|
The Arbroath Abbey
was the venue for the historic signing of the Declaration Of
Arbroath in 1320. On
the 6th of April that year, Scotland's nobles signed this
declaration swearing allegiance to Robert the
Bruce as their king, in his presence. The abbey is also the final
resting place of King William the Lion
(William I of Scotland). His families heraldic symbol was a red lion
on a yellow background. This went on to
become the Royal Coat of Arms of Scotland, and one of its national
flags. Today you can still wander around
the ancient ruins of this 5 star visitor attraction. Also within the
grounds is the Abbots House Museum,
the most complete example of its kind in Britain. And visitors can
take a look around the Arbroath Abbey
visitor centre, showing what the abbey looked like when it was
complete, as well as the history of the
building itself.
|
Arbroath Abbey
back
to top
The West
Links (10 minutes walk away) on the seafront offers a great day out
for the family.
Activities provided include an adventure playpark, mini cars and
bike track, amusement arcade, burger
bar, paddling pool, crazy golf, putting course, pitch and putt,
trampolines and tennis courts, all
overlooking the beach. You will also find a road train here, taking
you into various parts of the
town for a small fee. Kerr's Miniature railway, the oldest small
guage railway in Scotland, and Jumpin
Joeys Family Entertainment Centre are also close by. |
|
For anyone who
appreciates stone carving, a visit to the Mortuary Chapel at
Arbroath's Western cemetery is a must. This building is virtually unparalleled
in Scotland for its quality and variety of its carvings in stone.
The stonemason, a Mr John Peters was a craftsman of the highest
calibre. The exterior of this building can be viewed all year round.
Guests wishing to view its equally remarkable interior stone
carvings can do so at certain times of the year during the national
Doors Open Days. Viewing its interior is also sometimes possible on
request.
|
Mortuary Chapel
back
to top
Signal Tower Museum
Bell Rock Lighthouse
back
to top
O'Briens
Pleasureland is an indoor funfair offering activities for all ages.
These include waltzers,
bumper cars, children's rides, amusement arcade, pool tables, Jungle
Jims play area, burger bar as well as
the traditional fairground stalls. The more adventurous can try the
outdoor bungee rocket, if your feeling brave. |
Pleasureland
www.pleasurelandarbroath.co.uk
back
to top
Overlooking
Keptie Pond is the Victorian built Water Tower, which has often been
mistaken for a castle
but was only built to provide a water supply to part of the town.
Built in 1885, Ron's great grandfather
assisted in the construction of this historic building. With access
for the disabled, visitors can
take a leisurely walk around this mini nature reserve or just relax
on one of the many seated areas. A
great place for taking the kids to feed the ducks and swans. |
Keptie Pond
back
to top
St Vigeans
Church dates back to the 11th century, but most of what we see today
is 18th century.
Situated on an intriguing mound, this church has been ravaged and
rebuilt many times over the centuries.
Over 30 ancient carved stones have been found at St Vigeans. In a
cottage nearby, several of these Pictish
stones, some of which were incorporated into the churches
construction, can be viewed free of charge by
the public. St Vigeans Church was also featured on TV when the
Arbroath born TV presenter Dominic Diamond was filming the Channel 5
show "Crucify Me" in 2006. |
St Vigeans Church
back
to top
|
Arbroath
also offers visitors the opportunity to charter a boat for
pleasure cruises or fishing
trips. You can follow in the wake of Rabbie Burns when he
toured the caves of the Arbroath cliffs, or
try fishing near the Bellrock Lighthouse 11 miles off the
coast. The harbour is also where you will find
most of the quaint smokehouses, where you can buy an
Arbroath Smokie straight off the barrel. The Arbroath
Seafest takes place around the harbour annually in August.
This huge 2 day festival attracts over 30,000 visitors
every year.
|
Arbroath Harbour
back
to top
|
One of five nature walks, the cliffs
of Arbroath span for over 3 miles all the way to the village of
Auchmithie. Views include the spectacular sea stacks and caves carved into the
soft red sandstone. Walk
along the designated pathways and see the various coastal birds swooping below
you. Victoria Park is
found just before the Arbroath cliffs. This is where our annual Arbroath
Seafront Spectacular takes
place, usually in July. This one day event is also an airshow with helicopter
pleasure flights, RAF Tornado
flight displays, Sea King helicopter and Lifeboat demonstrations and the world
famous Red Arrows
display team. Attracts over 30,000 to Arbroath every year.
