angus cattle to local delicacies like Forfar bridies (meat pastries) and Arbroath smokies (smoked haddock).

But even if you are vegan, you will find plenty of food to indulge in! Much of Scotland’s vegetables and fruits hail from this part of the country, and like everywhere, there is a growing trend to offer delicious, plant-based options.

Here are some of my favourite eateries in Angus that cater to vegans and other dietary requirements. I’d generally recommend giving restaurants a call to book a table and let them know if you’re vegan.

• The Giddy Goose , Forfar – a trendy restaurant with burgers and pizza. Would be great for a night out with cocktails.
• 88 Degrees , Kirriemuir – a quirky cafe in the centre of Kirriemuir.
• Wee Bear Cafe , Lintrathen – a cafe adjacent to Lodge on Lochside, popular with walkers and cyclists. They always have a huge selection of cakes with some vegan options.
• Drovers Inn , near Kirriemuir – a popular countryside restaurant with a big garden and delicious Scottish menu.
• Glen Clova Hotel – excellent food at the hotel’s restaurant in the beautiful setting of Glen Clova. There is a spacious terrace and plenty of tables inside.
• The Old Brewhouse , Arbroath – a quirky pub near the harbour of Arbroath. I loved all the marine decor.
• East Coast Burgers , Montrose – a bright burger joint in the dunes of Montrose beach.

Explore Angus’ picturesque towns & villages

Edzell , Brechin , Forfar , Glamis and Kirriemuir in the countryside; Montrose , Arbroath , Carnoustie and Monifieth along the coast – there are many picturesque towns and villages in Angus.

I recently enjoyed a wander through Forfar – the county town of Angus, which was formerly called Forfarshire. It has a very pretty town centre with lots of independent shops and businesses. Discover quirky pubs and beautiful cobble-stone lanes, or walk up Castle Hill for a view of the area.

Go for a gentle walk in the Sidlaws

The Sidlaws are the local hills of Dundee. Volcanic in origin, the range extends for about 30 miles from Kinnoull Hill near Perth to close to Forfar.

Some of the summits to climb in the Sidlaws are Auchterhouse Hill, Balluderon Hill and Craigowl Hill – the highest in the range. Another popular viewpoint is the top of Carrot Hill which can easily be reached by car.

Explore Glenisla by bike

With its flat coastal trails, far-stretching countryside and winding roads into the glens, Angus is a cyclist’s paradise.

To hire bikes, head to Lintrathen Cycles on the edge of the Lintrathen nature reserve. From here, you can explore the foothills of the Angus Glens, and discover the castles, lochs and tearooms off the beaten path.

I hired an e-bike and cycled from Lintrathen to Kirkton of Kingoldrum and Balintore Castle, which took about 2-3 hours.

Explore more cycling trails in Angus .

Meet the animals at Newton Farm Holidays

The farm at Newton of Fotheringham is small and family-run. Like most farms in the area, they mostly farm cows and sheep, but they also have a plethora of other animals – many rehomed to enjoy the rest of their lives in the beautiful Angus countryside.

Chickens and ducks, a riot of goats, a peacock couple, Highland cows, several alpacas and Lucy, the miniature pig – who isn’t all that miniature.

You can meet the animals on a farm tour or by joining in on one of the farm experiences. From walking the alpacas to brushing Highland cows, bottle-feeding lambs in the spring or getting the goats in – it’s a lot of fun to be around these animals!

The farm is also a great way for people to learn about where their food comes from and regenerative approaches to farming.

Visit the Bothy Experience

The Bothy Experience combines two of my favourite things: gin and bothies.

At the Gin Bothy visitor centre you join a gin tasting or purchase a bottle to take home. Shop local produce and hand-selected gifts at the larder and bakery, or learn about Scottish mountain bothies in the Bothy Tales exhibit.

Spend a day on the beach

The Angus coast is a great place for a beach day. One of my favourite beaches in Angus is Montrose beach which stretched for miles just north of the town. You could follow the trails and the sands all the way to the estuary of the river North Esk.

South of Montrose is a smaller, but beautiful beach at Lunan Bay . Other popular Angus beaches include Carnoustie and Broughty Ferry .

If you want to see the coastline from the water, check out Sup2Summit who do SUP lessons and tours along the Angus coast.

Discover geology at Seaton Cliffs

The Seaton Cliffs extend north from Arbroath and are a great place to see spectacular red sandstone formations – sea caves, stacks, blowholes and arches. There is a great trail along the cliffs and you caneither walk all the way to Auchmithie and take the bus back, or turn around anytime to retrace your steps.

To explore the cliffs and caves from the seaside, get in touch with Arbroath Cliff Tours .

As you can see, Angus has a lot going for itself. No matter what aspect of Scottish culture you want to experience – there are things to do in Angus that will help you dive right in!

Planning a trip was never easier than with the Angus Tour route. I hope I’ve inspired you to do just that and discover one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

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nice post . Thank you for posting something like this

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Angus Coastal Route: A Locals Road Trip Guide

The Angus Coastal Route is a 68-mile detour route from Dundee to Aberdeen or vice versa.

Dundee is a fascinating city with a rich industrial heritage with maritime traditions and Aberdeen is a city built on glittering granite. This tranquil route is excellent for rural explorers and adventurous travellers.

The normal driving route to connect these two cities is the dual carriageway called the A90.

However, alternatively, you can explore the dreamy coastline by completing the Angus Coastal Path. The path is an excellent scenic route for a stay-at-home holiday or drivers, walkers and cyclists. 

While travelling on the Angus Coastal Route you will have the shimmering North Sea on one side and the magnificent Grampian mountains on the other.

There is plenty to do on this route including attractive nature reserves, small charming towns , historic castles near Dundee and spectacular geological formations. 

This guide will take you through all the best attractions, including the secret gems which are only known to the locals. 

Dundee is slowly becoming a top tourist destination for the arts and culture as well as being a vibrant diverse city. Also, Dundee has been recognised by Lonely Planet in 2018 as being named in the top 10 cities in Europe.

Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design, and is an excellent host that showcases history and culture in a number of museums. 

Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland and is known as the sunniest city in Scotland.

There is currently a waterfront development as part of a massive restoration of the city. Including the V&A that opened back in 2018. 

Some of the notable museums with hands-on activities include the Discovery Point, V&A, Dundee Science Centre, Dundee Contemporary Arts, Verdant Works and McManus Galleries.

Also, you can visit Mills Observatory if you arrive in Dundee in the evening, where you can marvel at the stars in the night sky. 

Alternatively, Dundee is home to lots of green space and country parks . You can climb to the top of the Law to gather picturesque views of the city and the sparkling River Tay.

Also, there is the massive Camperdown Country Park and the Caird Park which is home to Mains Castle. 

Furthermore, you can walk along the waterfront from Invergowrie to Broughty Ferry.

