Montrose Travel Guide

Plan an amazing trip to Montrose in Scotland with this comprehensive tour guide that covers all the important aspects of the city, including must-visit attractions, natural wonders, local culture, food and drink scene, accommodation options, transportation, and safety tips.


If you’re planning a trip to Scotland, then Montrose should be on your list of places to visit. Located in Angus, in North East Scotland, Montrose is a charming coastal town that offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive tour guide for Montrose covers all the important aspects of the city to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

Introduction to Montrose

Montrose is a town with a rich history that goes back to the 10th century. The town has played a significant role in various historical events, from battles to maritime trade. Today, Montrose is a bustling coastal town that retains its traditional charm while offering modern amenities to visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Montrose

Montrose has a lot of attractions that cater to different interests. Below is a list of must-visit places in Montrose that covers both culturally important attractions and natural wonders.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Montrose Museum and Art Gallery - This museum has an impressive collection of artwork and historical artefacts that tell the story of Montrose and its people.
  2. House of Dun - A stunning Georgian mansion that has been well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the life of the aristocracy of the 18th century.
  3. Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre - This museum pays tribute to the RAF’s contribution to the Second World War and showcases various planes and artefacts from that era.
  4. Montrose Old and St Andrew’s Church - This church is a fine example of Gothic architecture and has played a significant role in the town’s religious and social history.

Natural Attractions of Montrose: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Montrose Beach - A long sandy beach that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or sunbathing.
  2. Montrose Basin Nature Reserve - A must-visit for bird lovers and conservationists, this nature reserve is home to various bird species and offers stunning views of the basin.
  3. Hill of Montrose - This hill offers panoramic views of Montrose, and the surrounding countryside is perfect for hiking and picnics.
  4. Loch Lee - This freshwater loch is located a short drive from the town and offers stunning scenic views and is perfect for trout fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Montrose

Montrose and the surrounding countryside offer several hiking and biking routes that take you through beautiful countryside and scenic views. Some of the popular routes include:

  1. The Fungle Road - This is a seven-mile route that starts from the Glen Esk Car Park and takes you through the beautiful countryside of Angus.
  2. The Hill of Garvock - This short route takes you to the top of the Hill of Garvock, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding area.
  3. The Pictish Trail - This route takes you through the historic sites of Aberlemno and Glamis Castle and offers insights into Scotland’s rich history.

Best Things to Do in Montrose: Activities and Tours

Montrose has a lot to offer when it comes to activities and tours. Below is a list of must-try things to do in Montrose:

  1. Golfing - Montrose has several golf courses that offer stunning views of the sea, including Montrose Golf Links and Royal Montrose Golf Club.
  2. Fishing - The rivers and lochs surrounding Montrose offer excellent trout fishing opportunities.
  3. Dolphin watching - Montrose is located near the Moray Firth, which is home to several species of dolphins. You can take guided tours to watch these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
  4. Whisky Tasting - Scotland is famous for its whisky, and Montrose is located near several distilleries, including GlenDronach and Fettercairn, where you can take tours and taste their products.

Week-Long Itinerary for Montrose

If you’re planning to spend a week in Montrose, then you might want to consider the following itinerary:

Day 1 - Arrival and exploring the Montrose Beach and Montrose Museum and Art Gallery. Day 2 - Visiting the House of Dun and Montrose Old and St Andrew’s Church. Day 3 - Hiking the Fungle Road and enjoying the Hill of Montrose. Day 4 - Touring the Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre and spending the day fishing at Loch Lee. Day 5 - Playing golf at the Montrose Golf Links and watching dolphins in the wild. Day 6 - Visiting local whisky distilleries and enjoying the local gastronomy. Day 7 - Relaxing on the beach and preparing for departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Montrose

Montrose has a vibrant food and drink scene that caters to different tastes and budgets. Below is a list of must-try dishes and local beverages that you should try when in Montrose:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cullen skink - A local dish made with smoked haddock, potatoes, onions, and cream.
  2. Arbroath smokies - A traditional dish of smoked haddock that’s popular throughout Scotland.
  3. Haggis - Scotland’s national dish, made with sheep’s organs, oatmeal, and spices.
  4. Dundee cake - A classic Scottish cake made with almonds and dried fruit.

