ANGUS
Visit The Birthplace Of Scotland
Angus - Gaelic for "One Choice"
Arbroath has been a popular seaside holiday destination for decades and is the
largest town in the Angus area. So Arbroath offers more choice when it comes
to the entertainment on offer, the nightlife, theatres and the local restaurants,
cafes and shops. Arbroath also makes a good base to tour from with the towns
of Carnoustie, Montrose, Forfar, Brechin, Edzell and Kirriemuir nearby. Dundee
less than 20 minutes from Arbroath, St Andrews 30 minutes, Perth is 40 minutes
away, Scone Palace is 50 minutes, Pitlochry 60 minutes, Aberdeen 60 minutes,
Glenshee 90 minutes, Stirling Castle 90 minutes, Edinburgh Castle 90 minutes,
plus Glasgow, Braemar and Inverness around 2-3 hours from Arbroath.
"Excellent stay, 1st class information folder"
Marion & Jim Nisbet, Ayr, Scotland
"Typical Scottish hospitality, friendly, brilliant
guidebook"
Dave Cochran, Bournemouth, England
"You've looked after us brilliantly, love the work
put into information books"
Hilary & Jim Thomas, Silvan, Australia
"Planning a trip to the Angus area, start here"
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Arbroath
Abbey / Stone Of Destiny Film
(The Abbey Of Aberbrothock, founded in 1178 by King
William The Lion)
(The signing place of the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath)
The Arbroath Abbey, or the abbey of Aberbrothock as it was once called,
the old name for Arbroath, was the venue for the historic signing of
the Declaration Of Arbroath, on the 6th of April 1320. After the death
of William Wallace and after the Battle Of Bannockburn, this Declaration
of Independance was signed at the Arbroath Abbey by Scotland's nobles,
declaring Robert The Bruce as King Of Scotland in his presence. The
abbey is also the final resting place of King William the Lion (William
I of Scotland), Scotlands longest serving Monarch. King William loved
the Angus area, building not only the Arbroath Abbey but other residences
in the area, including Red Castle. His families heraldic symbol was
a red lion on a yellow background. This went on to become the Royal
Coat of Arms of Scotland, and one of our national flags.
Today you can still wander around the ancient ruins of this 5 star visitor
attraction. Also within the grounds is the stunning Abbots House Museum,
the most complete example of its kind in Britain. Over the centuries,
alternative uses were found for the Abbots house, this helped in its
preservation. And visitors can take a look around the Arbroath Abbey
visitor centre, showing what the abbey looked like when it was complete,
as well as the history of the building itself.
"Now we shall see which of us are good
knights!"
King William The Lion
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Arbroath Abbey

Abbots House Museum, Arbroath Abbey

Arbroath Abbey Visitor Centre

King William The Lion (King William I of Scotland)

1320 Declaration Of Arbroath
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Stone of Destiny Film
Filming took place at the Arbroath Abbey in June 2007 for the release
of the adventure/comedy "Stone Of Destiny". The film, released
in 2008 stars the Hollywood actors Robert Carlyle (28 Weeks Later), Billy
Boyd (Lord Of The Rings), Charlie Cox (Casanova), and Kate Mara (Brokeback
Mountain). Directed by Charlie Martin Smith, whose own acting credentials
include the films The Untouchables and American Graffiti.
The film portrays the story of a group of students who took the Stone
Of Destiny from Westminster Abbey on Christmas Day 1950. After a few months
and an extensive search, the stone eventually turned up at the altar of
the Arbroath Abbey on the 11th of April 1951. The Stone Of Destiny is
reputed to date back to Biblical times when it was used as a pillow by
Jacob, while dreaming about a ladder to Heaven. According to the legend,
it was the Coronation Stone of the early Dal Riata Gaels who lived in
Ireland. They brought the stone over to Scotland when they settled on
the west coast.
After the joining of the Picts and Scots in 845AD under the rule of Kenneth
MacAlpin, the first King of a united Scotland, the stone was used as the
crowning seat for every Scottish King. That was until 1296 when King Edward
I of England took the stone to Westminster Abbey, where it lay until 1950.
After its recovery, the stone was taken back to Westminster. Then in 1996,
it was returned to Scotland. The Stone Of Destiny can now be seen at Edinburgh
Castle, or a replica of the stone at Scone Palace. The Stone Of Destiny
is still used during the Coronation of British Monarchs, when it is loaned
to Westminster Abbey.
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The 2008 film Stone Of Destiny

Stone Of Destiny film set at the Arbroath Abbey

The Stone Of Destiny
Arbroath Abbey - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Arbroath Abbey & Abbot's House Images - www.geo.ed.ac.uk
Tartan Week Angus Events - www.tartandayscotland.com
Arbroath Abbey World Heritage Campaign - arbroathabbeycampaign.com
Arbroath Abbey Pageant - www.youtube.com
Stone Of Destiny Film Trailer - www.youtube.com
A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Abbey...A monk newly initiated into
his order at the Arbroath Abbey was told that he'd have to spend the inital
20 years of training in complete silence. He was told that he would only be
allowed to say two words every three years. After 3 years of keeping this vow
he was summoned before the Abbot and asked if he had anything to say, in two
words or less. He replied, "Food sucks." Three more years went by
when he was again summoned before the Abbot. "Well, do you have anything
to say now," the monk was asked. "Bed hard," was the answer.
After three more years the Abbot found our friend and asked him if he'd like
to speak. "I quit!" said the monk. "Well, I'm not suprised,"
said the Abbot. "You've done nothing but complain since you arrived."
A new monk arrived at the great Abbey of Aberbrothock. He is assigned to help
the other monks in copying the old texts by hand. He notices, however, that
they are copying copies, not the original books. So, the new monk goes to the
head monk to ask him about this. He points out that if there were an error in
the first copy, that error would be continued in all of the other copies. The
head monk says "We have been copying from the copies for centuries, but
you make a good point, my son." So, he goes down into the cellar with one
of the copies to check it against the original. Hours later, nobody has seen
him. So, one of the monks goes downstairs to look for him. He hears a sobbing
coming from the back of the cellar, and finds the old monk leaning over one
of the original books crying. He asks what's wrong. The old monk sobs, "The
word is celebrate."
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West
Links
West Links Adventure Park
(Free Entry)
"With the oldest small guage railway in Scotland, Kerrs Miniature
Railway"
"With the Pleasureland Indoor Funfair and Jumping Joeys Centre
nearby"
The West Links (10 minutes walk away) on the seafront offers a great
day out for the family.
Activities provided include an adventure playpark, mini cars and bike
track, amusement arcade, burger
bar, paddling pool, crazy golf, putting course, pitch and putt, trampolines
and tennis courts, all
overlooking the beach. You will also find a road train here, taking
you into various parts of the
town for a small fee. Kerr's Miniature railway, the oldest small guage
railway in Scotland, and Jumpin
Joeys Family Entertainment Centre are also close by. |
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Historic
Buildings / Stone Carvings
Elms Mansion House Hospitalfield Mansion House
Mortuary Chapel
Victorian Water Tower Arbroath Library
St Johns Church St Vigeans Church
"Mortuary Chapel, some of the finest stone carvings in Scotland"
"Dates to 1200's, Hospitalfield House was the first art college
in Britain"
"Built in 1772, St Johns Church is the only octagonal styled
church left in Scotland"
"St Vigeans Church dates back to the 11th century"
For anyone who appreciates stone carving, a visit to the Mortuary
Chapel at Arbroath's Western cemetery is a must. This building is
virtually unparalleled in Scotland for its quality and variety
of its carvings in stone. The stonemason, a Mr John Peters was a craftsman
of the highest calibre. The exterior of this building can be viewed
all year round. Guests wishing to view its equally remarkable interior
stone carvings can do so at certain times of the year during the national
Doors Open Days. Viewing its interior is also sometimes possible on
request.
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Mortuary Chapel

Arbroath Library and Art Gallery
Statues Of Robert Burns Around The World
www.scotland.org

The Elms Mansion House in Arbroath

Hospitalfield House in Arbroath

Arbroath Railway Station, built in 1868

Arbroath Sherrif Courthouse, built in 1803,
designed by David Logan of Montrose

Arbroath's Old Parish Church, 19th century
Category B listed building, now open as a public buidling

St Andrews Church in Arbroath is one
of many old churches in town
"One
of the best houses we saw in Scotland, hoping to come back again"
Michela, Monica, Danilo
& Alessandra, Treviso, Italy

Historic buildings in the Angus and Dundee area include
the 12th century Arbroath Abbey and Hospitalfield House which dates back to
the 1200's. The 1000 year old round tower of Brechin, 11th century priory
of Restenneth, 1500 year old earthhouses, some of the oldest churches in Scotland,
old mills and castles.
Hospitalfield House - www.hospitalfield.org.uk
Arbroath Mortuary Chapel - commons.wikimedia.org
The Elms Mansion House - www.derelictplaces.co.uk
Arbroath Sheriff Courthouse - 1oclockgun.org.uk
St Vigeans Church - stvigeanschurch.org
St Andrews Church - www.arbroathstandrews.org.uk
Historic Angus Buildings - www.angus.gov.uk
September National Doors Open Day - www.doorsopendays.org.uk
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Signal Tower Museum

Bell Rock Lighthouse
"For a wonderful view of the
Bell Rock lighthouse, or for that matter a good game of golf, come and stay
at this family run guesthouse"
David Taylor
Owner of the Bell Rock Lighthouse website
www.bellrock.org.uk
"We had a lovely
time staying with you again. Your hospitality and homely feeling is wonderful.
Thank you for arranging the boat trip to the Bell Rock. It was beautiful to
see the tower from so close. Thanks again for the lovely time and see you soon"
Janine, Anne & Peter Keemink, Oosterhout, Holland
"Arbroath Connections"

Sir Walter Scott's book "The Antiquary"

David Dunbar Buick, Buick car manufacturer & inventor

Shanks Lawnmower

Arbroath born James Chalmers, inventor of the adhesive postage stamp

Arbroath born physician Neil Arnott invented the water bed for medical
use
Regency Signal Tower Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Bell Rock Lighthouse - www.bellrock.org.uk
Robert Stevenson - en.wikipedia.org
Seven Wonders Of The Industrial World - www.youtube.com
Two lighthouse keepers
were standing outside the Bell Rock lighthouse at low tide. Through the
fog they could see the Girl Katherine, a small local boat on hire making
its way toward them, with a lonely occupant. Suddenly a wave lifted the
craft and tossed the man into the water. The two men sprang into action.
Hurriedly they launched the Inchcape Lifeboat and fought their way through
perilous and treacherous waters to reach the man. At last they got him
aboard their boat. "It's a good thing you rescued me," the dripping
man said gratefully. "I was coming out to see you about your income
tax."
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Fun
Days Out With The Family
O'Briens Pleasureland Indoor Funfair
"Scream if you wanna go fastaa!!"
O'Briens Pleasureland, or the "Switchies" as its known by
locals, is a free entry, indoor funfair offering activities for all
ages. These include waltzers, bumper cars, children's rides, amusement
arcade, pool tables, adventure playground, UFO jets, super trampolines,
giant inflatable slide, mini bikes, orbitors, skill games, burger bar
and a few traditional fairground stalls. The more adventurous can try
the outdoor bungee trampoline, if your feeling brave. Pleasureland is
also available for party bookings and group discounts. Like so many
kids in Arbroath, Garry used to work here on the dodgems and waltzers
during his teenage years..... many years ago!! |

Pleasureland
www.pleasurelandarbroath.co.uk

Jumpin Joey's Family Entertainment Centre in Arbroath

Award Winning Cafe Project Youth Centre in Arbroath

Arbroath Sports Centre Family Activities

Monikie Country Park & Crombie Country Parks, 4 large country parks in Angus,
all are 10-20 minutes from Arbroath

Sensation Visitor Centre, Bowling Alley & Ice Arena, 20 minutes from Arbroath

Farm Animal Park & Pictish Visitor Centre, 15 minutes from Arbroath
Charleton Fruit Farm & Coffee Shop
Just 10 minutes from Arbroath you will find Charleton Fruit Farm. As well as
tempting you with some of the local produce, they also provide some facilities
for the kids. Along with the family play area, visitors will also find a zip
line and go carting available. With a cafe also on site.
Camperdown Country Park
20 minutes from Arbroath is Camperdown Country Park, a huge area providing many
facilities and attractions for visitors. Along with its many walks and trails
Camperdown boasts an 18 hole golf course, and adventure playpark, cycle hire
and the Camperdown Wildlife Centre, home to around 70 species.
Pictavia
This Pictish Visitor Centre offers a different day out, found 15 minutes from
Arbroath. Learn all about the Picts, Iron Age people who lived in the area around
2000 years ago. See examples of Pictish drawings, musical instruments and other
artefacts. Walk through the tunnel of light to see what you would look like
covered in the intricate Pictish designs, these were tattooed on thier bodies.
And learn about the Battle of Dunnichen, fought just 12 miles away in 685AD.
Probably the most influencial battle in Scottish history that eventually led
to the joining of the Picts and Scots in 842AD, leading on to the birth of Scotland.
Forfar Loch Country Park
Another huge country park in Angus, just 15 minutes from Arbroath. This country
park offers the usual walks and trails and has a play area for the kids. The
park also offers fly fishing from boats and watersports during the summer months.
Balhousie Quad Biking For All Ages
Just 4 miles from Arbroath you will find Balhousie Outdoor Adventures who offer
quad biking for all age groups. Half hour sessions run from from around £20
to £40. Balhousie also provide other outdoor activities such as laser
clay pigeon shooting, clay pigeon shooting, grass karting, Honda pilot driving
and even the chance to pilot a mini hovercraft. These are available pre booked
or at certain times of the year.
The Caledonian Railway - Days Out With Thomas The Tank Engine
Travel back in time to the days of steam at the Caledonian Railway, just 15
minutes from Arbroath. This old railway station is open weekends during the
spring/summer months, with special events on throughout the year such as the
Easter Specials, Deisel Gala, Steam Gala, Fathers Day Excursions, Front Line
Branch line Gala, Santa Specials and the popular Days Out With Thomas The Tank
Engine. Visitors can travel along part of the old railway network, taking you
through the beautiful Angus countryside.
Outdoor Dimensions Canoeing & Kayaking Off The Arbroath
Cliffs
Outdoor Dimensions Scotland is run by Brian Crowe who has walked, climbed and
canoed for over 30 years. Brian has been involved with instructing people for
over 25 years. In addition, Brian has also paddled in many areas all over Britain
and holds British Canoe Union (BCU) coaching awards in inland kayaking, canoeing
and sea kayaking. Adventures on offer include Rock Climbing and Scrambling,
Navigation Courses, Introduction to Canoeing Courses and Sea Kayaking Courses.
Canoeing and kayaking are the best ways of exploring the caves along the Arbroath
Cliffs. Call 01241 875844 or 07790 359499 for more details.
http://outdoordimensions.co.uk/
Lindsay Ewart's Junior Golf Academy At Arbroath Golf Course
Run by Lindsay Ewart who is the professional at the Arbroath Artisan Golf Club.
The courses run throughout the summer months and are available to children of
all ages. As well as learning tips from Lindsay, the kids can practice on the
putting green and practice area nearby, and at the clubs driving range.
Montrose Basin Wildlife Centre
Located just over 10 minutes from Arbroath, the basin is the third most important
site in Scotland for wildfowl and waders. Its home to thousands of birds and
animals with a wide variety of birds, winter and summer visitors, and passing
migrants. The visitor centre offers magnificent views of the basin through high
powered telescopes and binoculars. With televison cameras bringing live feeds
of the wildlife into the centre. With many other displays on how the basin works,
migration patterns, etc, to keep the kids interested.
Clatto Country Park
Just over 20 minutes from Arbroath you will find Clatto Country Park, 25 acres
of water surrounded by some beautiful parkland. The park has a picnic area and
a large play area for families, with watersports available during the summer
months.
Farm Animal Park
Just 15 minutes from Arbroath. As well as having a garden centre, visitors will
also find a souvenir shop and a very nice cafe. Outside you will find a miniature
railway, a waterside walk, the Dragons Lair Playpark and the farm animal park
where you can get up close to the centres pot bellied pigs, cattle, horses,
donkeys, chickens, sheep, goats, rabbits and other farmland and woodland animals.
Sensation Visitor Centre
A unique centre, 20 minutes from Arbroath, the only centre in Britain devoted
to the five senses. Voted Scottish Family Attraction Of The Year in 2003, its
also appeared on the BBC TV series Friends Like These. Over 80 hands on exhibits
covering light, sound, touch, smell, taste, position and heat. Try keyhole surgery,
test your hearing, see yourself older, test your tastebuds, see what dogs see.
Plus Roborealm, Infusion cafe and the Gyroscopic Ride if you're brave enough.
Monikie Country Park
Monikie Country Park offers visitors many choices, found just 15 minutes from
Arbroath. The facilities on offer include fly fishing, orienteering, sailing,
kayaking, rowing boats and sailboards that are hired on site. The park has a
great adventure area with wooden forts, zip lines, swings, chutes, etc. Plus
a ranger service, cafe and picnic areas. Its also a great place for a waterside
or woodland walk.
Crombie Country Park
Again 15 minutes from Arbroath you find Crombie Country Park, just next door
to Monikie. Crombie offer visitors fly fishing, orienteering, nature walks,
picnic areas, ranger service and a nice wee playpark. Crombie's Discovery Trail
also tells the story of the Beaker people, Iron Age residents who lived there
2000 years ago.
Arbroath Webster Theatre/Cinema
A new welcome addition to Arbroath is the cinema at the Webster Theatre. The
theatre reopened in 2008 after a £4 million re-fit, this included the
new cinema. As well as showing the latest blockbusters and childrens movies,
the cinema will also show arthouse, independant and foriegn films. Click on
the Arbroath Theatres section for a link to the website.
Jumping Joeys Family Entertainment Centre in Arbroath
The centre provides an enjoyable day out for the family, located next to the
West Links Adventure Park. Jumping Joeys provides soft play activities for the
very young, adventure climbing for those of primary school age and sports enclosure
for the older kids. Plus football, basketball, foam ball arena, playpark and
restaurant.
Rowanlea Equestrian School
Just 6 miles from Arbroath, Rowanlea Equestrian School is BHS/ABRS approved,
home to around 100 horses and ponies. They provide riding facilities for persons
5 years old and upwards, basic instruction in riding and jumping, with lessons
for more experienced riders in the evenings during the week and pony treks all
year. Lisa attended the school for a few years, she loved them all but her favourites
included Chico, Blackjack and Rolo. Find a link to the Rowanlea website on our
Adventurous section.
Dundee Ice Arena
Dundee Ice Arena, 20 minutes from Arbroath is an Olympic sized ice arena offering
public skating most days, all year round. Alternatively, visitors can attend
one of the local ice hockey matches. Dundee Ice Arena also has a bar and catering
facilities on site. Find a link to Dundee Ice Arenas website on our Adventurous
section.
Mountains Animal Sanctuary
The Mountains Animal Sanctuary, located 15 minutes from Arbroath is the largest
sanctuary in Scotland for rescued horses, donkeys and ponies. The sanctuary
offers tours for visitors, a picnic area, adoption scheme and a gift shop. Mountains
Animal Sanctaury is free entry but donations are welcome and appreciated.
Brewsters Fun Factory
Just over 10 minutes from Arbroath, Brewsters Fun Factory is an large indoor
play area for the kids. Interconnecting climbing frames and tunnels, chutes
and a soft play area. Brewsters also have an outdoor play area as well.
Neverland Playpark
The new Neverland Playpark, around 25 minutes from Arbroath, opened in 2010
to celebrate the 150th anniversary of JM Barrie's birth, the author of Peter
Pan. The Pirate's Cove Playpark is at its centre where kids can play out their
adventures of Peter Pan. The giant wooden ship, along with wooden figures of
Peter Pan, Captain Hook, The Croc and other characters from the book are found
dotted around. The park caters for the very young too, with a Lost Boys Hideout
for the younger kids found on site also. The walking routes and cycling paths
complete its facilities for visitors of all ages.

Have your own pool, table tennis and darts competition at Five Gables House
Pleasureland Funfair Arbroath - pleasurelandarbroath.co.uk
Webster Theatre/Cinema Arbroath - www.webstertheatre.co.uk
Pictavia Visitor Centre Brechin - www.megalithic.co.uk
Sensation Visitor Centre Dundee - www.sensation.org.uk
Arbroath Sea Angling & Trips - www.arbroathangling.co.uk
Arbroath Portcullis Snooker - www.theportcullis.co.uk
Balhousie Quad Biking - www.netmums.com
Edzell Paintballing - www.bedlampaintball.co.uk
Arbroath Sports Centre & Swimming Pool - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Saltire Leisure Centre - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Cafe Project Centre - www.cafeproject.btinternet.co.uk
Arbroath Summer Junior Golf Academy - www.arbroathgolfcourse.co.uk
Arbroath West Links Park & Sandy Beach - www.geograph.org.uk
Arbroath Victoria Park & Rocky Beach - www.geograph.org.uk
Monikie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Crombie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Sugar & Spice Tearoom & Playarea Arbroath - www.sugarandspiceshop.co.uk
Forfar Loch Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Outdoor Dimensions Arbroath - outdoordimensions.co.uk
Caledonian Railway Brechin - www.caledonianrailway.com
Montrose Basin Visitor Centre - www.angus.gov.uk
Brechin Castle Centre - www.brechincastlecentre.co.uk
Rowanlea Equestrian Carnoustie - www.rowanlearidingschool.co.uk
Dundee Ice Arena - www.dundeeicearena.co.uk
Mountains Animal Sanctuary Forfar - www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk
Camperdown Wildlife Park Dundee - www.dundeecity.gov.uk/camperdown
Avertical World Dundee - www.averticalworld.co.uk
Charleton Fruit Farm & Playarea - www.charleton-fruit-farm.co.uk
Glamis Castle Playarea & Events - www.glamis-castle.co.uk
Balgavies Loch Nature Reserve - myweb.tiscali.co.uk
Broughty Castle Museum Events - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Olympia Leisure Pool Dundee - www.swimolympia.co.uk
Mills Observatory Dundee - www.geo.ed.ac.uk
Lunan Bay Surfing - www.beachwizard.com
Playparks In Arbroath - www.angus.gov.uk
RSS Discovery Dundee - www.rrsdiscovery.com
HM Unicorn Dundee - www.frigateunicorn.org
Kerrs Miniature Railway Arbroath - www.kmr.talktalk.net
The Secret Bunker Fife - www.secretbunker.co.uk
Storybook Glen Maryculter - www.storybookglenaberdeen.co.uk
Games, Chat, Music & Movie Sites
Beanotown - www.beanotown.com
Oor Wullie & The Broons - www.thatsbraw.co.uk
CBBC - www.bbc.co.uk
CITV - www.citv.co.uk
Bebo - www.bebo.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com
Twitter - twitter.com
MSN - uk.msn.com
Google - www.google.co.uk
Bing - www.bing.com
Yahoo - uk.yahoo.com
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Keptie Pond
Keptie Pond & Victorian Water Tower
"Ron's Great Grandfather was one of the many men who assisted
in its construction"
Overlooking Keptie Pond is the Victorian built Water Tower, which
has often been mistaken for a castle
but was only built to provide a water supply to part of the town.
Built in 1885, Ron's great grandfather
assisted in the construction of this historic building. With access
for the disabled, visitors can
take a leisurely walk around this mini nature reserve or just relax
on one of the many seated areas. A
great place for taking the kids to feed the ducks and swans.
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Keptie Pond

Victorian Water Tower at Keptie Pond, Arbroath's
Castle
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St Vigeans Church /
Pictish Stones
St Vigeans Church, Pictish Stones Museum & St Vigeans Nature Trail"
St Vigeans Church dates back to the 11th century"
"Contains one of the oldest church organs in Scotland"
"Drosten, i ré Uoret ett Forcus"
Rare written inscription on the St Vigeans Drosten Stone
St Vigeans Church dates back to the 11th century, but most of what
we see today is 18th century. Situated on an intriguing mound, this
church has been ravaged and rebuilt many times over the centuries.
Over 30 ancient carved stones have been found at St Vigeans. In a
cottage nearby, several of these Pictish stones, some of which were
incorporated into the churches construction, can be viewed free of
charge by the public. St Vigeans Church was also featured on TV when
the Arbroath born TV presenter Dominic Diamond was filming the Channel
5 show "Crucify Me" in 2006.
St Vigeans Museum - www.megalithic.co.uk
St Vigeans Church - stvigeanschurch.org
St Vigeans Nature Trail - www.walkscotland.com
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St Vigeans Church

St Vigeans Pictish Stones Museum, Arbroath
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Arbroath
Harbour / Trips To The Bell Rock
Arbroath Harbour & Visitor Centre
"The Fit O The Toon"
"Where You Buy Your Arbroath Smokies"
The Arbroath harbour, the historic roots
of the town, has seen a transformation over the last decade.
After the end of the fishing industry in Arbroath, the harbour
was turned into a marina for visiting seafarers. This led
to other attractions being added including the new visitor
centre and restaurant overlooking the harbour. The RNLI lifeboat
station and Signal Tower Museum nearby will also be open to
visitors. Fishing is allowed, but only from the caged areas
along the outer harbour wall. Or try some offshore angling.
Charter boats can be hired for fishing groups for around £100
to £120, around £15 each for large groups. Bait,
rods and a hot drink are included.
Arbroath also offers visitors the opportunity to charter a
boat for pleasure cruises or fishing trips. You can follow
in the wake of Rabbie Burns when he toured the caves of the
Arbroath cliffs, or head out to the Bellrock Lighthouse, 11
miles off the coast. This 200 year old structure is the oldest
seawashed lighthouse in the world. The harbour is also where
you will find most of the quaint smokehouses, where you can
buy an Arbroath Smokie straight off the barrel.
The Arbroath Seafest, the largest event on the Angus calander,
takes place around the harbour annually in August. This huge
2 day festival celebrating Arbroath's seafaring heritage,
attracts up to 30,000 visitors every year.
Arbroath Seafest 2010 - Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd August
2010.
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Photographic books available
on Arbroath's old fishing heritage, the Arbroath Smokie, the local
boatbuilders & merchants, the Arbroath Sea Fest and North East
Scotland's fishing industry. History of Arbroath's old harbour at
Danger Point, and the new harbours dating back a few hundred years

Arbroath Harbour of old
The first harbour in town was located at Danger
Point, near where the Old Brewhouse restaurant is today. This harbour
was built in 1394 and was known as the Abbot's Harbour. In 1706, the
old harbour was destroyed by a storm, so the new one was built at
its present location. Some remnants of this old harbour still remain
at Danger Point. So called because of the ferocious waves that crash
against the old walls during stormy weather. The outer harbour or
wet dock was added 180 years later in 1887. In the 1800's, during
the boom of linen, the quarries and the jute trade, the Arbroath Harbour
was a busy place. With exports of sailcloth and Carmyllie Stone among
other products, Arbroath's harbour trade was at its height.

Arbroath Harbour

An Arbroath Smokehouse

Sea Angling or Pleasure Trips from
Arbroath

Mackays Boatbuilders, the last of
the boatbuilders in Arbroath. Garry used to work for Gerrard's Boatbuilders
during the late 80's, the site is now occupied by the Old Boatyard
Restaurant and tourist info centre.
Arbroath
RNLI Station - www.arbroath-lifeboat.org.uk
Arbroath Smokies - www.bbc.co.uk
Mackays Boatbuilders - www.mackayboatbuilders.co.uk
Angling & Pleasure Cruises - www.arbroathangling.co.uk
Arbroath Seafest - www.arbroathseafest.co.uk
"Why did the Arbroath Smokie cross the North Sea? To get to the
other tide."
A man goes into Pepo's fish n chip shop in Arbroath with a Haddock
under his arm. He asks "Do you sell fish cakes here?" "Sorry
we dont" was the reply. "Thats a shame, it's his birthday"
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Arbroath Cliffs /
Secret Caves
One of five nature walks, the cliffs of Arbroath span for over 3 miles all the
way to the village of
Auchmithie. Views include the spectacular sea stacks and caves carved into the
soft red sandstone. Walk
along the designated pathways and see the various coastal birds swooping below
you. Victoria Park is
found just before the Arbroath cliffs. This is where our annual Arbroath Seafront
Spectacular takes
place, usually in July. This one day event is also an airshow with helicopter
pleasure flights, RAF Tornado
flight displays, Sea King helicopter and Lifeboat demonstrations and the world
famous Red Arrows
display team. Attracts over 30,000 to Arbroath every year.