In Broughty Ferry you can enjoy the cosy cafes and beautiful boutiques, stroll through the Barnhill Botanic Gardens, learn about the history at Broughty Castle or relax at the golden sand beaches.

In addition, you can keep an eye out for the local dolphin families, locals and tourists love watching them frolicking in the water.

Dundee Accommodation: Casa Fresa – Union Heights , Maritime House

Carnoustie is a golfer’s haven and is a host for ‘The Open’. The 18 holes are known as Scotland’s most challenging golf course.

So if you are looking for a game of Golf, make sure to get out Carnoustie Golf Links.

Barry Buddon 

The walking path from Dundee, through Broughty Ferry and Monifieth all the way to Carnoustie is excellent.

There is an excellent cycle path from Monifieth through Barry Buddon Training Camp to Carnoustie. The area is perfect to enjoy coastal walks and wildlife watching. 

Barry Buddon dates back to 1850 when the area was used by local Rifle Volunteers, Artillery Brigade and a Royal Naval Reserve Battery.

The area is still in use today and it may be out of bounds, make sure you check on the Carnoustie Community Development Trust website or on their Facebook page. 

Barry Mill is a charming rustic working water-powered mill that is an extraordinary case of Scotland’s industrial heritage. 

Here, you can get an experience of what life was like on a tough day working in a mill. The mill is still powered by the gentle flow of the Barry Burn. 

Craigmill Den

Craigmill Den is just situated outside Carnoustie, it is a lovely nature walk in the quiet woodland and offers plenty of wildlife for nature lovers to enjoy.

There is a wide range of bird species including Dippers, Grey Wagtails, Linnets and Tree Sparrows. Also, you will come across the remains of the weir. 

Carnoustie Accommodation: Carlogie House , At The Links

East Haven dates back to 1214, making it one of Scotland’s earliest fishing villages . The railway line was built in the early 20th century making it more accessible for tourists.

Princess Margaret and Queen Elizabeth came here for beach days while they were having their holidays in Glamis Castle. East Haven was awarded Britain in Bloom gold Award and Best Coastal Village 2018.

The community respects the area as they keep up a beautiful community garden and do regular beach cleans. Also, the public toilets have been transformed into a local gallery displaying the best local art.

Arbroath 

Arbroath harbour.

Now we are in a small coastal town known as Arbroath . Arbroath is home to one of the first fishing harbours built in Scotland, and it quickly became a major point of the thriving fishing industry.

However, nowadays there are only a few commercial fishing boats remaining. The teeming marina now has a visitor centre with lots of information and toilets.

Also, there is a friendly welcoming cafe. Although the harbour is small, it is colourful and pretty.

Arbroath is probably best known for the ‘ Arbroath Smokie ’. The Arbroath Smokie is a delicious smoked haddock which was traditionally produced in the backyards of smokehouses.

The haddock is covered in salt then smoked over oak and beech chips, over whiskey barrels for an hour. 

Arbroath Abbey

The Arbroath Abbey is found in the centre of Arbroath. To reach the town centre you can turn left at the end of the harbour.

The red ruins symbolise the immensely rich history that has occurred in Arbroath since the 12th century.

One of the most notable events is this is where the Declaration of Arbroath, which declared Scotland’s Independence was signed in April 1320.

Seaton Cliffs Nature Reserve

The walkway that takes you through Seaton Cliffs starts at Victoria Park. The path is very narrow and close to the sudden drops in some areas.

You can follow the route as it ascends above the incredible red limestone and twists through all of the geological wonders. One of the first fascinating features you will come across is Needle E’e.

The Needle Eye is a large rock formation with a hole in the centre of it. The hole beautifully frames the water into the horizon.

Also, keep an eye out for the best-hidden gems including a large single sea stack called Deil’s Heid. In addition, Dickmonts Den and Carlingheugh Brae are two other areas with picturesque views over the sea. 

The rock formations and their landscapes change dramatically depending on whether the tide is in or out. Moreover, you can keep an eye out for seabirds, wildflowers and butterflies. 

Arbroath Accommodation: Brucefield Boutique B&B , Wester Den

Auchmithie 

The Arbroath Coastal Cliff route finishes at the old fishing harbour called Auchmithie. Auchmithie is three miles north of Arbroath.

The village is perched on 120-foot cliffs, with a pebble beach, some interesting rock architecture and a dingy harbour. 

Back in the early 1800s, Auchmithie was famous in the fishing industry, the small village had a population of 400. Also, the first ‘ Arbroath Smokie ’ was produced here.  

The walking route from the road to Red Castle is a small but steep one. You can park in a lay-by on the road across from an old rusty gate.

Once you walk through the small gate and follow up the steep hill you will be greeted with wildflowers and views over the horizon and Lunan Bay . If you are an early riser, one of the best times to get amazing views is during sunrise. 

The ruins of Red Castle are dated from the 15th century, only parts of the tower are remaining.

The area is currently very dangerous and the castle is currently unstable. Make sure you check Visit Angus website to see if the problem is resolved before you head. 

Lunan Bay 

Lunan Bay is one of Scotland’s most stunning beaches. Once, it was voted Scotland’s most scenic beach and is one of the most gorgeous beaches on the east coast of Scotland .

There are boardwalks and viewing points that take you over the sand dunes. The beach is utilised by families, horse riders, surfers and walkers.

Also, the area is extremely popular on sunny days. In addition, when the tide is out you will get to enjoy the hidden caves on the north end on the beach. 

Boddin Point

Boddin Point is an old secluded harbour, it is rarely used now, however occasional lobster catches are brought in.

There are some old eroded wooden boats perched on the cliff tops. In addition, there is a peddle beach and some abandoned worn-down cottages which are great for exploring. 

Also, there is a limekiln which is the most prominent feature of Boddin Point.

The lime kiln dates back to the 1700s, there is severe erosion undercutting the structure and some people wonder how the structure is still holding up. Therefore, there are predictions that the structure will not hold for much longer. 

Elephant Rock 

Elephant Rock is a coastal arch of volcanic rock tucked away in a secluded bay. The fascinating rock formation closely resembles an elephant’s head and trunk!

You can reach the structure by walking from Boddin Point . Alternatively, you can park in a lay-by on a nearby coastal road and walk on an eroded path which takes you over a railway line.

There is a small graveyard overlooking elephant rock and it is home to the most interesting gravestone.

The gravestone belongs to George James Ramsay who died 19 years before he was born. Make sure you have a good look around the graveyard and you will find what I mean. 

Also, you can continue to walk and admire the coastal cliff tops by walking through the small fishing town of Usan. At Usan, there is a small square tower which marks the history of the salmon fishing and a saltworks which operated between 1794 and 1820. 

Scurdie Ness Lighthouse

Scurdie Ness Lighthouse is located on the south side of River South Esk. It sits prominently on the southern end of Montrose Bay.