Local Beverages

  1. Whisky - As mentioned earlier, Scotland is famous for its whisky, and Montrose is located near several distilleries that produce some of the best whisky in the world.
  2. Beer - Montrose has several microbreweries that produce locally brewed beer that you can sample.
  3. Cider - If you prefer a sweeter drink, then you might want to try some of the local ciders that are available in Montrose.

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

Montrose has several options when it comes to accommodation, from high-end hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Below is a list of some of the popular options:

  1. Montrose Mercantile - A luxurious hotel that offers modern amenities and stunning views of the sea.
  2. Park Hotel Montrose - A budget-friendly option that’s located near the town centre and offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  3. Chapel House - A charming guesthouse that’s located in a historical building and offers a homely atmosphere.

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

Montrose has several local products that you can take home as souvenirs or gifts for your loved ones. Some of the popular options include:

  1. Tartan products - Scotland is famous for its tartan, and Montrose has several shops that sell tartan scarves, kilts, and other products.
  2. Whisky - If you’re a whisky lover, then you might want to take home a bottle of some of the best whisky produced in Montrose.
  3. Smoked fish - Arbroath smokies are a must-try dish in Montrose, and you can take some smoked fish home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Montrose

Montrose has a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its architecture, museums, and local events. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and you might want to learn some of the local customs to immerse yourself in the local culture. Some of the common customs include:

  1. Piping - Bagpipes are a traditional Scottish instrument, and you might come across local pipers at events and celebrations.
  2. Ceilidh - A Ceilidh is a traditional Scottish dance where people join hands and dance to live traditional music.
  3. Burns Night - This celebration is held in honour of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, and involves eating haggis, drinking whisky, and reciting Burns’ poetry.

Best Time to Visit Montrose

The best time to visit Montrose is between May and September when the weather is mild, and the days are longer. During this time, you can enjoy the sea, hiking, and outdoor activities without worrying about the cold or rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Montrose

When visiting Montrose, it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and etiquette. Below are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Greet the locals with a smile and a friendly hello.
  2. Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
  3. Try the local gastronomy and whisky.
  4. Explore the local history and culture.

Don’t:

  1. Insult the locals or their customs.
  2. Litter or damage the natural environment.
  3. Be too loud or disruptive in public places.
  4. Ignore local customs and etiquette.

Safety and Health

Montrose is a relatively safe town, but you should still take precautions to ensure your safety and health. Below are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Montrose

  1. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid dark alleys or quiet places at night.
  2. Keep your valuables hidden and avoid flashing your cash or jewellery in public places.
  3. Follow the local road rules and be aware of the speed limits when driving.
  4. In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 112 for immediate assistance.

Health in Montrose

  1. Pack any necessary medication and keep them in a safe place.
  2. Stay hydrated, especially if you’re engaging in outdoor activities.
  3. Use sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn.
  4. Carry a first-aid kit for minor injuries.

Getting to Montrose: Transportation Options and Logistics

Montrose is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Below are some transportation options that you can use to get to Montrose:

Airports Near Montrose

  1. Aberdeen International Airport - Located 59 miles from Montrose.
  2. Dundee Airport - Located 28 miles from Montrose.

Bus Stations Near Montrose

  1. Montrose Bus Station - Located in the town centre and offers services to nearby towns and cities.
  2. Dundee Bus Station - Located 28 miles from Montrose and offers services to most major cities in Scotland.

Other Options

  1. Train - Montrose has a train station that connects to most major cities in Scotland.
  2. Car rental - You can rent a car at Aberdeen or Dundee airport and drive to Montrose.

How to Get Around in Montrose

Montrose is a relatively small town that’s easy to navigate on foot. However, you can also use taxis or buses to get around. If you want to explore the surrounding countryside, then you might want to rent a car.

Where to Go Next from Montrose: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montrose is located near several towns and cities that are worth visiting, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. You can also take excursions to the nearby Cairngorms National Park, which offers stunning scenic views and outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Montrose is a hidden gem in Scotland that offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. With this comprehensive tour guide, you now have all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Montrose. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or gastronomy, Montrose has something to offer for everyone.

The Basin seen from the train The Basin seen from the train Edzell Castle Edzell Castle Brechin Round Tower Brechin Round Tower Bamse guarding the port Bamse guarding the port