Arbroath Cliffs Seaton Nature Reserve

Cliffs of Arbroath

Stunning views along the cliffs
Secret Caves Of
Arbroath
There are many caves along the 3 miles of cliffs at Arbroath, but not all of
them you can see. Some are hidden by vegetation or rock formations, so many
believe that there are more waiting to be discovered like the caves found in
2008. There are many local stories attached to these caves, some telling of
secret tunnels running from the Arbroath Abbey to the cliffs of Arbroath. And
other stories about smugglers and wreckers using the caves. The cliffs have
intrigued many people over the centuries, Rabbie Burns is one of many who have
toured the caves from Auchmithie to Arbroath when he was visiting the area.
There are a few ways to visit some of these caves. Being part of a canoeing
group is the best way allowing you access to some of the more secluded caves.
Some can be reached on foot like the Stalactite Cave near the start of the cliffs.
Others can only be reached while climbing. Care should always be taken when
visiting these caves as tides can change, so some local knowledge is needed.
You could hire a boat from the harbour and let the local skippers show you the
best locations. More details about local boat hire can be found on the angling
section.
Secret Cave House
In 2008 a hidden cave house was discovered by the Arbroath lifeboat crew halfway
up a 120ft sheer cliff face on the coast. A rope ladder, bolted to the side
of a narrow cleft in the cliff face, led to a wooden door painted to match the
colours of the cliff and fitted perfectly to the shape of the cave's entrance.
Inside there was a wooden floor with old bus seats fixed to the floor. Great
care and craftsmanship had gone into the construction work. With time spent
on blending in the colours with the cave. After the cave house was discovered
in 2008 a for sale sign appeared at its entrance followed by a short film on
Youtube. The film includes two locals dressed as Gorilla's waving a House For
Sale sign in anger, in a humourous take on who owned the cave house. The Gorilla's
were then interviewed on a national news network appearing on the evening news.
Another Stone Of Destiny Found
After the 2008 cave find, confusion over the authenticity of the Stone of Destiny
emerged after a mystery man claimed to have found the "real" relic
in a hidden Arbroath cliff cave. A local man, who has refused to be identified,
has come forward to declare he discovered the stone six years ago inside a hidden
cave covered by a steel plate and hidden by grass. However, experts said the
Stone of Destiny in Edinburgh Castle was the genuine article. The story states
that the Stone Of Destiny found in Edinburgh Castle is not the real one, and
that there are six replica stones elsewhere. The story reveals that only a handful
of people know where the real one is. Add this to the fact that when the Stone
Of Destiny was stolen from Westminster in 1950, it turned up a few months later
at the alter of the Arbroath Abbey. It was in these few months that the swap
was supposed to have been made.
The unnamed man has insisted he discovered the two caves six years ago after
reading an old history book about monks and their secret hideaways. I was trailing
up and down the coast and came across a gravestone. Nearby, under the grass,
I found another tunnel and that's where the second cave is, under a steel plate.
"It was loose so I lifted it up and that was where I found the stone, wrapped
in the sheet it's still in." He said the stone was about 3ft long by 2ft
wide and 16in deep, and weighed about 500lb. It is made of yellow sandstone
and still has obvious chisel marks on the surface. It has a square pattern chiselled
into the top and hoops attached to the sides.
History Of The Caves
Over the last few hundred years the Arbroath cliffs have been the perfect location
for smugglers and wreckers. Many of the locations and caves have names related
to these smuggling days. The St Thomas Lodge used to meet in one of the Arbroath
caves. The Masons Cave was visited every year on St Johns Day. The location
of an ancient hill fort called Maiden Castle is found directly above Masons
Cave. Masons Cave was also someones home at one point. A man named as a Mr Andrew
Gordon lived in this cave during the last century.
Tam The Piper
Tam The Piper is a ghost story of a local man, a piper, who got lost in the
caves and was never seen again. They say sometimes you can hear the sound of
bagpipes as Tam is still trying to find his way out.

One of the many caves along the Arbroath coastline
"Had I a cave
on some wild distant shore,
Where the winds howl to the wave's dashing roar:
There would I weep my woes,
There seek my lost repose,
Till grief my eyes should close,
Ne'er to wake more!"
Robert Burns
Arbroath Cliffs to The Flairs - www.youtube.com
The Flairs to Auchmithie - www.youtube.com
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Arbroath
FC - World Record Holders
"World Record holders for the highest scoring match, 36-0 winners"
"Scottish Cup Winners next year"
The Arbroath Football Club, nicknamed "The Red Lichties",
are the towns professional side formed in 1878. Arbroath FC hold the
world record for the highest scoring match at this level, this was
the 36-0 victory over Bon Accord in the 1st round of the Scottish
Cup 1885. One of the players that day, John Petrie, also holds another
world record scoring 13 goals in that same match. A local street,
Petries Way is named after him. Another story about that day in 1885
tells how the Arbroath goalkeeper, Jim Milne, borrowed an umbrella
from a friend to keep dry while the match was in progress as he had
so little to do. Arbroaths Gayfield Park has a ground capacity of
6488, this more than doubled in 1952 when Rangers visited Arbroath
in the 3rd round of the Scottish Cup. The record attendance that day
was 13,510.
Arbroath FC hold a charity open day, usually in June, just before
the football season starts. The season runs from July to May, with
some pre season friendlies before that. Visitors are welcome to watch
them play at thier home ground Gayfield Park on Saturdays, kick off
3pm. With some midweek evening matches starting around 7.30pm. Entry
to Gayfield Park cost around £10 to £20 depending on whether
its a friendly, league or cup match and different prices for adults,
juniors and OAP's. The club also offer Match Day Hospitality Packages
and Match Sponsership Corporate Packages as well. The club shop also
sell Arbroath FC merchandise, from replica kits, scarves, mugs, pennants,
badges, ties, books and many more items. More details can be found
at Arbroath Football Clubs official website.
Arbroath Football Club - www.arbroathfc.co.uk
"Some
people think football is a matter of life and death. I don't like
that attitude.
I can assure them it is much more serious than that."
Bill Shankly

Arbroath Football Club, formed
in 1878

The Arbroath Team of 1885
"Great place, Arbroath 1 Queens Park 0, great result"
Dave Collett & Mick Johnson, Sheffield, England
Arbroath Victoria FC & Arbroath Sporting
Club
Arbroath also has two junior football teams. Arbroath Victoria FC
are one of the oldest junior football teams in Scotland, formed in
1882. The Vics play home matches at Ogilvy Park in town. The other
team is Arbroath Sporting Club, formed in 1960, and play home matches
at Seaton Park. Matches are played on Saturdays while the teams are
at home, with some midweek games as well. Details of match fixtures
can be found at the web links below:
Arbroath
Victoria FC
Arbroath
Sporting Club FC
The Funny Side
To Fitba
Anna has had enough of Red Lichtie Rab's obsession. "Football,
football, football!" she moaned, "that's all you ever talk
about. It's your whole life. You never take me out. You never buy
me presents. You're either at a match or watching one on the box.
I bet you can't even remember when our wedding anniversary is."
"Yes, I can," her husband retorted, "It's the same
date that Arbroath nearly beat Dundee United in the Scottish Cup."
Some Midgies were playing football in a saucer, using a grain of sugar
as a ball. One of them said, "We'll have to do better than this,
lads. We're playing in the cup tomorrow."
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Glamis Castle
Glamis Castle
"Is this a dagger I see before me"
William Shakespeare
Glamis Castle, the childhood home of the late
queen mother and the legendary setting for Shakespeare's Macbeth.
The castle was also the location of the 2005 TV series, "Castle in
the country", presented by John Craven and Nikki Chapman. Reputedly
the most haunted castle in Britain, Glamis offers its visitors guided
tours, gardens, nature walks, a picnic/play area and a licensed restaurant.
Glamis castle is less than 20 minutes drive from Arbroath.

Glamis Castle

Highland Cattle at Glamis Castle

The legendary setting for Shakespeares
"The Scottish Play"
Glamis Castle - www.glamis-castle.co.uk
Glamis Castle Events - glamis-new.bannermantech.com
Scotland's Countryside Festival - www.scotlandscountrysidefestival.co.uk
Ghosts Of Glamis - www.castleofspirits.com
BBC's Castle In The Country - www.bbc.co.uk
Historic Houses Assoc - www.hha.org.uk
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RRS
Discovery / HM Unicorn
"Polar Explorers Wanted - thermal underwear not required"
All aboard Captain Scott's research ship the RRS Discovery. Less then
20 minutes from Arbroath is the ship that sailed Captain Scott to
the Antarctic in 1901. Follow in the footsteps of Scott and his crew.
As well as having a look around the ship, visitors can see various
displays in the visitor centre. Find out about the building of the
ship, the voyage to the Antarctic, the scientific research and how
to live with frostbite and scurvy. This 5 star visitor attraction
also offers its visitors guided tours, conference, function suite
and wedding facilities, a gift shop and a cafe.
Not far from the RRS Discovery is the HM Frigate Unicorn, of 46 guns.
The frigate was built in 1824 and is the oldest British built ship
afloat today. This is Scotlands only example of a warship from the
golden age of sail. Visitors can step aboard this historic ship and
travel back to the days of Nelson. With various displays on the life
and hardships of the Royal Navy soldiers in the golden age of sail.
The Most Haunted team visited the RRS Discovery and the HM Unicorn
during the filming of the 8th series of the TV show.
A Free Annual Pass is now available. This way you can buy a pass once
and visit the RRS Discovery as many times as you like during the year.

RRS Discovery - Captain Scott's
Voyage To The Antarctic

HM Frigate Unicorn Of 46 Guns

TV's Most Haunted teams ghosthunting
visit to the RRS Discovery & HM Unicorn in Dundee
Maritime Angus And Dundee
The Angus and Dundee area has long links with the North Sea. All
the way back to the Bronze age, Pictish era and before, to the landings
of the Vikings and birth of the fishing industries of Arbroath,
Auchmithie, Montrose, Ferryden, Carnoustie and the other coastal
villages. Plus the old whaling ships that aided the massive Jute
industry in Dundee, to the Merchant ships sailing from Dundee in
the last century.
Our Links With The Sea
Many families in Arbroath have links with these maritime industries
of old. The family names of Swankie, Spink, Cargill, Beattie, Pert
and Fisher with the oldest links in town. Our family have links
with the sea also. Before serving 30 years in the Tayside Fire Brigade,
Ron spent 7 years touring the world in the Merchant Navy. Travelling
to many ports in Europe, North & South America, Canada, Jamaica,
Australia and New Zealand. With fond memories of on occasion, taking
the helm of huge merchant ships, through the Panama Canel as well
as other faraway places. Garry also spent some time in the local
boatbuilding industry, working for Gerrards Boatbuilders in the
80's. And the offshore fishing industry, fishing on the East and
West coasts of Scotland, before serving his time as a Carpenter
& Joiner.

Information on the old Arbroath
fishing industry, local boatbuilders, RRS Discovery, HM Unicorn,
Bell Rock Lighthouse, Shipwrecks of the east coast, the old Dundee
Whalers, Merchant Navy and Dundee's other ships

The Rangitoto, one of the
ships Ron sailed on during his Merchant Navy Days

The California Star

The Whangaroa

The Kingennie

New V&A Museum in Dundee,
opens in 2014
RRS Discovery - www.rrsdiscovery.com
HM Unicorn - www.frigateunicorn.org
Mars Training Ship - www.sonsofthemars.com
Most Haunted In Dundee - www.youtube.com
Merchant Navy Association - www.mna.org.uk
Merchant Navy Family History - www.nmm.ac.uk
Tay Valley Family History Society In Dundee - www.tayvalleyfhs.org.uk
Angus Archives - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages - www.angus.gov.uk
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JM Barrie
- Peter Pan / Literature
"Second
star to the right and straight on 'til morning"
JM Barrie
The birthplace of Sir James Matthew Barrie, the Scottish novelist,
dramatist and creator of Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook and
the rest of the gang. The story of Peter Pan is based on his friends,
the Llewelyn Davies boys. The story of his influences was retold
in the 2004 Hollywood movie Finding Neverland, starring Johnny
Depp as JM Barrie and Kate Winslet as Mrs Llewelyn Davies. Many
other films have spun off from his original idea, the 1991 movie
Hook starring Robin Williams, Dustin Hoffman and Julia Roberts.
And the new 2002 Disney version Peter Pan, Return To Neverland
are just two.
The JM Barrie Birthplace Museum is found in Kirriemuir, just 20
minutes from Arbroath. Visitors can see the house where he was
born, still furnished in the stlye of life in the 1860's. Next
door you will find an exhibition covering Barrie's many literary
and theatrical works. The wash house outside was said to be his
first theatre. JM Barrie was given the freedom of Kirriemuir in
1930 and is also buried in the town. Known as a very generous
man, he gifted a cricket pavilion to the town, now the Camera
Obscura visitor attraction. He also left all the rights to Peter
Pan, to the Great Ormond Street Hospital For Sick Children.

JM Barrie Birthplace Museum

Finding Neverland, movie
based on JM Barrie's life
Literature
JM Barrie is is the most well known of the authors from the area,
but there are a few other links too. Sir Walter Scott visited
and enjoyed Arbroath on at least 3 occasions. So much so that
he based his novel "The Antiquary", Scott's personel
favourite, on his time in Arbroath. Robert Burns also toured the
area, visiting the local caves along the coastline. A statue of
Robert Burns sits at the entrance to the Arbroath Library. RM
Ballantyne also mentions the area in his work, "The Lighthouse".
Not far from here, about 25 minutes away, you will find the Lewis
Grassic Gibbon visitor centre, for all who are familiar with his
work.
Dundee can also lay claim to producing Scotland's worst poet,
William McGonagall, although that is a matter of opinion. Dundee
is also the birthplace of Scotlands favourite cartoon characters,
including Oor Wullie and The Broons. Dundee's DC Thompson also
created the famous Beano and Dandy characters and the more mature
children out there will remember the Commando comics of the 70's
and 80's.

Local stories and poetry
from the Arbroath, Angus and Dundee area, including the works
of JM Barrie, Sir Walter Scott, William McGonagall & Lewis
Grassic Gibbon
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Lunan
Bay / Red Castle
Lunan Bay & Red Castle
In 2000 Lunan Bay was voted the best beach in Scotland
"Lunan bay is the place to be if you want to catch perfect waves
for longboarders all year round"
"A great place for a great walk all year round"
Lunan Bay, located roughly 6 miles from Arbroath, is a popular destination
with families and walkers. Its location also appeals to anglers, canoeists,
surfers, swimmers and horse riders. With some stunning sand dunes,
Lunan's golden beach stretches for miles. Overlooking this bay is
the ruins of Red Castle, once owned by Robert the Bruce in the 1300's.

Red Castle & Lunan Bay

The ruins of Red Castle
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Dunnottar
Castle - Brechin Cathedral - Barry Water Mill - House Of Dun - Scone
Palace - Restenneth Priory

Dunnottar Castle is set in a stunning
location, 40 minutes from Arbroath. This where the Scottish Crown
Jewels were saved in 1650 after an 8 month siege by Oliver Cromwell.
Filming for the Hollywood film version of Hamlet also took place here
in 1990, starring Mel Gibson, Glenn Close and Helena Bonham Carter.

Brechin Cathedral and Round Tower,
15 minutes from Arbroath contains 13th century medieval architechture
and one of the finest stain glass window displays in Britain. Its
round tower is one the oldest examples in Scotland, dating back nearly
1000 years.

Barry Water Mill, under 10 minutes
from Arbroath, dates back to 1814 when it was rebuilt after a fire,
producing oatmeal until the 1970's. Visitors can see a working demonstration
of the mill. The mill is the last of its kind in Angus. The site also
has a picnic area with a nice waterside walk through an apple orchard
and past the mill pond.

House Of Dun, 15 minutes from Arbroath,
offer guided tours of this historic mansion house, beautiful gardens
and woodland walks. A restaurant and shop are also found on site.
This 18th century house also featured on the 2009 BBC TV series "A
History Of Scotland"

Scone Palace, 40 minutes from Arbroath,
was once the crowning place of Scottish Kings. Scone Palace occupies
a unique position in the history of Scotland. A place of power and
mystery and the rightful home of the celebrated Stone of Scone, also
known as the Stone of Destiny. Scone Palace is regarded as a national
treasure. Robert the Bruce was crowned at Scone Palace in 1306, then
attended the signing of the Declaration at the Arbroath Abbey in 1320.
Scone Palace offers tours, gardens, shop and an adventure playground
with a unique "Tartan Murray" Star Maze.

The ancient priory at Restenneth,
15 minutes from Arbroath, is believed to have been founded by Nechtan,
king of the Picts around 715AD. King Nechtan promised to dedicate
the church to St Peter. Recent opinion favours a late 11th century
date for the base of the tower. The church is one of the very earliest
stone buildings in Scotland.
Dunnottar Castle - www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk
Brechin Cathedral - www.brechincathedral.org
Barry Water Mill - www.nts.org.uk
House Of Dun - www.nts.org.uk
Scone Palace - www.scone-palace.co.uk
Restenneth Priory - www.angus.gov.uk
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Angus Glens
"Do not go where the path may lead,
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
Ralph Waldo Emerson
The beautiful Glens of Angus start around 20 minutes from Arbroath.
We can advise on various walking routes through the Glens and also highlight
some other nearby visitor attractions along the way. The Angus Glens
Walking Festival is another great time to visit the Angus Glens. This
festival in June offers its visitors 31 guided walks, suitable for all
walking levels and with routes for the disabled.
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Glen Isla

The Monarch of the Glens
The Angus Glens - www.angus.gov.uk
Gateway To The Glens Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Camera Obscura - www.nts.org.uk
Cortachy Castle Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
Airlie Castle Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
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Angling
Off The Coast / Fly Fishing In Angus
"Great facilities,
very accommodating, with fishing gear/bait storage"
Steve Girbon, Whiting
Bay, Isle Of Arran
Neil Christian, Castleton, Isle Of Man
"Excellent
B&B"
Steve, Matt & Ged
Stevens, Cumbria, England
"Excellent all
round, first class service, very good"
Darren Hollgate &
Clint Eade, Hull, England
"Excellent
B&B and fishing"
Stephen, Billy, Stuart
& Craig, County Durham, England
Weather - www.metoffice.gov.uk
Tide Tables - http://www.bbc.co.uk/weather/coast/tides/
The Angus Coast - A great place for fishing off the rocks in Scotland
And 14 fisheries offering fly fishing, 10 to 25 minutes drive of Arbroath
What We Offer
Our secure garage for storing your equipment, catch and bait
Group bookings can use our outdoor freezer / your ice packs can be frozen
Seaview guest lounge, get the cards out & chat about the one that
got away
Order in option and have your evening meal at our seaview dining area
Games room with pool table, table tennis and darts
And we have a fridge for the beers
"Give a man a fish
and you feed him for a day.
Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime"
Chinese Proverb
We see a few angling groups coming back every year to the area. The cliffs
at Arbroath and the surrounding coastal villages are well known marks
in angling circles. Off shore sea fishing is also on offer all year round,
weather permitting of course. Boats are for hire for angling groups or
just for a leisure cruise along the cliffs. For fly fishing the spring/summer
months open up a whole range of beats, pools and river marks throughout
Angus. With around 14 different locations offering some great marks for
fly fishing, within just 10 to 25 minutes drive of Arbroath. Arbroath
makes a great base to fish from as its a large town, the largest in Angus,
and so offers more choice when it comes to entertainment, nightlife and
the local restaurants.
"May
the holes in your net be no larger than the fish in it"
Irish Blessing

7' Statesman Pool Table, Darts and
Table Tennis at Five Gables

Our secure garage facilities for
fishing tackle, with freezer for storing catch and bait.
Off Shore Sea Fishing
Arbroath is the perfect spot for a day out by the Bell Rock Lighthouse,
or off the stunning coastal formations of the cliffs. Several boats are
available for hire at the harbour in Arbroath. Groups can hire boats for
as little as £12 - £17 per person or around £100 - £110
to book the boat for yourself. Rods, reels, bait and hot drinks are also
supplied. Common species caught off the coast include Cod, Mackerel, Wrasse
and Haddock.
Arbroath Fishing Boats For Hire
Alec Smith - Call 07752 470621
Jim Swankie - Call 01241 873957
John and Keith Swankie - 01241 875453 or 07543 005908
Ally Piggot - 01382 774373
Arbroath Cycle & Tackle Centre, 274 High Street Arbroath 01241 873467
(Any local business wishing to freely advertise angling services here,
please contact me at fivegableshouse@yahoo.com)
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Coastal Fishing In Angus
This part of the east coast is renowned for its superb winter catches.
The best months for fishing off the coastline are from October to mid
February, your chances are even better after a good storm blowing in from
the east. With great marks right along the Arbroath cliffs, or the area
surrounding the enclosed Auchmithie harbour. A little further up the coast
takes you to the great marks at Usan, Boddin and Ethie Haven. The most
common species around the Arbroath coastline include Cod, Flounder, Pollack
and Bass. Your catch, trays of bait and angling equipment can be stored
in our large secure garage.
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Arbroath Beach
Just a few minutes walk from the B&B you find the sandy Elliot beach,
so called because of the Elliot burn that runs into sea at this point.
The Elliot Burn itself is a bit of a hotspot for fishing. The burn runs
alongside the Elliot Nature Walk so there are many locations to fish from.
In all the Arbroath beach spans some 5 miles all the way to Carnoustie.
Its a great spot for beach fishing, several competitions have taken place
here over the years. Common species caught anywhere along the beach include
flounder and small bass. Use a flapping rig with two or three size 1 hooks,
baited with lugworm and tipped with a little fish, or if you are fortunate
to have some then white ragworm can be excellent here.
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Arbroath Harbour
There are a few caged areas along the south breakwater wall at Arbroaths
outer harbour. Fishing is permitted from these caged areas only. No other
area of the harbour can be fished for safety reasons. Contact the local
Harbourmaster for more information.
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Arbroath Cliffs
The Seaton Cliffs of Arbroath hold some great marks for fishing off the
rocks. From the start at Whiting Ness, all the way to The Flairs, you
will find some excellent spots to fish from. We can show you the areas
along the 3 miles of clifftop that are best to fish. From June until mid
August catches include flounder, dab and some plaice. From August until
November fishing improves with catches of cod, pollack, coalfish and flounder.
But the best time for catching cod, large flounder or school bass is November
through until mid February along the whole of the East coast. For biggest
catches look for a strong easterly or northerly wind direction.
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Auchmithie Beach
Two miles from Arbroath, another very popular place to fish off the beach
or rocks. This is partly due to its stunning scenery as you find yourself
surrounded by an arc of red sandstone, 150 feet high. Recently featured
on the BBC series "Coast" and the ITV series "The Woman
Who Ate Scotland", the But n Ben restaurant is another good reason
to visit Auchmithie. With its superb menu including the Arbroath Smokie.
Again we can show you where to fish to gain the best results.
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Usan
Another hotspot along the Angus coast is the old fishing village of Usan.
Now its just a great spot to catch cod and flounder off the rocks with
some really good marks if you know where to go.
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Ethie Haven
Good marks here, the best being Lang Craig. Great place for catching Cod,
Pollock, Wrasse & the odd ling. Its a nice spot even for the scenery
and local wildlife, but can be a dangerous spot too in rougher conditions.
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Lunan Bay Beach
Lunan Bay is found 6 miles from Arbroath. A stunning location popular
for many activities including fishing. There is plenty beach to choose
from at Lunan, with a few well known marks for best results. Common species
caught here include Flounder, Bass and some Cod as well. Traditional fishing
still takes place at Lunan Bay, with nets strung from poles to catch the
fish in the falling tide.

20 miles of superb coastal fishing
marks. Great fishing spots found from the mouth of the River Tay, up the
coast to Easthaven, Elliot Beach, Arbroath, Auchmithie, Ethie Mains, Langs
Craig, Lunan, Elephant Rock, Boddin Point, Usan and Ferryden

Auchmithie Harbour

Sea fishing off the Arbroath Cliffs
"There
is certainly something in fishing that tends to produce a
gentleness of spirit, a pure serenity of mind."
Washington Irving
"Information on all the local fly fishing marks are
found below"
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Fly fishing In Angus
There are some superb fishing locations along the North Esk River in Angus.
The North Esk covers some 35 miles, and is one of the most prolific Salmon
rivers in the Northern Hemisphere. The South Esk River, some 49 miles
in length, is also noted as one of the finest trout rivers in Scotland.
The fly fishing on offer at Kinaldie Fishery 5 minutes from Arbroath,
Carlogie Dam Fishery (10 minutes), Rescobie Loch (12 minutes), Monikie
(12 minutes), Crombie (15 minutes), Southesk Estates (15 minutes), Kingennie
(15 minutes), Mill Of Criggie Fisheries (20 minutes) and the Dalhousie
Estates (22 minutes) are other good spots.