Here, you can scan the coastline for hours to search for semi precious agate which was formed from the ancient volcanic rock. Also, this area is fantastic for spotting bottlenose dolphins, seals and if you are lucky enough the occasional humpback whale. 

Scurdie Ness Lighthouse was opened on the first of March 1870. The structure was built by David Stevenson and Thomas Stevenson.

‘Scurdie’ is the word for the local volcanic rock which is found around the area and ‘Ness’ means headland.

Montrose Basin 

Montrose Basin is an enclosed estuary home to over 80,000 migrating birds. The species that live here include pink-footed geese, Arctic terns, knots and sedge warblers.

The area is managed by Scottish Wildlife Trust and entry is £4 for adults. Also, there are several nature walks to explore the bird haven around the basin.

Two miles outside of Montrose is the refurbished House of Dun.

The large Georgian country house was built back in the 1730’s and has been refurbished in the 1980’s. In addition, the site has lots of parkland and walled gardens to explore.

Montrose Accommodation: Charleton Farm Cottages

St Cyrus Nature Reserve

The nature reserve is one of the richest and most diverse nature reserves in Britain.

The beaches in the reserve are surrounded by magnificent volcanic cliffs, and the reserve contains an unbelievable range of wildflowers, insects and birds.

In addition, you might be lucky enough to spot grey seals on shore or porpoise, inke, humpback and killer whales offshore.

Also, you can admire the views from the clifftop at the village end. At St Cyrus Nature Reserve there are toilets and a visitor centre. 

Den of Finella

Den of Finella is also known to the locals as the ‘ Lost Waterfall ‘. It is a tropical-looking waterfall not far from Aberdeen .

Many people drive over this waterfall daily and do not know it exists. The drive to the waterfall is only two minutes north of St Cyrus.

You can park on the high viaduct that is perched over the steep Den of Finella gorge. Nowadays, the impressive viaduct is hardly visible due to the leafy greenery that has grown on the verges. 

There are limited spaces in this area, and the bottom of the waterfall is very difficult to get to. I would only try and get to the bottom of this gorge if you are an active confident walker. 

However, in my opinion, this waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Scotland . You can bring your swimming costumes if you are brave enough to go for a dip in the chilly waters.  

St Cyrus Accommodation: Straton Cottage

Crawton Waterfall

The Crawton Waterfall is located in the RSPB Fowlsheugh Nature Reserve. Also, there are light nature trails , which circulate around the cliff tops.

You will be rewarded with stunning views of the jaw-dropping cliffs overlooking the North Sea. 

Dunnottar Castle

Scotland is home to over 2,000 castles so there is no surprise that there is a castle on this route.

The dramatic castle ruin is perched in the most stunning location on a 200 feet high cliff. One of the most stunning castles on the east coast of Scotland .

Also, you can walk from Stonehaven to Dunnottar Castle which will give you the best views of the site. 

However, you can still get good views of the castle without accessing the grounds. There is a small car park that fills up quickly.

Also, there is a food truck which is good for getting a coffee and admiring the view. 

Stonehaven Harbour

The harbour is busy with sailing yachts. A notable building on the Quayside is the Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum which has a fascinating history.

Also, in Stonehaven, you can take Sea Safari Boat Trips or go to the Outdoor Air Swimming Pool, many cute cafes and beautiful boutiques. 

Stonehaven Accommodation: Lazy Puffin , Dunnottar Woods House

Aberdeen is notably one of the most architecturally distinctive in Europe.

One of the biggest hidden gems in Aberdeen, sits in plain sight at the coast of central Aberdeen, it is the ancient fishing village of Footdee.

In addition, Aberdeenshire is home to over 263 castles . One castle ruin situated in Aberdeen is Slains Castle.

Some of the notable museums with hands-on activities include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Aberdeen Art Gallery and Tolbooth Museum.

Also, you can wander around Old Aberdeen which is home to St Machar’s Cathedral, Brig o’ Balgownie, Powis Gate, The Snow Kirk and Kings College. 

Alternatively, Aberdeen is home to lots of green space and country parks . You can walk around Johnston Gardens, peaceful Seaton Park and Hazlehead Park.

Aberdeen Accommodation: Footdee Cottage , Seaview House

The route is a low leveled and the ascents are short and well graded. The Angus Coastal Walking route is not formerly made yet.

There are some good walking areas with clearly detailed paths including the route from Dundee to Arbroath, including the nature reserve at Arbroath Cliff and Scurdie Ness.

The Angus part of this route is 35 miles long. However, walking from Auchiemuchie to Lunan is a bit of a pain, you will find yourself winding through unofficial farm tracks, and losing all the good views from the cliffs.

Another area to watch out for is walking between Lunan and Boddin Point, you may find yourself having to walk inland on the country roads to get from A to B. 

The drive on the Angus Coastal Route is mostly country roads where you can drive up to sixty miles per hour.

However, beware of tight turns and sharp bends. Also, the route is well-signposted, and there are not a lot of junctions or turn-offs so you should not get lost.

The Angus Coastal Route is one of the more tranquil and lesser known road trips in Scotland .

You can stop at some of the most scenic points on the east coast of Scotland including Lunan Bay, Den of Finella and Dunnottar Castle.

The route is perfect for solo travellers including drivers, cyclists and hikers. Or, alternatively, it is a perfect sightseeing trip for those who need a staycation.

• Route planner

The best walks and hikes in Angus

Comprising a high, mountainous north, rolling hills in the south east, a scenic coastline and a wide, verdant valley running across its heartland, walks in Angus are as endlessly varied as they are lovely. Throw in historic abbeys, majestic castles and pristine country parks, you’ve soon got a region to enthral all.

If hillwalking is your thing, the magnificent Angus Glens punctuate deep into the high ground of the Mounth in the southern Cairngorms. Experience the freedom of the hills on vast expanses of high tundra, where the land has a definite Arctic flavour. Mountain hares dart about before your eyes and the incredible sight of a golden eagle overhead is not uncommon.

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Mayar & Driesh loop from Glen Doll — Cairngorms National Park

Auchmithie & seaton cliff coastal loop from arbroath.

Let us show you the way with the komoot mobile app

Glen esk waterfalls & invermark castle loop from auchronie — cairngorms national park, kinpurney hill from newtyle, monikie country park loop, scurdie ness and elephant rock loop, glen clova and ben tirran loop — cairngorms national park, loch brandy & the snub loop from clova — cairngorms national park, loch shandra, auchintaple loch & forter castle loop from kirkton — glen isla, carrot hill & dodd hill loop, more information, coast, castles and cattle.

The North Sea coastline is delightful, with the wild headlands of Scurdie Ness and Buddon Ness both beguiling places to explore. The striated red sandstone of Seaton Cliffs is yet another marvellous sight.

