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The Arbroath Abbey was
the venue for the historic signing of the Declaration Of Arbroath in
1320. On the 6th of April that year, Scotland's nobles signed this declaration
swearing allegiance to Robert the Bruce as their king, in his presence.
The abbey is also the final resting place of King William the Lion (William
I of Scotland). 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 its national flags. Today you can still wander around the
ancient ruins of this 5 star visitor attraction. Also within the grounds
is the Abbots House Museum, the most complete example of its kind in
Britain. 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.
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Arbroath Abbey

Abbots House Museum, Arbroath Abbey

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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Stone Of Destiny film set at the Arbroath Abbey

The Stone Of Destiny
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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
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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
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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
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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

Jumpin Joey's Family Entertainment Centre in Arbroath
www.pleasurelandarbroath.co.uk
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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. |

Keptie Pond
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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
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St Vigeans Church

St Vigeans Pictish Stones Museum, Arbroath
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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 try fishing near the Bellrock Lighthouse 11 miles off the
coast.
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 takes place around the
harbour annually in August. This huge 2 day festival attracts
over 30,000 visitors every year.
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Arbroath Harbour

An Arbroath Smokehouse

Sea Angling or Pleasure Trips from
Arbroath
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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
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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 30 minutes drive from Arbroath.

Glamis Castle

Highland Cattle at Glamis Castle
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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 streches 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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Glen Isla

The Monarch of the Glens
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The Angling Guest
We have information on all the fishing locations in the area. One of the
sea angling locations is the picturesque village of Auchmithie, a couple
of miles north of Arbroath. This small village sits at the top of the
cliffs, with its harbour at the base surrounded by 150 feet of red sandstone.
A popular location for visitors and has major appeal to anglers sea fishing
off the rocks.
There are a few good sea angling marks in Arbroath and out by the cliffs,
one of them is just a few hundred yards away at the Elliot beach. With
some other good marks a bit further north at the villages of Usan and
Boddin. 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.
The facilities we offer for anglers include a secure area for tackle and
a drying area for waterproofs, waders, boots, etc. We can freeze your
ice packs, or group bookings have the option of paying a small charge
for our outdoor freezer, for storing catch and bait. We provide information
on all the various types of angling on offer in the Angus area, with a
few hidden gems that are not advertised.

Auchmithie Harbour

Kinnaird Castle in Angus

Rescobie Loch Country Park

Sea fishing at the Arbroath Beach

Fly fishing at Carlogie, 5 miles away

Sea fishing off the Arbroath Cliffs

Our secure garage facilities for
fishing tackle, with freezer for storing catch and bait.
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The Walking Guest
As well as the Arbroath clifftop coastal trail, there are five other good
walks in and around Arbroath.
Just 400 yards away is the Elliot Nature Trail. This runs along the old
railway line to Kellie Castle and the village of Arbirlot. Just 200 yards
away is the Arbroath Coastal Trail, running past the Arbroath golf course,
on to the beach, past the old wartime defences, all the way to Carnoustie.
Again just 200 yards away is the new walking/cycle route running from
Arbroath through the beautiful Angus countryside, all the way to Dundee
if your feeling fit. On the other side of town is the St Vigeans Nature
Trail. Starts at the church and museum, takes you through the Angus countryside
to the Letham Grange golf courses. And the Hercules Den Trail, starting
at the Elms area of town, through a wooded area and ends up at St Vigeans.
Guests are welcome to use our kitchen area to prepare pack lunches or
picnic hampers. And our drying area is available for your boots, clothing,
etc. We also have a foot spa on offer to ease away those aches and pains.
We also offer information on some other good walks throughout the Angus
area, including routes through the Glens of Angus.

Elliot 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
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The Cycling Guest
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
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The Motor Cycling
Guest
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
As 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. From the choice of local churches, reception venues, limo
hire, etc.
Grace sold her business to Mary Beattie in 2005, who along with Grace's
old staff, are still carrying on the name and reputation of Grace's old
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.

Getting married in Arbroath
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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.
Twelve of these historic castles and castellated mansions also offer their
services as a unique location for wedding ceremonies or receptions, this
includes the grounds of the Arbroath Abbey. We have 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.

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

Cortachy Castle

Claypotts Castle

Mains Castle & Restaurant

Camperdown House

The ruins of Braikie Castle
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The Gardens Of Angus
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
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.