Rescobie
Loch Country Park
Carmyllie Fishery
(5 minutes from Arbroath)
Carmyllie Fishery, the newest fishery in Angus is located at Saughmont
Cover, near the village of Carmyllie. Opened in 2010 offering local and
visiting anglers another choice of venue for fishing in Tayside. Fly fishing
available in this 77 metre by 26 metre pool. The site also includes a
new fishermans hut and car parking is available.
Permits
Half day session - around £14
Full day session - around £20
Contact Doug Murdoch for current prices. More details to follow on this
new fishery.
"Calling
fishing a hobby is like calling brain surgery a job"
Paul
Schullery
Kinaldie Fishery
(5 minutes from Arbroath)
Kinaldie Fishery is located about 3 miles up the coast from Arbroath.
Fly fishing on offer here for Rainbow Trout and Wild Brown Trout. For
more information about this hidden gem among fisheries call a Mr Walker
on 0781 7226190. The fishing season here runs from mid May to the end
of September. This fishery is the one to try while fly fishing in the
area, known as a great spot in local angling circles.
Permits
5 hour session - £12 (3 fish bag limit)
Under 16s - £7 (2 fish bag limit)
Catch & Release £10 per day
"The
man who coined the phrase "Money can't buy happiness",
never bought himself a good fly rod!"
Reg
Baird
Fly Fishing At Monikie Country Park & Crombie Country Park
(12 minutes from Arbroath)
Monikie Angling Club provides Fly Fishing for stocked Brown and Rainbow
Trout within Monikie and Crombie Country Parks. The Club has 18 boats
to let for both members of Monikie Angling Club and visitors. In Monikie
Country Park fishing is available on the Island Pond for Rainbow Trout
only, whilst the fishing at Crombie Country Park is for Brown Trout only.
The fishing season runs from 23rd March to 31st October at Monikie and
from 23rd March to 6th October at Crombie. Call 01382 581374 for more
details.
Pricing Information
Costs of boat hire for a 12 fish limit is as follows
£19.00 per session for a member and a guest
£19.00 per session for club booking
£26.00 per session for one or two visitors
£10.00 per session for one member (6 fish limit)
£15.00 per session for one visitor (6 fish limit)
"Wanted
- Good woman who can cook fish, clean fish, has boat and motor.
Send photo of boat and motor."
Author
still in hiding!
Carlogie Dam Fishery
(10 minutes from Arbroath)
Carlogie Dam Fishery is located about 5 miles from Arbroath, a mile or
two outside Carnoustie. Arbroath makes a great base to fish from as its
a much larger town, the largest in Angus, and so offers more choice when
it comes to entertainment, nightlife and the local restaurants. Opened
in 1997, Carlogie Dam fishery has twenty platforms which all offer plentiful
quality fish available throughout the year. Fly fishing with steel head,
blue, rainbow, gold and brown trout as well as Land lock salmon all to
catch. Carlogie have a fishing hut, fitted with all the necessary refreshment
facilities providing both hot and cold snack to help maintain the magic
throughout the day! Opening hours are from 9 am untill half an hour after
dusk with evening sessions running from May to September.
Visitors - 9am to 5pm Adult £15 / OAP £13 / Junior £6
(4 fish)
Visitors - 5pm to dusk Adult £13 / OAP £11 / Junior £6
(3 fish)
"We need a bigger boat"
Peter Benchley in the movie Jaws
Kingennie Fishings
(15 minutes from Arbroath)
Kingennie Fishings, just 15 miles from Arbroath, is home to some of Scotland's
most famous trout and coarse fishing waters and provides excellent fishing
for experts and beginners alike. Bait and fly-fishing is available on
the four well stocked pools. Kingennie Fishings hosted the Scottish National
Coarse Fishing Championships in 2003. Fishing lessons are available for
adults and children.
Woodside Pool- £10 2 fish / £15 4 fish / 3 charge over
Bankside Pool- £13 2 fish / £19 4 fish / £15 3 fish
evening
Specimen Pool - £25 2 fish / £35 4 fish / £28
3 fish evening
Half Day 9am to 1pm or 1pm to 5pm / Full Day 9am to 5pm
Evening fishing (May-Sept) 5pm to 30 minutes after sunset
"Lord help me to catch a fish so large that
even I,
in the telling of it, never need to lie"
Evree Angla
Fly Fishing On Rescobie Loch
(12 minutes from Arbroath)
Rescobie Loch is located just 12 miles from Arbroath. Set in 200 acres,
the shallow waters of Rescobie provide a great location for fly fishing.
The loch is home to some fine over wintered Brown and Rainbow Trout. Fishing
is from the bank or by boat, sessions run from 9am to 5pm or 5pm to dusk.
The loch record stands at 7lbs 4oz for a Brown Trout and 17lb 10oz for
a Rainbow Trout. The season starts from mid March to the end of October.
Call 01307 830367 for more details.
Visitors - 9am to 5pm Adult £15 / OAP £13 / Junior £6
(4 fish)
Visitors - 5pm to dusk Adult £13 / OAP £11 / Junior £6
(3 fish)
Day boat charges - 3 rods £35 / 2 rods £32 / 1 rod £19
(4 fish)
Evening boat charges - 3 rods £28 / 2 rods £25 / 1 rod £17
(3 fish)
"The angler forgets most of the fish he
catches,
but he does not forget the streams and lakes in which they are caught"
Charles K Fox
Salmon Fishing On Dalhousie Estates
(20 minutes from Arbroath)
The Dalhousie Estate is located around 22 miles from Arbroath. Fishing
is let over the Upper and Lower Beats of the Edzell Water (West Beat Only)
on the River North Esk. The Middle Beat is not included. There are ten
named pools, maximum 3 rods. The Upper Beat extends from below the Gannochy
Bridge on the Fettercairn Road to the Suspension Bridge by Edzell Village
and the Lower Beat runs from the top of the Lyn Martin Pool down to the
confluence of the North Esk and the West Water. The Estate has an arrangement
with the opposing Proprietors which avoids both Proprietors fishing the
same beat at the same time; thus one of the beats is fished in the morning
and the other in the afternoon. Details of the arrangements are given
on your Permit. Call 01356 624566 for more details.
"Even if you've been fishing for 3 hours and haven't gotten anything
except
poison ivy and sunburn, you're still better off than the worm"
Pithee Scryb
Mill Of Criggie Fisheries
(20 minutes from Arbroath)
Mill of Criggie Fisheries is situated 5 miles north of Montrose at St
Cyrus, thats about 19 miles from Arbroath. There are 3 pools with bank
fishing for rainbow trout and brown trout. The facilities include refreshments,
tackle for sale and tuition. For further information and permits call
01674 850868
"The two best times to fish is when it's
rainin' and when it ain't"
Patrick F. MacManus
Fly Fishing On Loch Lintrathen
(25 minutes from Arbroath)
Loch Lintrathen is situated 4 miles west of Kirriemuir on the B951, about
24 miles from Arbroath. The loch offers boat fishing for Brown Trout.
The season starts from mid March and runs through until the start of October.
Call 01575 560327 for more details.
"Beyond every bend in a stream lies a new
fishing challenge,
for no pool, riffle or rapids is just like the previous one"
Dick Sternberg
Fly Fishing At Ledyatt Loch
(25 minutes from Arbroath)
Ledyatt Loch is situated just a couple of miles outside Dundee on the
A923 Coupar Angus road, 22 miles from Arbroath. The fishery is part of
the Kinpurnie Estate and was opened as a commercial fishery in July 2002.
The man-made loch is set in the midst of rolling farmland commanding spectacular
views over Dundee City and the Tay estuary. Ledyatt is stocked with a
good head of rainbow and brown trout. Rainbows run to a trophy weight
of 20lbs and the brown trout to 7lbs. A children's or beginners pool is
also available close by. Fishing platforms have been constructed to accommodate
up to 38 anglers and the completed facilities include a clubhouse and
ample vehicle parking. The area surrounding the loch has been landscaped
and planted to preserve and enhance the amenity. Dedicated parking and
specially adapted platforms have been provided to accommodate disabled
anglers and guests.
Permit Prices
Full Ticket - eight hours - £17.00 (four fish limit)
Half Day - four hours - £10.00 (two fish Limit)
Catch & Release - eight hours - £10.00 (barbless hooks only)
Beginners Loch - £5.00 - includes first fish
(any additional fish are charged at £2.00 per lb)
Concessions are available for OAP's and Students
Full Ticket - eight hours - £12.00 (four fish limit)
(Proof is required for concessionary tickets.)
The fully equipped fishing hut offers refreshments as well as a wood burning
fire to retreat to on colder days. Private tuition is also available (by
prior arrangement at £10.00 per half hour.)
"If a man is truly blessed,
he returns home from fishing
to be greeted by the best catch of his life"
Salmon Fishing On Airlie Estates
(25 minutes from Arbroath)
The Airlie Estate is locqated about 22 miles from Arbroath. On one of
the best known Sea Trout rivers in Scotland, the estate is fortunate enough
to own a section of the South Esk and there are constant improvements
being carried out under the watchful eye of Andrew Yates our resident
ghillie. Salmon is also available. The fishing season runs from the 16th
of February to the- 31st of October. As part of the conservation policy
carried out by the estate under the guidance of the Esk District Salmon
Fishery Board Voluntary Catch and Release Guidelines in order to conserve
stocks of Salmon the estate undertakes that up to the end of April any
salmon caught by anglers on the estate rivers are released.
For availability and rates please contact the Airlie Estates Office by
telephoning 01575 570108 during office hours.
"Since three-fourths of the Earth's surface
is water, and one-fourth is
land, it is quite clear that the good Lord intended us to spend triple
the amount of time fishing as taking care of the lawn"
Chuck Clark
Fishing On Kinnaird Castle Estate
(15 minutes from Arbroath)
Found 12 miles from Arbroath, the estate has five miles of double-bank
fishing with something to suit everyones ability and every pocket.
Traditionally the best weeks for catching fish were during the spring
runs but in recent years there has been a more even distribution of catches.
All beats (except Powmouth) are let for 4 rods although summer water may
not allow this number on all beats. The estate employs its own Riverman,
Donald Webster, to over see the beats and help new fishers to get started.
On the Upper Beat there are 11 named pools from Kinnaird Dyke to the Boat
Pool below the footbridge. This attractive stretch of river with banks
covered with wild flowers is renowned for its spring fishing below the
Kinnaird Dyke. Salmon catches however are now more spread over the whole
season. The Middle Beat hosts seven named pools from the Willows
to Haughs Rough.
Steady improvements to the beat over the years by way of croys and bank
work has improved catches dramatically over the last few years, especially
in the Autumn. On the lower beat, 5 named pools from Arrats
Mill to Wattie Bain. The Powmouth beat is included through
the spring season to end of March. This beat has been improved slowly
over the years and provides reasonable salmon, grilse and sea trout from
July onwards, with sea trout usually starting running in June. This stretch
offers a simple hut in a secluded position.
The Powmouth Beat - This is a short, 2 rod beat from the lower beat down
to railway viaduct. It can be taken by day permit from April onwards.
£18 per rod per day April to August
£25 per rod per day September and October
Call the Southesk Estate on 01674 810240 for more details
"Man and fish wouldn't
get into trouble if they kept their mouth shut"
Anonee Mowse

Kinnaird Castle in Angus

Fly fishing at Carlogie, 5 miles away
"If fishing is interfering with your
business, give up your business"
Sparse Grey Hackle
Five Gables House Fly Four Challenge
A new local angling challenge, held during the summer months. More details
and results will follow on this 3 day event. The venues will vary from
year to year. Prizes for the overall winner.
Places are full for this years event
Day 1 - Day at Kinaldie Fishery (Bank Fishing)
Day 2 - Half Day at Carlogie Fishery (Bank Fishing)
- Evening at Rescobie Loch (Boat Fishing)
Day 3 - Day at Monikie/Crombie Country Parks (Boat Fishing)
Arbroath Angling - www.arbroathangling.co.uk
Arbroath Cliffs to The Flairs - www.youtube.com
The Flairs to Auchmithie - www.youtube.com
Monikie Angling Club - www.monikie-angling-club.org.uk
Rescobie Loch Fishing - www.rescobieloch.co.uk
Canmore Angling Club - www.canmoreac.org.uk
The
Funny Side To Fishing
The Monikie Angling Club was having its annual dinner and presentation
of trophies at the Colliston Inn. When the members arrived they were surprised
to see all the chairs spaced out two metres apart. One of them said to
the caterer, "That's a strange way to arrange seats for a club party."
"We always do it like that so that members can do full justice to
their fish stories."
An Arbroath Doctor was famous in the area for always catching large fish.
One day while he was on one of his frequent fishing trips along the Arbroath
Cliffs, he got a call that a woman at a neighboring Angus farm was giving
birth. He rushed to her aid and delivered a healthy baby boy. The farmer
had nothing to weigh the baby with so the Doctor used his fishing scales.
The baby weighed 22 lbs 10 oz..
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The Local
Walks
"In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks"
Information on all the walks in and around Arbroath
Information on some of the great walks on offer in the Angus area
Guest lounge, put those aching feet up with a cup of tea and a movie
If needed, a drying area for your boots and waterproofs
Order in option and have your evening meal at our seaview dining area
Arbroath/Forfar & District Rambling Club - Tel 01241 870695
The Walks Of Arbroath
Arbroath Clifftop Nature Trail - From the start of the cliffs you can
walk all the way to the village of Auchmithie, about 3 miles away. Stop
here for a bite to eat at the famous But n Ben Restaurant. There are some
stunning views along the cliffs of Arbroath. The trail eventually leads
off the clifftop path to the Seaton Den Nature Reserve, just before you
reach Auchmithie.
Elliot Old Railway Nature Trail - 400 yards away you will find the start
of the Elliot Nature Trail. This starts by running alongside an old railway
line, then branches off into the midst of the countryside. The trail goes
past Kelly Castle to the village of Arbirlot about 2 miles away. This
is a great walk, especially the second half of it as it takes you along
a winding route through some stunning scenery, ending up at the waterfall
at Arbirlot. If you want to go a bit further, another shorter path exists
nearby leading to the Elliot Burn. You can head back the way you came
or walk along the quiet country roads leading back to the B&B.
Arbroath Coastal Trail - Just 200 yards away is the Arbroath Coastal Trail
running alongside the beach. The trail goes past the Arbroath golf course,
then on to the old wartime defences, past some old tar works, then you
reach the old fishing village of Easthaven. Just past this is Liz McColgans
Health and Physiotheapy Centre, handy if you pulled a muscle, and then
the town of Carnoustie 5 miles up the coast.
Arbirlot Countryside Walk - Again just 200 yards away is the new walking/cycle
route running from Arbroath to Dundee. Visitors can branch off this route,
just along the road from us into the beautiful Angus countryside. You
can either head for the village of Arbirlot, or walk further along the
narrow country lanes to see some stunning views of the Angus countryside.
St Vigeans Nature Trail - On the other side of town is the St Vigeans
Nature Trail. Starts at the St Vigeans church and museum, you can park
your car here. Takes you through the some beautiful Angus countryside
and farmland all the way to the Letham Grange golf courses. You can head
back at this point, or head inland to another trail leading back to town.
Hercules Den Nature Trail - Starting at the Elms area of town, through
a wooded area, past the Arbroath Victoria football ground, then joins
a path leading to St Vigeans with its church and museum.
There are many more great walks just a few miles from town, including
the stunning Lunan Bay beach, Gannochy Bridge walk, etc. Visitors are
welcome to use our kitchen area to prepare pack lunches or hampers. And
if needed our drying area is available for your boots, clothing, etc.
We can provide information on some other good walks throughout the Angus
area, including specific routes through the Glens of Angus.
Some Other Nearby Walks
Lunan Bay Walk - 10 minutes north of Arbroath. With its stunning sandy
beach spanning for miles, Lunan bay is a popular location for anglers,
surfers, horse riders, dirt surfers, as well as walkers and families out
for a day at the beach. Overlooking the bay, visitors will find the ruins
of Red Castle, once owned by King William the Lion and King Robert the
Bruce.
Monikie Country Park Walks - 15 minutes south from Arbroath. With its
reservoirs, woodland, parkland and waterside walks, the park offers many
good walks all year round. Monikie Country park also offer a Ranger Service,
fishing, watersports, events and a playpark for the kids.
Crombie Country Park Walks - 15 minutes south of Arbroath. Another man
made reservoir offering woodland, parkland and waterside walks all year
round. Crombie Country Park also offer fly fishing, orienteering, playpark,
events and also provide a Ranger Service.
Forfar Loch Country Park Walks - 15 minutes west of Arbroath. With its
woodland, parkland and lochside scenery, the park provides some great
walks. Forfar Loch Country Park also offer orienteering, fly fishing,
playpark, events and a Ranger Service.
Dundee Historical Guided Walk - 20 minutes south of Arbroath. The tour
takes you the around some of the older parts of Dundee. Where you can
hear about its turbulant and bloody history. Hear about the likes of William
Wallace, Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, William McGonogall, Mary
Slessor and Winston Churchill to name a few.

Take your pick of many walks in the area. Info on all the nearby walks
and trails of Angus

Elliot Nature Trail

Arbroath Clifftop Nature Trail

St Vigeans to Letham Grange trail

Just minutes from the Arbroath Coastal Walk
"A
vigorous five-mile walk will do more good for an unhappy but otherwise
healthy adult than all the medicine and psychology in the world"
Paul Dudley White
Arbroath Coastal Walk - www.walkscotland.com
Arbroath Elliot Nature Trail - www.walkscotland.com
Arbroath Clifftop Walk - www.walkscotland.com
Arbroath St Vigeans Nature Trail - www.walkscotland.com
Lunan Bay Walk - www.walkscotland.com
Montrose Basin Walk - www.walkscotland.com
Monikie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Crombie Country Park Walk - www.angus.gov.uk
Forfar Loch Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Scottish Outdoor Access Code - www.outdooraccess-scotland.com
The
Funny Side To Rambling
Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson decided to go on a camping trek in the Angus
Glens. As they lay down for the night under the beautiful Angus sky, the
great detective says, "Watson, look up into the darkness and tell
me what you see" "Why, I can see millions of stars," Watson
replies. "And what does that tell you?" Holmes inquires, with
a long draw on his pipe. "Many things, my dear Holmes," comes
the reply. "Astronomically, it tells me that there are billions of
galaxies in the cosmos"
"Theologically, it tells me that God is truly great and that we are
nothing but insignificant beings" "Meteorologically, it tells
me that we will have a good chance of a beautiful day tomorrow."
"But I doubt that any of these opinions match the powers of your
deduction," continues Watson, "What, pray, does it tell you?"
Holmes gives a sideways glance at his friend and replies, "My dear
Watson, somebodys nicked the bloody tent."
Two packets of crisps were walking along the Dundee Road. A passing car
stopped and the driver asked if they would like a lift. "No thanks,"
said the crisps, "we're Walkers.
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Cycling Through Angus
Store your cycles in our secure garage
Order in option and have your evening meal at our seaview dining area
Games room with pool table, table tennis and darts
WIFI internet access
"Anywhere is within cycling distance, if you've got the time"
Angus Cycling Club - www.anguscc.org
Angus Bike Chain Cycling Club - www.angusbikechaincc.co.uk
Cycle World Arbroath - www.cycle-world.co.uk
National Cycle Route Planner - www.cycle-route.com
Many cyclists have stayed with us over the years, from some long stay
guests bringing their bikes with them for days out in Angus, overnight
stay guests touring around Scotland, to the many charity cyclists like
Sese and her dog Bud, who stayed with us while touring around the British
Isles in aid of Cancer Research.
Arbroath is serviced by a new designated national cycle route, running
from Dundee all the way to Arbroath, keeping you off the main road. Our
guest house is situated just off this route. The cycle route winds its
way through the Angus countryside and farmland with its breathtaking scenery
surrounding you.
Any cycling guests can use our kitchen area to prepare for their next
destination and again our drying area is on offer if needed. Our secure
garage is available for peace of mind, and if needed, this is also where
any essential maintenance can be carried out. Grace and Ron enjoy cycling
in the Angus area and can give advice on the more scenic routes on offer,
or the best directions to your next destination.

Cycling in Angus

Cyclists can use our secure garage

Christine McLean, Scottish Cycling
Champion, who stayed with us in July 2008
"Very
comfortable night, thank you"
Christine
& Megan McLean, Levenwick, Shetland Islands
The
Funny Side To Cycling
"I've really had it with my dog, he'll chase anyone on a bicycle."
"So what are you going to do, leave him at the Kinaldie Boarding
Kennels? Give him away? Sell him?" "No, nothing that drastic.
I think I'll just confiscate his bike."
An Angus cyclist was stopped by customs. "What's in the bags?",
asked the officer. "Sand," said the cyclist. "let me take
a look", said the cop. The Cyclist did as he was told, emptied the
bags, and proving they contained nothing but sand, refilled the bags,
and continued across the border.
A week later, the same thing happened, and continued every week for a
year, until one day the cyclist with the sand bags failed to appear.
A few months later, the cop on a night out at Coast Nightclub saw the
cyclist splashing money around, buying everyone drinks and enjoying himself
far too much. "You sure had us puzzled", said the cop. "We
knew you were smuggling something across the border. I won't say a word,
but what was it you were smuggling? ..... "Bicycles, he replied!"
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Bikers
/ Hells Angels
Biking Through Scotland
"Bikes don't leak oil, they mark their territory"
The winding twisting roads, the beautiful scenery and the rich wildlife.
What could be more appealing on a
glorious summers day than biking along the Angus coastal route, or through
the more rural inland areas
of Angus.
We have accommodated many motor cyclists throughout the years, including
the lads from the
round Britain tour of the Kettle Club in 2005. With their 1970's Suzuki
GT750's, they took advantage of
our garage facilities to carry out some essential repairs. Five Gables
House has its own car park, or
our secure garage facilities are again on offer free of charge. This is
also where Ron keeps his old Honda
CB250 RS.
"The
best accommodation we had on the whole trip"
The
Kettle Club Lads, UK tour

The Kettle Club Lads
www.thekettleclub.org.uk
Grace with her grandaughter Lisa handing over a
donation to the charity bikers who stayed with us in May 2006. This was
during the Superbike Tour Of Scotland in aid of the Shamiam Arif Appeal.
The tour raised over £5000 for wee Shamiam. If you would like more
information or would like to make a donation to this appeal, click on
the link below.

The Superbike Tour Of Scotland

One of the
Harleys that stayed with us in July 2007

Ron's old
Honda CB250 RS

Biker Chick
www.muslimhands.org/Site/Pages/ShamiamArifAppeal
Harley
Davidson
On the Forfar/Brechin road in Angus lies an old cottage. Netherton cottage
was the home of Sandy Davidson, a local blacksmith. Sandy emigrated to
America in the 1850's, settled there and started a family. Three of his
grandchildren would then go on to form the company Harley Davidson. A
meeting by the Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee USA, and the Davidson
Legacy of Angus in 2010, has strengthened the link with the Angus area
and are in the process of saving this historic building for future generations.
Arbroath Spectacular Stunt Biker - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Spectacular Globe Riders - www.youtube.com
Tayside Bikers - www.taysidebikers.co.uk
Harley Davidson - en.wikipedia.org
Harley Davidson Museum - www.harley-davidson.com
Knockhill - www.knockhill.com
The Funny Side To Biking
An Arbroath mechanic was removing a cylinder head from the motor of a
Harley Davidson motorcycle when he spotted a well known heart surgeon
he had met at Ninewells Hospital in his shop. The surgeon was waiting
for the service manager to take a look at his bike. The mechanic shouted
across the garage, "Hey Doc, can I ask you a question?" The
surgeon, a bit surprised, walked over to the mechanic working on the motorcycle.
The mechanic straightened up, wiped his hands on a rag and asked, "So
Doc, look at this engine. I open its heart, take valves out, fix them,
put them back in, and when I finish, it works just like new. So how come
I get such a crap salary and you get the really big money when you and
I are doing basically the same kind of work?" The surgeon paused,
smiled and leaned over, and whispered to the mechanic, "Try doing
it with the engine running."
One night, a Tayside police officer was staking out a particularly rowdy
biker bar in Montrose for possible violations for drink driving. At closing
time, he saw one of the bikers stumble out of the bar, trip on the curb,
& try his keys on five different bikes before he found his. Then,
sat on the bike fumbling around several minutes, looking as if he might
pass out right there. Everyone left the bar and rode off. Finally, he
started his engine and began to pull away. The police officer was waiting
for him. He stopped the biker, read him his rights and administered the
Breathalyzer test. The results showed a reading of 0. The puzzled officer
demanded to know how that could be. The biker replied, "Tonight,
I'm the designated decoy."
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Classic Cars / Vintage
Rallies
"Scotland,
the best driving country..........................in the world"
Jeremy
Clarkson
We have seen some nice cars in our car park over the years. Some old
classics, vintage vehicles and a few stunning sports cars. There are
many Classic Car owners touring around Scotland, and enthusiasts up
visiting the many Classic Car Rallies on throughout the year. In the
Angus area the main events are the Glamis Castle Scottish Transport
Extravaganza in June/July, the Air Station Vintage Vehicle Rally in
May/June, and the Air Station Military Vehicle Weekend in August.
Strathmore Vintage Vehicle Club - www.svvc.co.uk/svvc
RAF Station Vintage Vehicles - www.rafmontrose.org.uk

Morris Minor
1000

Ferrari
F430

Bugatti
Veyron 16.4........ If I win the Euro lottery!!

Annual Classic
Car & Bike Rallies, Military Vehicle Rallies and old farming machinery
at the annual 2 day Angus Show. Plus details on Arbroath born David
Dunbar Buick, the founder of the Buick car manufacturing business in
the USA.
Arbroath Spectacular Stunt Driving -
www.youtube.com
Arbroath Spectacular Russ Swift - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Born David Dunbar Buick - www.youtube.com
Glamis Transport Extravanganza - www.youtube.com
The Funny Side To Driving
An motorist touring around Angus has a puncture and is in the process
of changing the wheel when a local happens by and tells him that he
can get his tyre fixed in Letham, the next village along by Mr McIntyre.
"Oh! that's bra news," replied the motorist, "Where do
I find this Mr McIntyre?" "You cannae miss 'im," replies
the local, "Last hoose on the left in Letham, name's on the gate."
After thanking the local the motorist sets off and arrives in Letham
and starts driving through, searching the houses on the left for the
name McIntyre. Soon he comes to the last house on the left but the name
is there as bold as you like, Dunlop. "There must be some mistake,"
thinks the motorist and turns round and pops into the village store
where he retells his story to the assistant behind the counter. "Och!!
Don't you know? Dunlop's bin McIntyres for years!"
A Tayside police officer pulls over a Buick Riviera on the A90, walked
up to the driver's window, and asked the man if he knew why he was pulled
over. "No," the man replied. "You failed to stop at the
stop sign," the officer explained. "But I did slow down!"
the guy argued. The officer shook his head. "You are required to
stop. That's why they're called stop signs." The man starts to
get ratty. "Stop, slow down, what's the difference?" The officer
pulled out his baton. "I can show you. I'm going to start hitting
you with my baton. You tell me if you want me to stop or slow down."
A man was given the job of painting the white lines down the middle
of the A92 dual carriageway. On his first day he painted six miles,
the next day three miles, and the following day less than a mile. When
the Tayside Contracts foreman asked the man why he kept painting less
each day. He replied "I just can't do any better. Each day I keep
getting farther away from the paint tin".
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Party & Function
Venues in Arbroath
"Live For Today...Plan For Tomorrow...Party
Tonight..!!!
"Relax in our seaview guest lounge before the main event
Recover in our seaview guest lounge after the main event
We supply the wine or beer glasses and a fridge and ice are available
No late time restrictions so enjoy your evening out
Games room with pool table, table tennis, darts
Guests visiting for a party or wedding in town can have a later breakfast
Ironing facilities available
There are some great venues in Arbroath for holding wedding receptions,
birthday parties, anniversary parties, etc. The town caters for all
tastes and party sizes. Over the decades, living in Arbroath ourselves,
we have been to all of these function venues below and can highly recommend
them all.
____________________________________

The
But n Ben Restaurant, as seen on the BBC series "Coast"
The Local Venues
The Arbroath Golf Club
A unique venue for a party, wedding reception or corporate function
in town. Hosts many parties throughout the year for members and members
families. Built in 1911, its location overlooks the 18th green of the
Arbroath golf course and with views of the North Sea. Just a stones
throw away from Five Gables House B&B. The club now offer a £50
annual membership allowing access to the clubhouse facilities only,
not the course. Call the club on 01241 872069 for more information.
The Meadowbank Inn
Tried and tested, an established function venue and restaurant, has
catered for local weddings and parties for decades. The Meadowbank Inn
cater for the larger functions in town. Call them on 01241 875755 to
enquire about the facilities on offer.
Tutties Neuk Inn
Tutties, a popular choice for that birthday party or the smaller wedding
receptions. Tutties is a popular restaurant, bar and lounge, known for
its fresh food, great value and friendly atmosphere. For enquiries,
call Carol on 01241 873627.
The Portcullis
The Porty, an established restaurant, bar and function venue in town,
a popular venue for parties of around 50 or 60. The Castle Suite offers
a comfortable and spacious room with open living flame gas fire, small
dance floor, entertainment area and bar. Call on 01241 435910.
The Old Brewhouse
A very popular seafront restaurant and bar housed within a 17th century
building. Cosy log fire and a cannonball that pierced the walls of the
building a few hundered years ago. They can cater for the smaller parties
and functions. Call on 01241 879945.
Coast
A new function venue in the centre of town catering for parties and
large wedding receptions. Housed within an old working mens club built
around 100 years ago, Coast opened its doors during the summer of 2009.
This stunning new addition to the town has a state of the art bar, lounge
and restaurant downstairs with function venue/nightclub on the upper
floor. Call 01241 873362 for more details.
The Waterfront Nightclub
The largest venue in the Angus area. The Waterfront can cater for large
events such as wedding shows, charity & corporate events, boxing
matches, band and club nights. Or for smaller functions, they have rooms
that can be hired and private areas of the main nightclub. Call on 01241
437777 for more details.
British Legion Hall & Green Street Hall
Function venues available for ex service men and women, as well as for
those still serving in the armed forces and thier families. Two venues
here to choose from, with its Helen Street hall and the new Green Street
hall that opened in 2009. The Buick Lounge in the new hall is named
after the founder of the Buick Car company in America, Arbroath born
David Dunbar Buick. The old Green Street of Arbroath is where he was
brought up. For more details on what the British Legion can offer you
call 01241 873964.
But N Ben
Very popular restaurant a few miles from Arbroath in the picturesque
village of Auchmithie. The menu on offer is another reason for its popularity.
Has appeared on the TV shows "Coast" and "The Woman Who
Ate Scotland". Can cater for parties of around 40-60 guests. Call
them on 01241 877223.
The Pageant Bar
Nice pub near the Arbroath Steeple, can cater for small parties and
functions. Has hosted a few parties for our guests over the years. For
more details as to what the Pageant Bar can offer, call on 01241 872777.
The Rams Heid
Built around 1980, The Rams Heid has hosted many a party in town. This
local public bar can cater for smaller get-togethers and parties. To
find out what they have on offer, call on 01241 876175.
The Lions Head
Not too far from our guesthouse is The Lions Head function suite on
the Dundee Road. Another great venue, purpose built for local parties
or functions. Call them on 01241 434856 for more details on what they
can offer you.
Thistle Lounge
The Thistle Lounge can cater for smaller parties in town and also serve
a nice menu. Call them on 01241 879829 for more details on what they
can offer your party.
Foundry Bar
Arbroath's Foundry Bar, home to the Foundry Bar Band who play traditional
music every week on Wednesdays and Fridays. Also host to band and open
mic nights. The "Foondry" can cater for a smaller party or
get-together. Call them on 01241 872524.
The Ship Inn
Another of Arbroath's good pubs is the Ship Inn. Along with the friendly
service The Ship Inn have a lounge with a dancefloor that can cater
for parties and functions of around 50 to 60. For more details on what
they can offer you call 01241 873059.
Azzurro Italian Restaurant
Cosy Italian restaurant with an entertaining host. Great food, great
atmosphere, great place for a small party or family gathering. Call
the Azzurro on 01241 872839 for more details.
Saffron Indian Restaurant
Great Indian restaurant in town with an excellent menu on offer. The
Saffron can cater for small parties and gatherings. Call them on 01241
437437.
Jasmine House Chinese Restaurant
Lovely Chinese restaurant on the outskirts of town. Has catered for
many family gatherings and medium sized parties. Call the Jasmine House
on 01241 871200.
Colliston Inn
Found just 2 miles from Arbroath is another venue for parties and functions.
The Broust function suite is built from wood from the infamous Britanic
cruise ship of the early 1900s. The Colliston can cater for small and
larger parties and functions. Call them on 01241 890232.
Cliffburn
Known to locals as The Cliffy, another good function venue for parties
or wedding receptions. For more info on the facilities they offer, contact
them direct.
Newgate Bowling Club
The Newgate Bowling Club offers its facilties to members of the club
and their families. As well as catering for larger parties in town,
the club also host many annual events including Christmas Parties, New
Year Parties, Burns Nights, etc. Call 01241 874267 for more information
of what they can offer.
Abbey Bowling Club
The Abbey Bowling Club offers its facilties to members of the club and
their families. As well as catering for larger parties in town, the
club also host many annual events including Christmas Parties, New Year
Parties, Burns Nights, etc. Call 01241 874201 for more information of
what they can offer.
Lochlands Bowling Club
The Lochlands Bowling Club offers its facilties to members of the club
and their families. As well as catering for larger parties in town,
the club also host many annual events including Christmas Parties, New
Year Parties, Burns Nights, etc. Call 01241 872526 for more information
of what they can offer.
Arbroath Bowling Club
The Arbroath Bowling Club offers its facilties to members of the club
and their families. As well as catering for larger parties in town,
the club also host many annual events including Christmas Parties, New
Year Parties, Burns Nights, etc. Call 01241 876430 for more information
of what they can offer.