Arbroath Cliffs
back
to top
|
Glamis Castle, the
childhood home of the late queen mother and the legendary setting
for Shakespeare's Macbeth. The castle was also the location of the
2005 TV series, "Castle in the country", presented by John
Craven and Nikki Chapman. Reputedly the most haunted castle in
Britain, Glamis offers its visitors guided tours, gardens, nature
walks, a picnic/play area and a licensed restaurant. Glamis castle
is less than 30 minutes drive from Arbroath.
Glamis Castle
back
to top
|
|
|
Lunan Bay, located
roughly 6 miles from Arbroath, is a popular destination with
families and walkers. Its location also appeals to anglers,
canoeists, surfers, swimmers and horse riders. With some stunning
sand dunes, Lunan's golden beach streches for miles. Overlooking
this bay is the ruins of Red Castle, once owned by Robert the Bruce
in the 1300's.
Red Castle & Lunan Bay
back
to top
|
|
Glen Isla
back to top
|
The Angling Guest
We have information on all the fishing locations in the area. One of the
sea angling locations is the
picturesque village of Auchmithie, a couple of miles north of Arbroath.
This small village sits at the top
of the cliffs, with its harbour at the base surrounded by 150 feet of
red sandstone. A popular location for
visitors and has major appeal to anglers sea fishing off the rocks.
There are a few good sea angling marks
in Arbroath and out by the cliffs, one of them is just a few hundred
yards away at the Elliot beach. With
some other good marks a bit further north at the villages of Usan and
Boddin. Recently featured on the
BBC series "Coast" and the ITV series "The Woman Who Ate
Scotland", the But n Ben restaurant is another good reason to visit
Auchmithie. With its superb menu including the Arbroath Smokie. The
facilities we offer for anglers include a secure area for tackle and a
drying area for waterproofs, waders, boots, etc. We can freeze your ice
packs, or group bookings have the option of paying a small charge for
our outdoor freezer, for storing catch and bait. We provide information
on all the various types of angling on offer in the Angus area, with a
few hidden gems that are not advertised.
Auchmithie Harbour
back
to top |
|
The Walking Guest
As well as the Arbroath clifftop coastal trail, there are five other
good walks in and around Arbroath. Just
400 yards away is the Elliot Nature Trail. This runs along the old
railway line to Kellie Castle and the
village of Arbirlot. Just 200 yards away is the Arbroath Coastal Trail,
running past the Arbroath golf
course, on to the beach, past the old wartime defences, all the way to
Carnoustie. Again just 200
yards away is the new walking/cycle route running from Arbroath through
the beautiful Angus countryside, all the way to Dundee if your feeling
fit. On the other side of town is the St Vigeans Nature Trail. Starts at
the church and museum, takes you through the Angus countryside to the
Letham Grange golf courses. And the Hercules Den Trail, starting at the
Elms area of town, through a wooded area and ends up at St Vigeans.
Guests are welcome to use our kitchen area to prepare pack lunches or
picnic hampers. And our drying area is available for your boots,
clothing, etc. We also have a foot spa on offer to ease away those aches
and pains. We also offer information on some other good walks throughout
the Angus area, including routes through the Glens of Angus.
Elliot Nature Trail
back
to top |
|
The Cycling Guest
Many cyclists have stayed with us over the years, from some long stay
guests bringing their bikes with them for days out in Angus, overnight
stay guests touring around Scotland, to the many charity cyclists like
Sese and her dog Bud, who stayed with us while touring around the
British Isles in aid of Cancer Research. Arbroath is serviced by a new
designated national cycle route, running from Dundee all the way to
Arbroath, keeping you off the main road. Our guest house is situated
just off this route. The cycle route winds its way through the Angus
countryside and farmland with its breathtaking scenery surrounding you.
