About the location
ARBROATH
Carnoustie 8 miles; Dundee 16 miles; St Andrews 30 miles.
An ancient port, Arbroath’s status as a town can be dated from 1178, when Arbroath Abbey was founded. The Abbey was subsequently consecrated in 1197 and there is a dedication to Saint Thomas Becket in the Abbey. The famous Declaration of Arbroath, the desire for Scottish self-determination, was signed in the Abbey in 1320. Arbroath’s influence grew over the subsequent centuries and particularly during the Industrial Revolution through the flax and jute industries, as well as fishing with the town boasting one of the largest fishing ports in Scotland by the 20th century. It is known for its long sandy beaches, as well as the Arbroath Smokie, with its haddock, traditionally salted overnight, dried, and then smoked over a hardwood fire. There are several traditional smokehouses around the harbour, with many well worth a visit, as well as excellent restaurants for fine dining. With lots of coastal walking and cycling, as well as golf courses and Carnoustie only 8 miles along the coast, there are plenty of attractions and activities in an around this lovely coastal town.