Arbroath
Football Clubs hospitality suite, a great location for corporate events
and social meetings
Arbroath Football Club
Arbroath FC, who hold 2 world records for the highest scoring match
at pro level. Arbroaths 36-0 victory over Aberdeen Bon Accord in 1885,
during a Scottish Cup match. A unique venue, Gayfield Parks new hospitality
suite now caters for corporate functions and Match Day Hospitality Packages.
For more details on this fantastic venue call Malcolm Fairweather on
07770 663928.
Hospitalfield Mansion House
You will find an extra touch of class here at Hospitalfield House. The
house dates back to the 1200's and appears in a novel by Sir Walter
Scott. The venue for many a wedding, corporate function, jazz night,
etc. For more information, call 01241 872333.
Angus College Of Further Education
The colleges Angus Business Centre is the ideal base for creating the
right environment for a successful and enjoyable corporate event or
conference. A purpose-built, modern facility with versatility, high
specification equipment and dedicated, professional service. The Angus
Business Centre, housing a contemporary and comfortable auditorium,
also boasts a selection of breakout rooms enhancing the overall facilities
and services. Call 01241 432722 for more details.
Arbroath Library
The towns local library can play host to corporate functions and exhibitions.
The building also houses the Arbroath Art gallery and has a stunning
statue of Robert Burns at its entrance. Call 01241 872248 for more details.
Webster Theatre
The Webster Theatre in town was given a £4 million facelift in
2007, and is now fully open for business as a performance venue for
drama, dance, comedy, concerts and music events. The Webster also has
the facilities to host lectures, meetings, conferences, workshops, training
events, cinema screenings. Call them on 01241 435800 for more details.
Rosely House
A Victorian residence surrounded by four acres of lawns and mature trees,
just a few miles from Arbroath. Rosely House can cater for dinner parties
for around 35 people. Or around 80 people for parties and functions.
Call them on 01241 876828 for more details.
Kinblethmont Mansion House
Just 2 miles from Arbroath, Kinblethmont Mansion House dates back to
the 1870's. The house has its own art gallery and gardens. The Pictish
stone on display in the house was found on the grounds. Kinblethmont
can cater for the larger function or wedding parties. Call 01241 830756
for more details.
Colliston Castle
3 miles from Arbroath, Colliston Castle dates back to 1545 and has hosted
many a wedding reception or corporate function in the area. For more
information call 01241 89050.
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Childrens Parties
Pleasureland Funfair
Also available for group bookings, suitable for childrens birthday parties.
Access to the Ramboland Adventure Playground, as well as all the other
rides at the fair. Call 01241 872730 for more information.
Jumpin Joeys Family Entertainment Centre
Another centre offering great facilities for childrens birthday parties.
With an adventure playground, foam ball arena, sports arena, etc. Call
01241 431000 for more details.
Arbroath Sports Centre
The Arbroath Sports Centre offer thier facilities for childrens parties,
hiring out party pool inflatables, etc. For more information as to whats
on offer here call 01241 872999
Saltire Leisure Centre
Another sports centre that can offer specific areas to be hired out
for parties. For more information on whats available at Saltire Leisure
Centre call 01241 431060
( any local business wishing to freely advertise there function venue
or party related services here, please contact me at fivegableshouse@yahoo.com
)

Hospitalfield
Mansion House in Arbroath

Angus College
in Arbroath, corporate and conference facilities
The
Funny Side To Parties
It's my wife's birthday party tomorrow at the Meadowbank Inn. Last week
I asked her what she wanted as a present. "Oh, I don't know",
she said. "Just give me something with diamonds in it". That's
why I'm giving her a pack of playing cards.
A lucky family were staying at Five Gables Guest House in Arbroath to
celebrate wee Jimmy's birthday. After servicing the stunning room, Ron
the boss wondered why wee Jimmy had put candles on the toilet in the lovely
en-suite? His Mum replied, "He wanted to have a birthday potty!"
Mrs Spink and Mrs Swankie met during a party at the Old Brewhouse. After
an hour talking and drinking Mrs Spink told her friend, "They call
my husband 'The Exorcist.'" With a great surprise Mrs Swankie asked
her, "Why?" She replied, "At every party we attend, he
soon gets rid of all the spirits."
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Weddings In
Arbroath
"Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue"
Wedding parties welcome
Relax in our seaview guest lounge before the wedding
Recover in our seaview guest lounge after the wedding
We supply the wine or beer glasses and a fridge and ice are available
No late time restrictions so enjoy your evening out
Games room with pool table, table tennis and darts
Guests visiting for a wedding in town can have a later breakfast
Ironing facilities available
Grace is a retired Florist, running her own Florist business in town for
over 24 years, she can advise on nearly all aspects of getting married
in Arbroath. She has been to all the local churches and reception venues
in town and visited all the nearby castles and mansion houses.
Grace sold her business to Mary Beattie in 2005, who along with some of
Grace's old staff, are still carrying on the name and reputation of the
shop. Visit Mary's shop on the High Street for any floral requirements
you may need. Our home has been a part of many a wedding in the town,
hopefully adding to a memorable stay. We can arrange for a taxi service
to take you there and our no late time restrictions mean you can come
and go as much as you please. Our guests can also meet up with other wedding
guests in our guest lounge and dining area, before heading off to the
big event.
Our Seaview Double Room has also been a popular choice for that romantic
stay for the Bride and Groom. With its panoramic seaviews during the day,
and moonlit seas at night. We can also advise on the unique wedding locations
on offer in the Angus and Dundee area, from castles, mansion houses and
the grounds of the Arbroath Abbey. Call us on 01241 871632 to add a memorable
stay to your wedding experience.
"The guesthouse will always be a special
place for us
as Stuart proposed to me in you beautiful garden on Sunday night"
Stuart & Laura Watson, Inverness,
Scotland
Arbroath Wedding Services
Grace Patterson Florist - 01241 873615
Flower Design - 01241 874144
Goves Florist- 01241 875186
Ferriers Florist- 01241 872210
Something Old Something New - 01241 430077
Valey's Kilt Hire - 01241 871303
Fairlie Fascinating Wedding Dresses - 01241 878911
Irene's Lingerie & Hosiery - 01241 874487
Suntrap Tanning Studio - 01241 879900
Philip's Mobile Disco & Karaoke - 01241 879051
Bains & Mackays Wedding Limo's - 01241 870720
Angus Wedding Cars - 01241 828417
High Society Wedding Cars - 01241 414144
Limo Hire - 01241 870720
Mordue Limo's - 01241 870421
Angel Cakes - 01241 873088
Goodfellow & Steven Cakes - 01241 872214
Kates Kakes - 01241 872449
Bespoke Favours - 01241 828337
Crafty Writing Wedding Stationary - 07952 688194
Angus Pictures Photography - 01241 877744
Wallace Ferrier Photography - 07759 641957
Ian Paterson Photography - 01674 830894
Ally Stuart Photography - 07766 758085
Clearway Productions - 07800 850970
I Do Wedding DVD's Ltd - 01241 874671
On Video Productions - 01241 410463
Riddler's Coaches - 01241 873464
Travel Wishart Coach Hire - 01241 828747
Kerr's Of Arbroath Car Hire - 01241 877990
Chauffeurs Of Carnoustie - 01241 851333
A Bridal Dream - 01241 410343
Highland Scene Kilt Hire - 01674 677205
Lawrence Of Broughty Ferry Kilt Hire - 01382 731343
Beauty Salons
Whether you are looking for a deeply relaxing massage to melt your daily
stresses, an invigorating facial to leave your skin perfectly nourished
or some essential plucking and preening, Arbroath has something to offer
you. Refresh your body and spirit as you relax in the chic surroundings
one of Arbroath's beauty salons.
Beauty Salons And Sevices In Arbroath
Apple Gardens & Spa - 01241 437755
Beach Hut Beauty & Tanning - 01241 875589
Beautiful Spirit Beauty Clinic - 01241 871791
Body Beautiful - 01241 431222
Bonne Beaute Beauty Services - 01241 437419
Changes Hair & Beauty Salon - 01241 872001
Linda's Beauty Room - 01241 874554
Nirvana Beauty - 01241 879838
Sharon's Beauty Room - 01241 876888
True Identity - 01241 437317
( Any local business wishing to freely advertise a wedding service, hair
styling, beauty salon or reception related service here, please contact
Garry at fivegableshouse@yahoo.com
)

Recorded as one of the earliest
forms of physical therapy, massage techniques have been used by different
cultures for over 3000 years
Hair Stylists In Arbroath
Cloud 9 Bridal Hair & Beauty Packages - 01241 876487
Danny Laverty Hairdressing - 01241 871600
The Abbey Barber - 01241 878088
Jackie's Hairdressers - 01241 879337
Fusion Hair - 01241 430044
Innovation Hair Studio - 01241 874441
Kutz Hair Salon - 01241 870170
Mar-Lyns Hair Stylist - 01241 876470
Givara Hair Stylist - 01241 872459
One To One Hair Co - 01241 439716
KT's Hair Studio - 01241 877949
Rozanna's Style Studio - 01241 873931
Hair Gallery - 01241 430457
Adagio the Barbers - 01241 871848
Apollo Unisex Hairstylist - 01241 878579
The Cutting Room - 01241 879968
Merchants Hair - 01241 430555
Santon Hair - 01241 430277
Dees Hairstyling - 01241 871971
Hope Hair & Beauty - 01241 879578
The Studio Hairdressers - 01241 872846
Ian's Hairdressers - 01241 878570
Robertson Hair Stylist - 01241 873229

Getting married in Arbroath

Weddings at the Arbroath Abbey
Wedding Locations And Churches In Arbroath
Civil Marriages - Arbroath Registry Office, 69 High Street, 01241 873752
Weddings At The Arbroath Abbey - 01241 878756
Weddings At Lunan Bay Beach - 08452 777778
Old & Abbey Church - West Abbey Street, Arbroath, 01241 877068
St Andrews Parish Church - Hamilton Green, Arbroath, 01241 431135
Arbroath West Kirk - Keptie Street, Arbroath, 01241 872244
Knox's Church - Howard Street, Arbroath, 01241 873206
St Vigeans Church - St Vigeans, Arbroath, 01241 873206
United Free Church Of Scotland - High Street, Arbroath, 01674 673772
St John's Methodist Church - Ponderlaw, Arbroath, 01674 672373
Elim Pentecostal Church - Ogilvy Place, Arbroath, 01241 873474
St Mary's Scottish Episcopal - Springfield Terr, Arbroath, 01241 433601
St Thomas Of Canterbury Church - Dishlandtown St, Arbroath, 01241 873013
New Life Baptist Church - James Street, Arbroath, 01241 439457
Arbirlot Parish Church - Arbirlot, By Arbroath, 01241 434479
Colliston Parish Church - Colliston, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Friockheim Parish Church - Friockheim, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Kinnell Parish Church - Kinnell, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Inverkeilor Parish Church - Inverkeilor, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Lunan Parish Church - Lunan, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Carmyllie Parish Church - Carmyllie, By Arbroath, 01241 434479
Auchmithie Parish Church - Auchmithie, By Arbroath, 01241 828435
Guthrie Church, Guthrie, By Arbroath, 01241 828243
Other Places Of Worship
Arbroath Town Mission - Grant Road, Arbroath, 01241 871650
Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses - Burnside Drive, Arbroath - contact
Arbroath Spiritualist Centre - Commerce Street, Arbroath, 01241 875979
Springfield Christian Assembly - Ponderlaw, Arbroath, 01241 870349
Windmill Christian Centre - www.windmillchristiancentre.org.uk
Arbroath Town Mission - www.atmc.freeuk.com
Arbroath St Andrews Parish Church - www.arbroathstandrews.org.uk
Arbroath St Vigeans Church - www.stvigeanschurch.org
Arbroath St Marys Church - www.stmaryarbroath.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk
Arbroath Old & Abbey Church - www.old-and-abbey-church.org.uk
Arbroath St Johns Methodist Church - www.perthmethodist.org.uk
Arbroath Kingdom Hall - www.watchtower.org
Arbroath West Kirk - www.arbroathwestkirk.org.uk
Salvation Army Arbroath - www1.salvationarmy.org.uk

St Andrews Parish Church in Arbroath

Local Wedding Car Services
Some Wedding Toasts
"To love someone deeply gives you strength. Being loved by someone
deeply gives you courage"
Lao Tzu
"Love does not consist in
gazing at each other, but in looking outward together in the same direction"
Antoine de Saint-Exupery
"They do not love that
do not show their love"
William Shakespeare
"Love is a canvas furnished
by nature and embroidered by imagination"
Voltaire
"May your love be like
the misty rain, gentle coming in but flooding the river"
Traditional African proverb
"In so much as love grows
in you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul"
St. Augustine
"Marriage is like a golden
ring in a chain, whose beginning is a glance and whose ending is eternity"
Kahlil Gibran
"Whatever our souls are
made of, his and mine are the same"
Emily Bronte
"When love reigns, the
impossible may be attained"
Indian proverb
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Weddings
In A Castle
"Now
join hands, and with your hands your hearts"
William
Shakespeare
Hospitalfield House Kinblethmont
House
Guthrie Castle Colliston Castle
Wedding parties welcome
Relax in our seaview guest lounge before the wedding
Recover in our seaview guest lounge after the wedding
We supply the wine or beer glasses and a fridge and ice are available
No late time restrictions so enjoy your evening out
Games room with pool table, table tennis and darts
Guests visiting for a wedding in town can have a later breakfast
Ironing facilities available
For that extra touch of class, there are some beautiful castles and historic
mansion houses in and around Arbroath where you can have your wedding
ceremony and wedding reception. Grace has visited most of these castles
while in the Florist trade. We accommodate many guests every year attending
weddings or functions at either the stunning Hospitalfield Mansion House
in Arbroath just a few minutes away, the very popular Guthrie Castle just
6 miles away, and weddings at the 16th century Colliston Castle just 3
miles from Arbroath. Another beautiful location nearby is at Kinblethmont
Mansion House, an 18th century house 2 miles from the town. For more details
visit the websites below.
Other unique locations for weddings in the area include aboard the RRS
Discovery ship in Dundee, or on the deck of the HM Unicorn again in Dundee.
For that beach location, Lunan Bay just 6 miles away is a popular choice
for this type of wedding. Other castles in Angus offering wedding services
include Glamis Castle, Edzell Castle and Kinnaird Castle.
"I just wanted to thank you all so much for the way you looked after
us and all our friends when we stayed at Five Gables for Laura's
wedding at Guthrie Castle. We so enjoyed our stay and you all went out
of your way to make us feel so at home, and I can't thank you enough.
I still can't believe it was such a perfect day. If we come to Arbroath
again, which I hope we do as we all loved the place, you will certainly
be our first phone call to see if you have any accommodation available.
With very best wishes,
Pam and Des Healy"
"In
the top 10 things to do, a wedding in a castle in Scotland"
Dara,
Fiodhna, Ailbhe, Louise & Thomas Burke, Limerick, Ireland

Weddings at Hospitalfield Mansion
House in Arbroath
www.hospitalfield.org.uk

Weddings at Guthrie Castle, 6 miles
from Arbroath
www.guthriecastle.com

Weddings at Kinblethmont House,
2 miles from Arbroath
www.kinblethmont.co.uk

Colliston Castle, 3 miles from Arbroath
www.collistoncastle.com
Colliston Castle - 01241 890507
The
Funny Side To Castles
Three vampire bats live in a cave along the Arbroath Cliffs surrounded
by three castles. One night, the bats bet on who can drink the most blood.
The first bat comes home with blood dripping off his fangs. He says, "See
the castle on the left over there? I drank the blood of three people."
The second bat returns with blood around his mouth. He says, "See
that castle on the right over there? I drank the blood of five people."
The third bat comes back covered in blood. He says, "See that castle
in the middle?" The other bats nod. "I didn't."
A beautiful princess comes upon a frog in a meadow near her castle in
Guthrie. The frog hops on to the lap of the princess and says, "My
lady, one kiss from you, and I will turn back into the dapper, young prince
that I once was, and then, my sweet, we can marry and set up housekeeping
in yon castle of Guthrie with my mother, where you can prepare my meals,
clean my clothes, bear my children and forever be happy doing so."
That night, as the Angus princess dines on lightly sauteed frog legs,
she chuckles to herself, "I dinna think so."
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The Castles
Of Angus
With its Royal connections and its rich and sometimes turbulant history,
the Angus area is a good base for touring Scottish castles and mansions.
Glamis Castle is just one of over 40 in the area, some offering facilities
for visitors. They cater for all types of visitor, whether its touring
the interiors, walking amongst the gardens and trails, the annual events,
sports, restaurant facilities or just absorbing the history amongst the
ruins. We can provide information here about all the castles in the Angus
and Dundee area, giving you some historical details along with prices,
opening times and the facilities they offer.
___
Castles With Public Access, Gardens & Tours
Glamis Castle Edzell Castle Broughty
Castle Dunnottar Castle
House Of Dun Dunninald House Brechin
Castle Camperdown House

Tours
around Glamis Castle and gardens

Edzell
Castle And Gardens
___
Public Access To Gardens Only
Claypotts Castle Cortachy Castle Airlie
Castle House Of Pitmuies

Cortachy Castle

Claypotts Castle
___
Visit The Ruins & Castle Sites Of Angus
Red Castle Braikie Castle Balintore
Castle Invermark Castle
Ballinshoe Tower Clova Castle Ballumbie Castle
Finavon Castle

The ruins of Braikie Castle
___
Weddings In A Nearby Angus Castle
Guthrie Castle Colliston Castle
Kinblethmont House
Hospitalfield Mansion House

House Of Dun, 12 miles from Arbroath
___
Some Private Castles In The Area - Viewed From The Exterior
Kelly Castle Affleck Castle Dudhope
Castle Inverquharity Castle
Gardyne Castle Mains Castle Hatton Castle Forter
Castle
___
There are more mansion and castle sites in the Angus and surrounding area,
around 100 in all. We have information available on all these castles
and sites.
___
Over 3000 Castles In Scotland
Scone Palace (50 minutes drive) Balmoral Castle (80 minutes
drive)
Stirling Castle (85 minutes drive) Edinburgh Castle (90 minutes
drive)
___
Arbroath September Doors Open Days - Tour The Interiors
Hospitalfield House Mortuary Chapel Webster
Theatre Abbey Theatre
Sheriff Courthouse St Vigeans Church RNLI
Lifeboat Station
Arbroath Fire Station St Marys Church ROC
Monitoring Post
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Angus & Dundee September Doors Open Days - Tour The Interiors
Balmashanner War Memorial Brechin Round Tower Kinnaird
Castle
Caledonian Railway JM Barrie Museum House
Of Dun RAF Air Station
Claypotts Castle Dudhope Castle Dundee
Rep Theatre DCA Centre
___
National Doors Open Days In September
Doors Open Days is Scotlands largest free annual architectural event.
It is coordinated nationally by the Scottish Civic Trust and is part of
European Heritage Days along side Scottish Archaeology Month, coordinated
by Archaeology Scotland. Both are supported by Historic Scotland. Doors
Open Days gives you the chance to see inside old buildings and castles
that cant be accessed at any other time. The rarely seen interiors in
the area we recommend you visit are the Hospitalfield Mansion House and
the Mortuary Chapel, both in Arbroath. The Cathedral and Round Tower in
Brechin. Plus Forfars Balmashanner War Memorial. This is also the only
chance to get inside Dudhope Castle in Dundee and Kinnaird Castle near
Brechin. Held during September every year.
Doors Open Day Dates & Events - www.doorsopendays.org.uk/opendays

Broughty Castle Museum
Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle is situated in one of the most stunning
locations in the UK, found 30 minutes drive from Arbroath. This castle
was recently added to the list of the top 40 places to visit in Scotland,
no bad considering that there are over 3000 castles in Scotland alone.
Dunnottar is steeped in history, some say dating back to the Pictish and
Roman era. In 1650this castle also protected the Scottish Crown Jewels,
"The Honours Of Scotland" from destruction by Oliver Cromwell and his
troops. Mary Queen of Scots, the Marquis of Montrose and William Wallace
have all visited Dunnottar Castle. More recently the castle was the location
in 1990 for the filming of Shakespeare's Hamlet, starring Mel Gibson,
Glenn Close and Helena Bonham Carter.

Dunnottar Castle

Dunninald Castle

Mains Castle & Restaurant

Camperdown House

Information available on all the castles
in Angus, Dundee, Fife and the Grampian areas
Glamis Castle - www.glamis-castle.co.uk
Dunnottar Castle - www.dunnottarcastle.co.uk
Edzell Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Broughty Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
House Of Dun - www.nts.org.uk
Dunninald House - www.dunninald.com
Claypotts Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Hospitalfield House - www.hospitalfield.org.uk
Scone Palace - www.scone-palace.co.uk
Brechin Castle - en.wikipedia.org
Camperdown House - www.camperdownhouse.org.uk
Dudhope Castle - en.wikipedia.org
Balintore Castle - en.wikipedia.org
Mains Castle - en.wikipedia.org
Kinnaird Castle - www.southesk.co.uk
Guthrie Castle - www.guthriecastle.com
St Andrews Castle Ruins - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Historic Scotland Explorer Pass - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
National Trust For Scotland - www.nts.org.uk
Historic Houses Association - www.hha.org.uk
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The Gardens
Of Angus
"Gardening requires lots of water,
most of it in the form of perspiration"
Lou Erickson
Glamis Castle Edzell Castle Brechin
Castle Airlie Castle
Cortachy Castle Barnhill Rock Gardens Claypotts
Castle
Hospitalfield House House Of Dun Dunninald
House
House Of Pitmuies Dundee Botanic Gardens
Dobbies Garden Centre
Silverwells Garden Centre In Arbroath
If your like Grace and you enjoy gardening, then there are a few stunning
examples in the area. The most well known of these in Angus offering good
access are the gardens at Glamis Castle, Edzell Castle and the House Of
Dun. Not forgetting the beautiful gardens at the House of Pitmuies just
6 miles away.
Dundee also has two good accessible gardens with the Barnhill Rock Gardens
in Broughty Ferry and the University of Dundee's Botanic Gardens. Other
examples with a more limited opening schedule include the gardens at Brechin
Castle, Airlie Castle, Claypotts Castle, Cortachy Castle and Dunninald
House. And don't forget the huge Flower and Food Festival in September,
held every year in Dundee. Previous special guests at this festival include
the TV presenter Charlie Dimmock and TV Chefs Gordon Ramsey and Nick Nairn.

Edzell Castle Gardens

Glamis Castles Italian Gardens

House Of Pitmuies Gardens

Hospitalfield Hope Gardens, Arbroath

University of Dundee Botanic Gardens

Five Gables House garden area
Ashbrook Nursery Arbroath -
www.ashbrooknursery.co.uk
Silverwells Garden Centre Arbroath - www.thegardeningwebsite.co.uk
Glamis Castle & Gardens - www.glamis-castle.co.uk/
Edzell Castle & Gardens - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Brechin Castle & Gardens - en.wikipedia.org
Cortachy Castle Gardens - gardensofscotland.org
Airlie Castle Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
Claypotts Castle Gardens - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Hospitalfield House Hope Gardens - www.hopegardentrust.org.uk
House Of Dun & Gardens - www.nts.org.uk
Dunninald House & Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
House Of Pitmuies Gardens - www.pitmuies.com
Dundee Botanic Gardens - www.dundee.ac.uk
Gagie House Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
Melgam House Gardens - www.gardensofscotland.org
Scotland's Gardens Scheme - www.gardensofscotland.org
Historic Scotland Explorer Pass - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
National Trust For Scotland - www.nts.org.uk
Historic Houses Association - www.hha.org.uk
The Funny Side To Gardening
"My wife's a water sign. I'm an earth sign. Together we make mud"
Rodney Dangerfield
"A perfect summer day is when the sun is shining, the breeze is blowing,
the birds are singing, and the lawn mower is broken"
James Dent
"There's one good thing about snow, it makes your lawn look as nice
as your neighbours"
Clyde Moore
"I always thought a yard was three feet, then I started mowing the
lawn"
C.E. Cowman
"The philosopher who said that work well done never needs doing over,
never weeded a garden"
Ray D. Everson
"God made rainy days, so gardeners could get the housework done"
An Arbirlot woman's garden is growing beautifully but her tomatoes won't
ripen. There's a limit to the number of uses for green tomatoes and she's
getting tired of it. So she goes to her Angus neighbour and says, "Your
tomatoes are ripe, mine are green. What can I do about it?'' Her neighbour
replies, "Well, you may think im a bit of a numpty, but here's what
to do. Tonight there's no moon. After dark go out into your garden and
take all your clothes off. Tomatoes can see in the dark and they'll be
embarrassed and blush. In the morning they'll all be red, you'll see.''
Well, what the heck? She does it. The next day her neighbour asks
how it worked. "Not bad," she answers, "The tomatoes are
still green but the cucumbers are all a bit longer"
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Touring Scotland
/ Distances From
"Those who say you cant take it with
you, never saw a car packed for a holiday"
Five Gables House is a great base for touring the east coast of Scotland.
We provide visitor information including opening times and prices to the
attractions in all the towns of Angus.
These include the towns of Carnoustie, Monifieth, Broughty Ferry, Glamis,
Brechin, Forfar, Montrose, Edzell and Kirriemuir. With some historical
details and visitor information on all the nearby villages. The City Of
Discovery Dundee, is only 17 miles from Arbroath, and we can tell you
what there is to see and do there also.
Arbroath is also not too far away from Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling, St Andrews
and Braemar, and so makes a good base for touring the east coast of Scotland.
Arbroath's location has meant that some of our longer
stay guests have managed day trips out as far as Aberdeen, Balmoral, Stirling,
Edinburgh, Glasgow and even Inverness in past years. Arbroath is a great
place to tour from, the largest town in Angus. So there are many restaurants,
theatres, pubs and clubs to sample when you get back home to Five Gables.
Touring Scotland
Arbroath to:
Carnoustie - 5 miles (10 minutes by car, bus or train)
Monifieth - 11 miles (12 minutes by car, bus or train)
Forfar - 12 miles (15 miuntes by car or bus)
Brechin - 12 miles (15 minutes by car or bus)
Montrose - 14 miles (15 minutes by car, bus or train)
Broughty Ferry - 15 miles (15 minutes by car, bus or train)
Edzell - 18 miles (20 minutes by car or bus)
Glamis - 18 miles (20 minutes by car or bus)
Dundee - 20 miles (20 minutes by car, bus or train)
Kirriemuir - 22 miles (22 minutes by car or bus)
Tayport - 22 miles (25 minutes by car or bus)
Newport On Tay - 22 miles (25 minutes by car or bus)
St Andrews - 29 miles (30 minutes by car, bus or a train to Leuchars)
Alyth - 31 miles (40 minutes by car or bus)
Blairgowrie - 35 miles (45 minutes by car or bus)
Stonehaven - 38 miles (45 minutes by car, bus or train)
Perth - 39 miles (50 minutes by car, bus or train)
Scone - 41 miles (55 minutes by car or bus)
Aberdeen - 51 miles (60 minutes by car, bus or train)
Gleneagles - 54 miles (65 minutes by car, bus or train)
Pitlochry - 55 miles (70 minutes by car or bus)
Blair Atholl - 60 miles (75 minutes by car or bus)
Glenshee - 60 miles (75 minutes by car or bus)
Dunfermilne - 68 miles (80 minutes by car, bus or train)
Braemar - 68 miles (90 minutes by car or bus)
Stirling - 74 miles (90 minutes by car, bus or train)
Edinburgh - 78 miles (90 minutes by car, bus or train)
Balmoral - 83 miles (2 hours by car or bus)
Glasgow - 98 miles (2 hours 20 mins by car, bus or train)
Elgin - 110 miles (2 hours 20 mins by car, bus
or train)
Inverness - 120 miles (2 hours 30 mins, by car, bus or train)
Royal Dornoch - 130 miles (3 hours by car, bus
or train)
Oban - 130 miles (3 hours by car, bus or train)

Dundee, 20 minutes from Arbroath. HM
Unicorn, the oldest British built ship still afloat.

Balmoral Castle, 80 minutes from Arbroath. The Royal
families Scottish retreat.

St Andrews, 30 minutes from Arbroath. The Old Course,
the oldest golf course in the world.

Perth, 40 minutes from Arbroath. The Black Watch Museum,
showing the history of this famous regiment.

Aberdeen, 60 minutes from Arbroath. Maritime Museum,
highlights the old ways of life on the east coast of Scotland.

Stirling Castle, 85 minutes from Arbroath. With its
battle torn history.

Ben Nevis, just over 2 hours from Arbroath, the largest
mountain in Britain.

Edinburgh Castle, 90 minutes from Arbroath, steeped
in history and legend

Glasgow University, 2 hours and 20 minutes from Arbroath,
Glasgow the largest city in Scotland.