Any cycling guests can use our kitchen area to prepare for their next
destination and again our drying area is on offer if needed. Our secure
garage is available for peace of mind, and if needed, this is also where
any essential maintenance can be carried out. Grace and Ron enjoy
cycling in the Angus area and can give advice on the more scenic routes
on offer, or the best directions to your next destination.
Cycling in Angus
back
to top |
|
The Motor Cycling
Guest
The winding twisting roads, the beautiful scenery and the rich wildlife.
What could be more appealing on a
glorious summers day than biking along the Angus coastal route, or
through the more rural inland areas
of Angus. We have accommodated many motor cyclists throughout the years,
including the lads from the
round Britain tour of the Kettle Club in 2005. With their 1970's Suzuki
GT750's, they took advantage of
our garage facilities to carry out some essential repairs. Five Gables
House has its own car park, or
our secure garage facilities are again on offer free of charge. This is
also where Ron keeps his old Honda
CB250 RS.
The Kettle Club Lads
www.thekettleclub.org.uk
Grace with her grandaughter Lisa handing over a
donation to the charity bikers who stayed with us in May 2006. This was
during the Superbike Tour Of Scotland in aid of the Shamiam Arif Appeal.
The tour raised over £5000 for wee Shamiam. If you would like more
information or would like to make a donation to this appeal, click on
the link below.
www.muslimhands.org/Site/Pages/ShamiamArifAppeal
back
to top |
|
Weddings In Arbroath
As Grace is a retired Florist, running her own Florist business in town
for over 24 years, she can advise on
nearly all aspects of getting married in Arbroath. From the choice of
local churches, reception venues,
limo hire, etc. Grace sold her business to Mary Beattie in 2005, who
along with Grace's old staff, are
still carrying on the name and reputation of Grace's old shop. Visit
Mary's shop on the High Street for any
floral requirements you may need. Our home has been a part of many a
wedding in the town, hopefully adding to a memorable stay. We can
arrange for a taxi service to take you there and our no late time
restrictions mean you can come and go as much as you please. Our guests
can also meet up with other wedding guests in our guest lounge and
dining area, before heading off to the big event. Our Seaview Double
Room has also been a popular choice for that romantic stay for the Bride
and Groom. With its panoramic seaviews during the day, and moonlit seas
at night. We can also advise on the unique wedding locations on offer in
the Angus and Dundee area, from castles, mansion houses and the grounds
of the Arbroath Abbey. Call us on 01241 871632 to add a memorable stay
to your wedding experience.
Getting married in Arbroath
back
to top |
|
The Castles Of Angus
With its Royal connections and its rich and sometimes turbulant history,
the Angus area is a good base for
touring Scottish castles and mansions. Glamis Castle is just one of over
40 in the area, some offering
facilities for visitors. They cater for all types of visitor, whether
its touring the interiors, walking
amongst the gardens and trails, the annual events, sports, restaurant
facilities or just absorbing the
history amongst the ruins. Twelve of these historic castles and
castellated mansions also offer their
services as a unique location for wedding ceremonies or receptions, this
includes the grounds of the
Arbroath Abbey. We have information here about all the castles in the
Angus and Dundee area, giving you some historical details along with
prices, opening times and the facilities they offer.
Broughty Castle Museum
Dunnottar Castle
Dunnottar Castle is situated in one of the most stunning
locations in the UK, found 30 minutes drive
from Arbroath. This castle was recently added to the list of the top 40
places to visit in Scotland, no bad
considering that there are over 3000 castles in Scotland alone.
Dunnottar is steeped in history, some
say dating back to the Pictish and Roman era. In 1650this castle also
protected the Scottish Crown Jewels,
"The Honours Of Scotland" from destruction by Oliver Cromwell
and his troops. Mary Queen of Scots, the Marquis of Montrose and William
Wallace have all visited Dunnottar Castle. More recently the castle was
the location in 1990 for the filming of Shakespeare's Hamlet, starring
Mel Gibson, Glenn Close and Helena Bonham Carter.
