Arbroath Guide, Scotland
Historic Arbroath, Angus
Arbroath on the east coast of Scotland north of Dundee is an historic town associated with Scottish identity and independence. With a population of around 24,000 people, Arbroath is the largest town in Angus and a major fishing port on the North Sea coast.
History
Arbroath, originally known as Aberbrothock, dates back to the early medieval period. The town's development is closely tied to the founding of Arbroath Abbey in 1178 by King William the Lion. The Abbey became a center of religious and political power, attracting pilgrims and influencing the town's growth.
One of the most significant events in Arbroath's history is the Declaration of Arbroath, a declaration of Scottish independence sent to Pope John XXII in 1320. The document, signed by Scottish nobles, proclaimed Scotland's status as an independent, sovereign state and is regarded as one of the most important documents in Scottish history. Arbroath Abbey was the site where this historic declaration was drafted and sealed.
During the 19th century, Arbroath became a hub of maritime activity and industrialization. The town's economy thrived on fishing, particularly the production of the world-famous Arbroath Smokie, a traditional smoked haddock. The fishing industry and maritime trade contributed to the town's growth and development, leaving a lasting legacy on its culture and economy.
Attractions
Arbroath Abbey is the town's most prominent historical site. The ruins of the Abbey, maintained by Historic Environment Scotland, provide a glimpse into Scotland's medieval past. Visitors can explore the remains of the grand church, cloisters, and other monastic buildings. The Abbey also features a visitor center with exhibits on its history, including the Declaration of Arbroath.
The Arbroath Signal Tower Museum, housed in the former shore station for the Bell Rock Lighthouse, offers insights into the town's maritime history. The museum's exhibits cover the construction and operation of the Bell Rock Lighthouse, one of the oldest surviving sea-washed lighthouses in the world, as well as the town's fishing industry and the story of the Arbroath Smokie.
Arbroath Harbour remains a bustling center of activity, reflecting the town's strong maritime traditions. The harbour area is home to fishing boats, leisure craft, and the Arbroath RNLI Lifeboat Station. The surrounding area offers scenic views of the North Sea and is a popular spot for walking and enjoying the fresh sea air.
Follow the Seaton Cliffs trail from Auchmithie to Arbroath (or vice versa) on a well signposted 5 km route. It takes in some spectacular natural features such as caves and strangely-shaped rock formations. The cliffs are also home to a variety of wildlife, including various species of seabirds, and provide opportunities for walking, birdwatching, and photography. The reserve is part of the Angus Coastal Path, which offers extensive walking routes along the coast.
The Arbroath Art Gallery, located within the town's library, features works by local artists and exhibitions on various aspects of the town's culture and history. The gallery provides a space for both traditional and contemporary art, reflecting the town's vibrant cultural scene.
Pleasureland is the largest indoor fun fair and amusement arcade in Angus and Tayside. Visitors can enjoy various games, rides such as dodgems, bungee trampolines, a merry-go-round, bouncy castle, carousel and slot machines.
Just south of Arbroath Abbey, the Old and Abbey Parish Church was built over several buildings of the abbey. It was further developed in the late 19th century and became the Old and Abbey Parish Church in 1990.
Other churches in Arbroath include Arbroath West Kirk, St Mary the Virgin and St. Andrews Church, which dates from the 1880s and is just west of Arbroath Abbey.
Auchmithie
Pretty, peaceful Auchmithie is less than 4 miles north of Arbroath. Today, Auchmithie is a peaceful and charming village that attracts visitors looking to explore the Scottish coastline. The village has retained some of its historic atmosphere, and visitors can enjoy walks along the cliffs, taking in the breathtaking views of the North Sea, as well as try sea-kayaking and other marine sports.
Arbroath Smokie
Legend has it that Auchmithie up the coast from Arbroath is the home of the Arbroath Smokie, a traditional Scottish smoked haddock dish. This delicacy has a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, meaning that for a product to be labeled as an Arbroath Smokie, it must be produced in the defined geographical area (an 8 km radius of Arbroath), ensuring its authenticity.
The fish used in Arbroath Smokies are typically small haddock, and they are prepared whole. The traditional method of preparing the delicacy involves dry-salting the fish and then hot-smoking them over hardwood chips, such as oak chips.
They have a golden-brown color and a slightly wrinkled appearance due to the smoking process. The smoking not only cooks the fish but also preserves it, giving it a unique texture and taste.
Served hot smokies may be eaten on their own or incorporated into various dishes, such as salads, chowders, or pasta dishes. They are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of culinary contexts.
Sports
Gayfield Park, the home stadium of the local football team, Arbroath FC is a short walk from the harbour, close to the Pleasureland amusement center.
The world famous golf course of Carnoustie is a short drive or train journey southwest of the town. Visitors can stay on the course at the luxury Carnoustie Golf Hotel & Spa.
Eat & Drink
There are a cluster of restaurants around the marina. These include The Old Boatyard Restaurant for delicious local seafood, and several very good fish and chip shops. Try Marco's On The Shore or The Marina.
Local pubs include The Pageant, Lochlands Bar and the Commercial Inn.
Access
Arbroath Station is on the line from Aberdeen to Dundee Station in Dundee. The fastest trains take about 20 minutes between Dundee and Arbroath.
Located on South Union Street Dundee Station has trains to London King's Cross Station from Aberdeen via Edinburgh, Newcastle and York Station in York as well as more local ScotRail trains to Glasgow Queen Street in Glasgow via Perth and Stirling as well as connections south to Edinburgh Waverley Station in Edinburgh.
The 140 bus runs from Arbroath to Auchmithie approximately ever 90 minutes. The journey takes around 10 minutes. Some number 140 buses begin in Brechin and stop in Friockheim and Colliston on the way to Arbroath.
You can also walk from Arbroath to Auchmithie on the Arbroath Coastal Path.
Arbroath is easily accessible by road via the A92, which connects the town to Dundee and the wider Angus region. The A92 provides a direct route to major cities such as Edinburgh and Aberdeen, making Arbroath well-connected for visitors traveling by car.
The nearest major airport to Arbroath is Dundee Airport, located approximately 18 miles to the southwest. Dundee Airport offers flights to London and other UK destinations, providing a gateway for international visitors. For a wider range of flights, Aberdeen and Edinburgh airports are within a two-hour drive.
Hotels in Arbroath
If you wish to stay in Arbroath try the Old Brewhouse, at 1 High Street. Also recommended is The Townhouse Hotel Arbroath at 99 High Street.
In addition, out in Broughty Ferry, a pleasant suburb just 6 km outside Dundee, try the Best Western Woodlands Hotel Dundee.
Scotland Related
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
Hermaness National Nature Reserve
Map of Arbroath, Dundee & St Andrews
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