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
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
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The Geology Of Scotland
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
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 and Timmy
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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
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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
With over 25 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. Our own Foundry Bar Band play Scottish Music every Wednesday and
Friday nights at the Foundry Bar. There are 3 nightclubs in town and Karaoke
evenings are also quite popular.
The town also has a Gala Bingo hall for all those who have Gala membership
throughout the UK. 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. These are just a few.
Also, our Arbroath British Legion Pipe Band, of who Grace and Ron's grand
daughter Lisa is a member of, and our Arbroath Instrumental Brass band,
will also play at various events during the year. You can even try your
hand at Scottish Dancing, Line Dancing or Ballroom Dancing at certain
times throughout the year. Or you can just bring a bottle back to the
guest house and relax in your room or our guest lounge or garden.

Arbroath's Foundry Bar Band

The Waterfront Nightclub in Arbroath

Around 35 pubs & clubs in Arbroath

Gala Bingo in Arbroath

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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Shopping in the Angus
area
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, Woolworths, 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. 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, 2-3 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 lovely House of Farnell, both
a few miles from Arbroath. So pack an extra suitcase for all those bargains..

Angus Farmers Market

Wellgate Shopping Centre
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The Arbroath Theatres
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.

Abbey Theatre

Tartan Week Celebrations on the 6th of April
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The Arts
For those who appreciate art, the area has a few galleries and a few exhibitions
on offer. One of the latest additions is the Art Gallery next to the Arbroath
harbour. Another gallery can be found at the Arbroath Library, housing
works by renowned artists Peter Breughel II and the Angus born James Watterson
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 take place during the year at these galleries
and also at the Angus College in town, and 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 the UK used for this purpose and was used
as a model for the art colleges of the future. Hospitalfield House and
Kinblethmont House also offer their services as a wedding location.

Hospitalfield House

Guthrie Castle

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
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Arts and Crafts
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 |
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Arbroath Sports
It's not just golf and fishing on offer in Arbroath. Various other sporting
outlets are available to visitors. You can play tennis on one of the two
public tennis courts at the West Links area, or indoor tennis at the local
leisure centres. And Arbroath's indoor swimming pool offers public swimming
7 days a week, with special rates for families with Terrorzone Evenings
and Pool Disco Nights for the kids. The towns two leisure centres will
offer the usual services, fitness suites, sauna, spa, etc. Also just a
few miles away is the Rowanlea Riding School, who will provide Equestrian
services. Or if you just want to go for a run, the Arbroath beach is just
200 yards away. Lawn bowls is also a very popular sport in Arbroath, with
4 outdoor bowling clubs and 1 indoor club. Ron is a member of the Newgate
Bowling Club in town, and any of our guests can pay a small fee at any
of these clubs, if they would like to have a game. And Arbroath Golf Club
have a new driving range just 100 yards away if you just want to hit a
few balls.

Saltire Leisure Centre

Arbroath FC, World Record Holders

Two swimming pools in Arbroath

Five bowling clubs in Arbroath
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The Nearby Distilleries
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
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Most Haunted
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

The Battlefield of Dunnichen Hill
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Film and TV in Tayside
The Da Vinci Code, Harry Potter, 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 is the 2008 film "Stone Of Destiny" starring
Robert Carlyle, Billy Boyd and Kate Mara. Filmed at the Arbroath
Abbey, telling the 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. And the 2002 French film "Les
Liaisons Dangereuses" starring Rupert Everett and Catherine
Deneuve, shot in the village of Errol a few miles from Dundee.
Television crews are no stranger to the area with a few TV series
and documentaries being shot here also. The superb 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. 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,
also 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. North of Arbroath, about an hour away, you can find
the film locations for the 2004 film "In A Mans World",
shot in Aberdeen. And the 2006 movie "The Queen" starring
Helen Mirren and Michael Sheen, filmed at Castle Fraser in Aberdeenshire.
A few miles further up the coast takes you to the most famous red
telephone box in the world. In Pennan where the 1983 movie "Local
Hero" was filmed.
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. 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.

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

Carnoustie born actor Ian McDiarmid

Dundee born actor Brian Cox

Carnoustie actor Alan Cumming
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Free Entry Attractions In Angus
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.

