Local Attractions

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.

Sir Walter Scott's book "The Antiquary"



David Dunbar Buick, Buick car manufacturer & inventor



Shanks Lawnmower

Angling Off The Coast / Fly Fishing In Angus

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.

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


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 everyone’s 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 “Arrat’s 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



"No person may take or kill any salmon or trouts not being in season"
The Game Laws - Henry III - 1786 to present day

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)

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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.

Elliot Nature Trail

Arbroath Clifftop Nature Trail



St Vigeans to Letham Grange trail



Just minutes from the Arbroath Coastal Walk



Bus stop on main Dundee Road, 400 yards from Five Gables House B&B



Arbroath Railway Station


Railway and Bus Information Links

UK Bus and Railway Network Information Tel 0870 608 2608
UK Railway Information - www.nationalrail.co.uk
UK Bus Information - http://timetables.showbus.co.uk/

"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

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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
  
 

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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 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



www.muslimhands.org/Site/Pages/ShamiamArifAppeal 

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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

Pat Linton Wedding Services/Alterations - 07732655732
High Society Wedding Cars - 01241 414144
Limo Hire - 01241 870720
A Bridal Dream - 01241 410343
Highland Scene Kilt Hire - 01674 677205
Lawrence Of Broughty Ferry Kilt Hire - 01382 731343
Ian Paterson Photography - 01674 830894
Ally Stuart Photography -  07766 758085
Kates Kakes - 01241 872449

( any local business wishing to freely advertise there function venue or party related services here, please contact me at fivegableshouse@yahoo.com )




Getting married in Arbroath

Weddings at the Arbroath Abbey



Local Wedding Car Services

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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.co.uk
Colliston Castle - 01241 890507

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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

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

___

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

___
     
Weddings In A Nearby Angus Castle
Guthrie Castle      Colliston Castle      Kinblethmont House
Hospitalfield Mansion House

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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



Tours around Glamis Castle and gardens



House Of Dun, 12 miles from Arbroath



Edzell Castle And Gardens



Dunninald Castle



Cortachy Castle



Claypotts Castle



Mains Castle & Restaurant



Camperdown House



The ruins of Braikie Castle

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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

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Touring Scotland / Distances From

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.

HM Frigate Unicorn




Balmoral Castle




St Andrews Old Course




Perth, Black Watch Regimental Museum




Aberdeen Maritime Museum




Stirling Castle




Ben Nevis

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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



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


     
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

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

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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.

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.

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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.

Arbroath Cliffs - Needles Ee



Deil's Heid along the Arbroath Cliffs



Flame agate



The Dundee Law

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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.

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



Mountains Animal Sanctuary



Aberdeen Angus Cattle



Family of Stoats living on our grounds



Our wild animals, Poppy, Bonnie and Timmy

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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.

The 2 day Angus Show in June



Barry Water Mill, under 10 minutes from Arbroath



"To forget how to dig the earth & to tend the soil is to forget ourselves"
Mohandas K. Gandhi

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The Days Of Steam

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

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Astronomy Links

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

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The Arbroath Nightlife

Or have a relaxing evening at Five Gables House 
Bring back a few beers, relax in the lounge, have a game of pool or table tennis.

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 with Karaoke evenings and Race Nights also quite popular.

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. 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.

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, of who Grace and Ron's grand daughter Lisa was a member of for 5 years, and our Arbroath Instrumental Brass band, will also play at various events during the year.

Or Have A Night In
Or why not have a night in at Five Gables House, watch the golfers from our garden area, relax in our seaview guest lounge, 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's Foundry Bar Band

www.footstompin.com/artists/the_foundry_bar_band




Waterfront Nightclub, the largest venue in the Angus area

www.waterfrontnightclub.co.uk




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

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Coast Nightclub / Waterfront Nightclub

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."

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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

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


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

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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



Tartan Week Celebrations on the 6th of April

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.

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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"


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



Guthrie Castle


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




Liz Niven's Burning Whins

Scottish authors

"An excellent B&B, highly recommended"
Liz Niven, Dumfries, Scotland
www.lizniven.com

"First in Arbroath, Naen surpasses"
Laura & Miller Caldwell, Dumfries, Scotland
www.millercaldwell.org

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.

Drawing of the Bell Rock Lighthouse



Painting of Five Gables House


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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 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



"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.

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Useful Links