Dunnottar Castle
back
to top |
|
The Gardens Of Angus
If your like Grace and you enjoy gardening, then there are a few
stunning examples in the area. The most well known of these in Angus
offering good access are the gardens at Glamis Castle, Edzell Castle and
the House Of Dun. Not forgetting the beautiful gardens at the House of
Pitmuies just 6 miles away. Dundee also has two good accessible gardens
with the Barnhill Rock Gardens in Broughty Ferry and the University of
Dundee's Botanic Gardens. Other examples with a more limited opening
schedule include the gardens at
Brechin Castle, Airlie Castle, Claypotts Castle, Cortachy Castle and
Dunninald House. And don't forget
the huge Flower and Food Festival in September, held every year in
Dundee. Previous special guests at this festival include the TV
presenter Charlie Dimmock and TV Chefs Gordon Ramsey and Nick Nairn.
Edzell Castle Gardens
back
to top |
|
Touring Scotland
Five Gables House is a great base for touring the east coast of
Scotland. We provide visitor information
including opening times and prices to the attractions in all the towns
of Angus. These include the towns of
Carnoustie, Monifieth, Broughty Ferry, Glamis, Brechin, Forfar,
Montrose, Edzell and Kirriemuir. With
some historical details and visitor information on all the nearby
villages. The City Of Discovery Dundee, is
only 17 miles from Arbroath, and we can tell you what there is to see
and do there also. Arbroath is also
not too far away from Aberdeen, Perth, Stirling, St Andrews and Braemar,
and so makes a good base for
touring the east coast of Scotland.
HM Frigate Unicorn
back
to top |
|
The Adventurous
For the more adventurous, the Angus and Dundee area has a few things on
offer. Just 3 miles away from
Arbroath is Balhousie Outdoor Adventures, offering quad biking for all
ages, clay shooting, go carting,
Honda pilot driving and even the chance to pilot a hovercraft.
Paintballing can be found near Brechin,
and Avertical World in Dundee is Tayside's only indoor climbing centre.
The West Links area of Arbroath is also a great location for Dirtsurfing.
This combines the thrills of snowboarding and surfing on land,
without having to wait on snow or sea conditions. Details of this sport
can be found at the shop Outdoor
Action in Arbroath. Throughout the Angus and Dundee area, windsurfing, water-skiing,
sailing, off road
driving, falconry, horse riding and archery are also available at
certain times of the year.
Balhousie Quad Bikes
back
to top |
|
The Archaeology
Around 2000 years ago, the Angus and Kincardineshire area was the
premier Pictish province in Scotland.
This is when the area was known as "Circhenn" by these Iron
Age tribes. Various reminders have been left
behind by these mysterious people, in the form of beautiful carved
stones, subterranean earth houses,
Iron Age hill forts and ancient battle sites. In fact, just a few miles
from Arbroath is where the Battle of
Nechtansmere (Dunnichen) took place in AD685. This is said to be the
most important battle ever fought,
leading to the unification of Alba, the birth of Scotland. Even today
new discoveries are being made.
In 1998, a Pictish burial site known as a cist was found just 40 yards
from Five Gables House. Around the
same time as the Picts, the Romans were invading Scotland, and there are
a few Roman fort and fortlet
sites to be found also. The closest is just 5 miles from Arbroath. The
Vikings also made it to this
stretch of the east coast about 1000 years ago. Just 6 miles north of
Arbroath is where they landed at Lunan Bay, and 8 miles south of
Arbroath is where King Malcolm II defeated the famous Viking commander
Camus the Slayer in 1012. A stone cross marks the spot where Camus was
slain. For those interested in this period of Scotland's history and for
those bringing metal detectors, we provide the information you need and
can tell you the best places to visit.
Ardestie Earth House
Aberlemno Pictish Stone
back
to top |
|
The Geology Of Scotland
Scotland's distinct landscape is renowned for its natural beauty, from
its mountains and Munros, lochs
and glens, to its coastal beaches and cliffs. Rocks dating back over 3
billion years are found in some
parts of Scotland. The Scottish landscape comprises of 5 geologically
distinct parts, separated by big faults
or breaks that can still be seen today. Scotland used to form part of
what is now the continent of America,
separated from the land mass that included what is now the rest of the
UK. These two land masses gradually drifted and fused together, then
broke apart to form the British Isles and the Atlantic Ocean.