Arbroath RNLI Lifeboat Station

Mills Observatory

Oathlaw Pottery & Gallery
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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
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 privatley 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
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The National Trust For Scotland
The National Trust for Scotland is a conservation charity that protects and
promotes Scotland's natural and cultural heritage for present and future generations
to enjoy. With over 270,000 members, you can join them from as little as £3
a month for adults, and £5 a month for families. Enjoy days out at castles,
country houses, gardens and trails 365 days of the year. With access to hundreds
of events throughout the year. From walks and lectures to art classes, theatrical
events and workshops. Gift memberships are also available and make an ideal
gift for Christmas, birthdays, etc.
These memberships can be a one off gift or set up as a continuing gift that
carries on year after year. Call 0131 243955 for more details, or visit www.nts.org.uk
to view a list of all the NTS sites you can visit. The National Trust sites
in the Angus and Dundee area include the House of Dun, Angus Folk Museum, JM
Barrie Birthplace Museum, Finavon Doocot, Camera Obscura and Barry Water Mill.
Also, not too far way are Crathes Castle and Drum Castle in Aberdeenshire, plus
Balmerino Abbey and Hill Of Tarvit House in Fife.

Barry Water Mill

House Of Dun
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The Royal Discovery Pass
Another way of saving is by purchasing a Royal Discovery
Pass. The allows you discounted access to both Glamis Castle and the RRS Discovery.
Call 01307 840733 for more details or simply pick up a pass at either attraction

RRS Discovery
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The Treasure Ticket
The Treasure Ticket is available to buy and lasts for an entire year. The Ticket
allows one visit per year to Glamis Castle, Scone Palace, Blair Castle, Dewar's
World Of Whisky and Bell's Blair Atholl Distillery. Tickets are on sale at all
attractions, call 01307 840733 for more details.

Scone Palace
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Real Lives Pass
The Real Lives Pass allows you joint access to the Verdant Works Jute Mill Museum
in Dundee and the Hill Of Tarvit Mansion House in Fife. The pass saves you a
few pounds on the normal fees to these attractions. Or you can purchase a discounted
joint ticket to the Verdant Works Museum and Captain Scott's Ship the RRS Discovery,
both in Dundee just 20 minutes away. Anyone interested in these offers should
contact the local tourist information centre for more details.

Verdant Works Museum
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Five Gables
House Restaurant Vouchers
Dining out at a discount is on offer at Five Gables House. We have arranged
discounts with a few local restaurants in the area. These will offer either
Italian, Indian or traditional cuisine. Find sample menus of these places and
other Arbroath restaurants in our guest lounge. Or if you want to save that
little bit more, why not order in from one of our many takeaway/delivery menus
and enjoy your meal at our dining area overlooking the Arbroath golf course
and North Sea. We will supply you with the crockery, cutlery and condiments
you will need, and offer you some tea or coffee free of charge. You are also
welcome to bring any alcohol with you if you would like to compliment your meal.

Arbroath Smokie

Mackays Factory Shop based in Arbroath

Arbroath Smokie Tartan

Buy some rare old prints of Arbroath in town
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Other Discounted Offers
Other visitor attraction discounts are on offer at various times of the year.
Information about these offers will be available at the local Tourist Information
Centre in Arbroath. During the summer the Discovery Trail Voucher Brochures
are available. With Autumn Offer Brochures and Spring Offer brochures available
at other times of the year. The discounts and venues vary from year to year,
but examples of these offers include 15% off entry to Glamis Castle, discounted
wristbands at Arbroath's Pleasureland, free entry for children at the Camperdown
Wildlife Centre and free entry for one child at the National Trust venues of
House Of Dun, Angus Folk Museum, JM Barries Birthplace Museum and Barry Water
Mill.

JM Barrie's Birthplace Museum

Sensation Visitor Centre
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Many more events take place throughout the year in Arbroath. Like the annual
Accordion and Fiddle Festival, the Hairst Summer Arts Festival, Christmas Markets,
Gala days, Blues Festivals, Webster Theatre shows and much more.
Whether your here for business or pleasure, Arbroath has a lot to offer. For
those with a passion for football, our local professional team, Arbroath F.C.
are the world record holders for the highest scoring match (36 - 0) at professional
level. Many other visitor attractions are found in the Angus and Dundee area.
Like the RRS Discovery, HM Frigate Unicorn, Verdant Works Museum and Sensation
Visitor centre in Dundee. Others include Brechin Castle Centre, Pictavia, Edzell
Castle, Barry Water Mill, Dunottar Castle, JM Barrie Birthplace Museum, the
Carlungie and Ardestie Earth Houses, the Caterhuns hill forts, Montrose Basin
Wildlife Centre and a whole lot more. We have information on all the things
to see and do in the area, including opening times, prices, etc.

Arbroath Seafest in August

Arbroath Seafront Spectacular in July

Arbroath Accordion & Fiddle Festival

Arbroath Blues Festivals

Arbroath Tartan Week Festival in April

Arbroath's Tutties In The Park Gala Day