Things To Do
in Arbroath
Arbroath is a historic harbour town on Scotland's east coast, famed for its rugged coastline and maritime heritage. It sits in Angus, overlooking the North Sea, and offers a compact mix of abbey ruins, fishing boats, and traditional pubs. The town is best known for the Arbroath Smokie, a local smoked haddock specialty, and a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
With easy access to Dundee and Montrose, Arbroath makes a convenient base for exploring the Angus coast and countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the historic Arbroath Abbey, where you can delve into the rich history of this stunning 12th-century site. Spend your morning absorbing the impressive architecture and the stories behind it, while strolling through the lush grounds. Don't forget to visit the visitor center for insightful exhibitions about the Abbey's past.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, sampling the local delicacy, Arbroath Smokie. After your meal, take a guided tour of the town to visit important historical landmarks such as St. Vigeans Church and the Pictish stones. Take the time to appreciate the unique culture and picturesque scenery of Arbroath.
As the sun begins to set, head to the harbor area for a tranquil evening walk along the coastline. Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at a local restaurant with spectacular views of the sea. Conclude your day by watching the sun dip below the horizon, casting a magical glow over the ocean.
Kick off your day by immersing yourself in local culture at the Arbroath Sea Fest, where you can participate in various maritime activities. Browse through the stalls showcasing local crafts and specialties, and enjoy demonstrations of traditional fishing techniques. This vibrant event is an excellent way to connect with locals and learn about the town's fishing heritage.
Continue enjoying the festivities with a seafood lunch from one of the many food vendors, offering fresh fish and other delectable treats. Join in some fun outdoor games and activities for all ages, or take a nearby boat tour to experience Arbroath from the sea. The community atmosphere will make for a memorable afternoon spent with friendly locals.
As the festival winds down, find a cozy pub in town to unwind with live music performances. Taste a pint of locally brewed beer paired with traditional Scottish dishes for a true taste of the region. The lively crowd and energetic atmosphere will ensure a wonderful way to end your festival-filled day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Vegetarian lunch | $6-12 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $70-120 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $6-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and a rich fishing heritage
- Compact town with walkable center and harbour views
- Fresh seafood and Arbroath Smokie is a must-try
- Good base for exploring Angus coast and nearby Montrose
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared with bigger cities
- Weather can be changeable and sometimes windy along the coast
Places to Visit in Arbroath
Visit one of these nice places.
Majestic 12th-century ruins perched above a hill with sea views, great for moody photography.
Historic fishing harbour with boats, cranes, and panoramic North Sea horizons, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.
Rugged coastline and colorful fishing huts with dramatic sea stacks and cliff lines.
Expansive sandy bay with dunes and seasonal wildlife; wide skies for landscapes.
Wetlands and birdwatching spots offering reflections and migratory bird photography.
Food in Arbroath
Arbroath Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional smoked haddock, a local specialty, often served grilled, in chowder, or with chips.
Must-Try!
Creamy smoked haddock soup from nearby Cullen, a comforting starter or light lunch.
Buttery biscuits widely available in cafes and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering local fish, meats, produce, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Queue politely, greet with a brief hello, and be patient in service settings.
Engage in light conversation; Scots are friendly and egalitarian.
Dress modestly for religious sites and keep noise to a minimum in quiet areas.
Safety
Tipping in Arbroath
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; small round-ups or 5-10% for good service in pubs and restaurants is appreciated.
Cards are widely accepted; cash is accepted; some smaller vendors may take contactless payments or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, mild temperatures around 15-20°C, and frequent breezes off the North Sea; expect some showers, but plenty of sunshine for outdoor activities.
Cooler air, vibrant coastal colours, and increased chance of rain; great for coastal walks and photography at golden hour.
Cold and windy with average highs around 5-8°C; short daylight hours, but festive events in town and crisp landscapes.
Milder temperatures return, flowers in bloom along the coast, occasional rain; a good season for walking and birdwatching.
Arbroath at Night
Hiking in Arbroath
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal path along cliffs and beaches with sea views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Long coastal walk linking Arbroath, Lunan Bay, and Montrose with scenic sea horizons.
Airports
How to reach Arbroath by plane.
Major international airport about 60-90 miles away; frequent domestic and international flights; you can reach Arbroath by train or car.
Regional airport with flights to UK and Europe; drive or take rail connections to Arbroath.
Large international hub about 85-90 miles away; connections by rail or car to the Angus coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly White Scottish/British with English and some EU residents; a mix of families and retirees.
Visitors exploring the coast and historic sites; many day-trippers from Dundee and Edinburgh.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and national leagues; football is widely followed and played.
Scotland's golfing heritage is strong in Angus with seaside and parkland courses nearby.
Angling and sea fishing are part of Arbroath's coastal tradition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Arbroath.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer veggie soups, salads, and vegetarian mains; ask for meat-free options; fish-free meals available at most pubs and cafes.