Throughout world history, humans used the geology of the lands they live
on, to form the infrastructure of their civilization. In the Angus area,
red sandstone has been one of these key components. Pictish carved
stones, Iron Age hill forts, brochs and castles, the Arbroath Abbey and
other local buildings were
constructed from this material, continually recycled even today. The
stones that built the great Arbroath
Abbey were quarried from the cliffs of Arbroath, then after the
Reformation of the Catholic Church, the
abbey itself was used as a quarry to build some of the houses and
churches in town. In fact, some of the
stones we used to construct our garden walls, may have once been part of
the Arbroath Abbey. We know that the decorative arched stone that is
over our pond waterfall, was once part of the old St Columbus Church in
town. A few miles away is the old quarry at Carmyllie, one of the oldest
in Scotland. This
Carmyllie stone as it was called was then exported worldwide from
Arbroath. The structures it found its
way into include the floors of the Cologne Cathedral, the Forth Railway
Bridge and the University of
Glasgow. The picturesque location of Lunan bay, just a few miles away,
is a good spot for finding agates and other gemstones, best found in
pebbly areas after storms. And the Angus glens, cliffs and coastline
offer some great walks on terrain untouched by the passing of time. On
the coast, natural formations and
caves like the Diel's Heid, Needles Ee and Elephant Rock are waiting to
be explored.
Arbroath Cliffs - Needles Ee
back
to top |
|
Nature and Ornithology
As well as watching the wide variety of garden birds having their
breakfast as you have yours at Five
Gables House, there are a few Scottish Wildlife Trust Reserves in the
Angus area. Nature lovers,
Ornithologists and families are spoilt for choice on where to visit.
Birdwatching hides are available at
Balgavies Loch near Forfar, Loch of Lintrathen near Kirriemuir, and the
observation points over the
Montrose Basin Wildlife Reserve. The ruins of Red Castle just 6 miles
away is also another good
birdwatching location. A walk along the Arbroath clifftop trail, leading
to the Seaton Den Nature
Reserve, also offers some stunning views of the coastal birds nesting on
the cliff face. If its
wildlife your looking for, you can choose from from over 80 species at
Dundee's Camperdown Wildlife
Centre, or the farm animal park at the Brechin Castle Centre. And you
can visit the Ostrich, Rhea's and
Wallabys at Kookaburra's about 10 miles from Arbroath, or take a trip to
the Mountains Animal Sanctuary for rescued horses, ponies and donkeys.
There are four large country parks nearby at Monikie, Crombie and Forfar,
all around 15 minutes drive from Arbroath. These will offer a Ranger
service, woodland trails and other family related activities.
Montrose Basin Nature Reserve
back
to top |
|
The Days Of Steam
The Angus and Kincardineshire area has one of the oldest railway
networks in the UK. We don't just
overlook the Arbroath golf course and the North Sea, Five Gables House
is situated overlooking the main
East coast railway line on the other side of the golf course. Offering
views of the passing trains in the
distance. With the old Elliot line, now a nature trail just a few
hundred yards away, and remnants of the old
St Vigeans line, seen along the St Vigeans nature trail on the other
side of town. Just 15 minutes walk
from our guest house is Kerr's Miniature Railway, the oldest in
Scotland. Offering passenger rides on their
mini diesels and steam trains for kids of all ages. Kerr's also have
miniature bus and fire engine rides
that are available, weather permitting. Another popular attraction, just
12 miles from Arbroath is the
Caledonian Railway, where guests can travel along part of the old
railway network. Re-live the days of steam on one of the many full size
diesel and steam trains on show here. Annual events here include the
regular Days Out With Thomas The Tank Engine and the Murder Mystery
events. Or the annual Diesel Gala, Steam Gala, Fathers Day excursions,
Easter Specials and Santa Specials. We also provide books detailing the
history of the old railway networks in Angus, for anyone interested in
this.
Caledonian Railway
back
to top |
|
The Arbroath Nightlife
With over 25 pubs and clubs to choose from in Arbroath, the town caters
for all kinds of
entertainment. Whether its just a quiet drink or some of our local live
entertainers, to the live bands and
the nightclub scene, Arbroath has something for everyone. This live
music can be anything from Blues,
Rock, Pop, Punk, Country, Jazz to the traditional Scottish Folk Music.
