Things to Do in Arbroath
Things to do in Arbroath with Kids – This small Angus town, just north of Dundee, boasts vast stretches of coastline, history and fun in equal measure. Makes for a cool day out.
Arbroath Abbey / Declaration of Arbroath Monument / Pleasureland / West Links Playground & Beach / Signal Tower Museum / Arbroath Smokies / Authmithie / Family Dining / Where to Stay
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Arbroath Abbey – Things to Do in Arbroath
Step inside the ruins of Arbroath Abbey, where the Declaration of Arbroath was sealed in April 1320. The Abbey was founded by King William I in the twelfth century and, today, visitors can still see the abbey’s twin-towered West front, the remains of the South transept, the nave, presbytery, choir, sacristy and Abbot’s House.
The abbey’s modern claim to fame is the fact that when Scottish students removed the Stone of Destiny from Westminster Abbey in 1951, it was placed by the abbey’s high altar. Arbroath abbey is under the stewardship of Historic Scotland, so it’s free to members or check up to date prices here.
The Declaration of Arbroath Statue
FREE A monument, set in greenery just off Dundee Road, remembers the signing of a document over 700 years old, a historic political document called the Declaration of Arbroath. Eight earls and around forty nobles congregated in Arbroath Abbey to add their seal to a letter addressed to Pope John XXII. It declared Scotland’s autonomy from England, with its own king.
The two figures on the plinth are said to be Bernard, Abbot of Arbroath, who oversaw the drafting of the declaration, and Robert The Bruce. Visitors probably won’t spend much time at the statue but it’s a historic stop and a photo opp too.
Pleasureland – Things to Do in Arbroath with Kids
This vast arcade with traditional carnival rides and dodgems will empty your pockets but the kids will have a blast. Pleasureland is right next to the beach too.
Arbroath Beach & West Links Playground – Arbroath with Kids
FREE Arbroath boasts extensive coastline for long walks and children’s adventures. Next to the shore is the large West Links Playground – get the little ones even more exhausted for the car journey home!
Signal Tower Museum
FREE For local history, head to the Signal Tower Museum to uncover the story of the Bell Rock Lighthouse. It’s the world’s oldest surviving sea washed lighthouse, built by Robert Stevenson between 1807-1811. The Signal Tower Museum itself is housed within the original shore station, where the keepers’ families were accommodated.
The museum tells other unexpected local tales, such as a random attack on the town in 1781 by a Captain William Fall who demanded the huge sum of £30,000. The captain opened fire, and a selection of the cannonballs that descended on the town are displayed within the museum. The Captain never received his money!
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Watch Arbroath Smokies Being Made
Arbroath Smokies have PGI / Protected Geographical Indication, which means they can ONLY be made in Arbroath. Head to M&M Spink on the harbourside to see how it’s done. This family has been smoking haddock in the traditional fashion for generations. Watch the process, ask questions, buy some beautiful fish hot and ready to eat, or packed to take home. Pure, natural goodness.
Visit Authmithie
Slightly out of town you’ll find the small fishing village of Authmithie, which claims to be the original home of the Smokie. Around three miles north of Arbroath, take the car or walk from Arbroath to Authmithie along sandstone cliffs.
An Authmithie highlight is dining at the relaxed but renowned But’n’Ben restaurant. Traditional Scottish dishes are served, but the smokies are the star dish. Try the Smokie pancakes or cream of Arbroath Smokie soup.
Authmithie village looks down onto a pebbly beach and old harbour, so it’s possible to do some coastal explorations too.
Family Dining
For tasty pizzas in an informal setting we booked a table at Copper Oven. It’s in the centre of town (so a short drive to the attractions listed above) but it worked for us.
Accommodation
For chic B&B accommodation try the Brucefield Boutique B&B on Cliffburn Road. Alternatively, try the big smoke, and head to the city of Dundee. We’re big fans of the Apex City Quay for smart accommodation at good prices. Read a full review of the Apex here. For 2-bedroom self catering book here.
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