Discover Angus: History, Nature and Walking Trails

Arbroath Abbey was founded by William I in 1178; in April 1320, the Declaration of Arbroath was sent from the abbey. These dates give a sense of the varied historical experiences in Angus. Country houses, castles, museums and trails also shape a visit. When looking for a hotel in Angus, consider which of these themes you want to define your stay: cultural history, nature watching or time outdoors.

Abbey History, Country Houses and Castles

House of Dun is a Georgian country house. Costumed tours explore its history, while the courtyard buildings house the Angus Folk Collection. On the estate, Lady Augusta’s Walk is one of the trails; it passes through the Den of Dun gorge. The house, collection and walking trail offer different ways to experience this place—from the historic building to the gorge landscape.

A traditional weaver’s cottage is J M Barrie’s Birthplace. At Edzell Castle, the focus is on garden architecture and intricate details: the walled garden is enclosed by an ornate architectural framework dating from the early 17th century. A summerhouse stands within the garden. The walls of the Pleasance feature 21 carvings depicting planetary deities, the Liberal Arts and the Cardinal Virtues. Visitors can explore not only the garden itself, but also the motifs on its walls.

The Brown and White Caterthuns form a pair of large hill forts on neighbouring hills, with views stretching across Strathmore. Their defences differ: Brown Caterthun has four ramparts and ditches. White Caterthun features a massive stone wall, a ditch and outer ramparts.

Glamis Castle has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne for over 650 years; guided tours are available. Check the current tour schedule before your trip. Golf has been played in Carnoustie since at least 1560—a sign of the town’s long sporting history. Those interested in other cultural experiences can also visit The Bothy Experience in Glamis, which offers hosted gin tastings. Bookings and availability may change; check for suitable dates in advance.

Museums and Aviation History

The Montrose Air Station Museum is located on the site of Britain’s first operational military air station, established by the Royal Flying Corps in February 1913. Aircraft exhibits mentioned include scale replicas of a B.E.2a and a Sopwith Camel F.1; exhibitions may change. Interactive activities include trying on uniforms and touching many of the exhibits. Check what is available before your visit.

The Glenesk Folk Museum was founded by local teacher Greta Michie in 1955. Visitors can explore galleries, gardens and a short woodland trail; current information about these attractions and paths is useful when planning. Another way to discover the region is the Museum Trail for Children. This family-friendly experience explores the history and stories of the towns and villages of Angus.

Walking Trails and Nature Watching

The coastal path from Arbroath to Auchmithie follows dramatic sea cliffs and is for walkers only. Check local access information before setting out. In Edzell, the Blue Door Walk is a riverside path leading to a blue door; conditions on the route may change, so it is worth checking the latest information. At the Rocks of Solitude, the main path runs above a river gorge. Visitors may see salmon leaping upstream there seasonally.

In upper Glen Clova lies the Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve, an internationally important upland area. The Corrie Fee Trail leads to the edge of Glen Doll Forest. When planning a walk here, it is especially important to allow for changeable mountain conditions, which can shift rapidly. Those who prefer to explore trails independently can find self-guided paths at Monikie Country Park. The Denfind Bird Sanctuary in the park offers opportunities to watch a wide variety of wetland birds throughout the year. Water sports equipment can be hired there in summer; check seasonal availability before travelling.

Experiences to Help Plan Your Trip

Food and sport are also good reasons to explore Angus according to your interests. The Arbroath Smokie Trail covers five key stops between Arbroath and Auchmithie. The Bothy Experience in Glamis adds hosted gin tastings to the options; check dates and availability in advance. If golf is part of your trip, Carnoustie’s tradition of play, dating back at least to 1560, offers a distinctive historical connection. For nature and culture, the focus might instead be birdwatching in Monikie, the trails at Corrie Fee or the historic sites.

Angus is accessible by car, coach, train and plane. Check travel details with the relevant operators. When choosing a hotel, first decide which experiences in Angus you plan to include, then tailor your search to your travel preferences.

Discover more destinations: Kirriemuir, Tarfside, Kinnaird, Tealing, Blairgowrie, Menmuir, Monifieth, Monikie, Glamis, Inverkeilor, Westmuir, Tannadice, Arbroath, Edzell, Dykehead, Bridgend Of Lintrathen, Brechin, Carnoustie, Kirkton Of Glenisla, Montrose.

For the broader travel overview: Scotland.