Our own Foundry Bar Band play
Scottish Music every Wednesday and Friday nights at the Foundry Bar.
There are 3 nightclubs in town and
Karaoke evenings are also quite popular. The town also has a Gala Bingo
hall for all those who have Gala
membership throughout the UK. All through the year visitors and
musicians flock to Arbroath for our many
musical events and music festivals. Our annual events include the 4 day
Arbroath and District Music Festival in March or April, the 3 day
Accordion and Fiddle Festival in July, the 2 day Smokie Blues Festival
in July, the 2 day Bellrock Blues festival in August, and the Hairst
Summer Arts Festival and Angus Folk Sessions that run throughout the
summer months. These are just a few. Also, our Arbroath British Legion
Pipe Band, of who Grace and Ron's grand daughter Lisa is a member of,
and our Arbroath Instrumental Brass band, will also play at various
events during the year. You can even try your hand at Scottish Dancing,
Line Dancing or Ballroom Dancing at certain times throughout the year.
Or you can just bring a bottle back to the guest house and relax in your
room or our guest lounge or garden.
back
to top |
|
The Arbroath Theatres
The Webster Memorial Theatre is the main theatre in town, re-opened in
2007 after a £4 million refit.
There is usually something on at this theatre every week in Arbroath.
Anything from stage theatre and
musicals, professional drop in performance programmes, to a wide range
of community shows and events. One of the more famous faces who has appeared
at the Webster on a few occasions is Billy Connolly during his many
tours of Scotland. Billy has a few links with Arbroath, one being he
used to come camping here in
his youth. The Webster Theatre also takes centre stage during the Hairst
Summer Arts Festival. The other
theatre in town is the 70 seater Abbey Theatre. They run fortnightly
shows on and off throughout the year
and offer some great entertainment. This theatre company nurtured the
talents of Norman Bowman, a local
lad who is making his way on London's West End circuit. Another
theatrical event growing in
popularity is our annual pageant during the Tartan Week Celebrations,
starting on the 6th of April. Where
local Arbroath Abbey Pageant Society members recreate the signing of the
Arbroath Declaration, as well as other historical moments in Scotland's
history. Not too far away is the famous Caird Hall and we also highlight
what is on here during your stay. Annual visitors include anything from
top music acts from classical to pop, to some of the great comic and
stage entertainers. Bob Hope, Billy Connolly and The Beatles are some
who have graced the stage of the Caird Hall.
Abbey Theatre
back
to top |
|
The Arts
For those who appreciate art, the area has a few galleries and a few
exhibitions on offer. One of the
latest additions is the Art Gallery next to the Arbroath harbour.
Another gallery can be found at the
Arbroath Library, housing works by renowned artists Peter Breughel II
and the Angus born James Watterson Herald, who lived in Arbroath in his
latter years. This influenced his art with scenes of the abbey, harbour
and fisher folk reflected in his work. Various exhibitions take place
during the year at these
galleries and also at the Angus College in town, and at the Kinblethmont
House Gallery a few miles from
Arbroath. Exhibitions and other events also take place at Hospitalfield
House in Arbroath. This house dates back to the 1200's and is now used
as a centre for the arts, a home for the budding artists of the future.
This mansion house was the first location in the UK used for this
purpose and was used as a model for the art colleges of the future.
Hospitalfield House and Kinblethmont House also offer their services as
a
wedding location.
Hospitalfield House
|
Arts and Crafts
There are many Arts and Craft Fairs throughout the year in
Arbroath, as well as other events around the Angus area. The main
ones are the Glamis Castle 2D/3D Craft Fair around July, the
Guthrie Castle Craft Fairs in May and October, the Letham
Christmas Craft Fair, the Caledonian Craft Fair at the Arbroath
Seafest in August, and the Angus Spinners Fairs held at the
Arbroath Abbey throughout the year. With a few shops in Arbroath
like Christie's Fine Art Studio and Sugar n Spice, offering a
superb range of traditional and unique giftware and prints. Other
studios of note in
the area include the Eduardo Alessandro Studios, a 2 storey
gallery showcasing prints, jewellry and
ceramics in Broughty Ferry. The Oathlaw Pottery and Gallery near
Forfar, displaying contemporary paintings and ceramics in
stoneware and raku. Shirley I Ferguson's studio in Letham with
amazing hand painted stones featuring Scottish wildlife and
monuments. And the William Lamb Studio in Montrose which includes
busts of the Royal family. All within 15 minutes drive of Arbroath.