The land then rises gently to the rolling Sidlaw Hills, the highest of which, Craigowl Hill at 1,493 feet (455 m), is a great vantage for looking over Dundee and the surrounding agricultural land. A little further north, it is difficult not to be impressed by the majesty of Glamis Castle’s towers and turrets, whilst its gardens offer parkland, mixed woodland and a plethora of flora and fauna.

Separating the mountainous north and the modest Sidlaw Hills is the vast, verdant swathe of Strathmore, a fertile land famous for the cattle with which Angus is synonymous. Walks in Angus don’t get any greener or stress-free than those found here.

Getting high in the Cairngorms National Park

Many of the best hiking trails in Angus explore the unique landscapes found in the southern reaches of the Cairngorms National Park. Epitomised by rounded green hills, spacious wide glens and a vast plateau of sedge, moss and grass, it is a sensational place to roam.

Each charming in its own right, the five Angus Glens cut deep into the high plateau of the Mounth and contain the kind of breathtaking scenes that make Scotland the envy of most nations. The handsome market towns of Blairgowrie, Brechin and Kirriemuir are great bases, with bus services that take you into the heart of the glens. From there, serene valley trails lead upwards, allowing you access to no less than ten Munro summits.

Mountainous hikes in Angus can be made easier and much more accessible by making use of the Cairnwell Pass, Britain’s highest pass at 2,199 feet (670 m). From here, nearby Munros can be knocked off with relative ease.

Glaciated magnificence around Glen Clova

Arguably Angus’ most dramatic glen is Glen Clova, a remarkable glaciated landscape that culminates in the awe-inspiring natural amphitheatre of Corrie Fee. A tumbling burn crashes from the rocky ramparts and wonderful trails lead to Driesh at 3,107 feet (947 m) and Mayar at 3,045 feet (928 m), two firm favourites boasting incredible views across the vast plateau.

Our Tour recommendations are based on thousands of activities completed by other people on komoot.

Popular around Angus

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Castles in Angus

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Check out more Hikes throughout Angus below and find the perfect Tour in your destination.

• Montreathmont Forest
• Glenisla Forest
• Montreathmont Moor
• Loch of Forfar
• Rescobie Loch
• Backwater Reservoir
• Balloch Moss
• Montrose Basin Local Nature Reserve
• Den of Airlie

Explore more of North East Scotland : Browse the best Hikes in other regions.

• Aberdeenshire
• Ballater And Crathie
• Slains And Collieston
• Kirriemuir Landward East
• Mid Deeside
• Muirhead, Birkhill And Liff
• Newtonhill, Muchalls And Cammachmore
• Strathmartine
• Stonehaven And District
• Catterline, Kinneff And Dunnottar
• Hillside, Dun And Logie Pert
• Friockheim And District
• City Of Brechin And District
• Ferryden And Craig
• Royal Burgh Of Arbroath
• Murroes And Wellbank
• Birse And Ballogie
• Westhill And Elrick
• Strathbogie
• Echt And Skene
• King Edward And Gamrie
• Kirriemuir Landward West
• Letham And District
• North Kincardine
• Crathes, Drumoak And Durris
• Portlethen And District
• Rathen, Memsie And Cortes
• Boddam And District
• Fyvie, Rothienorman, Monquhitter
• New Aberdour, Tyrie And Pennan
• Cluny, Midmar And Monymusk
• Auchterhouse
• Fordyce, Sandend And District
• Aberchirder And Marnoch
• Alvah And Forglen
• Monikie And Newbigging
• Royal Burgh Of Montrose
• Longside And District
• Whitehills And District
• Banff And Macduff
• Mintlaw And District
• Newtyle And Eassie
• Kintore And District
• Strichen And District
• Portsoy And District
• Inchmarlo, Brathens And Glassel
• Buchan East
• Auchterless, Inverkeithny And Fisherford
• Turriff And District
• New Pitsligo
• Lunanhead And District
• Royal Burgh Of Forfar
• Benholm And Johnshaven
• Meldrum, Bourtie And Daviot
• Cornhill And Ordiquhill
• Sandhaven And Pitullie
• Royal Burgh Of Inverbervie

The perfect adventure in Scotland

Are you looking for the perfect place to visit once the virus threat will be over?

Do you believe of having seen everything this island could offer you?

The Angus region suits you .

Probably you heard about it a lot of times but you never even thought about visiting it. As a matter of fact, this island that we call Great Britain has some of the most beautiful cities of Europe: London and Edinburgh. Their charm is immortal and they can be the perfect place for both group of friends who wants to have fun and for couples in love. Maybe it is for their charm that every year they attract tourist from January to December. Otherwise you could choose for more industrial towns, such as Liverpool or Manchester, the ideal places for the football aficionados. From the English Channel to John o’ Groats there are a lot of interesting places.

So we can understand if the Angus region goes a little unnoticed among all those touristic places. Even if we understand it, we have to highlight how it is unfair. This area contained in the geographical borders of Scotland offers everything you could ask for and a lot more than you can imagine . If you want to know more about this hidden gem, keep reading this page!

What is the Angus region?

If you are a British, whether you are from Galles or from Scotland, you will surely know the Angus region, or at least you heard about it. If you are a European tourist or a non-EU citizen, you will probably not even know what we are talking about. Let’s start from the beginning.

Angus is an area in the North-East part of Scotland. It is a very important place for the history of Scottish people. The Picts, what we can define as the ancestors of the Scottish inhabitants, settled here until the 900 AD. What did they do after 900 AD? Did they run away? Of course not. This is the traditionally established year of Celtic culture foundation in Great Britain. So, the Picts simply melt into the Celts, who were stronger and elder, since their common roots set in Central Europe around the 1200 BC! These peoples, who grew up differently in the Iberian Peninsula, in France and in Germany, merged in Great Britain and they were connected to each other for the fact that they used to speak a common language, that we name “Celtic language”.

As you can see in this picture, the Scotland landscapes are truly delightful, someplace that the Ancient Romans would call locus amoenus , which is and idyllic scenery.

This isn’t the only reason for the historical importance of the Angus region for the Scottish citizen. It is considered indeed the birthplace of Scotland, because here the King of Scotland signed the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, asserting the nation’s sovereignty. Today, the Angus region is a flourishing place for having holiday outings, thank to its green area and to its range of entertainment things that can amuse you. If you want to know more about what to see and what to do in the Angus region, you should keep reading!

What is Angus region famous for?