Inverness and Loch Ness, where "there be monsters".
Around 2 hours 30 minutes from Arbroath.

Elgin Cathedral ruins, around 3 hours from Arbroath.
Dates back to the 13th century.
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The
Adventurous
For the more adventurous, the Angus and Dundee area has a few things on
offer. Just 3 miles away from Arbroath is Balhousie Outdoor Adventures,
offering quad biking for all ages, clay shooting, go carting, Honda pilot
driving and even the chance to pilot a hovercraft. Paintballing can be
found near Brechin, and Avertical World in Dundee is Tayside's only indoor
climbing centre.
The West Links area of Arbroath is also a great location for Dirtsurfing.
This combines the thrills of snowboarding and surfing on land, without
having to wait on snow or sea conditions. Details of this sport can be
found at the shop Outdoor Action in Arbroath. Throughout the Angus and
Dundee area, windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, off road driving, falconry,
horse riding and archery are also available at certain times of the year.
We cannot discover new
oceans
unless we have the courage to lose sight of the shore.
Whats Nearby
Balhousie Quad Biking - 01241 852400
Monikie Watersports - 01382 370202
Broughty Watersports - 01382 779889
Forfar Loch Sailing Club - 01250 870232
Crombie Country Park Orienteering - 01241 860360
Monikie Country Park Orienteering - 01382 370202
Forfar Loch Orienteering - 01307 461118
Angus Equestrian - 01241 855511
Arbroath Base Camp Outdoor Equipment - 01241 871797
Outdoor Dimensions (Kayaks,Canoes,Walks) - outdoordimensions.co.uk
Arbroath Sports Climbing - www.freewebs.com/arbroathclimbing
Outdoor Action Arbroath - www.outdoor-action.com
Rowanlea Equestrian - www.rowanlearidingschool.co.uk
Avertical World Indoor Climbing - www.averticalworld.co.uk
Auchterhouse Country Sports - www.treemac.co.uk
Ice Arena - www.dundeeicearena.com
Edzell Paintballing - www.bedlampaintball.co.uk
Lunan Bay Surfing - www.beachwizard.com
Angus Gliding Club - www.angusgliding.co.uk
Tayside Aviation - www.taysideaviation.co.uk
St Andrews Sky Diving - www.skydivestandrews.co.uk
Erroll Sky Diving - www.paragonskydiving.co.uk
Arbroath Sailing Club - www.arbroathsailingandboatingclub.org.uk
Forfar Sailing Club - www.forfarsailingclub.org.uk
Balhousie Quad Biking - www.netmums.com
Monikie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Crombie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Forfar Loch Country Park - angus.gov.uk
Glenshee Ski Centre
The Glenshee Ski Centre is only 75 minutes drive from Arbroath, along
the Forfar route. One of the most extensive skiing and snowboarding facilities
in Scotland, with 20 lifts and 36 runs offering diversity on natural terrain
for all standards of skiers and snowboarders. Visitors can join classes,
hire an instructor, get race training or simply get on the slopes and
have a great day. Skiing equipment and boards can be stored in our secure
garage. Do something different while your staying in the area.
Glenshee Ski Centre - www.ski-glenshee.co.uk
Outdoor Dimensions
Outdoor Dimensions Scotland is run by Brian Crowe who has walked, climbed
and canoed for over 30 years. Brian has been involved with instructing
people for over 25 years. For 2 years he was the Training Officer of the
Tayside Mountain Rescue Team, Brian has walked and climbed extensively
all over Britain and the European Alps. He also holds the Mountaineering
Instructor Award and the Winter Mountain Leader Award. In addition, Brian
has also paddled in many areas all over Britain and holds British Canoe
Union (BCU) coaching awards in inland kayaking, canoeing and sea kayaking.
Adventures on offer include Rock Climbing and Scrambling, Navigation Courses,
Introduction to Canoeing Courses and Sea Kayaking Courses. Canoeing and
kayaking are the best ways of exploring the caves along the Arbroath Cliffs.
Outdoor Dimensions - outdoordimensions.co.uk
Call - 01241 875844 or 07790 359499

Orienteering, rock climbing, indoor
climbing, horse riding, watersports, dirtsurfing, quad biking, paintballing
and sports for disabled visitors

Balhousie Quad Bikes

Windsurfing at Monikie Park

Avertical World

Horse riding in Angus

Dirtsurfing and wingsurfing on Arbroath West Links

Rock climbing at the Arbroath Cliffs
The
Funny Side Of Adventure
A Dundee lad was passing by an Angus farm and saw a beautiful horse. He
decided he had to have the animal. He bargained with the farmer and the
farmer finally sold him the horse. The Dundonian jumped on the horse and
yelled, "Giddyup!" The horse didn't budge. The farmer explained,
"This is a special kind of horse. He'll only move if you say, 'Praise
the Lord.' To stop him, you have to say, 'Amen.'" Keeping this in
mind, the new owner yelled, "Praise the Lord!" and the horse
took off with great speed. Soon horse and rider were headed for a cliff.
Just in time the rider remembered to say "Amen!" The horse came
to a screeching halt right at the edge of the cliff. Relieved, the rider
raised his eyes to heaven and exclaimed, "Praise the Lord!"
A local businessman from Arbroath has a racehorse that has never won a
race. The man in disgust says," Horse, you win today or you will
be pulling a milk cart tomorrow morning." The starting gate opens,
the horses take off, they move the gate away and there lays his horse
asleep on the track. He approached the horse and asks, "WHY ARE YOU
SLEEPING. The horse, half asleep says, "I have to get up at three
in the morning."
A local mans wife asks him to go to the Abbeygate shopping centre
to buy some cigarettes. He walks down to the Arbroath store only to find
it closed, so he goes into the nearby Burns Bar to use the vending machine.
At the bar he sees a beautiful woman and starts talking to her. They have
a couple of great beers and one thing leads to another and they end up
in her apartment. After theyve had their fun, he realizes its 3AM
and says, Oh, no, Its so late, my wifes going to kill
me! Have you got any talcum powder? She gives him some powder, which
he proceeds to rub on his hands. Then he goes home. His wife is waiting
for him in the doorway and she is really annoyed. Where in the Holy
Smokie have you been?!?! Well darling, its like this. I went
to the Abbeygate store like you asked, but they were closed. So I went
to the Burns Bar to use the vending machine. I saw this great looking
lass there and we had a few drinks and one thing
led to another and I ended up back at her hoose. Oh yeah?
She grabs his hands, which are covered with white powder, and screams,
You liar! You went climbing again!!
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The Archaeology
"The Picts - Who Defied The Might Of
Rome"
St Vigeans Pictish Museum Pictavia Meffan
Museum
Ardestie Earth-house Carlungie Earth-house
Caterhuns Hill Forts Cardean Roman Fort
Camus Cross Aberlemno Stone Drosten
Stone
"Plus around 100 Pictish carved stones dotted around the Angus area"
Around 2000 years ago, the Angus and Kincardineshire
area was the premier Pictish province in Scotland. This is when the area
was known as "Circhenn" by these Iron Age tribes. Various reminders have
been left behind by these mysterious people, in the form of beautiful
carved stones, subterranean earth houses, Iron Age hill forts and ancient
battle sites. In fact, just a few miles from Arbroath is where the Battle
of Nechtansmere (Dunnichen) took place in AD685. This is said to be the
most important battle ever fought, leading to the unification of Alba,
the birth of Scotland.
Even today new discoveries are being made. In 1998, a Pictish burial site
known as a cist was found just 40 yards from Five Gables House. Around
the same time as the Picts, the Romans were invading Scotland, and there
are a few Roman fort and fortlet sites to be found also. The closest is
just 5 miles from Arbroath. The Vikings also made it to this stretch of
the east coast about 1000 years ago. Just 6 miles north of Arbroath is
where they landed at Lunan Bay, and 8 miles south of Arbroath is where
King Malcolm II defeated the famous Viking commander Camus the Slayer
in 1012. A stone cross marks the spot where Camus was slain.
For those interested in this period of Scotland's history and for those
bringing metal detectors, we provide the information you need and can
tell you the best places to visit.

Information on Bronze Age, Iron Age,
Roman, Pictish & Viking sites in Angus

Ardestie Earth House

Aberlemno Pictish Stone

Pictavia Visitor Centre in Angus

Brown and White Caterhuns Hill Forts

The Camus Cross

Pictish Warriors of the Angus area
The Picts - Latin Picti, meaning painted or tattooed people
The origin of the Picts is clouded in many legends, they lived in Scotland
from around AD 100 to AD 841. With no written language the Picts left
little record of there lives, and we have to rely on Greek and Roman articles
for information. We know that they passed down their history by storytelling.
The Picts did leave behind beautifully crafted carved stones, hundreds
dotted around showing a pictorial view of thier lives, a little bit like
hieroglyphics.
The Picti
They were a highly intelligent people who were skilled in fishing and
farming, growing crops and keeping animals for food and clothing. They
wore clothes covered in natural dyes, used leather for footwear and jackets,
and fashioned jewellry for decoration. Horses were an important part of
Pictish life as they are depicted on many stones. Scotland was divided
into seven Pictish kingdoms, with the largest covering the Angus and Kincardineshire
area, when this area was known as Circhenn. Power eventually moved from
here to Scone Palace when the Picts and Scots joined together in AD 848.
Pictish Religion
The Picts were Pagan people, Druids who worshiped the sun and the moon
and believed in spirits and magical powers. They also performed sacrifices
with animals. It was not until St Columba came across from Ireland in
AD 563 that Christianity was introduced to Pictland.
The Romans and the Picts
The truly amazing fact about the Picts is that Scotland was one of the
few countries left unconquered by the Romans. They did try and eventually
gave up and built Hadrians Wall to separate Pictland from the rest of
the Roman Empire. After frequent Pictish attacks on the wall, the Romans
built the Antonine Wall further north, this was eventually taken by the
Picts. The Romans had to regain control of the Antonine Wall twice, before
retreating back to Hadrains Wall. It was the Romans who gave them the
name Picti, meaning "painted one". Nobody actually knows what
they called themselves. The Romans gave them this name because they were
met on the battlefield by the Picts who were naked, but painted in intricate
designs. They were also noted as being tall, long limbed and red haired.
The Battles
After the Romans left Britain, the Picts fought with many growing kingdoms,
even fighting for power among themselves on occasion. Of these other kingdoms,
including the Britons, Scotti, Angles and Saxons, the Vikings were the
Picts and pretty much everybody elses strongest adversaries. The Picts
were on the verge of overpowering the Scotti Kingdom on the west coast,
when the Vikings arrived. The many battles against the Vikings took there
toll on both the Pictish and Scotti Kingdoms, so they decided they should
join together under the rule of one king, the first king of Scotland,
Kenneth Mac Alpin. He was thought to be the offspring of Pictish and Scotti
Royalty. The new king managed to negotiate with the Vikings, marrying
members of his family into powerful Viking families and allowing them
to retain much of the west coast of Scotland. This was the beginning of
Alba, the first name of a united Scotland.
Where are they now
The Picts were never conquered, they never disappeared, they just simply
integrated with the developing multi ethic Scottish nation of Picts, Britons,
Scotti, and Angles. There still here!! Discoveries have been unearthed,
even in recent years. In 1998, a Pictish site was found just 40 yards
from Five Gables House. The graves known as a "cist" were dated
around 1500 years old, meaning that the Picts enjoyed the views here as
well.
St Vigeans Pictish Museum - www.megalithic.co.uk
Pictavia - www.megalithic.co.uk
Meffan Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Carlungie Earth-house - www.megalithic.co.uk
Ardestie Earth-house - www.megalithic.co.uk
Tealing Earth-house - www.megalithic.co.uk
Drumsturdy Broch - www.megalithic.co.uk
Caterhuns Hill Forts - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Cardean Roman Fort - www.roman-britain.org
The Camus Cross - www.monikie.org.uk
Archaeology In Scotland - www.archaeologyscotland.org.uk
The Megalithic Portal - www.megalithic.co.uk
Tayside Archaeology - www.tafac.org.uk
Centurion Film Trailer - www.youtube.com
The
Funny Side To Archeaology
An archaeologist at the Arbroath Abbey is a person whose career lies in
ruins!
A tourist from Arbroath is traveling with a guide through one of the thickest
jungles in Latin America, when he comes across an ancient Mayan temple.
The tourist is entranced by the temple, and asks the guide for details.
To this, the guide states that archaeologists are carrying out excavations,
and still finding great treasures. The Angus tourist then queries how
old the temple is. "This temple is 2503 years old", replies
the guide. Impressed at this accurate dating, the Arbroath man inquires
as to how he gave this precise figure. "Easy", replies the guide,
"the archaeologists said the temple was 2500 years old, and that
was three years ago.
"The Oldest Joke In The World
Several British newspapers ran a story about the oldest joke in world,
which was found by the British Museum's Egyptology Department on a slip
of papyrus. It was told in 2600 BC about the pharaoh Sneferu by his chief
magician Djadjamankh. Here it is (it's an old joke, but its the way i
tell 'em)
Q - "How do you entertain a bored pharaoh?"
A - "You sail a boatload of young women dressed only in fishing nets
down the Nile and urge the pharaoh to go catch a fish"
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The Geology
Of Scotland
Civilization exists by geological consent,
subject to change without notice.
Will Durant
Scotland's distinct landscape is renowned for its natural beauty, from
its mountains and Munros, lochs and glens, to its coastal beaches and
cliffs. Rocks dating back over 3 billion years are found in some parts
of Scotland. The Scottish landscape comprises of 5 geologically distinct
parts, separated by big faults or breaks that can still be seen today.
Scotland used to form part of what is now the continent of America, separated
from the land mass that included what is now the rest of the UK. These
two land masses gradually drifted and fused together, then broke apart
to form the British Isles and the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout world history, humans used the geology of the lands they live
on, to form the infrastructure of their civilization. In the Angus area,
red sandstone has been one of these key components. Pictish carved stones,
Iron Age hill forts, brochs and castles, the Arbroath Abbey and other
local buildings were constructed from this material, continually recycled
even today. The stones that built the great Arbroath Abbey were quarried
from the cliffs of Arbroath, then after the Reformation of the Catholic
Church, the abbey itself was used as a quarry to build some of the houses
and churches in town. In fact, some of the stones we used to construct
our garden walls, may have once been part of the Arbroath Abbey. We know
that the decorative arched stone that is over our pond waterfall, was
once part of the old St Columbus Church in town.
A few miles away is the old quarry at Carmyllie, one of the oldest in
Scotland. This Carmyllie stone as it was called was then exported worldwide
from Arbroath. The structures it found its way into include the floors
of the Cologne Cathedral, the Forth Railway Bridge and the University
of Glasgow. The picturesque location of Lunan bay, just a few miles away,
is a good spot for finding agates and other gemstones, best found in pebbly
areas after storms. And the Angus glens, cliffs and coastline offer some
great walks on terrain untouched by the passing of time. On the coast,
natural formations and caves like the Diel's Heid, Needles Ee and Elephant
Rock are waiting to be explored.

Details on Sir Charles Lyell and the geology of Tayside,
Perth & Fife. Plus info on gemstones and agates that can be found
in the local area

Arbroath Cliffs - Needles Ee

Deil's Heid along the Arbroath Cliffs

Flame agate

The Dundee Law
Sir
Charles Lyell - en.wikipedia.org
Dundee Law Volcano - en.wikipedia.org
Arbroath Cliffs - atschool.eduweb.co.uk
Angus Agates - www.hunterian.gla.ac.uk
Scottish Agates - www.agatesofscotland.co.uk
Scottish Gemmological Association - www.scotgem.co.uk
Tayside Geodiversity - www.taysidebiodiversity.co.uk
The Funny Side To Geology
Rock, Rock! Who's There?
A geologist fae Stonehaven
An Angus geologist was accused yesterday of throwing a lava rock at a
tourist. He's been charged with "basalt and battery".
What did world reknown Geologist Dr. Sherlock Holmes say when discovered
a new formation in the Glens of Angus?...... "That's sedimentary
my dear Watson!"
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Nature and Ornithology
"In all things of nature there is something
of the marvelous"
Aristotle
As well as watching the wide variety of garden birds having their breakfast
as you have yours at Five Gables House, there are a few Scottish Wildlife
Trust Reserves in the Angus area. Nature lovers, Ornithologists and families
are spoilt for choice on where to visit. Birdwatching hides are available
at Balgavies Loch near Forfar, Loch of Lintrathen near Kirriemuir, and
the observation points over the Montrose Basin Wildlife Reserve.
The ruins of Red Castle just 6 miles away is also another good birdwatching
location. A walk along the Arbroath clifftop trail, leading to the Seaton
Den Nature Reserve, also offers some stunning views of the coastal birds
nesting on the cliff face. If its wildlife your looking for, you can choose
from from over 80 species at Dundee's Camperdown Wildlife Centre, or the
farm animal park at the Brechin Castle Centre. And you can visit the Ostrich,
Rhea's and Wallabys at Kookaburra's about 10 miles from Arbroath, or take
a trip to the Mountains Animal Sanctuary for rescued horses, ponies and
donkeys. There are four large country parks nearby at Monikie, Crombie
and Forfar, all around 15 minutes drive from Arbroath. These will offer
a Ranger service, woodland trails and other family related activities.

Information on the flora and fauna,
plus nature reserves and birdwatching sites in Angus

Montrose Basin Nature Reserve

Our Seaview dining area is just one
large birdwatching hide.
Common species that visit our garden include Wagtails, Sparrows, Swallows,
Starlings and Crows. With the more elusive Hawks, Pheasants, Oyster Catchers,
Woodpeckers
and Herons visiting from time to time.

Camperdown Wildlife Centre

Wallaby's at Kookaburra's, just 15 minutes from Arbroath

Some great birdwatching along the Cliffs of Arbroath
and along the Elliot Beach

Mountains Animal Sanctuary

Aberdeen Angus Cattle

Family of Stoats living on our grounds

Our wild animals, Poppy, Bonnie and Timmy
Monikie
Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Crombie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Montrose Basin Wildife Centre - www.angus.gov.uk
Camperdown Wildlife Park - www.dundeecity.gov.uk
Mountains Animal Sanctuary - www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk
Brechin Castle Farm Park - www.brechincastlecentre.co.uk
Kookaburra's - www.kookaburras.co.uk
Balgavies Loch Nature Reserve - myweb.tiscali.co.uk
Scottish Deer Centre - www.tsdc.co.uk
Angus & Dundee Bird Club - angusbirding.homestead.com
Angus Birdwatching - homepages.which.net
Scottish Wildlife Trust - www.swt.org.uk
RSPB Scotland - www.rspb.org.uk/scotland
The Funny Side To Ornithology
A local guy from Carnoustie is driving doon the Dundee Road with the back
full of penguins. A Tayside Police officer sees him and pulls him over
and says,"I want you to take those penguins to Camperdown Zoo right
now!" The guy says, "OK." Next day the officer sees this
same guy going down the road with the penguins in the back. This time
the penguins are wearing sunglasses. He pulls the guy over again and says,"I
thought I told you to take those penguins to Camperdown Zoo." The
guy answers, "Yeah, that's right, we went and had a really nice time.
We're going to the West Links beach today!"
An Angus burglar crept into a dark house and as he crossed the room he
heard a voice say, "JESUS IS WATCHING YOU!" He froze in his
tracks and waited. He started walking again, and again the voice came
"JESUS IS WATCHING YOU". Finally the burglar's eyes adjusted
to the dark and with great relief he saw a parrot in a cage in the corner.
"What's your name," he asked the parrot. "Bonzo" said
the parrot. "Who gave you that stupid name" sneered the Angus
burglar. "The same guy who named the Rottweiller Jesus."
Deep within Kirkton Woods of Arbroath, a little turtle began to climb
a tree. After hours of effort, he reached the top, jumped into the air
waving his front legs and crashed to the ground. After recovering, he
slowly climbed the tree again, jumped, and fell to the ground. The turtle
tried again and again, while a couple of birds sitting on a branch watched
his sad efforts. Finally, the female bird turned to her mate. "Dear,"
she chirped, "I think it's time to tell him he's adopted."
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Farming in
Angus
"The first farmer was the first man. All historic nobility
rests on the possession and use of land."
Farming has played a crucial role in the prosperity of Angus for hundreds
of years. The fertile soil and temperate climate are ideal for growing
top quality soft fruit, vegetables, grain and potatoes, particularly seed
potatoes. In fact Angus is home to 40% of Scotland's Class 1 agricultural
land and produces 28% of the country's potatoes. Angus Soft Fruits who
are based in Arbroath, have won both the "Supreme Award" and
the "Retail Fruit or Vegetable Category Award" at the 2008 Scotland
Food & Drink Awards in Edinburgh. And our famous Angus Beef is enjoyed
throughout the world.
In 1828, Rev Patrick Bell, a minister in the village of Carmyllie just
a few miles from Arbroath, came up the idea for the first horse drawn
machine for reaping crops. Before his invention, crops had to be cut down
by hand with a sickle. Its principle design is still used in todays combine
harvesters.
There are a few places to visit nearby highlighting the areas farming
industry of old. The Angus Folk Museum, just 20 minutes from Arbroath
will best explain this. The museum is housed within two 18th century cottages
and has various displays on life in rural Angus, including its Life On
The Land exhibition. A farm animal park is found just 15 minutes away,
where visitors can get up close to the animals who are used to the attention.
The Mountains Animal Sanctuary, Scotlands largest equine sanctuary, again
just 15 minutes away, also allow visitors up close to its horses, ponies,
donkeys and pigs. And visitors can learn about the old milling process
at Barry Water Mill, just 10 minutes from the B&B.
There are also many nice walks surrounding Arbroath that take in the stunning
countryside. The Elliot Nature Trail, starting 400 yards from Five Gables
House B&B is a 2-3 mile walk skirting between the beautiful woodland
and farmland of Angus. And the Arbirlot Walk that starts just 20 yards
away, also provides you with panoramic views of the surrounding farmland.
The Angus Show in June
To celebrate the farming heritage of Angus, the area also put on the Angus
Show, a large 2 day event every year in June. With livestock, machinery,
farming demonstrations and displays, old farming vehicles, pipe bands,
etc.
The Sibbald's
Grace descends from a farming background. Her father David Sibbald and
her uncles had a farm near Bathgate in Scotland. Her father then emigrated
to Canada settling in the Ontario area, where he started another farm.
David eventually returned home to Scotland, finally settling in Arbroath
with his daughter Grace and her family.

Books on the local farming industry in Angus, old farming
photographs from the area and farm machinery old and new

The 2 day Angus Show in June

Barry Water Mill, under 10 minutes from Arbroath

Farm animal park just 15 minutes from Arbroath, with
adventure playpark, waterside walks and a miniature railway
"To forget
how to dig the earth & to tend the soil is to forget ourselves"
Mohandas K. Gandhi
Barry Water Mill - www.nts.org.uk
Angus Folk Museum - www.nts.org.uk
Mountains Animal Sanctuary - www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk
Brechin Castle Centre - www.brechincastlecentre.co.uk
Angus Soft Fruits Arbroath - www.angussoftfruits.co.uk
Milton Haugh Farm Shop - www.miltonhaugh.com
Peel Farm Coffee & Crafts - www.peelfarm.com
The Angus Show - www.theangusshow.com
Kirriemuir Agricultural Show - www.kirriemuir-show.co.uk
Glamis Countryside Festival - www.scotlandscountrysidefestival.co.uk
Scottish Ploughing Championship - www.scotplough.co.uk
Tay Valley Family History Society - www.tayvalleyfhs.org.uk
Angus Archives - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages - www.angus.gov.uk
The
Funny Side To Farming
A man is driving down a country road near Carnoustie, when he spots a
local farmer standing in the middle of a huge field of rapeseed. He pulls
the car over to the side of the road and notices that the farmer is just
standing there, doing nothing, looking at nothing. The man gets out of
the car, walks all the way out to the farmer and asks him, "Excuse
me sir, what are you doing?" The farmer replies, "I'm trying
to win a Nobel Prize." "How?" asks the man, puzzled. "Well,
I heard they give the Nobel Prize . . . to people who are out standing
in their field."
A retiring Angus farmer in preparation for selling his land, needed to
rid his farm of animals. So he went to every house in his town. To the
houses where the man is the boss, he gave a horse. To the houses where
the woman is the boss, a chicken was given. He got toward the end of the
street and saw a couple outside gardening. "Who's the boss around
here?" he asked. ""I am." said the man. "I have
a black horse and a brown horse," the farmer said, "which one
would you like?" The man thought for a minute and said, "The
black one." "No, no, no, get the brown one." the man's
wife said. "Here's your chicken." said the farmer.
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The Days Of Steam
"Who directing the force of an original
genius,
early excercised in philosophic research,
to the improvement of the steam engine,
enlarged the resources of his country,
increased the power of man,
and rose to an eminent place,
among the most illustrious followers of science,
and the real benefactors of the world"
Testimonial To James Watt
The Angus and Kincardineshire area has one of the oldest railway networks
in the UK. We don't just overlook the Arbroath golf course and the North
Sea, Five Gables House is situated overlooking the main East coast railway
line on the other side of the golf course. Offering views of the passing
trains in the distance. With the old Elliot line, now a nature trail just
a few hundred yards away, and remnants of the old St Vigeans line, seen
along the St Vigeans nature trail on the other side of town. Just 15 minutes
walk from our guest house is Kerr's Miniature Railway, the oldest in Scotland.
Offering passenger rides on their mini diesels and steam trains for kids
of all ages. Kerr's also have miniature bus and fire engine rides that
are available, weather permitting.
Another popular attraction, just 12 miles from Arbroath is the Caledonian
Railway, where guests can travel along part of the old railway network.
Re-live the days of steam on one of the many full size diesel and steam
trains on show here. Annual events here include the regular Days Out With
Thomas The Tank Engine and the Murder Mystery events. Or the annual Diesel
Gala, Steam Gala, Fathers Day excursions, Easter Specials and Santa Specials.
We also provide books detailing the history of the old railway networks
in Angus, for anyone interested in this.

Caledonian Railway

Caledonian Railway, Days Out With Thomas the Tank Engine

Alford Valley Railway Museum

Close up image from Five Gables House B&B of the
railway in the distance

Arbroath Railway Station, built in 1848

Local books about the old railway networks and the Caledonian
Railway
Caledonian
Railway - www.caledonianrailway.com
Alford Valley Railway - www.alfordvalleyrailway.org.uk
The Jacobite - www.westcoastrailways.co.uk
Boness and Kinnell Railway - www.srps.org.uk
Narrow Gauge Railway Society - www.ngrs.org
Kerrs Miniature Railway - www.kmr.talktalk.net
Tay Valley Family History Society - www.tayvalleyfhs.org.uk
Angus Archives - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages - www.angus.gov.uk
The
Funny Side To Railways
An Arbroath man on the northbound "Night Caledonian" sleeper
train ordered one of the attendants, "I have to be off at Edinburgh,
I'm a heavy sleeper, but I must get off at Edinburgh. I want you to put
me off, whatever I say." The next morning he woke up at London! Extremely
annoyed he found the attendant and gave him a piece of his mind. After
he had left, somebody asked the attendant, "How could you stand there
and take that kind of talk?" "That's nothing!", replied
the attendent, "you should have heard the guy I put off at Edinburgh!"
All the Arbroath B&Bs are full, so a man and his wife check into an
Angus hotel. The husband wants to have a drink at the bar but his wife
is extremely tired so she decides to go on up to their room to rest. She
lies down on the bed... just then, a train passes by very close to the
window and shakes the room so hard she is thrown out of the bed. Thinking
this must be a freak occurrence, she lies down once more. Again a train
shakes the room so violently she is thrown to the floor. Exasperated,
she calls the front desk and asks for the manager. The manager says, "I'll
be right up." The manager is sceptical but the wife insists the story
is true. "Look... lie here on the bed and you will be thrown on to
the floor!" So he lies down next to the wife. Just then the husband
walks in. "What do you think you're doing!", he says. The manager
calmly replies, "Would you believe Im waiting for a train"
A lawyer gets on a train at Arbroath to go to Colchester. He sits next
to a poor Angus farmer (not many of them). To pass the time the lawyer
decides to play a game with the guy. "I will ask you a question and
if you get it wrong, you have to pay me 1 pound. Then you ask me a question,
and if I get it wrong, you get 10 pounds. You ask me a question first."
The farmer thinks for a while. "I know", he says, "what
has three legs, takes 10 hours to climb up a palm tree, and 10 seconds
to get back down?" The lawyer is confused and thinks long and hard
about the question. Finally, the train is approaching Colchester. As it
pulls into the station of this historic Roman town, the lawyer takes out
10 pounds and gives it to the farmer. "I don't know. What has 3 legs,
takes 10 hours to get up a palm tree and 10 seconds to get back down?"
The farmer takes the 10 pounds and puts it into his pocket. He then takes
out 1 pound and hands it to the lawyer and says: "I
don't know either."
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Days
Of Jute / Verdant Works
Days Of Jute
During the 18th century, the Angus and Dundee area was already an established
centre of textile production, mainly in linen, and made huge quantities
of sailcloth for Europe. They say that the sailcloth for the ship the
Cutty Sark was made in Arbroath. In 1875, there were 35 spinning mills
and factories in Arbroath, alongside the fishing, tanning, shipbuilding
and chemical industries. By the 1830s, mainly in Dundee, the jute industry
evolved to supplement the linen production. At that time, Dundee became
known as Juteopolis, a world centre for the Jute industry. The rapid rise
in the industry was matched by the growth in population. Dundee expanded
fourfold during the 19th century and 50,000 people were employed in the
mills and factories at the height of the industry. Jute production started
to decline in the 1920s mainly due to fierce competition from the Indian
jute industry, mostly in Calcutta.
Dundee's jute industry was recently beautifully retold in the BBC TV programme
"Brian Cox's Jute Journey", where the Dundee born Hollywood
actor retraces his families steps in the jute industry.
Verdant Works
The Verdant Works Museum in Dundee is a restored 19th century jute mill
and a living history museum preserving Dundee's long association with
the Jute Trade. Here visitors can find out about the beginnings of the
jute trade in India, experience the harsh conditions workers were subjected
to in the mills through film shows and interactive computers, and discover
why the industry fell into decline.
We have many books here at Five Gables House, showing the history and
old images of the Jute trade. With a book on the mills of Arbroath through
time, from the industries beginning, to its eventual decline. The Signal
Tower Museum in town will also highlight the way of life during this prosperous
period in Arbroath.

