Angus Travel Guide (North East Scotland/Scotland/United Kingdom/Britain and Ireland/Europe)

Introduction to Angus

Located in the North East of Scotland in the United Kingdom, Angus boasts of numerous castles, golf courses, historical landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. The county is home to vibrant cities and small towns with friendly locals that make it perfect for both solo travelers and families. From the dramatic coastline to the rolling hills and stunning lochs, Angus has a lot to offer every type of traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Angus

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Scotland is known for its rich history and culture, and Angus is no exception. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places:

(1) Arbroath Abbey: A gorgeous ruin of a 12th-century Catholic monastery that played a significant role in Scotland’s history.
(2) Montrose Museum: This museum houses artifacts from the local area and the antique collection of the Allan family.
(3) House of Dun: A Georgian mansion set in a beautiful estate with art, antiques, and textiles.

Natural Attractions of Angus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for outdoor adventures and scenic views, Angus has plenty on offer:

(1) Glen Clova: A natural wonderland with stunning mountains, picturesque site Loop, and wildlife abounds.
(2) Lunan Bay: A beautiful horseshoe-shaped with soft golden sands and rock formations.
(3) Cairngorms National Park: The largest National Park in Scotland, with diverse flora and fauna, ancient woodlands, and winding rivers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Angus

Angus is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes:

(1) The Cateran Trail: A circular 64-mile trail through the beautiful Scottish highlands that cuts through Perthshire and Angus.
(2) Angus Coastal Route: A 150-mile scenic drive along the coastline of Angus, dotted with picturesque villages and historical landmarks.
(3) Glen Esk Circular: An easy 8-mile hike in Glenesk valley with idyllic waterfalls and mountain trails.

Best Things to Do in Angus: Activities and Tours

Angus is filled with adventure-filled activities and tours for all ages:

(1) Mearns Castle Golf Institute: Experience golf in the home of golf. The 9-hole golf course is perfect for golfers of all levels.
(2) Glamis Castle: The childhood home of the Queen Mother, Glamis Castle is steeped in history, architecture, and legends.
(3) Rescobie Loch: A perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts and bird-watchers alike. The tranquil loch is home to several fish species and over 130 species of birds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Angus

Here is an ideal week-long itinerary for your visit to Angus:

Day	Destination
1st	Arrive in Dundee, Visit Discovery Point and V&A Museum Dundee
2nd	Visit Carnoustie Golf Course, Monikie Country Park, and Arbroath Abbey
3rd	Drive the Angus Coastal Route, visit Stonehaven and Dunnottar Castle
4th	Head to Cairngorms National Park for scenic views, hiking, and biking
5th	Explore local towns and villages such as Edzell and Kirriemuir
6th	Visit Glamis Castle (optional: attend a theater play) and Forfar Loch Country Park
7th	Depart from Dundee

Food and Drink Scene of Angus

Must-Try Dishes

The Scottish cuisine is known for its hearty, wholesome, and flavorful dishes. Here are some traditional Scottish dishes you must try in Angus:

(1) Cullen Skink: A thick and creamy soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream.
(2) Haggis: A savory pudding made with sheep organs combined with onions and oatmeal and served with neeps and tatties.
(3) Arbroath Smokie: A smoked fish specialty made with haddock smoked naturally over hardwood.

Local Beverages

Apart from traditional Scottish dishes, Angus also produces a range of exceptional beverages that you must try:

(1) Scotch Whiskey: Scotland’s most famous export, a spirit made from malted barley and distilled in oak barrels.
(2) Brewdog Beers: A craft beer brewery in Ellon that produces some of the best beers in Scotland.
(3) Angus Gin: A unique, small-batch gin distilled at Ogilvy Distillery using botanicals from the surrounding countryside.

Where to Stay in Angus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Angus boasts an array of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are some of the best places to stay:

(1) Old Course Hotel: A luxurious five-star hotel located in St. Andrews, offering stunning views of the famous Old Course.
(2) Kinnettles Hotel: A chic boutique-style hotel in Forfar, with plush rooms and an excellent restaurant.
(3) Airlie Arms Hotel: A traditional Scottish hotel located in Kirriemuir, featuring cozy bedrooms and a warm atmosphere.

What to Buy in Angus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Angus, take home some locally-made souvenirs. Here are some ideas:

(1) Forfar Bridies: A savory pastry filled with minced beef, onions, and spices, considered a local delicacy in Angus.
(2) Angus Ale and Whiskey: A bottle of Angus ale or whiskey that will remind you of Scotland’s finest beverage offerings.
(3) Cashmere: Angus is renowned for producing high-quality cashmere clothing that you cannot miss buying!

Local Culture and Customs of Angus

The locals in Angus are known for their warm hospitality, sense of humor, love of all things Scottish. Attire in Scotland is generally casual, with comfortable and warm clothing recommended for the colder months.

Best Time to Visit Angus

The best time to visit Angus is between April and September when the weather is mild, the days are long, and there are lots of cultural events and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Angus

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Angus:

Do:

(1) Take a hiking or biking tour of the countryside to explore hidden gems.
(2) Try local whiskey, ale, and cider.
(3) Learn about Angus’s history and culture.

Don’t:

(1) Litter or damage the countryside or historical landmarks.
(2) Overlook the coastal villages.
(3) Be loud or disruptive in restaurants or public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Angus

Angus is a relatively safe place to visit, with low crime rates, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Angus

The National Health Service (NHS) provides excellent healthcare services in Angus. It’s always recommended to take medical insurance before entering Scotland.

Getting to Angus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Angus

The nearest airport is Dundee Airport located around 3 miles east of Dundee City Centre.

Bus Stations Near Angus

Megabus is the primary bus service provider for Angus with buses stopping at Dundee’s bus station, serving various parts of Scotland.

Other Options

Hiring a car or taxi is a great way to explore Angus, but trains are the best way to reach other destinations in Scotland.

How to Get Around in Angus

Public transportation services include buses, taxis, and trains. However, hiring a car or bike rental is the best way to explore the countryside, with easy access to many popular sites and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Angus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Angus is a perfect spot to explore other parts of Scotland. Some of the nearby destinations that are worth exploring include:

(1) Edinburgh: The capital city of Scotland with iconic landmarks such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
(2) Aberdeen: The “Granite City” of Scotland, located in the North East, has many cultural centers, vibrant nightlife, and stunning coastline.
(3) Inverness: Located in the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a gateway to the iconic Loch Ness and Cairngorms National Park.

Conclusion

We hope this comprehensive guide has given you all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Angus. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, Angus has something for everyone. Book your trip today and explore the beauty of Scotland like never before.

Angus Image Gallery

Glen Isla

Pictish stone at Aberlemno

Arbroath Smokies in the smokehouse