You could ask yourself if the Angus region is famous only for historical reasons. As you read in the previous paragraph, we can define the Angus as the birthplace of the entire Scotland culture, so it is no small matter. Actually, this is not the only reason that should push you visiting this area. You should have heard about the Angus meat, that is usually offered in restaurants. You need to know that this small beef cattle is the most breed all around the world. If you go to Argentina, Australia, Canada, USA or Germany, you will find Angus breedings. The interesting thing is that the Angus cattle was born in Scotland. The breedings all around the world are the consequences of importing this specie. Even if today you can taste a perfect American Angus meat in Dallas, this beef cattle was first recorded in the counties of Abeerdenshire and Angus. If you are from the USA, you should check out this awesome guide to the US lottery . This is why the popular name of the animal is Aberdeen Angus . The first reason for you to visit this region, so, is to discover the birthplace of one of the most famous breed animals in the world.

Here you can see a mixed herd of Red and Black Angus. If you know a lot about catering, you’ll know that the most famous kind is the black one.

You need to know that in the Angus region there is only one city, but it is surrounded by a lot of small villages and town. In this area you will find Dundee, an industrial city and the most populated one in Angus. However, we are talking about 150,000 people, which are nothing compared to the biggest Scottish cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow. You will understand how the hidden gems are the small villages around Dundee, such as Arbroath, a small fishing port 16 miles from Dundee. It is very famous for its declaration, that we mentioned previously, for his abbey and for the Keptie Pond, a beautiful park wrapped around a small lake. It can be pretty romantic, so the perfect destination for a couple in love.

Apart from what we told you until now, there are a lot of things you can do in the Angus region, that is the ideal place for those who love the excursions and the food tour.

What to do during your visit to Angus region?

Besides Arbroath, another beautiful village you need to visit is Montrose. One of its attractions is the Red Castle . We ask you to imagine a wonderful landscape covered in grass and a small red castle that come up from the ground. This is the Red Castle, the ruins of a manor dating back to the 15th century. It was built of red sandstone, so here it is the reason to its color.

Thanks to its enormous green areas, the Angus region is the ideal place for those who are in love with golf. Both beginner and experienced golfers will find the perfect golf course in Angus inland. You can choose between more than thirty golf courses!

We have talked to you about Keptie Pond in Arbroath. Actually, you can find a lot of beautiful parks in Angus. An example is Monikie Country Park in Monikie, North-East of Dundee. Here you and your children can have fun in the exciting High Ropes course, suitable for toddler of all ages. In Monikie Country Park you will be able also to entertain yourself in windsurfing, sailing and canoeing.

If you love hiking, both alone or with your friends, you’ll find wonderful paths all around Angus. We could suggest you Seaton Cliffs , where you can explore the sea caves in Scotland or the famous Devil’s Head. Try to discover the origin of this name! Otherwise, you could try the Corrie Fee Nature Reserve , that was formed during the Ice Age by the ice melting and where you can hope to see the golden eagle.

This is another attraction in Angus. It is the Glamis Castle and it’s open to visits even if it is the official residence of Strathmore and Kinghorne Counts.

Finally, you can taste a lot of different things during your journey in Angus. The first thing we suggest you, obviously, is the Angus beef. Let’s not forget that the Angus region overlooks the sea, so you should probably try the Arbroath Smokie . It is protected by UNESCO and it’s a type of smoked haddock. Of course you should go visiting Arbroath for tasting this delicacy. Scotland is particularly famous for whiskey production. Every county here has its own distillery and brand and every county is very proud of it. This is why you can’t leave Angus without tasting Glencadam the Scottish distillery formed in 1825 in Brechin.

We know that we convinced you visiting this wonderful place. If it isn’t so, let us tempt you eventually with this beautiful video from Youtube that shows the marvelous Arbroath Cliffs.

As you can see, the Angus region is full of special experiences you can try. But how can you reach this beautiful area of Scotland? Keep reading to know how!

How to reach Angus

You could think that as this region is very wild, it is also difficult to reach. Nothing could be more wrong! It is very easy to get to the Angus region, even if you don’t have your own car and you need using public transports.

• If you own a car, from Central Belt of Scotland, you must follow the signs for Dundee. While if you come from Inverness or from the North of the country, you must follow the directions for Coupar Angus and then for Forfar. From Aberdeen, you have to follow the A90.

You can choose between travelling by coach or by train.

• Travelling from Glasgow to Dundee by coach means almost two hours of travel time.
• You will reach Dundee by train in one hour and a half.

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Corbetts, Glens and Grahams to climb in Scotland

Scotland provides the perfect outdoor playground for hillwalkers. If you fancy a challenge, why not climb a Scottish mountain while you're here? We want to shine a light on some of our Corbetts, Glens and Grahams that are worth the climb. Plus, it's a great way to soak up Scotland's natural landscape and scenery.

The Three Sisters are made up of Beinn Fhada, Gearr Aonach and Aonach Dubh

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A guide to Scotland's mountains

Corrie Fee in Glen Cova

You might be familiar with our Munros, but did you know there are lots of other mountains across Scotland to climb? Let us introduce to you our Corbetts, Glens and Grahams. Although smaller in scale, they are a great introduction to hillwalking while being immersed in Scotland's natural beauty.

Get to know our mountains better with these interesting facts.

There are 221 Corbetts in Scotland, which are defined as hills that reach between 2,500 and 3,000 ft high, creating the perfect stepping stone between gentler Grahams (between 2,000 and 2,500 ft) and towering Munros (over 3,000 ft).

'Glen' is the Scottish term for a valley. Many have a U-shape and were gouged into existence by huge glaciers that ground down the mountains. The glaciers finally departed at the end of the last ice age 11,500 years ago.

Grahams are mountains which scale between 2,000 and 2,500 ft high, just slightly shorter than Corbetts (over 2,500 ft) and Munros (over 3,000 ft). They might be on the shorter scale, but Grahams boast equally impressive views and a great sense of achievement when climbing to the top.

How to climb hills responsibly

Hillwalkers up Creag Choinnich; a hill above Braemar village

It is essential that you are prepared and properly equipped for venturing out into Scotland's landscapes. 

1. Don't forget to take a map and compass with you.

2. Brush up on  Safety Outdoors in Scotland .

3. Read and follow the  Scottish Outdoor Access Code .

4. Check out  Mountaineering Scotland  for safety advice.

5. Take a look at  WalkHighlands  for full details of the routes.

Corbetts in Scotland

You can find Corbetts across Scotland, all surrounded by stunning scenery and boasting magnificent views from the summit. Some are even nestled away in the landscape, making for an even more tranquil outing in Scotland.

Beinn Chuirn, Argyll

© @sassenach.photography

1. Beinn Chuirn, Argyll

Head west, near Tyndrum, where Beinn Chuirn awaits. Sitting in the shadow of neighbouring Munro, Ben Lui, it's a gold mine to explore. Speaking of gold mines, did you know Tyndrum has its own nearby? Cononish Glen is home to a gold mine, and although you can't get up close, it's still a fascinating insight to the land you're walking on. Soak in the dramatic scenery as you hike your way to the top of Beinn Chuirn.