Books available on the Verdant Works
Museum, Arbroath Mills, the Days Of Jute and old photographic books of
the industry and its workers

The hard working lassie's o the Jute
industry

Verdant Works Museum, 20 minutes from
Arbroath
Verdant Works - www.rrsdiscovery.com
Brian Cox's Jute Journey - www.hopscotchfilms.co.uk
Tay Valley Family History Society - www.tayvalleyfhs.org.uk
Angus Archives - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages - www.angus.gov.uk
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Military Links
In Angus & Dundee
"Per Mare Per Terram - By Sea, By Land"
Fleet Air Arm
Arbroath has a long association with the RM Condor base on the outskirts
of town. The base was established in 1938 as a Fleet Air Arm facility,
also known as HMS Condor. The Condor Barracks date from about 1940,
with HMS Condor being used as No 2 Observers School, a Deck Landing
Training School, and a Naval Air Signals School. The airfield remains
operational, being used as a drop zone for parachute training, and
as home to No 662 Volunteer Gliding Squadron, which operates Viking
T.1Xs at weekends and holidays.
45 Commando
Since 1971, it has been known as RM Condor, a Royal Marine base, and
home of 45 Commando regiment, accommodating some 900 military and
civilian personnel. 45 Commando Royal Marines is a subordinate unit
within 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. Roled as a Commando amphibious
unit, 45 is capable of a wide range of operational tasks. Personnel
regularly deploy outside the United Kingdom on operations or training.
Whilst 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines are the principal cold weather
warfare formation, personnel are capable of operating in a variety
of theatres including tropical jungle, desert or mountainous terrain.
All personnel have completed the Commando course at the Commando Training
Centre at Lympstone in Devon, entitling them to wear the green beret.
WRENS & Edzell Air Base
A few of our guests also remember the Rosely House on the outskirts
of town. This is where the WRENS were stationed during the war. The
Elms mansion house was also an HQ for the Polish Army around the same
time. Many will also remember the the US Air Base at Edzell, that
closed in 1996. The base was formed in the 1960's, a second home to
the US Navy, keeping an eye of Russia during the Cold War years.
Nearby RAF/RFC Museums
Not far from Arbroath, just 15 minutes away, you will find the Air
Station Museum, showing items and memorabilia from the RAF and RFC,
including old aircraft and vintage military vehicles. One of the newest
displays here is the recreation of a 1940's home, highlighting the
way of life during the war. 20 minutes from the town and you can visit
the Aviation Museum in Kirriemuir. Again this will have various displays
on the RAF and the RFC.
The Black Watch
Dundee, 20 minutes drive from Arbroath also host a superb Military
Show annually in June. Jointly hosted by the TA, the Army, the Royal
Navy and the Royal Air Force. Dundee also has links with the famous
Black Watch Regiment, the oldest Highland regiment, named after the
dark tartan of the soldiers' kilts. Anyone interested in the Black
Watch can visit the Black Watch Museum near Perth.
Our Family In The Forces
Ron's father George Patterson served with the Kings Own Scottish Borderers
during the 1940's. An OXO tin in his jacket saved his life when a
piece of shrapnel bounced off it during the war.
Grace and Ron's son Ronnie also served with the British Army for
over 10 years. Ronnie served with the Royal Army Ordnance Corps (RAOC)
during the 80's and 90's, and was based in Colchester. He still lives
in the area today with his wife Rachel and 2 children Alisha and Cameron,
where he now works in the Fire Service. Ronnie also won 2 Bronze medals
in the World Firefighters Karate Championships in 2009. His brother
Garry can still take him though!!
Grace's brother Jim Stobo also served with the Royal Army Ordanance
Corps attaining the rank of Sargeant. Jim was also the regiments heavywieght
boxing champion, so nobody messes with Big Jim.
Grace's nephew Frank Frew served in the 4th Royal Tank Regiment
for 17 years. Frankie left the regiment in 1993 and now lives in Germany
with his wife Ziggy and kids Christopher and Nicole. Frankie is also
the musical one of the family and has performed in a few bands. He
is now a member of the band "By The Way". In 2010 he penned
the song "Absent Friends" after visiting the Greenfields
section of the regimental website. This is where the names of those
who have departed are posted. The song was written to capture the
emotions he felt and is in effect a toast for those who remain. To
raise a glass and toast absent friends who have moved on. Find a link
to the regimental site and his song below.
Absent Friends performed by By The Way - www.youtube.com
4th Royal Tank Regiment - www.4rtr.co.uk
R.A.O.C - www.army.mod.uk
Kings Own Scottish Borderers - www.kosb.co.uk
"From now until the end of the world,
we and it shall be remembered.
We few, we band of brothers"
William Shakespeare

Air Station Museum, 15 minutes from
Arbroath

The Edzell Arch, a familiar image
to all those US Naval personnel who were stationed at the Edzell Air
Base from the 60's to the its closure in 1997. The base was formed
during the first World War as a training base for the RAF.

WRENS - Womens Royal Naval Service.
During World War 2, the WRENS who worked at the HMS Condor Base, were
accommodated at Rosely House, a few miles from Arbroath

The 2009 45 Marines Homecoming Parade,
through Arbroath's town centre

Fleet Air Arm, who were based at
the Condor Base in Arbroath

Books available on the Fleet Air
Arm, Condor Base, the 45 Royal Marines, WRENS and the Black Watch
Links
Fleet Air Arm - www.fleetairarmarchive.net
45 Royal Marines - www.royalmarines.mod.uk
Arbroath T.A. - www.tanearyou.org.uk
Arbroath British Legion - www.arbroathbranchrbls.org.uk
Black Watch - www.theblackwatch.co.uk
Montrose Air Station Museum - www.rafmontrose.org.uk
WRENS - www.wrens.org.uk
Royal Navy - www.royalnavy.mod.uk
Royal Air Force - www.raf.mod.uk
45 Parade - www.youtube.com
45 Parade - www.youtube.com
Condor Troop Engineers 1971-1987
In May 1971, the Squadron OC, a Major John Grosvenor, paid a visit
to Condor base in Arbroath to inspect the layout for his first Commando
Troop. It was during lunch with Lt. Colonel Sir Stuart Pringle RM,
Major Grosvenor discussed the attachment of his first Engineer Commando
Troop, to 45 Commando Group, Royal Marines. At this time, 45 Commando
Group was an Independent Commando Group, with the responsibility for
reinforcing Northern Flank, NATO. The Condor Troop Engineers are named
after the Condor Base, as no troop in 45 Commando had adopted that
name.
Condor Troop Engineers - Blog

RAF
Edzell base
"My name is Scott Brand and i was stationed
at the RAF Edzell base from 1974 to 1978. I loved my tour at RAF Edzell.
I was a CTO3 there and an O Brancher in communications. I worked at
the main site and also the other site. That was the small building
with the big golf balls. We have all moved on to the other things
and the years have passed and keep on passing. But the memories we
had at RAF Edzell still linger in our hearts and our minds. I decided
to come back to the area on my own for a visit. I have been staying
at the Five Gables House bed and breakfast. I have loved my stay here.
The view of the ocean is marvelous and the people are great"
Scott Brand, Connecticut,
USA
Thanks to Scott for the websites relating to the RAF Edzell
base found below
travel.webshots.com
www.secretscotland.org.uk
www.ivycom.com
www.navycthistory.com
www.ivycom.com
www.navyct.com
www.navyct.com
unitpages.military.com
www.navycthistory.com
www.navycthistory.com
www.rafedzell70s.net
www.fas.org
af-za.facebook.com
navalspooks.bravehost.com
eo-eo.facebook.com
www.caledonius.co.uk
www.defense.gov
The
Funny Side Of The Military
A canny marine, who was habitually drunk, publicly announced to all
the personel at the RM Condor Base that he was swearing off drinking
and that all the other marines should give up this foul habit also.
The other marines would tease him to fall off the wagon by giving
him whisky and get him drunk. Every morning he would be back preaching
about the sins of alcohol. One day his mate told him he ought to give
up moaning about the evils of drink as he always ends up drunk. With
a twinkle in his blood shot eyes he said " What, and give up
all that free whisky?"
An inspecting Officer decides to visit the psychiatric ward of an
army hospital. He wants to show an interest in the unit and asks the
nurse how they decide if a soldier needs to be admitted as a patient
or just seen as an out patient. "Well," says the psychiatric
nurse, "We fill the bath with water and give the squaddie a mess
tin and a spoon. He or she is then asked to empty the bath."
"Oh I see!" exclaims the Officer, "A normal person
would use the mess tin because it is larger and will take less time
to empty the bath." "No Sir" sighs the psychiatric
nurse, "A sane person would pull out the bath plug. I'll get
your bed ready Sir!"
Many years ago, a wealthy Angus Councillor walked into the old Vine
Bar in Arbroath and said, "I hear you Condor Troop Engineers
are a bunch of hard drinkers. I'll give £1000 of tax payers
money.. Eh, i mean my money to anybody in here who can drink 15 shots
of Smokie flavoured Vodka back-to-back." The room remains quiet
as no one takes up the his offer. One man leaves the bar and returns
30 minutes later. He asks the councillor, "Is your bet still
good?" He says yes and asks the bartender to line up 15 shots
of Smokie Vodka. The engineer downs all 15 shot glasses drinking them
all back-to-back. The other pub patrons cheer as the councillor sits
in amazement. He gives the Condor Troop Engineer the £1000 and
says, "If you don't mind me askin, where did you go for that
30 minutes you were gone?"
The engineer replies, "Oh ... I nipped over to Waverley Bar down
the street to see if I could do it first."
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Astronomy
Links
"Astronomy compels the soul to look upwards
and leads us from this world to another"
Plato
The Mills Observatory in Dundee is worth a mention here as its
the only full time public observatory in Britain, and its free entry.
Home to a 10 inch Victorian Cooke refractor telescope that is older than
the building its in. Its size shows amazing images of the Moons surface,
or details of Saturn's rings and Jupiter's great red spot. Also available
is a range of smaller telescopes and binoculars. The TV camera with a
Meade eyepiece shows an image projected onto a wall, ideal for viewing
the surface of the sun. For £1 visitors can see the centres Planetarium,
highlighting the constellations, planets and the many other strange phenomena
in the universe. We have binoculars and a telescope here at Five Gables
house, with an Atlas Of The Universe also available. Our location overlooking
the coast is ideal for star gazing with very little light pollution.
Alexander Brown (1814-1893)
Known as the Arbroath Astronomer, Alexander was born in Grange of Conon,
just outside Arbroath. He gained recognition in the field of Astronomy
in 1835 when the Rev William Allen used Browns calculations and diagrams
to illustrate the path of Halleys Comet. He was also a meteorology observer
at Arbroath for 40 years, becoming the foremost contributor to the Meteorology
Society in Scotland.

Mills Observatory in Dundee
Very little light pollution overlooking the
golf course and coast at Five Gables House, some stunning Autumn/Winter
views from our dining area. Books, binoculars and a 250mm telescope are
available to guests.
Perseids & Leonids Meteor Showers
The most visible meteor shower most years are the Perseids, which peak
on August 12th of each year at over 1 meteor a minute. The most spectacular
meteor shower is probably the Leonids, the King of Meteor Showers which
peaks on days around the 17th of November. Approximately every 33 years
the Leonid shower produces a "meteor storm", peaking at rates
of thousands of meteors per hour. The last Leonid storms were in 1999,
2001 and 2002. So we should see another storm display around 2034.
Exploring The Winter Sky
Winter finds the Big Dipper (in Ursa Major) rising in the northeastern
sky, with the three stars of its handle pointing toward the horizon and
the four stars of the bowl shape standing highest. The entire sky rotates
around the nearby Polaris, a 2nd-magnitude star of Ursa Minor. Turn around
with your back to the Dipper and you will be facing a stunning winter
sky. Here you will notice the second most recognised constellation in
the sky, Orion the Hunter. Three closely spaced, 2nd-magnitude stars form
a straight line that represents Orion's Belt. Extending a line joining
these stars to the upper right leads to Taurus the Bull and its 1st magnitude
star, Aldebaran. Reverse the direction of your gaze to the belts lower
left and you will see Sirius the Dog Star (in Canis Minor), the brightest
star in all the sky at magnitude -1.5
Exploring The Summer Sky
The first thing you notice on a clear night is the Milky Way, thats us
looking into the centre of our galaxy, where a black hole lurks at its
core. A starry band stretching from the northern horizon in Perseus, through
the cross-shaped constellation Cygnus, and down to Sagittarius in the
south. The Milky Way includes many star clusters, nebulae, double stars,
and variable stars. High overhead, and the first star to appear after
sunset is Vega in the constellation Lyra. Vega forms one corner of the
Summer Triangle, a group of 3 bright stars. Near Vega lies the famous
double-double star, Epsilon Lyrae. Two 5th magnitude stars lie about 3
arcminutes apart and can be split when using binoculars. Each of these
two stars are also double, but you will require a telescope to split them
apart.
The Moon And The Planets
Most the planets are visible at sometime during the year, positions vary
so accurate charts are needed to locate them. The easiest two to spot
are Venus with its brilliant white colour near the sun, and Mars showing
the redness of its atmoshpere. Mercury can also be found close to the
sun. The outer planets are visible in binoculars, with telescopes showing
greater detail. The rings of Saturn's and Jupiter's Great Red Spot can
be spotted with a good sized telescope. Our Moon also shows some fantastic
detail, even with binoculars. Telescopes will start to show the uneven
edges of the moon's surface.
Amateur astronomers continue to make scientific
contributions to the field of astronomy. It is one of the few scientific
disciplines where amateurs can still make significant contributions. Amateurs
can make occultation measurements that are used to refine the orbits of
minor planets. They can also discover comets and supernovae, and perform
regular observations of variable stars.
Mills Observatory - en.wikipedia.org
Dundee Astronomical Society - www.dundeeastro.com
Alexander Brown - www.angus.gov.uk
Astrology - www.astrology.com
Ancient Astrology www.ancient-astrology.com
The Funny Side To Astronomy
An astronomer from the Mills Observatory in Dundee is on an expedition
to Africa to observe a total eclipse of the sun, which will only be observable
there, when he's captured by cannibals. The eclipse is due the next day
around noon. To gain his freedom he plans to pose as a god and threaten
to extinguish the sun if he's not released, but the timing has to be just
right. So, in the few words of the cannibals' tongue that he knows, he
asks his guard what time they plan to kill him. The guard answers, "Tradition
has it that captives are to be killed when the sun reaches the highest
point in the sky on the day after their capture so that they may be cooked
and ready to be served for the evening meal". "Great",
the Dundonian astronomer replies. The guard continues, "But because
everyone's so excited about it, in your case we're going to wait until
after the eclipse."
Living on Earth may be expensive, but it includes an annual free trip
around the Sun.
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Alternative
Therapies / Reiki / Tai Chi
"5 days a week my body is a temple. The
other two, its an amusement park"
The field of complementary therapy/alternative health care is
growing rapidly and gaining ever more acceptance in widespread areas.
Many people are training in the different fields and setting up in practice,
as you will see, some in Arbroath. As interest in alternative approaches
to health grows, so does the variety of therapies on offer. Issues of
regulation of standards, qualifications and ethical behaviour are being
discussed at all levels. From the EC to local practitioners and their
associations. Some therapies have very rigid codes of practice, while
others are still developing. The vast majority of therapists are happy
to answer any questions you might have.
Visiting an alternative health practitioner or complementary therapist
can be part of a wonderful and exciting journey to improved health and
enhanced well-being. Complementary therapists often adopt a more holistic
approach to their practice and invite their clients to take an active
and responsible part in their own healing process.

Reiki is a Japanese word meaning Universal
Life Energy, an energy which is all around us.

Chinese Tai Chi is the worlds most popular
exercise. 180,000,000 people worldwide do some form of Tai Chi everyday.
Alternative Therapists in Arbroath
Ellen O'Brien
Member of NFSH
Spiritual Healing and Reiki sessions
Contact at eobrien47@onetel.com
Arbroath Spiritualist Church
SNU affiliated
Meditation Workshop, Spiritual Healing sessions
Call 01241 875979
Elaine Cairney
RS Homoepathy
Homoepathy and Acupuncture sessions
Call 01241 437909
Laurie Tilley
BSc Zoology, EFT I & II Advanced, Reiki I & II
Animal Healing, Emotional Freedom Technique, Reiki I & II, Site Harmonisation
sessions
Call 01241 876263
Gillian Fraser
Positive Changes M. Dip GQHP mem. GHR Hypnotherapy & NLP, ITEC Dip
Ref. mem. FIHT
Hypnotherapy and Reflexology sessions
Call 07718 295927
Saltire Leisure Centre Tai Chi Classes
Qualified instructor
Tai Chi sessions
Call 01241 431060
Aqua Detox
Member of Institute of Professional Colon Hydrotherapy
Colon Hydrotherapy, Body Wraps, Hopi Ear Candles, Massage sessions
Call 01241 870211
Healing Hands
BSc Hons
Usui Reiki, Shamanism, Breathwork and Past Life sessions
Call 01241 437953
Healing Pathways
Homoepathy sessions
Call 01241 434427
Maggi Costella - Cottage Reiki
Diploma Psychodynamic Counselling, Reiki I & II, NFSH Probationer
Counselling, Reiki I & II and Spiritual Healing sessions
Call 01241 828289
Marion Fergusson
Kairos; mem. IAKT, Cert. IHM, Reiki I & II; TRA Cert. CSP mem. ISTA
Indian Head Massage, Kairos, Reiki I & II and Shen Therapy sessions
Call 01241 873991
Susan Starky
Dip CA, mem. SMTO, Dip. SM, Dip. Ref
Aromatherapy, Massage Pre & Perinatal, Reflexology, Swedish Massage
home visit sessions
Call 01241 873423
Brenda Marr
Hypnotherapy, Analytical Registered GHR/GHSC, Eye Movement Desensitisation
and Reprocessing, Member of EMDR As. Stress Councelling, MASC/ccc reg.
Hypnotherapy, Light Therapy and Stress Management sessions
Call 01334 880377
Caroline Walker
GSSR, Member SIR
Reflexology sessions
Call 01241 860347
Lesley Ann Holmes
Reflexology, Swedish Massage, Spiritual Healing, Tarot Card sessions
Home visits possible
Call 01241 437902
Margaret Wynne
Qualified Instructor
Yoga sessions
Call 01241 873182
Arbroath Sports Centre Yoga Classes
Qualified Instructor
Yoga Sessions
Call 01241 872999
The Meridian
Qualified Practitioner
Acupuncture sessions
Call 07890 605510
Evening Of Mediumship
Arbroath also host a weekly Evening of Mediumship at the towns Community
Centre. Sessions here start at 7.30pm every Thursday and run until 9pm.
Costs £2.50
"It costs nothing to be nice to someone, yet a small few find it
most expensive"
GP
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The Arbroath
Nightlife
"In the auld days, Arbroath once had more
churches and pubs per head of population than anywhere else in Scotland"
"Not so many churches now, and another is
getting made into a nightclub"
Have A Night In At Five Gables House
You could also have a night in at Five Gables House, watch the golfers
from our garden area, relax in our seaview guest lounge, order in and
have an evening meal at our dining area, chill out with a bottle of wine
and a board game, or bring back a few beers and play Pool, Table Tennis
or Darts.
Arbroath Pubs & Clubs
With 30 to 40 pubs and clubs to choose from in Arbroath, the town caters
for all kinds of entertainment. Whether its just a quiet drink or some
of our local live entertainers, to the live bands and the nightclub scene,
Arbroath has something for everyone. This live music can be anything from
Blues, Rock, Pop, Punk, Country, Jazz to the traditional Scottish Folk
Music. The well known Foundry Bar Band play Scottish Music every Wednesday
and Friday nights at the Foundry Bar. There are a couple of nightclubs
in town including the new Coast Nightclub with its state of the art lighting
and drink dispensing system. Karaoke evenings, Open Mic nights, Blues
Nights, Comedy Nights and Race Nights also quite popular.
"Old Lorne Bar - The Oldest Public Bar In Arbroath"
"Tutties Neuk Inn - Dates Back To The Early 1800's"
"Old Brewhouse - A Cannonball In The Bar Pierced Its Walls In 1771"
"Foundry Bar - Home To The Famous Foundry Bar Band"
"Coast Nightclub - First In Scotland To Have New Laser Drinks System"
"Waterfront Nightclub - Largest Nightclub In The Angus Area"
All The Pubs & Clubs Of Arbroath
Newgate Bar Smugglers Tavern Abbey
Inn Burns Bar
Central Bar Corner Bar Millgate
Bar Crown Inn
Station Bar Ship Inn Commercial
Bar Lochlands Bar
Pageant Bar Ogstons Bar Portcullis
Bar Rams Heid Bar
West Port Bar Stag Inn Fishermans
Inn St Thomas Bar
De Lintons Bar Anchor Bar Bowlers
Lounge Foundry Bar
Lorne Bar Tutties Neuk Inn Old
Brewhouse Victoria Bar
British Legion Corn Exchange Cliffburn
Gala Bingo Hall
Coast Nightclub Waterfront Nightclub De
Vitos Nightclub
Arbroath Artisan Golf Club Arbroath Rugby/Cricket Club
Abbey Bowling Club Lochlands Bowling Club Arbroath
Bowling Club
Newgate Bowling Club Arbroath Indoor Bowling Club
Arbroath Theatres
Arbroath has two theatres, the Webster Theatre and Abbey Theatre. Check
the web links below for details on local shows, touring theatres and drop
in performance programmes at either venue. Previous big names at the theatres
include Frankie Boyle, Billy Connolly, Dominic Kirwin, The MacDonald Brothers,
The Royal Scottish National Orchestra, Laura McGhee, Zoe Tyler and the
Red Hot Chilli Pipers.
Arbroath Cinema
The towns Webster Theatre also has a new cinema facility showing not only
the latest blockbusters and childrens movies, but also foreign language
films, arthouse and independant films.
Arbroath Sports
The local clubs and leisure centres offer a range of activities, more
details of whats on offer can be found at our Arbroath Sports section.
The Portcullis Bar also have a few Snooker tables that can be booked.
Evening Walks In Arbroath
The long summer days and short nights in Scotland offer some great walks
up until the early hours. More details of the scenic walks surrounding
the town can be found on our Local Walks section.
Arbroath Gala Bingo
The town also has a Gala Bingo hall if you want to try your luck. Over
£20 million in prizes are paid out every week at Gala Bingo halls.
If bingo is your thing then this is one of the best places to go where
you can have a drink, a bite to eat and also win prize money. Gala Bingo
offer you a safe, secure and friendly environment, which is either a great
place to bring your friends or meet new people.
Arbroath Ceilidh's
There are a few Ceilidh's on in town every year, and Scottish music nights
held twice every week at the towns Foundry Bar. Events to look out for
Ceilidh's include Burns Night, Arbroath Tartan Week, the Accordion &
Fiddle Festival, the Arbroath Seafest, the British Legion Ceilidh and
the St Andrews Day events. Highland Dancing lessons are also available
weekly at local clubs.
Arbroath Town Mission & Church Events
Its always busy at the Town Mission in Arbroath, with various events,
groups, speakers and services on all week, every week. Some churches also
put on special concerts and events, music at St Vigeans, church fayres,
etc. We can highlight whats on at the town mission and local churches
in town during your visit.
Arbroath Music Festivals
All through the year visitors and musicians flock to Arbroath for our
many musical events and music festivals. Our annual events include the
4 day Arbroath and District Music Festival in March or April, the 3 day
Accordion and Fiddle Festival in July, the 2 day Smokie Blues Festival
in July, the 2 day Bellrock Blues festival in August, and the Hairst Summer
Arts Festival and Angus Folk Sessions that run throughout the summer months.
Our Arbroath British Legion Pipe Band and Arbroath Instrumental Brass
band, will also play at various events during the year.
Arbroath Gala Weekends
There are many gala day/weekends on throughout the year in town. The largest
being the Arbroath Seafest in August, a 2 day festival celebrating the
towns seafaring heritage. The Arbroath Seafest is the largest event in
the Angus area. Another large event is the Arbroath Seafront Spectacular
in July. The Spectacular has many top attractions on offer including Russ
Swift's Stunt Car Driving and motorcycle stunt teams as well. The event
also has an airshow theme to it with many top names appearing over the
years including the Caledonian Chipmunks, RAF Chinook and Tornado demonstrations
and the world famous Red Arrows display team. Many more events take place
throughout the year including the Tartan Week Celebrations in April, Tutties
In The Park Gala in July, ASC Gala Days in July and the Auchmithie Haar
Festival in September. We will let you know of any events that are on,
not only in Arbroath, but also throughout the Angus area.
Nearby Alternatives
Nearby, other evening options for visitors to the area include unique
restaurants, ice arena's, casino's, country parks, fisheries, golf courses,
historical walks and annual events.

Arbroath's Foundry Bar Band
www.footstompin.com/artists/the_foundry_bar_band

Waterfront Nightclub, the largest venue in the Angus
area

Around 35 pubs & clubs in Arbroath

Gala Bingo in Arbroath
www.galabingo.co.uk

Have a night out at the Webster Theatre or at the Abbey
Theatre in Arbroath
Abbey Theatre Arbroath - www.theabbeytheatre.org
Webster Theatre Arbroath - www.webstertheatre.co.uk

Karaoke Nights in Arbroath

Ice Arena, Cinema, Bowling Alley & Casino nearby

Or have a relaxing evening at Five Gables House

Try the many popular restaurants in and around Arbroath,
including
The Old Brewhouse, Tutties Neuk Inn, The Old Boatyard, The Portcullis
and the famous But n Ben
Arbroath
Pipe Band - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Foundry Bar Band - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Accordion & Fiddle Festival (Catticloo) - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Blues Festival (The Hot Tamales) - www.youtube.com
Webster Theatre (Red Hot Chilli Pipers) - www.youtube.com
Waterfront Nightclub (EPIC) - www.youtube.com
De Vitos Nightclub (Maiden Scotland) - www.youtube.com
The Funny Side Of Nightlife
An Arbroath man is sitting in the Burns Bar when he hears a bowl of peanuts
on the bar saying "Oooh, yer really are amazing. Oooh, yer lovely"
Then the fruit machine shouted "Rubbish, look at the state of that
haircut. And those socks don't go with those shoes." The barman apologised.
"I'm sorry," he said, "The nuts are complimentary but the
fruit machine is out of order."
A drunken man walks into the Smugglers Tavern and, after staring for some
time at the only woman seated at the bar, walked over to her and kissed
her. She jumped up and slapped him. He immediately apologised and explained,
"I'm sorry. I thought you were my wife. You look exactly like her."
"Why you worthless, insufferable, wretched, no good drunk!"
she screamed. "Funny," he muttered, "you even sound exactly
like her."
A guy walks into the Central Bar in Arbroath and approaches the barman,
"Can I have a pint of Less, please?" "I'm sorry sir,"
the barman replies, looking slightly puzzled, "I've not come across
that one before. Is it a spirit?" "I've no idea," replies
the guy, "The thing is, I went to see my doctor last week and he
told me that I should drink less."
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Coast
Nightclub / Waterfront Nightclub
"Alcohol may be
mans worst enemy, but the bible says love your enemy"
Frank
Sinatra
Coast Nightclub
A new nightclub in the town that also caters for parties and large wedding
receptions. Housed within the old Keith & Blackman Social Club built
around 100 years ago, many of the original architectural features remain.
Coast opened its doors during the Arbroath Seafest in the summer of 2009.
This stunning new addition to the town has a state of the art bar, lounge
and restaurant downstairs with function venue/nightclub on the upper floor.
Coast Nightclub is the first establishment in Scotland to have a new state
of the art Berg Laser Drinks System, a spirit dispensing system that does
not rely on optics and other unreliable methods. Instead a hand held device
with 16 different nozzles serves exact amounts of different spirits and
drinks at the same time. So there is no chance of getting short measures.
The club also has an advanced eco-friendly lighting system, streaming
out 40,000 different combinations of lighting arrangements. Run by brothers
Kent & Nevada Mitchell who already run the popular Burns Bar in town.
Call 01241 873362 for more details.

