Angus

Angus is a region where you can discover the story of where our nation began, in the Declaration of Arbroath in the heart of Arbroath Abbey. Explore the varied landscapes of the Angus Glens, listening to rushing waterfalls as you hike through the hills, or escape to the coast and watch the waves lap against the distinctive pinkish sands of Seaton Cliffs and Lunan Bay beach. Taste the famous Arbroath smokies that give Angus its signature flavour and adventure to the Montrose Basin to see thousands of pink-footed geese roost in autumn and winter. 

And far abune the Angus straths I saw the wild geese flee, 
A lang, lang skein o' beatin' wings, wi' their heids towards the sea...

Violet Jacob, Poet

Angus is known for centuries of history and beautiful landscapes from coast to glens that are waiting for you to explore. Here are our recommendations for top things to do in the region. 

Must-see attractions 

History, culture and adventure are waiting to be discovered in Angus. Walk in the grounds of Glamis Castle, wander through the stately corridors of House of Dun in Montrose, visit the site of the Declaration of Arbroath at Arbroath Abbey or let your imagination take flight as you learn more about Kirriemuir-born JM Barrie, author of Peter Pan.  

Experience the most popular attractions in Angus 

Outdoor adventures 

Angus boasts a varied coastline, making it a great choice for scenic walking routes, epic watersports and, of course, golf. As well as being home to The Open venue Carnoustie, Angus has a great selection of courses including the historic Montrose Medal, the fifth oldest in the world. Breathe in the salty sea air from the top of red stone cliffs or the sandy beach of Lunan Bay, cycle through the winding Angus Glens, or slow down with some wildlife-spotting at the Montrose Basin nature reserve.  

Plan a thrilling outdoor adventure in Angus 

Life on the farm  

Take your time to embrace the rhythm of rural life in the Angus countryside. Meet our beloved Highland coos on a friendly farm tour or watch flocks of lambs taking their first steps in green spring fields. Pick your own berries during the summer months or taste locally grown produce at farm shops and markets offering seasonal delights including quality meat and vegetables. The wee ones will love getting up close to ponies, alpacas, goats, piglets and more, with hands-on experiences and activities.  

Find a farm to visit in Angus 

Spot friendly seals as they bob up and down in the harbour or watch the wheat fields ripple in the wind in countryside havens. 

Arbroath 

Hear waves gently lapping against the fishing boats moored at Arbroath harbour as you follow the Arbroath Smokie Trail to find out more about the unique local delicacy this area is famous for. Run your fingers over the rough sandstones of the ruined abbey where history was made and find out more about Britain’s oldest surviving offshore lighthouse that has been guiding ships along the Angus coast for over 200 years. 

Pay a visit to Arbroath 

Carnoustie  

Tee off on an iconic coastal golf course, 8-time host of The Open Championship, before experiencing deep relaxation during a stay at the local spa hotel. Let your eyes roam across the horizon on a stroll north for a beach picnic in idyllic East Haven and get a flavour of the past at one of the last working water-powered mills in Scotland. 

Find out more about Carnoustie 

Forfar  

Uncover this former seat of Scottish kings and a town steeped in the history of witchcraft, folklore and connections to Macbeth. Visit Meffan Museum to get a real feel for the past when wandering through a recreation of an old, cobbled street and admiring ancient Pictish stones. Plan a trip to the surrounding countryside to meet Highland cows and take a deep breath in the tranquil lochside setting of Murton Nature Reserve. 

Explore Forfar 

Montrose 

Listen to the peaceful bird calls and gentle waves against the backdrop of vast skyscapes whilst wildlife-spotting at Montrose Basin, or let costumed characters sweep you into a real-life 18th century period drama in the sumptuous surroundings of the House of Dun. 

Pay a visit to Montrose