Height: 880 m (2,887 ft) Distance: 16 km/10 miles Time: 5.5 - 6 hours

Explore Beinn Chuirn

Sgòr Mòr, Cairngorms

2. Sgòr Mòr, Cairngorms

Travel to one of Scotland's glorious National Parks for a day of exploring the trails of Sgòr Mòr. The Cairngorms National Park is a spectacular place to explore on foot, with hundreds of trails and paths to follow. Sgòr Mòr is an expansive hill, stretching between Glen Luibeg and Glen Dee, and is renowned as one of the best viewpoints in the Cairngorms.

Height: 813m (2,667 ft)  Distance: 20.75 km/13 miles Time: 6 - 7 hours

Explore Sgòr Mòr

The pools at Glen Rosa with a view of Goat Fell, Isle of Arran

© Barry Dawson / Ayrshire & Arran Tourism Group

3. Goat Fell, Isle of Arran

A popular summit you may have heard of, Goat Fell is the highest peak on the Isle of Arran and a great place to explore whilst visiting this spectacular west coast island. Climbing Goat Fell is incredibly rewarding, and the route links together other peaks in the north of the island, including its three other Corbetts, that you can tick off along the way too. From the top you can see across the islands and beyond, as well as a variety of landmarks too, including Brodick Bay, and north towards Rothesay on the Isle of Bute.

Height: 874 m (2,867 ft) Distance: 10.5 km/6.5 miles Time: 4.5 - 6 hours

Explore Goat Fell

Sgùrr an Airgid, The Highlands

© @the_ultra_vegan_buddha

4. Sgùrr an Airgid, Kintail, Highlands

Nestled amongst the grander peaks of Kintail, Sgùrr an Airgid is a shorter climb in comparison and offers a relatively straightforward ascent, revealing some of the region's most magnificent views, as well as being a great introduction to higher mountains in the area too.

Height: 841m (2,759 ft) Distance: 10.5 km/6.5 miles Time: 4.5 - 6 hours

Explore Sgùrr an Airgid

© VisitScotland / Paul Tomkins

5. The Cobbler, Loch Lomond

Another popular peak for walking enthusiasts and locals alike, The Cobbler mountain is located in Scotland's other National Park - Loch Lomond & The Trossachs - and is an ideal spot for hiking, amongst other activities too. Also known as Ben Arthur, it is a distinct peak in the landscape and the Cobbler walk features a zig zag path before a pleasant ascent to the summit, and also encompasses both main peaks along the route too.

The true summit of Ben Arthur is quite high and exposed, so if you don't have a head for heights, this might not be the Corbett for you.

Height: 884 m (2,900 ft) Distance: 11 km/7.25 miles Time: 4 - 6 hours

Explore The Cobbler

An Sìdhean, Loch Ness

© @shi_monik

6. An Sìdhean, Loch Ness

Not far from the iconic Loch Ness, you'll find the secluded round-top Corbett, An Sìdhean, nestled in the remote wilderness of the Highlands. You can access this Corbett via the road up Glen Strathfarrar, and once you set off on foot, you'll find good stalkers paths on the ascent, making it a relatively straightforward walk amongst beautiful surroundings.

Height: 814 m (2,670 ft) Distance: 17 km/10.5 miles Time: 6 - 7 hours

Explore An Sìdhean

Traigh Iar Beach Near Horgabost

7. Clisham, Outer Hebrides

Start your island adventure exploring the highest peak in the Outer Hebrides, Clisham. Scotland's islands are magnificent places to be, and from the summit of this Corbett, you'll be able to see incredible panoramic sights all around you. You can take the direct walk to the top, or choose the slightly longer Clisham Horseshoe route which takes you over the dramatic and rugged ridges of Mulla-Fo-Thuath and Mulla-Fo-Dheas.

Height: 799 m (2,621 ft) Distance: 5.25 km/3.25 miles Time: 3.5 - 4 hours

Explore Clisham

Ben Vrackie, Perthshire

© @annamaie990

8. Ben Vrackie, Perthshire

One of Scotland's best known Corbetts, Ben Vrackie frames the pretty Highland Perthshire town of Pitlochry and is surrounded by miles of countryside, woodland, and forestry. The Ben Vrackie walk is an easy trail to follow with picturesque views from the summit - a popular climb for visiting enthusiasts and local walkers too.

Height: 841 m (2,759 ft) Distance: 10 km/6.25 miles Time: 3.5 - 4 hours

Explore Ben Vrackie

Arkle, Sutherland

© @dancingmidgephotography

9. Arkle, Sutherland, North Highlands

Located in the north west Highlands, and lesser known than the neighbouring peak of Foinaven, Arkle boasts a glorious walk to uncover. Featuring a fine, curving ridge of shattered quartzite, it's a rewarding climb for any budding geologists or photographers.

Height: 787 m (2,582 ft) Distance: 17.5 km/11 miles Time: 6 - 7 hours

Explore Arkle: Arkle

Stac Pollaidh in the North West Highlands Geopark

© Kim Walton

10. Cùl Mòr, Assynt, North Highlands

Only in Scotland will you find a peak as magnificent as Cùl Mòr. Start your climb from the east and enjoy a reasonably straightforward ascent to the top. Take in the magnificent views over the other isolated monoliths of Assynt and Coigach, including Stac Pollaidh and Suilven.

Height: 849 m (2,785 ft) Distance: 13.5 km/8.5 miles Time: 4-5 - 5 hours

Explore Cùl Mòr

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Glens to discover in Scotland

Wander in wild, remote glens where the only living thing you'll see will be the elusive local wildlife. Or, take a breather in a secret valley just a stone's throw away from the city.

Sunset Over Loch Trool, Glen Trool

1. Glen Trool

Not every beautiful glen is in the Highlands. Glen Trool in Dumfries & Galloway is a lush, lochside hideaway with idyllic forest walks. Robert the Bruce won a famous battle here by throwing rocks down the hillside on his foes. Now the mountain bikers throw themselves down the same slopes - this glen has some truly wild and wonderful downhill trails.

Find out more about Glen Trool

Hillwalkers, Buachaille Etive Mòr in Glencoe

© VisitScotland / Kenny Lam

You can't miss Buachaille Etive Mor. Brutish and beautiful, this distinctive pyramid-shaped mountain guards the entrance to Glencoe. As you pass it your heart will skip a beat. If you pull on a pair of stout shoes and walk half an hour up the rugged track, you will emerge into one of the glen's great secrets, the Lost Valley. It was in this invisible nook that the Clan MacDonald hid the cattle they rustled from their neighbours (how they got the cows up here is a mystery, but they did).