Coast Nightclub in Arbroath

State of the art drink dispensing and
lighting system
The Waterfront Nightclub
The Waterfront Nightclub, another great club in Arbroath offering the
latest sounds. Also the largest function venue in the Angus area. The
Waterfront can cater for large events such as wedding shows, charity &
corporate events, boxing matches, band and club nights. Or for smaller
functions, they have rooms that can be hired and private areas of the
main nightclub.
Built in the 1980's, the older ravers out there will remember it then
named Smokies, then renamed Ballys, then Club Metro and now The Waterfront.
Has been host to many famous faces over the decades from Kylie Minogue,
Stefan Dennis and the pop group Steps in the 80's and 90's, to some of
the top DJ's in the world today including Lisa Lashes. Call on 01241 437777
for more details.

The Waterfront Nightclub in Arbroath

Nightclub, Glam Nights, Band Nights,
Charity Boxing Matches & Wedding Shows
De Vitos Nightclub
The other nightclub in Arbroath is De Vito's. Two levels to choose from
here with a bar/lounge area on the ground floor and nightclub on the upper
floor. At weekends, De Vito's is host to many up and coming bands, and
also offer services for private parties.

De Vito's Nightclub, Arbroath
A guy goes into a bar, orders
twelve shots and starts drinking them as fast as he can. The bartender
says, "Why are you drinking so fast?" The guy says, "You
would be drinking fast if you have what I have." The bartender says,
"What do you have?" The guy says, "About 50 pence."
A
piece of motorway and piece of A92 dual carriageway are enjoying a drink
in the Millgate Bar. In walks a piece of red tarmac. The bit of motorway
whispers to the bit of carriageway "Come on lets drink up and go
before the trouble starts, he's a bit of a cyclepath!"
A man walks into the Portcullis Bar with a piece of tarmac under his arm
and says "two pints please, one for me and one for the road."
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Shopping
In Angus / Arbroath Smokie
"I've been eating a lot of fish. They've got the guy smoking some
right over here, probably some of the best you'll ever eat. Yes sir it
was good"
Golfer Boo Weekley talking about the Arbroath Smokie at the 2007 Open
"One persons trash is
another persons treasure, and usually a fragile tolerance of the other
half"
GP
Arbroath has many nice shops and quaint cafes mostly surrounding its main
High Street and the Westport area of town. With the Abbeygate Shopping
Centre found on the main High Street. This centre is home to some of the
bigger chains. Grace's old Florist shop is also found on the High Street,
still named Grace Pattersons. Other large branches in town include Focus,
Halfords, Acorn Pets, Argos, Boots, WH Smith, Dorothy Perkins, Burtons,
Subway & Mackays Preserves. With many more charity shops, cafes, local
stores and hidden gems dotted about town. We also have a Morrisons and
a Tesco store.
Dundee, just 20 minutes away also offers a superb day out for shoppers.
With its huge Wellgate and Overgate shopping centres, and the City Quay
Shopping Centre down by the seafront. Just 10 minutes away visitors will
find the large Angus Gateway Shopping Centre, next to Dobbies Garden World.
And Aberdeen has plently to offer too, only an hour away by car or train.
The Angus area also puts on a few Farmers Markets and Fish Markets at
weekends, a few times a month. And there is always a car boot sale on
every Sunday in Arbroath, for those looking for a bargain. Many hidden
gems are dotted about the region also, like the Milton Haugh Farm Shop
and the gem that is the House of Farnell, both a few miles from Arbroath.
Mackays Marmalades & Preserves - www.mackays.com
"Absolutely brilliant"
Billy Connolly's comment while
having another Arbroath Smokie

Sugar and Spice Tearoom in Arbroath,
unique cafe, traditional. With gift shop, sweet shop, fudge factory and
play area
In Angus And Dundee
Antique Shops Craft Shops Books
Shops Gift Shops
Art Studios Charity Shops Second
Hand Shops Car Boot Sales
Collectors Fairs Auctions CD &
Record Fairs
"We will tell you whats on, when and where"
Taylors
Auctions
Fentons
Auctions
Scottish Antiques
& Arts Centre
Gow Antiques
Mearns
Antiques
Buying Arbroath Smokies Online
www.arbroathsmokiesdirect.co.uk
www.arbroathsmokiesonline.co.uk
www.arbroathsmokies.net
www.arbroath-smokie.co.uk

Angus Farmers Market

Wellgate Shopping Centre
Try The Local Food & Drink Of Angus
Arbroath Smokie Smokie Pate
Smokie Pies Smokie Soup
Mackays Marmalade Milton Haugh Farm Shop
Charleton Fruit Farm
Forfar Bridies Forfar Rock
Sea Pie Dundee Cake
Nicolls Of Strathmore Robertsons Marmalade
Angus Soft Fruit
Glencadum Whisky Smokie
Vodka Fettercairn Whisky
Arbroath Shop Websites
Mackays Marmalade Shop - www.mackays.com
Sugar & Spice Tearoom - www.sugarandspiceshop.co.uk
CM Supplies - www.c-m-supplies.com
Irene's Lingerie - www.ireneslingerie.co.uk
Outdoor Action Scotland - www.outdoor-action.com
Christie's Fine Art - www.christiesfineart.com
Pet Portraits - www.petportraits.co.uk
The Round O Prints - www.theround-o.com
Old Brewhouse Restaurant - oldbrewhousearbroath.co.uk
Portcullis Restaurant - www.theportcullis.co.uk
Tutties Neuk Inn Restaurant - www.pubutopia.com
Meadowbank Inn Restaurant - www.restaurants.co.uk
Angus Pictures - www.anguspictures.com
Changes Hair & Beauty Salon - www.changeshairnbeautyclinic.co.uk
Arbroath Precinct Gallery - www.scottishartscapes.com
Tech City - www.tech-city.co.uk
Zigzak Computers - www.zigzak.co.uk
Arbroath FC Shop - www.arbroathfc.co.uk
Cycle World - www.cycle-world.co.uk
Cancer Research Charity Shop - www.cancerresearchuk.org
British Heart Foundation - www.bhf.org.uk
Jasmine House Chinese Restaurant - chineserestaurantguide.co.uk
Azzurro Italian Restaurant - www.restaurants.co.uk
Squadron Prints - www.squadronprints.com
Saffron Restaurant - www.saffroncuisine.co.uk
Bell Rock Restaurant - www.thebellrock.com
Marie Curie Charity Shop - www.mariecurie.org.uk
Oxfam Charity Shop - www.oxfam.org.uk/shop
The Abbey Barber - www.interbarbers.co.uk
Goves Florist - www.angusflorist.co.uk
H Samuel - www.hsamuel.co.uk
AK Adamson - www.akadamson.co.uk
RNLI Station Shop - www.arbroath-lifeboat.org.uk
Grace Patterson's Florist - www.gracepattersonflowers.co.uk
Browns Pet Shop - www.brownspetshop.co.uk
Arbroath Artisan Pro Shop - www.arbroathgolfcourse.co.uk
Ferriers Florist - www.ferriersflorist.com
Keptie Bakery - www.keptiebakery.com
Djembe Drum Shop - www.djembedrumshop.com
Boots Chemist - www.boots.com
Aqua Detox - www.aqua-detox-arbroath.co.uk
Angus Soft Fruits - www.angussoftfruits.co.uk
Middleton Memorials - www.middletonmemorials.com
Burtons Menswear - www.burton.co.uk
Argos
- www.argos.co.uk
Dorothy Perkins - www.dorothyperkins.com
Shoe Zone - www.shoezone.net
Halfords - www.halfords.com
Acorn Pets - www.acornpetcentre.co.uk
WH Smith - www.whsmith.co.uk
Specsavers - www.specsavers.co.uk
The Corn Exchange Restaurant - www.jdwetherspoon.co.uk
Old Boatyard Restaurant - www.oldboatyard.co.uk
Tayside Computing - www.taysidecomputing.co.uk
Ashbrook Nursery - www.ashbrooknursery.co.uk
Blockbuster Video - www.blockbuster.co.uk
Arkive - www.ozzys.co.uk
Holland & Barrett - www.hollandandbarrett.com
Flemings Butchers - www.qype.co.uk
Derek Spink Fishmonger - www.arbroathfish.co.uk
David Anderson Fishmonger - arbroathfreshfish.com
Colin M Smith Electrical - www.colinmsmith.com
Hospitalfield House Hope Gardens - www.hopegardentrust.org.uk
Blessings Outreach Coffee Shop - arbroathbop.org
Haldanes - www.haldanes-stores.co.uk
Whittons Flooring - www.whittonsflooringltd.co.uk
Joes Tattoo's - www.joestattoos.co.uk
Angus Country Sports - www.anguscountrysports.com
Kerrs Car & Van Hire - www.kerrsofarbroath.co.uk
Angus Bike Chain - www.angusbikechain.co.uk
Goodfellow & Steven - www.goodfellowscakes.co.uk
Abbey Music - www.thenationalpages.co.uk
Aoken Videography - www.aoken.com
Semichem - www.semichem.co.uk
Cairnie Chip Shop - www.cairniechipshop.co.uk
William Hill Betting Shop - sports.williamhill.com
Ladbrokes Betting Shop - sports.ladbrokes.com
Beattie Glazing - www.beattieglazing.co.uk
Checkpoint Garage - checkpoint.boschauto.co.uk
Mackie Motors - www.mackiemotors.com
McConechys Tyre & Exhaust - www.mcconechys.co.uk
Kwik Fit Garage - www.kwik-fit.com
RS McColl - www.tmretail.co.uk
Tayside Accident Repair Centre - www.tarc.co.uk
Lloyds Pharmacy - www.lloydspharmacy.com
Iceland Foods - www.iceland.co.uk
Arbroath Morrison's - www.morrisons.co.uk
Arbroath Tesco's - opening-times.co.uk
Royal Bank Of Scotland - www.rbs.co.uk
Bank Of Scotland - www.bankofscotland.co.uk
Lloyds TSB - www.lloydstsb.com
Clydesdale Bank - www.cbonline.co.uk
Halifax PLC - www.halifax.co.uk
Some Hidden Gems Nearby
Milton Haugh Farm Shop - www.miltonhaugh.com
House Of Farnell - paulaoffarnell.co.uk
Simpson's Golf Shop - www.carnoustiegolfshop.com
But n Ben Restaurant - www.restaurant-guide.com
Dobbies Garden World - www.dobbies.com
Dundee Wellgate Centre - www.wellgatedundee.co.uk
Dundee Overgate Centre - www.overgate.co.uk
Brechin Castle Centre - www.brechincastlecentre.co.uk
Peel Farm Coffee & Crafts - www.peelfarm.com
Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery - www.oathlawpotteryandgallery.com
Angus Gateway Centre - www.dobbies.com
Margaret's Painted Pottery - www.margaretspaintedpottery.co.uk
Glencadum Distillery - www.glencadamdistillery.co.uk
Fettercairn Distillery - www.scotchwhisky.net
Forfar Bridies - www.thebridieshop.co.uk
Strathmore Woolen Company - www.strathmorewoollen.co.uk
Dundee Contemporary Arts - www.dca.org.uk
Crafts Of Angus Showcase Shop - www.craftsofangus.co.uk
Any local business that would like to have a free link
added to this website, then contact me at fivegableshouse@yahoo.com
The Funny Side To Shopping
The other day, a couple bought thier small son a jigsaw from Argos in
Arbroath, to keep him occupied while they went out for a lovely meal at
the Azzurro Italian restaurant. Imagine the surprise when, four hours
later, they came back to find that he had cut his fingers off while making
a shelf.
The shopkeeper who has a thriving business on Arbroath's Westport was
dismayed when a brand new business much like his own opened up next door
and erected a huge sign which read BEST DEALS. He was horrified when another
competitor opened up on his right, and announced its arrival with an even
larger sign, reading LOWEST PRICES. The shopkeeper panicked, until he
got an idea. He put the biggest sign of all over his own shop, it read...
MAIN ENTRANCE.
A mother and a daughter are shopping in the Wellgate Shopping Centre in
Dundee, when the mother eyes an expensive fur coat. "This year,"
she says, "I think that I will buy my present instead of making you
and dad shop for me." The daughter said "OK". "And
I think this fur coat would be perfect too." The daughter protests,
"But mom, some helpless, poor creature has to suffer so that you
can have this." "Don't worry honey," says the mum, "your
dad won't get the bill for a couple of weeks."
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Arbroath Theatres
/ Arbroath Cinema
The Webster Memorial Theatre is the main theatre in town, re-opened in
2007 after a £4 million refit. There is usually something on at this theatre
every week in Arbroath. Anything from stage theatre and musicals, professional
drop in performance programmes, to a wide range of community shows and
events.
One of the more famous faces who has appeared at the Webster on a few
occasions is Billy Connolly during his many tours of Scotland. Billy has
a few links with Arbroath, one being he used to come camping here in his
youth.
The Webster Theatre also takes centre stage during the Hairst Summer Arts
Festival. The other theatre in town is the 70 seater Abbey Theatre. They
run fortnightly shows on and off throughout the year and offer some great
entertainment. This theatre company nurtured the talents of Norman Bowman,
a local lad who is making his way on London's West End circuit.
Another theatrical event growing in popularity is our annual pageant during
the Tartan Week Celebrations, starting on the 6th of April. Where local
Arbroath Abbey Pageant Society members recreate the signing of the Arbroath
Declaration, as well as other historical moments in Scotland's history.
Not too far away is the famous Caird Hall and we also highlight what is
on here during your stay. Annual visitors include anything from top music
acts from classical to pop, to some of the great comic and stage entertainers.
Bob Hope, Billy Connolly and The Beatles are some who have graced the
stage of the Caird Hall.
"Acting is all about honesty. If you can
fake that, you've got it made"
George Burns
Abbey Theatre Arbroath - www.theabbeytheatre.org
Webster Theatre Arbroath - www.webstertheatre.co.uk
Caird Hall Dundee - www.cairdhall.co.uk

Abbey Theatre

Arbroath's Webster Theatre, after a
£4 million pound refurbishment

Tartan Week Celebrations on the 6th of April

Billy Connolly visits the Webster Theatre
during his TV World Tour Of Scotland

Old Webster Theatre show programmes,
plus 50's & 60's books, and 80's & 90's Arbroath Herald annuals
showing theatre productions, school plays and musical events

Actor Paul Bown
Brit Actor Paul Bown, who stayed with us while attending
a wedding in town. Paul is best known for playing Malcolm Stoneway in
56 episodes of the 90's TV series "Watching", also starring
Lisa Tarbuck. And for long runs in the TV series "Doctors" and
" Mersey Beat". Paul also appeared in the movie "Morons
from Outer Space". Still working away today in the theatre and with
bit parts in TV shows such as Last Of The Summer Wine, Casualty, Heartbeat,
Holby City, The Bill, Peak Practice and Missing in 2009.
The Funny Side To Theatres
An Arbroath man lay sprawled
across three seats in the Webster Theatre. When the usher came by and
noticed this, he whispered to the man, "Sorry, sir, but you're only
allowed one seat." The man groaned but didn't budge. The usher became
impatient. "Sir, if you don't get up from there I'm going to have
to call the manager." Again, the man just groaned, which infuriated
the usher who turned and marched briskly back up the aisle in search of
his manager. In a few moments, both the usher and the manager returned
and stood over the man. Together the two of them tried repeatedly to move
him, but with no success. Finally, they summoned the Tayside police. The
Angus bobby surveyed the situation briefly then asked, "All right
buddy, what's your name?" "Jim," the man moaned. "Where
ya from, Jim?" With pain in his voice Jim replied "The balcony."
Q: How many Angus theatre critics does it take to screw in a light bulb?
A: All of them. One to be highly critical of the design elements, one
to express contempt for the glow of the lamp, another to criticise the
interpretation of wattage used, one to critique the performance of the
bulb itself, one to recall superb light bulbs of past seasons and lament
how this one fails to measure up, and all to join in the refrain reflecting
on how they could build a better light bulb in their sleep.
Q: How many Abbey Theatre sound engineers does it take to change a light
bulb?
A: One, Two, One, Two
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The Arts / Guest
Art
"Hospitalfield House was the first art college in Britain"
For those who appreciate art in its many forms, the area has a few galleries
and a few exhibitions on offer. The Arbroath Art Gallery can be found
at the Arbroath Library, housing works by renowned artists Peter Breughel
II and the Angus born James Watterston Herald, who lived in Arbroath in
his latter years. This influenced his art with scenes of the abbey, harbour
and fisher folk reflected in his work. Various exhibitions also take place
at the Angus College in town. With a few exhibitions held at the Kinblethmont
House Gallery a few miles from Arbroath.
Exhibitions and other events also take place at Hospitalfield House in
Arbroath. This house dates back to the 1200's and is now used as a centre
for the arts, a home for the budding artists of the future. This mansion
house was the first location in Britain used for this purpose and was
used as a model for the art colleges of the future.
For some fine examples of local art and a great place to pick up prints
of Arbroath scenes during the 1900's, visitors must pay a visit to Christies
Fine Art Studio in Arbroath. A great place to pick up a souvenir of your
visit to the area, or to commision a painting. They also specialise in
Pet Portraits.
"All true artists, whether they know it or not,
create from a place of no-mind, from inner stillness"

Arbroath
Art Gallery, with works from James Watterston Herald. Plus lectures and
art exhibitions all year round
James Watterston Herald
James Watterston Herald was born on the 29th of July 1859, at 53 Little
Causeway, Forfar. He was the son of a shoemaker, William Herald, who was
said to have encouraged his early artistic efforts. From a young age Herald
was encouraged to pursue his artistic ambitions and over the years his
interests developed into an outstanding talent. Herald is known mostly
for his studies in water-colours and pastels, his water-colours are described
as being decorative and imaginative. His work attracts many visitors,
possibly due to his paintings of the local area and many local connections.
After a short spell in Edinburgh and ten years in London, Herald returned
to Scotland and took up residence in Arbroath around 1900, where he was
to remain for the rest of his life, quietly working without strain and
pressure in his studio in Commerce Street or at his home in Bank Street.
He died at the age of 55 on the 17th October 1914 and is buried in the
Western Cemetery in Arbroath. As well as the Arbroath Library, 37 other
pieces of his work are displayed in the Meffan Museum and Art Gallery
in Forfar.

Hospitalfield House
Hospitalfield House - www.hospitalfield.org.uk
Kinblethmont House - www.kinblethmont.com
Angus College Of Further Education - www.angus.ac.uk
Christies Fine Art - www.christiesfineart.com
Pet Portraits - www.petportraits.co.uk
Angus Arts - www.angusarts.org
Eduardo Alessandro Studios - www.eastudios.com
Dundee Contemporary Arts - www.dca.org.uk
Arbroath Art Gallery - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Precinct Gallery - www.scottishartscapes.com
Squadron Prints - www.squadronprints.com
Angus Pictures - www.anguspictures.com
Jackie Gardiner Gallery - www.jackiegardiner.co.uk

Kinblethmont
House Art Gallery, 2 miles from Arbroath

Dundee
Contemporary Arts, 20 minutes from Arbroath
Thank You All
Over the years we have received some amazing and thoughtful gifts from
our guests, here are a few. The superb drawing of the Bell Rock Lighthouse
was skillfully done by Zac Koshi, a gift from Zac, his wife Sonia and
daughter Tanni from Glasgow. This amazing painting of Five Gables House
was painted by Janny Vermeulen on a piece of driftwood from a beach in
Holland. This was a gift from Janny, Jakko and Martin Vermeulen from Ouddorp
in Holland.

Painting of the Bell Rock Lighthouse

Painting of Five Gables House
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Grace also enjoys painting in her spare time.
A couple of her paintings can be seen in the guesthouse. So we have
a few books here as well on art and Scottish and British artists.
Guests are also welcome to borrow Grace's easel if they wish. A
great way to relax on a sunny afternoon.
Arts and Crafts
"Every child is an artist.
The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up"
Pablo Picasso
Arts And Crafts Shops In Arbroath
The Picture Gallery Arbroath - 01241 870644
Turnkey Gallery Arbroath - 01241 872988
Card Craft & Design Arbroath - 01241 439039
Oyster Crafts - 01241 879389
Arts And Crafts In Angus And Dundee
Angus Craft Association - www.anguscrafts.co.uk
Crafts Of Angus Showcase Shop - www.craftsofangus.co.uk
Dundee Contemporary Arts - www.dca.org.uk
Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery - www.oathlawpotteryandgallery.com
Peel Farm Coffee & Crafts - www.peelfarm.com
There are many Arts and Craft Fairs throughout the year in Arbroath,
as well as other events around the Angus area. The main ones are
the Glamis Castle 2D/3D Craft Fair around July, the Guthrie Castle
Craft Fairs in May and October, the Letham Christmas Craft Fair,
the Caledonian Craft Fair at the Arbroath Seafest in August, and
the Angus Spinners Fairs held at the Arbroath Abbey throughout the
year.
With a few shops in Arbroath like Christie's Fine Art Studio and
Sugar n Spice, offering a superb range of traditional and unique
giftware and prints. Other studios of note in the area include the
Eduardo Alessandro Studios, a 2 storey gallery showcasing prints,
jewellry and ceramics in Broughty Ferry. The Oathlaw Pottery and
Gallery near Forfar, displaying contemporary paintings and ceramics
in stoneware and raku. Shirley I Ferguson's studio in Letham with
amazing hand painted stones featuring Scottish wildlife and monuments.
And the William Lamb Studio in Montrose which includes busts of
the Royal family. All within 15 minutes drive of Arbroath.
Or why not hold your own craft fair at Five Gables House. Andrea,
Lisa, Karen, Shona and Susan, the "Crazy Crafters" from Glasgow
and East Kilbride did this in 2006. Taking over our dining area
for a couple of days to make some fantastic craftwork and gifts.
They even made us their own unique Thank You card which we proudly
display in the guest house. As with all the other attractions in
the area, we can point you in the right direction if its arts and
crafts your looking for.
" A home from home, thanks for
making us feel so
welcome"
Andrea, Lisa, Karen, Shona and Susan`
From Glasgow and East Kilbride
The Funny Side To Art
Vincent van Gogh walks into the Tutties Neuk Inn in Arbroath while
on a visit to Scotland, and the bartender asks him if he's like
a drink. "No thanks," says Vincent, "I've got one
'ere."
An old lady approached an artist during an exhibition at Kinblethmont
House Art Gallery. 'Oh, how wonderful to meet you!' she said. 'I'd
like to buy one of your paintings. Do they have a big sale?' 'Only
when I draw big boats,' said the artist.
An Angus artist arrives at the Hill Street Medical Centre in Arbroath
and states "Doctor, Doctor I keep painting myself gold."
"Don't worry" replies the Doctor, "it's just a gilt
complex"
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Arbroath Sports
/ Local Clubs
Moving To Arbroath Or Staying For A While In A B&B
Sports Clubs In The Town
"Champions aren't made in the gyms. Champions are made from
something they have deep inside them, a desire, a dream, a vision"
Muhammad Ali
Arbroath Football Club
(World Record for highest scoring match at Pro level 36-0 winners)
(World Record for highest goals scored in match by a single player - 13)
Arbroath Victoria FC Arbroath Sporting FC
Arbroath Harp FC
Arbroath United Cricket Club Arbroath Rugby Club
Arbroath Artisan Golf Club Arbroath Footers Running
Club
Arbroath Badminton Club Arbroath Tennis Club
Arbroath Sports Climb
St Thomas Swimming Club Arbroath & District Athletics
Club
Arbroath Musketeers Basketball Club Arbroath Angling Club
Arbroath & District Netball Club Arbroath
& District Pool League
Arbroath Ski Club Arbroath Rifle Club
Arbroath Racing Pigeon Society Inchcape Racing
Pigeon Club
Arbroath Porty Hill Walking Club
Forfar & District Rambling Club
Arbroath School Of Jujutsu Brothock Shotokan Karate Club
Mark Davies Kickboxing Blackbelt Academy Arbroath
Boxing Club
Phraya Pichai Thai Boxing Club Tai Chi Classes
at Saltire Centre
Angus Cycling Club Angus Mountain Bike Trail Club
Angus Bike Chain Cycling Club
Newgate Bowling Club Lochlands Bowling Club
Abbey Bowling Club
Arbroath Bowling Club Arbroath & District
Indoor Bowling Club
The Arbroath Sports Centre & Saltire Leisure Centre Offer
Tai Chi Short Tennis Squash Indoor
Cycling Gymnastics
Yoga Aerobics Indoor Football
Basketball Fitness Suite
Paterson School Of Highland Dancing Stagecraft
School Of Dance
Showcase The Street Dance Studio Appolinari Dance
Studio
British Legion Ballroom Dancing
Swimming pools available at Arbroath Sports Centre & the Red Lion
Centre
Seasonal public tennis also avilable at the West Links courts
The Portcullis Bar also have a few Snooker Tables
Plus pub leagues for amateur football, pool, darts and dominoes
Popular Clubs Nearby
Carnoustie Golf Clubs Letham Grange Golf
Club
Carlogie Angling Club Monikie Angling Club
Letham Grange Curling Club Forfar Curling Club
Links Archery Club Balhousie Quad Biking
Royal Tay Yacht Club Rowanlea Equestrian
And Olympic Medallist Liz McColgans Health & Leisure Centre
Our Clubs
We all believe in having some form of excercise in our lives, so we are
members of a few local clubs too. Ron is a member of the Arbroath Artisan
Golf Club and a former president of the Newgate Bowling Club where he
still plays. Both Grace and Ron enjoy cycling in the area and Rons a member
of Liz McColgans Health Club. Lisa started off learning Kickboxing at
Mark Davies Blackbelt Academy and has also gained a green belt at the
Arbroath School Of Jujutsu.