Find out more about Glencoe

View of Loch Ness from Urquhart Castle

3. The Great Glen

The Great Glen is a colossal fracture in the earth that splits the Scottish Highlands in two, from Fort William to Inverness. You can admire its hills and lochs by walking or cycling along the 79 miles (127 km) of the Great Glen Way. Stop for a bite and a beer at Fort Augustus and watch the boats navigate the locks of the Caledonian Canal into Loch Ness, one of Scotland's natural wonders. Loch Ness contains more water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined. It is 23 miles (37 km) long and is deeper than the North Sea. Is there really a monster within its depths? Come and find out for yourself!

Find out more about the Great Glen

Buachaille Etive Mor and Buachaille Etive Beag seen from Glen Etive, Glencoe

4. Glen Etive

Hiding round Buachaille Etive Mor's other flank is Glencoe's less-visited but equally wonderful neighbour, Glen Etive. James Bond drove up and over Rannoch Moor and down this steep, snaking ravine to return to his childhood home in the movie  Skyfall .

Find out more about Glen Etive

Fortingall Yew

5. Glen Lyon

Spread out your picnic blanket beside the old yew tree at Fortingall and you're having lunch exactly as Roman soldiers did 2,000 years ago. The yew tree is one of the oldest trees in Europe, and may be up to 5,000 years old. Pop into the nearby Fortingall Hotel for a drink and you may hear the story that Pontius Pilate was born near the tree and often played beneath its branches. The yew is just one of the wonders in stunning Glen Lyon.

Find out more about Glen Lyon

Discover more glens on the WalkHighlands website

Stunning Grahams to climb in Scotland

Grahams are mountains which scale between 2000 and 2500 ft high, just slightly shorter than Corbetts (over 2500 ft) and Munros (over 3000 ft). They might be on the shorter scale, but Grahams boast equally impressive views and a great sense of achievement when climbing to the top.

The Buck, Aberdeenshire

© @gem_wanders_

1. The Buck, Aberdeenshire

If you're heading to the north-east of Scotland, be sure to add The Buck to your Grahams bucket list. The Buck lies right on the Moray/Aberdeenshire border and is a fantastic Graham to climb for all skill levels. We recommend wearing some good solid boots and gaiters for this hike, the ground can get very boggy and pathways can often disappear due to overgrown heather. Don't let this put you off though, you'll be blown away by the impressive views at the top which see over to Sutherland and the Cairngorms. Keep your eyes peeled for Pictish-style carvings and you may even be joined by a few furry friends during your climb. Deer, sheep and even mountain hares have been spotted en route.

Height: 721 m (2,365 ft) Distance: 4.6 km/2.75 miles Time: 2 hours

Explore The Buck

Mount Blair, Angus

© @selectscotlandtours

2. Mount Blair, Angus

For some of Scotland's finest views, take the satisfying ramble up Mount Blair. A prominent landmark around Glen Shee and Glen Isla, this straightforward hill walk is a must for budding photographers who wish to capture the best of Angus' surrounding scenery. Setting off from the Perth & Kinross and Angus boundary, head east along the quiet road which links Glen Shee with Glen Isla where you will find a gate up to a grassy track hill, make sure you're wearing good hiking boots as this is a very muddy path but gradually becomes drier the further uphill you walk. Towards the summit, you'll find a communications mast and a view indicator which will allow you to see up to 40 Munros on a clear day. We hope you've brought a good packed lunch with you - enjoy a picnic with a view, overlooking lower Glen Isla with Strathmore and even Fife and beyond.

Height: 744 m (2,441 ft) Distance: 4.5 km/2.75 miles Time: 2 hours

Explore Mount Blair

Meall Odhar, Argyll

© @treesnthat

3. Meall Odhar, Argyll

Situated about 3 km to the west of Tyndrum, Meall Odhar is an amazing choice for those who enjoy a rewarding view after a long hike. The summit provides sights looking down on the heathery slopes of Meall Odhar, with Loch Hoil below. The hike is not too steep although the wet grass and mud can make the ascent up quite slippery. If you're a wildlife enthusiast, keep your eyes peeled for roe buck, buzzards, ravens and much more.

Height: 656 m (2,152 ft) Distance: 10 km/6 miles Time: 4.5 hours

Explore Meall Odhar

Creag Dhubh, Cairngorms

© @iain__munro

4. Creag Dhubh, Cairngorms

If you've conquered a few of our Grahams already, you might be up for something a bit more challenging. Head to the Highlands for your next Graham adventure to take on the mighty Creag Dhubh. A favourite amongst rock climbers on its lower slopes, its dizzying heights and rough terrain is certainly not for the faint-hearted. Along the way, you'll have time to soak up the views and the atmosphere of the beautiful pine woods and delightful lochs. The route is best tackled by more experienced hillwalkers and is a great way to spend an afternoon to see Scotland's natural beauty.

Height: 756 m (2,480 ft) Distance: 5 km/3 miles Time: 3 - 4 hours

Explore Creag Dhubh

Beinn Shiantaid, Isle of Jura

© @greenm888

5. Beinn Shiantaid, Isle of Jura

Wake up, pack up and start hiking the magnificent Beinn Shiantaidh. This Graham is one of the Paps of Jura along with the Corbett Beinn an Oir and the Graham Beinn a' Chaolais and is the second highest peak of the mountain range. Make sure you set your alarm nice and early for this one, the  route  takes several hours to complete, so pack plenty of food and water in your rucksack to keep your energy levels up. Start the route from the parking area on the north side of the Three Arch Bridge over the Corran River. The walk is a great one to climb on a clear day, as it can be particularly challenging in heavy rain with its boggy ground, rocks, and scree paths on the hills.

Of course, if you're not quite ready to climb a Graham just yet there are plenty of flatter walks to be enjoyed. Take the short 6 km walk to the loch and admire the view of the Paps.

Height: 757 m (2,483 ft) Distance: 16.5 km/10.25 miles Time: 9 - 10 hours

Explore Beinn Shiantaid

Càrn na Coinnich, Loch Ness

© @pinewoodsteading

6. Càrn na Coinnich, Loch Ness

Nessie might be Loch Ness' famous resident lurking beneath its waters, but we've got another resident that we'd like to introduce to you. Meet Càrn na Coinnich! This six-mile hike is for those who are looking to whisk off to the magical Scottish Highlands. The walk kicks off just before the bridge over the River Meig, from here you will catch sight of twin Corbetts, Meallan nan Uan and Sgurr a' Mhuilinn, and gradually climb your way up to the summit.

This Graham is suitable for walkers of all abilities and is a straightforward hike until approaching the summit where the ground can be quite rough. There's lots to take in, so pack a few snacks and give yourself time to admire the views. Highlights include Orrin Reservoir, the Strathfarrar Munros and Beinn Eighe, to name just a few.

Height: 673 m (2,208 ft) Distance: 12.6 km/7 miles Time: 4.5 hours

Explore Càrn na Coinnich

Mór Bheinn, Perthshire

© @paulmcbennett

7. Mór Bheinn, Perthshire

Another iconic Graham to climb is Mór Bheinn. This craggy hill lies on the south side of Strath Earn between St Fillans and Comrie. Start your walk from Glen Artney church car park then head along the old railway bridge before climbing up the forestry track. Although the climb is quite steep, it's very pleasant with a choice of good views to admire and the trees will provide lots of shade, especially during the summer months. At the end of the track, you'll pass through Sron na Maoile, Sròn Nam Broighleag and then to Creag na h-Eararuidh before climbing over a few deer fences to reach its summit. It may be a tough climb, but you won't be disappointed with the views. Fill your camera roll with stunning shots of Glen Artney which looks out towards Uamh Bheag.

Height: 640 m (2,101 ft) Distance: 17.3 km/11 miles Time: 6.5 - 7 hours

Explore Mór Bheinn

Coigach in Wester Ross, North Highlands

© VisitScotland / Airborne Lens

8. Ben Mór Coigach, North Highlands

Last but by no means least, we end our list with another Highland gem, Ben Mór Coigach. Dominating the north Ullapool skyline, it is one of the best walks to spot wildlife. Start your climb at The Postman's Path, a six-mile route from Strathcanaird to Achiltibuie. This Graham is a particularly challenging route compared to the others on this list and should only be undertaken by experienced hillwalkers. Make sure to be extra careful when it rains too as the path can be quite slippery. On a clear day, you'll see spectacular coastlines and golden eagles soaring up above in the sky. Make sure to pack insect repellent, especially in the summer, as the area is rife with lots of pesky midges between June and September.

Height: 743 m (2,437 ft) Distance: 10.5 km/6.5 miles Time: 5 - 7 miles

Explore Ben Mór Coigach

Discover more Grahams on the Hill Bagging website

Other things you might like

Fun Outdoor Activities To Do in Scotland

Walking in Scotland

Hills, Mountains & Peaks in Scotland

Scottish Munros - Hill & Munro Bagging

9 Alternative Must-Climb Hills to Ben Nevis In Scotland

7 Easy Hill Walks With Amazing Views

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Angus cannabis farmer grew drugs for sick family members, court told

Alexander Robertson pled guilty to producing the Class B drug and told police it was for personal use and medicinal purposes.

A cannabis “specialist” told police he set up a cultivation at his father’s business to help family members with terminal illnesses.

Police uncovered the illegal drug farm after raiding the premises at Forestmuir Sawmill, near Forfar.

Alexander Robertson pled guilty to producing the Class B drug and told police it was for personal use and medicinal purposes and he took no payment.

However, officers said there was enough evidence to link Robertson, 47, to the supply of cannabis, which he also admitted.

Sophisticated operation

Dundee Sheriff Court was told how the “family-run business” builds garden sheds, buildings and fencing.

At around 8am on the day in question, police executed a search warrant after receiving intelligence drugs were being produced there.

Nobody was present but Robertson’s father, who owns the business, was detained after arriving 20 minutes later.

Prosecutor Andrew Harding said a number of discoveries were made following a “systematic search”.

“Police officers located a large shed situated on the left-hand side of the main entrance to the yard.

“On entering, the officers found a number of growing tents.

“Within one of the growing tents, which was set up with working lighting and air filters, there was a cultivation in operation.

“Eight mature cannabis plants which were close to being ready for harvesting were also found within the tent, along with 15 sapling plants.”

The root booster Rhizotonic was discovered, as was a box containing a large grinder addressed to Robertson .

An extractor fan, transformer, lamps and an air filter were also seized.

Grew drugs for family

Robertson was arrested in Aberdeen and claimed full responsibility for the cultivation, telling officers he had been growing cannabis “for several years”.

Mr Harding said: “He advised that the cannabis was for personal and medicinal purposes and that he would give the drug to family members who have various illnesses, some of which are terminal.

“He would not take any form of payment for this and would only grow as much cannabis as was needed to help his family.”

The prosecutor said Robertson was able to provide “specialist knowledge” about how he produced cannabis.

No values or weights for the drugs were provided by the Crown Office.

Robertson, of Kintore, Aberdeenshire, pled guilty to producing and being concerned in the supply of cannabis on February 26 2021.

Sheriff Alastair Carmichael deferred sentence on Robertson until October for a social work report to be prepared.

For more local court content visit our page or join us on Facebook .

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Osprey found shot in Scottish national park sparks police appeal

The distressed bird was discovered with injuries caused by an illegal shooting, article bookmarked.

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Police have launched an appeal after an osprey was shot in a Scottish national park, leading it to be put down due to the severity of its injuries.

The bird was found on 12 August by a gamekeeper in the Glen Doll area in Angus – part of the Cairngorms National Park – which is home to a range of walking trails and is a popular birdwatching site.

The osprey was visibly in distress, so the Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) was called, and the bird was taken to the wildlife resource centre in Fishcross for treatment, Police Scotland said.

However, the bird was euthanised due to the severity of its injuries.

“An animal rescue officer attended and transported the bird, which was unable to fly, to the National Wildlife Rescue Centre. Sadly, due to the severity of its injuries, the bird had to be euthanised,” a spokesman from the SSPCA told The Independent.

After further investigations into the bird’s injuries, X-rays revealed that the osprey had been shot, prompting Police Scotland to be called into the case.

“It’s illegal to kill any protected species, and we’re working with partner agencies to fully investigate the circumstances,” Daniel Crilley, a detective constable with the wildlife crime investigation unit, said.

“Information from the local community is vital and I’d ask anyone who was in the area around 12 August and thinks they may have information which could assist our enquiries to come forward,” he added.

“We’re keen to speak to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious or has information about shooting activity in the area.”

Osprey are not considered endangered on a worldwide level today, but were driven to extinction in most of the UK in the late 19th century due to being hunted, as they were seen as a threat to fish stocks. They have slowly regained their numbers in the past few decades in the UK and have become a protected species.

They are found in several parts of Scotland, one site in Cumbria, two in Wales and one artificially re-colonised site in Anglia. There are around 250 breeding pairs in the UK that produce around 260 chicks a year, the Scottish Wildlife Trust said.

Wildlife authorities in Scotland have condemned the shooting of the bird.

“It’s really disappointing to hear about this case, not least because of the suffering this bird will have endured. All credit to those involved in catching the injured bird and the efforts made, sadly in vain, to try to tend to its injuries,” Ian Thompson, head of investigations at the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Scotland, told The Telegraph.

“Although Scotland’s ospreys are doing well, their population is still recovering from a period when they were absent as a breeding species here, largely due to persecution. While it’s rare to hear about such cases these days, obviously, there are still those who have a Victorian attitude towards protected wildlife at large in our countryside.”

Officers are appealing for anyone with information on what happened to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference 1671 of 26 August. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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