Saltire Leisure Centre

Arbroath FC, World Record Holders

Two swimming pools in Arbroath

Five bowling clubs in Arbroath
Arbroath Artisan Golf Club - www.arbroathgolfcourse.co.uk
Arbroath Footers Running Club - www.arbroathfooters.com
Arbroath Badminton Club - www.academybadminton.info
Arbroath Tennis Club - www.btinternet.com/~stringers/arbroath
Arbroath Sports Climb - www.freewebs.com/arbroathclimbing
Outdoor Dimensions (Kayaks,Canoes,Walks) - outdoordimensions.co.uk
St Thomas Swimming Club - www.arbroathstthomas.co.uk
Arbroath & District Athletics Club - www.freewebs.com/arbroath-athletics
Arbroath Musketeers Basketball Club - arbroathmusketeers.tripod.com
Arbroath Sea Angling - www.arbroathangling.co.uk
Arbroath & District Pool League - www.arbroathpool.co.uk
Arbroath Ski Club - www.arbroathskiclub.co.uk
Arbroath Rifle Club - www.ssra.co.uk
Royal Racing Pigeon Society - www.rpra.org
Arbroath Porty Hillwalking Club - www.theportcullis.co.uk
Forfar & District Rambling Club - www.ramblingclubs.com
Arbroath School Of Jujutsu - bebo.com
Brothock Shotokan Karate Club - tora-kai.co.uk
Mark Davies Kickboxing Blackbelt Academy - www.blackbeltacademies.com
Arbroath Boxing Club - www.bebo.com
Phraya Pichai Thai Boxing Club - www.phrayapichai.com
Tai Chi Classes at Saltire Centre - www.activitypoint.co.uk
Angus Cycling Club - www.anguscc.org
Angus Mountain Bike Trail Club - www.ambta.info
Angus Bike Chain Cycling Club - www.angusbikechaincc.co.uk
Arbroath Bowling Clubs - bowlsclub.org
Arbroath Leisure Centres - www.angus.gov.uk/leisure
Stagecraft School Of Dance - danceschoolsangus.com
Showcase The Street Dance Studio - www.showcasethestreet.co.uk
Appolinari Dance Studio - www.bebo.com
British Legion Ballroom Dancing - www.arbroathbranchrbls.org.uk
Portcullis Snooker - www.theportcullis.co.uk
Arbroath Swimming Pool - www.angus.gov.uk/leisure
Arbroath United Cricket Club - www.arbroathcricket.co.uk
Arbroath Rugby Club - www.arbroath.angusrugby.co.uk
Arbroath Amateur Football League - www.scottishamateurfa.co.uk
Arbroath Domino League - www.scottishdominoes.com
Ferry Fliers Angling Club - ferryflydressersac.weebly.com
Monikie Angling Club - www.monikie-angling-club.org.uk
Angus Curling Clubs - www.royalcaledoniancurlingclub.org
Links Archery Club - linksarchers.org.uk
Balhousie Quad Biking - www.netmums.com
Royal Tay Yacht Club - www.royaltay.org
Rowanlea Equestrian - www.rowanlearidingschool.co.uk
Liz McColgans Health & Leisure Centre - www.lizmccolgan.co.uk
Avertical World Indoor Climbing - www.averticalworld.co.uk
Ice Hockey & Skating - www.dundeeicearena.co.uk
Edzell Paintballing - www.bedlampaintball.co.uk
Lunan Bay Surfing - www.beachwizard.com
Monikie Park Watersports - www.monikie.org.uk
Tayside Orienteering - www.taysideorienteers.org.uk
Forfar Loch Sailing Club - www.forfarsailingclub.org.uk
Angus Gliding Club - www.angusgliding.co.uk
Tayside Aviation - www.taysideaviation.co.uk
St Andrews Sky Diving - www.skydivestandrews.co.uk
Erroll Sky Diving - www.paragonskydiving.co.uk
Arbroath Sailing Club - www.arbroathsailingandboatingclub.org.uk
Arbroath Gymnastics Club - library.angus.gov.uk
Angus Pony Club - myweb.tiscali.co.uk
Motor Racing - www.knockhill.com
Angus Wargames Club - www.anguswargamesclub.com
Kirriemuir Wargames Club - www.kirriemuirwargamesclub.co.uk
Brechin Model Boat Club - www.sfmbc.net
Dundee Model Boat Club - www.sfmbc.net
"I always turn to the
sports pages first, which records peoples
accomplishments. The front page has nothing but mans failures"
Chief Justice Earl Warren
Champions From The Area
Arbroath has produced a few great footballers over the years, locals who
made it to the big time. Andy Webster, who was born in Dundee and brought
up in Arbroath is the most well known. As well as appearing regularly
in the Scottish national squad, Andy has played for a few great sides
in his career including Hearts and Rangers. Another Arbroath lad Darren
Burnett has also won a World Title in the sport of Lawn Bowls. Recently
Darren was also the first person to hold the British Bowls Indoor Title
and Outdoor Title at the same time.
A local boxer Barrie Lee won the Scottish Light Middleweight Champions
belt in 2004. The Worlds Gold medal winner and Olympic Silver medal winner,
runner Liz McColgan also lived in Arbroath after her success. Liz was
born in Dundee and now lives and has a Health/Physiotherapy Centre in
Carnoustie. Another Dundonian champion is Shirley Robertson, who was Britains
first Olympic Sailing medallist. Shirley was fourth in the 1996 Atlanta
Games, winning Gold at the 2000 Sydney Games.
The Funny Side To Sports
The chairman of a Arbroath
Rugby Club was retiring after many years of loyal service. At the dinner
given in his honour by the club, the team captain, who'd had a few, rose
to make his speech. 'It is said,' he began, 'that when a child is born,
its guardian angel gives it a kiss. If the kiss is on the hands, the child
will become a musician or an artist. If the kiss is on the head, it will
become a great thinker or scientist. If on the lips, it will grow up to
be a singer or an actor. Now I don't know where our Charlie here was kissed,
but he's certainly been a damn good chairman!'
The Arbroath Cricket Clubs captain insisted that Jim opened the innings
against the other sides demon bowler. After the match, his mate Steve
came up. 'How did you get on against the fast bowler?' 'No problems. I
was having my teeth out tomorrow anyway.'
The captain of the Arbroath Musketeers Basketball team says to the ref,
"My coach wants to know if there is a penalty for thinking."
The ref says, "No." The captain says, "Well my coach thinks
you're an idiot and your girlfriend is a munter."
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The
Nearby Distilleries
"What whisky will not cure, there
is no cure for"
Irish proverb
We know that the ancient Celts practiced the art of distilling,
giving it the name "Uisge Beatha", the Water Of Life. With the first
written record of whisky in 1494. A tour of Scotland is not complete
without a visit to one of the many distilleries. The closest of
these to Arbroath is the Glencadum Distillery, 12 miles away. Another,
just 18 miles from Arbroath is the Fettercairn Distillery. They
will offer tours 6 days a week from Easter to the end of September.
Alternatively, you can find Scotland's smallest distillery, the
Edradour, and one of the oldest, the Blair Atholl, within 2 hours
drive.

Fettercairn Distillery

Glencadum Distillery in Angus

Blair Atholl Distillery, one of
the oldest distilleries in Scotland

Edradour Distillery, the smallest
distillery in Scotland.

Information on the nearby Fettercairn
Distillery and Glencadum Distillery. Plus leaflets and books on
the many other distilleries that Scotland has to offer.
Fettercairn Distillery - www.scotchwhisky.net
Glencadum Distillery - www.glencadamdistillery.co.uk
Blair Atholl Distillery - www.discovering-distilleries.com
Edradour Distillery - www.edradour.co.uk
Scotland's Malt Whisky Trail - www.maltwhiskytrail.com
Baird's Malt Arbroath - www.bairds-malt.co.uk
Old Lochside Distillery - en.wikipedia.org
Old North Port Distillery - en.wikipedia.org/wiki
Whisky Galore - www.youtube.com
The Funny Side To Whisky
A man walks into the Commercial Inn and says to the bartender, "I
want a 12 year old Fettercairn whisky, and don't try to fool me
because I can tell the difference." The bartender is sceptical
and decides to try to trick the man with a 5 year old whisky. The
man takes a sip, scowls and says "Hey Bartender, this crap
is 5 years old whisky. I told you that I wanted a 12 years old Fettercairn."
The bartender won't give up and tries once more this time with a
10 year old Glencadam whisky. The man takes a sip and says, "Bartender,
I do not want 10 year old whisky like this filth. Give me a 12 year
old whisky or i will leave!" Impressed, the bartender gives
him the 12 year Fettercairn whisky on the house, the man takes a
sip and sighs, "Ah, now that's the real thing."
A smelly auld drunk has been watching all this with great interest.
He stumbles over and sets a glass down in front of the man and says.
"Hey, I think that's really good what you can do. Try this
one."... The man takes a sip and immediately spits out the
liquid and cries, "Yechhh! This stuff tastes like urine!"
The drunk's says, "I know, now how old am I"
Sandy was at a bitterly fought Arbroath vs Montrose football match
at Gayfield Park. The man next to him was terrified as the missiles
flew over their heads. "Don't worry," Sandy assured him,
"you'll not get hit by a bottle unless it's got your name on
it." "That's what I'm afraid of," said the man, ducking
his head lower. "My name is Johnny Walker."
An Angus farmer, who was rather stingy with his Fettercairn whisky,
was giving his farmhand a dram. As he handed him his glass, he said
it was extra good whisky, being fourteen years old. Well sir
, said the farmhand regarding his glass sorrowfully, It's
very small for its age.
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Most
Haunted
"Glamis Castle, one of the most haunted
locations in Scotland"
"TV series Most Haunted visited the ships RRS Discovery &
the HM Unicorn"
Like so many places in Scotland, the Angus area has had its
fair share of strange experiences, sightings and mythical tales.
Glamis Castle is the most well known of these haunted locations
in the area, with dozens of stories coming from this castle, many
of them surrounding the Secret Room of Glamis Castle, the Monster
of Glamis and the ghostly figure of the White Lady to name a few.
Or you can learn about the ghostly Drummer of Cortachy Castle who
was thrown from the tower, for an indiscretion with the owners wife.
Or the story of Tam the Piper whose pipes can still be heard along
the Arbroath cliffs near Dickmontlaw Farm. Visit the oldest British
built ship still afloat the HM Unicorn, and the RRS Discovery in
Dundee, Scott's ship that took him to the Antarctic. Here you can
learn about the ghost of Charlie Bonner, who fell from the crows
nest to his death. The TV series Most Haunted visited the RRS Discovery
and the HM Unicorn during their 8th series. Also various events
and walks highlight these strange occurrences with Ghostly Walks
and Witchery Walks held at various times of the year.

RAF Air Station Museum

Most Haunted visited the RRS Discovery & HM
Unicorn ships in Dundee

Claypotts Castle, 20 minutes from Arbroath

Cortachy Castle, haunted by the ghost of a drummer

Tam the Piper, who haunts the caves of the Arbroath
Cliffs

Glamis Castle ghosts include the Monster of Glamis,
the Armoured Ghost, the Wee Boy and the White and Grey Ladies

Information on all the haunted locations in Angus
and Dundee. Haunted castles, cliffs, museums and mare spooky spots
RAF Air Station Museum - www.rafmontrose.org.uk
Cortachy Castle - www.airlieestates.com
Claypotts Castle - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
RRS Discovery - www.rrsdiscovery.com
HM Unicorn - www.frigateunicorn.org
Glamis Castle - www.glamis-castle.co.uk
Dunnichen Hill - www.mysteriousbritain.co.uk
Guthrie Castle - www.guthriecastle.com
Scottish Mysteries - www.paranormaldatabase.com
TV's Most Haunted In Dundee - www.youtube.com
Ghostly Events In Scotland - www.ghostevents.co.uk
Edinburgh Ghostly Events - www.mercattours.com
The Funny Side To Hauntings
A visitor to Arbroath was staying in a big old house doon by the
harbour and in the middle of the night he met a ghost. The ghost
said, "I have been walking these corridors for 300 years."
The man said, "in that case, can you tell me the way to the
toilet?"
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Film,
TV, Music & Guest Links
"Wipe them out, all of them"
Carnoustie born actor Ian
McDairmid in the movie "The Phantom Menace"
"History remembers kings! Not soldiers!"
Dundee Born Brian Cox in
the movie "Troy"
The Da Vinci Code, Harry Potter, Stardust, Loch Ness, Braveheart
and Rob Roy, just a few of nearly 200 movies that have been filmed
in Scotland. A few have also been filmed in the Angus and Tayside
area. One of these was the 2008 film "Stone Of Destiny"
starring Robert Carlyle, Billy Boyd and Kate Mara. Filmed at the
Arbroath Abbey, telling the true story of the Stone Of Destiny's
4 month adventure from Westminster Abbey to the Arbroath Abbey in
1951. Another just 30 minutes from Arbroath was filmed at Dunnottar
Castle in 1990. This was Shakespeare's "Macbeth" starring
Mel Gibson, Helena Bonham Carter and Glenn Close. Other movies filmed
in the area include the 1921 film "Christie Johnson",
shot in the village of Auchmithie, just 2 miles from Arbroath. Another
was the 1943 war movie "The Silver Fleet", filmed on location
in Dundee.
Television crews are no stranger to the area with a few TV series
and documentaries being shot here also. The superb BBC series "Coast"
twice visited the area. Including a visit to the But n Ben restaurant
in Auchmithie, as did the cookery programme "The Woman Who
Ate Scotland". Coast also visited Dundee, highlighting the
cities old whaling industry. The popular reality TV series "Castle
In The Country" ran for a few series, presented by Nikki Chapman
and John Craven, and was shot at Glamis Castle. in 2008, the Arbroath
Abbey also featured in another superb BBC series, "Scottish
History".
Also the building of the Bell Rock lighthouse in 1807, 11 miles
off the coast of Arbroath, was beautifully retold in the TV series
"Seven Wonders Of The Industrial World". St Vigeans church
in Arbroath, dating back to the 11th century, featured in the Channel
5 programme "Crucify Me" presented by the Arbroath born
TV presenter Dominik Diamond. Scott's ship the RRS Discovery and
the HM Frigate Unicorn were also visited by the Most Haunted team
during the 8th series.
St Andrews, just half and hour from Arbroath, also has a few movies
to its credit. The 1981 classic "Chariots Of Fire" and
the 2004 film "Bobby Jones, Stroke Of Genius" were both
filmed there.

The 2008 movie Stone Of Destiny

The 1990 movie Hamlet

The 1943 movie The Silver Fleet

Seven Wonders Of The Industrial World

Most Haunted visits the HM Unicorn & RRS Discovery

A movie about the short life of Kirriemuir born,
ACDC lead singer Ron Bon Scott will be released around 2012. ACDC's
Album title and song title "Back In Black" was a tribute
to the life of Ron Bon Scott. Back in Black went on to be the all
time best selling album by a rock band. Selling 49 million copies
worldwide, it is second highest selling album of all time, only
Michael Jackson's Thriller album has sold more.
Hollywood Actors
The Angus and Dundee area has also been the birthplace of a few
great Hollywood actors. Ian McDiarmid was born in Carnoustie, just
5 miles away, and brought up in Dundee. Ian has appeared in movies
like Sleepy Hollow, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels and Great Expectations.
But is best known for his role as the Sith Lord Emporer Palpatine
in the Star Wars films Return Of The Jedi, The Phantom Menace, Attack
Of The Clones and Revenge Of The Sith. Brian Cox, another great
actor was born in Dundee. Brian has starred in the films Braveheart,
Rob Roy, The Bourne Supremacy, X Men and The Ring. Also acclaimed
for his role as Agemmemnon in the movie Troy alongside Brad Pitt.
The Hollywood actor Alan Cumming was also educated at Carnoustie
High School. Alan has starred in the movies Goldeneye, Eyes Wide
Shut, Spy Kids, and is best known as Nightcrawler in the films X-Men
2 and X-Men The Last Stand.
Norman Bowman, who is from Arbroath, is also making a name for himself
on the acting circuit. Norman has made several TV appearances with
parts in the TV shows Los Dos Bros and Holby City in 2008. Most
of Norman's career so far has been performing in Londons Westend,
appearing in stage productions including Cats, Grease and Guys &
Dolls where he was understudy to Ewan McGregor. Norman has also
appeared in a few TV commercials. Also the TV and stage actor Stuart
McGugan, who lived in Letham. Stuart has appeared in the TV series
Taggart, Heartbeat, Casualty, Silent Witness, Footballers Wives
and The Bill. Best known as the landlord Barney Meldrum in 3 series
of Hamish Macbeth, and as Gunner 'Atlas' Mackintosh in 56 episodes
of It Aint Half Hot Mum.

Carnoustie born actor Ian McDiarmid

Dundee born actor Brian Cox

Carnoustie actor Alan Cumming

Arbroath actor Norman Bowman with Ewan McGregor
and the cast of Guys and Dolls
Famous Musicians
The Angus and Dundee area has also produced a few talented musicians.
Arbroath has produced a few well kent bands like the Foundry Bar
band, who still play twice a week in Arbroath. Two other great Scottish
entertainers also lived here. The world famous singer/songwriter
Sir Harry Lauder used to live in town in his youth, and he came
back later in life to play the towns Webster Theatre on many occasion.
Another famous singer/entertainer who lived here was Andy Stewart.
Born in Glasgow, Andy settled for most of his life in Arbroath.
Cauld winter was howlin, oer moor and oer mountain
And wild was the surge, of the dark rolling sea
When I met about daybreak, a bonnie young lassie,
Wha asked me the road, and the miles to Dundee
Excerpt from an Andy Stewart favourite
The town of Kirrimeuir has produced one of Rock's greatest legends.
Ron "Bon" Scott, lead singer with the legends that are
ACDC was born here before moving to Australia with his family. The
nearby town of Monifieth has the talented violinist/singer/songwriter
Laura McGhee. Laura has taken the traditional music world by storm,
already performing at some of the worlds top venues and events.
Dundee has many links with music, bands from the city include Average
White Band, The Associates, Danny Wilson and The View, whos debut
album went to number 1 in 2007. The university of Dundee has also
helped form some of the finest bands in Britain. Deacon Blue, Snow
Patrol and the lead singer with Placebo all studied there. Fife
born singer/songwriter KT Tunstall also attended a high school in
the city.
Guests Links
Linda Dewar, a very talented singer/musician who has stayed with
us a few times with her husband Ron. In 2008, Linda joined three
other talented individuals and formed "Simply Burns",
who now tour the country with thier celebration of Scotland's best
loved bard, Robert Burns. Their aim, to offer an eclectic collection
of material written by and inspired by Burns.
The artists who perform the show are Douglas Craik (vocals and guitar),
Linda Dewar (vocals, guitar), Anna Hepburn (spoken word) and Claire
Hewitt (vocals, clarsach)
Talon, a tribute band to The Eagles have also stayed with us in
the past, while playing the towns Webster Theatre.
http://www.talonmusic.co.uk/

Songs of Scotland and its emigrants, Linda Dewar's
CD, "Where the heart is"
"Excellent,
enjoyed every minute"
Linda
Dewar & Ron Young, Aberfeldy, Scotland

Simply Burns CD
www.lindadewar.com
www.simplyburns.com
Singers & Entertainers
Arbroath Born Rebecca Caldwell - www.youtube.com
Arbroath's Andy Stewart - www.youtube.com
Arbroath's Sir Harry Lauder - www.youtube.com
Monifieth Born Laura McGhee - www.youtube.com
Kirriemuir Born Ron Bon Scott (ACDC) - www.youtube.com
Arbroath's Foundry Bar Band - www.youtube.com
Dundee Lads, The View - www.youtube.com
Dundee University formed Snow Patrol - www.youtube.com
Dundee University formed Average White Band - www.youtube.com
Dundee Lads, The Associates - www.youtube.com
Dundee Lads, Danny Wilson - www.youtube.com
Dundee Lads, The Law - www.youtube.com
Dundee Lads, Spare Snare - www.youtube.com
Dundee's Placebo's Brian Molko - www.youtube.com
Dundee High Schools Ricky Ross - www.youtube.com
Dundee High Schools KT Tunstall - www.youtube.com
Theatre & TV
Arbroath Born Dominik Diamond - www.youtube.com
Arbroath Born Norman Bowman (Guys & Dolls) - www.youtube.com
Seven Wonders Of The Industrial World - www.youtube.com
Most Haunted In Dundee - www.youtube.com
Brian Cox's Jute Journey - www.hopscotchfilms.co.uk
Hollywood
Carnoustie Born Ian McDairmid (Star Wars) - www.youtube.com
Dundee Born Brian Cox (Troy) - www.youtube.com
Carnoustie's Alan Cumming (X-Men 2) - www.youtube.com
Stone Of Destiny (Filmed at Arbroath Abbey) - www.youtube.com
Hamlet (Filmed at Dunnottar Castle) - www.youtube.com
Finding Neverland Film Trailer - www.youtube.com
Chariots Of Fire (Filmed in St Andrews) - www.youtube.com
Bobby Jones (Filmed in St Andrews) - www.youtube.com
The Queen (Filmed in Aberdeenshire) - www.youtube.com
The Funny Side To Film & TV
Steven Spielberg was at the Arbroath Fairport Film Festival, busy
discussing his new action adventure about famous classical composers.
Bruce Willis, Sylvester Stallone and Arnold Schwarzenegger were
in the room. "Who do you want to play?" Spielberg asked
Bruce Willis. "I've always been a big fan of Chopin,"
said Bruce. "I'll play him." "And you, Sylvester?"
asked Spielberg. "Mozart's the one for me!" said Sly.
"And what about you?" Spielberg asked Arnold Schwarzenegger.
"I'll be Bach," said Arnie.
Following a woman with a dog out of the Arbroath Cinema, a local
man stopped her and said, "I'm sorry to bother you, but I was
amazed that your dog seemed to get into the movie so much. He cried
at the right spots, moved nervously at the boring spots, and laughed
like crazy at the funny parts. Don't you find that unusual?"
"Yes," she replied. "I find it very unusual, he hated
the book!"
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Free Entry Attractions
/ Museums
"Nothing wrong with saving
a few pennies. My dad throws nothing out, we have Bronze Age and Iron Age sections
in our garage"
GP
Also worth mentioning is that there are many museums, galleries and
other attractions that are free entry.
In Arbroath you can visit our Regency Signal Tower Museum, St Vigeans Pictish
Stones Museum, Hospitalfield House Hope Gardens, RNLI Lifeboat Station and shop,
the Chapel stone carvings, Christie's Fine Art Studio and the art galleries
for free. With access to the West Links Adventure Playpark and indoor Pleasureland
Funfair for the kids also free entry. But you will spend a few pounds once the
kids get into these places.
And there are 6 good nature and coastal walks in and around Arbroath. Visitors
with an Historic Scotland Explorer Pass will also gain free entry to the Arbroath
Abbey, its visitor centre and the Abbots House Museum. Outside the town, just
15 minutes away, we recommend a visit to Broughty Castle, now a museum displaying
its turbulent history.
In Dundee is the Old Steeple, Scotland's highest surviving mediaeval tower.
Other free entry visitor attractions in the area include the Mills Observatory,
with its 10 inch Victorian refractor telescope, and the novelist Lewis Grassic
Gibbon's visitor centre. The four large country parks in Angus are also around
the one pound per car entry limit.
These attractions along with the areas Pictish stones, earth houses, old churches,
ruined castles, nature reserves and quaint villages, mean you don't have to
spend a fortune when visiting the Angus area.
Museums & Galleries In Arbroath
Arbroath Abbey & Abbots House Museum (Historic Scotland venue)
St Vigeans Pictish Museum (Historic Scotland venue)
Signal Tower & Bell Rock Lighthouse Museum (free entry)
RNLI Lifeboat Station (free, donations welcome)
Harbour Visitor Centre (free entry)
ROC Monitoring Station Museum (free entry)
Arbroath Library & Art Gallery (free entry)
Christies Fine Art Studio (free entry)
Arbroath Precinct Gallery (free entry)
Squadron Prints Gallery (free entry)
Jackie Gardiner Gallery (free entry)
Museums In Angus and Dundee
(All are between 10 to 30 minutes by car from Arbroath)
Forfar Meffan Museum (free entry)
Brechin Pictavia Visitor Centre (entry fee)
Johnshaven Mill Of Benholm (free entry)
Barry Water Mill (National Trust venue)
Kirriemuir Gateway To The Glens Museum (free entry)
Monifieth House Of Memories Museum (free entry)
Brechin Townhouse Museum (free entry)
Montrose Museum (free entry)
Glen Esk Folk Museum (entry fee)
Dundee Verdant Works Jute Museum (entry fee)
Broughty Castle & Museum (free entry)
Glamis Angus Folk Museum (National Trust venue)
Miegle Sculptured Stones Museum (National Trust venue)
Alyth Museum (free entry)
Dundee Tayside Medical History Museum (free entry)
Dundee RRS Discovery Point (entry fee)
Kirriemuir JM Barrie's Birthplace Museum (National Trust venue)
Montrose RAF/RFC Museum (entry fee)
Brechin Caledonian Railway Museum (entry fee)
Dundee McManus Gallery & Museum (free entry)
University Of Dundee Museum Collections (free entry)
More Free Entry Venues In Angus & Dundee
Arbroath West Links Adventure Park
Arbroath O'Briens Pleasureland Funfair
Dundee Mills Observatory
Brechin Glencadum Distillery (group bookings)
Forfar Mountains Animal Sanctuary
Kinblethmont House Art Gallery
Restenneth Priory & Library
Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery
Ardestie Earth House
Carlungie Earth House
Brown & White Caterhuns Hill Forts
Milton Haugh Farm Shop & Corn Kist Coffee Shop
Crombie Country Park (small fee per car)
Monikie Country Park (small fee per car)
For a chance to see more exclusive venues for free in September during the National
Doors Open Days, have a look at our castles section.

Arbroath RNLI Lifeboat Station, the only slipway
launched lifeboat left in Scotland

Mills Observatory

Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery

Broughty Castle, free entry to all

Free entry to the Regency Signal Tower Museum in Arbroath

Free entry to the Arbroath Harbour Visitor Centre
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Free Entry Visitor Attractions
Free Entry With A Historic Scotland Explorer Pass
Free Entry For National Trust Members
Arbroath Abbey & Abbots House Museum - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Arbroath St Vigeans Pictish Museum - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Arbroath Signal Tower & Bell Rock Lighthouse Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath RNLI Lifeboat Station - www.arbroath-lifeboat.org.uk
Arbroath Library & Art Gallery - www.angus.gov.uk
Arbroath Christies Fine Art Studio - www.christiesfineart.com
Arbroath Precinct Gallery - www.scottishartscapes.com
Arbroath Squadron Prints Gallery - www.squadronprints.com
Arbroath Jackie Gardiner Gallery - www.jackiegardiner.co.uk
Arbroath O'Briens Pleasureland Funfair - pleasurelandarbroath.co.uk
Arbroath West Links Adventure Park - www.s1play.com
Forfar Meffan Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Pictavia Visitor Centre Brechin - www.megalithic.co.uk
Barry Water Mill - www.nts.org.uk
Gateway To The Glens Museum Kirriemuir - www.angus.gov.uk
Monifieth House Of Memories Museum - www.monifiethhistorysociety.co.uk
Brechin Townhouse Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Montrose Museum - www.angus.gov.uk
Verdant Works Jute Museum Dundee - www.rrsdiscovery.com
Broughty Castle & Museum - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Glamis Angus Folk Museum - www.nts.org.uk
Miegle Sculptured Stones Museum - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Alyth Museum - www.pkc.gov.uk
Tayside Medical History Museum Dundee - www.dundee.ac.uk
RRS Discovery Point Dundee - www.rrsdiscovery.com
JM Barrie's Birthplace Museum Kirriemuir - www.nts.org.uk
Montrose RAF/RFC Air Station Museum - www.rafmontrose.org.uk
Caledonian Railway Museum Brechin - www.caledonianrailway.com
McManus Gallery & Museum Dundee - www.mcmanus.co.uk
University Of Dundee Museum Collections - www.dundee.ac.uk
Dundee Mills Observatory - www.geo.ed.ac.uk
Glencadum Distillery Brechin - www.glencadamdistillery.co.uk
Mountains Animal Sanctuary Forfar - www.mountainsanimalsanctuary.org.uk
Kinblethmont House Art Gallery - www.kinblethmontgallery.co.uk
Restenneth Priory & Library - www.angus.gov.uk
Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery - www.oathlawpotteryandgallery.com
Ardestie Earth House - www.megalithic.co.uk
Carlungie Earth House - www.megalithic.co.uk
Brown & White Caterthuns Hill Forts - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Milton Haugh Farm Shop & Corn Kist Coffee Shop - www.miltonhaugh.com
Dundee Contemporary Arts - www.dca.org.uk
Crombie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Monikie Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Forfar Loch Country Park - www.angus.gov.uk
Red Castle Ruin & Lunan Bay Walk - www.walkscotland.com
The Funny Side To Saving Money
Angus called in to see his friend Donald to find he was stripping the wallpaper
from the walls. Angus said to his friend "You're decorating, I see."
Donald replied "No, Im moving house."
"To save you buying one, telephone directories make ideal personal address
books. Simply cross out the names and address of people you don't know."
Historic
Scotland Explorer Pass
Explore 5000 years of Scotland's history. Visitors can save on admission prices
to over 75 of Scotland's historic buildings. The Explorer Pass allows you free
entry to all Historic Scotland properties, free entry to over 300 Historic Scotland
events and a free map and information pack. 18 of these properties lie in the
Angus and Dundee area and include the Arbroath Abbey, Edzell Castle and Gardens,
Restenneth Priory, Miegle Sculptored Stone Museum and Claypotts Castle.
The pass also allows access to Edinburgh Castle, Urquhart Castle and Fort George
only a few hours away. You can purchase a pass to suit your timetable. Choose
from a 3 day pass within a 5 day period, a 7 day pass within a 10 day period,
or a 10 day pass within a 30 day period. The Explorer Pass is available at all
Historic Scotland properties, available at all Tourist Information Centres,
or can be purchased online. Call the Historic Scotland information line on 0131
6688831 for more details.

Restenneth Priory

Edinburgh Castle

Arbroath Abbey, Abbots House Museum &
Abbey Visitor Centre

St Vigeans Pictish Stones Museum in Arbroath
Historic Scotland Properties In Angus
Arbroath Abbey - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Aberlemno Stone - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Ardestie Earth-house - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Brechin Cathedral - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Broughty Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Carlungie Earth-house - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Caterhuns Hill Forts - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Claypotts Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Edzell Castle - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Lindsay Burial Isle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
Maison Dieu Chapel - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Meigle Stones Museum - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
St Vigeans Stones Museum - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
Tealing Dovecot & Earth-house - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
St Andrews Castle - www.historic-scotland.gov.uk
St Andrews Cathedral - www.historicscotland.gov.uk
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Historic Houses
Association
For those who enjoy visiting historic houses, castles and gardens, then a Friends
Membership to the Historic Houses Association is for you. The association assists
over 1500 privately owned houses and castles in Britain. Offering free access
to these properties and information on events and festivals throughout the year,
for an annual fee of around £40 per person or £60 for couples. Members
are given a free magazine with details on all the properties in the HHA upon
joining. The properties in the Angus area include Glamis Castle, Dunninald House,
Brechin Castle and the House of Pitmuies Gardens. Also nearby are Scone Palace,
Blair Castle, Drummond Castle Gardens and Stobwell. Call them on 01207 2595688
or visit the website www.hha.org.uk for more details.

Brechin Castle
Historic Houses Association
www.hha.org.uk

Dunninald House, 15 minutes from Arbroath

Scone Palace, 40 minutes from Arbroath
Historic Houses Properties In Angus
Brechin Castle - www.hha.org.uk
Dunninald House - www.hha.org.uk
Glamis Castle - www.hha.org.uk
House Of Pitmuies Gardens - www.hha.org.uk
Scone Palace - www.hha.org.uk