Or why not hold your own craft fair at Five Gables House. Andrea,
Lisa, Karen, Shona and Susan, the "Crazy Crafters" from
Glasgow and East Kilbride did this in 2006. Taking over our dining
area for a couple of days to make some fantastic craftwork and
gifts. They even made us their own unique Thank You card which we
proudly display in the guest house. As with all the other
attractions in the area, we can point you in the right direction
if its arts and crafts your looking for.
" A home from home, thanks
for making us feel so
welcome"
Andrea, Lisa, Karen, Shona and
Susan
From Glasgow and
East Kilbride |
back
to top |
|
Arbroath Sports
Its not just golf and fishing on offer in Arbroath. Various other
sporting outlets are available to
visitors. You can play tennis on one of the two public tennis courts at
the West Links area, or indoor tennis
at the local leisure centres. And Arbroath's indoor swimming pool offers
public swimming 7 days a week,
with special rates for families with Terrorzone Evenings and Pool Disco
Nights for the kids. The towns
two leisure centres will offer the usual services, fitness suites,
sauna, spa, etc. Also just a few miles
away is the Rowanlea Riding School, who will provide Equestrian
services. Or if you just want to go for a
run, the Arbroath beach is just 200 yards away. Lawn bowls is also a
very popular sport in Arbroath, with 4
outdoor bowling clubs and 1 indoor club. Ron is a member of the Newgate
Bowling Club in town, and any of
our guests can pay a small fee at any of these clubs, if they would like
to have a game. And Arbroath Golf
Club have a new driving range just 100 yards away if you just want to
hit a few balls.
Saltire Leisure Centre
back
to top |
|
The Nearby
Distilleries
We know that the ancient Celts practiced the art of distilling,
giving it the name "Uisge Beatha", the
Water Of Life. With the first written record of whisky in 1494. A
tour of Scotland is not complete without a
visit to one of the many distilleries. The closest of these to
Arbroath is the Glencadum Distillery, 12
miles away. Another, just 18 miles from Arbroath is the
Fettercairn Distillery. They will offer tours 6
days a week from Easter to the end of September. Alternatively,
you can find Scotland's smallest
distillery, the Edradour, and one of the oldest, the Blair Atholl,
within 2 hours drive.
Fettercairn Distillery
back
to top |
|
Free Entry Attractions In Angus
Also worth mentioning is there are many museums, galleries and other
attractions that are free entry. In Arbroath you can visit our Regency Signal
Tower Museum, St Vigeans Pictish Stones Museum, Hospitalfield House Hope
Gardens, RNLI Lifeboat Station and shop, the Chapel stone carvings, Christie's
Fine Art Studio and the art galleries for free. With access to the West Links
Adventure Playpark and indoor Pleasureland Funfair for the kids also free
entry. But you will spend a few pounds once the kids get into these places.
And there are 6 good nature and coastal walks in and around Arbroath. Visitors
with an Historic Scotland Explorer Pass will also gain free entry to the
Arbroath Abbey, its visitor centre and the Abbots House Museum. Outside the
town, just 15
minutes away, we recommend a visit to Broughty Castle, now a museum displaying
its turbulent history. In Dundee is the Old Steeple, Scotland's highest
surviving mediaeval tower. Other free entry visitor
attractions in the area include the Mills Observatory, with its 10 inch
Victorian refractor telescope, and the novelist Lewis Grassic Gibbon's visitor
centre. Others include the Glencadum Distillery, Meffan
Museum, Barnhill Rock Gardens, Aviation Museum, Camera Obscura, Mountains
Animal Sanctuary, Gateway To The Glens Museum, Kinblethmont House Art Gallery,
House Of Memories Museum, Mill of Benholm, House of Farnell, Townhouse Museum,
Brechin Round Tower, Camperdown Adventure Playpark, Restenneth Priory Library,
Tolbooth Museum, Oathlaw Pottery, Milton Haugh Farm Shop and the Corn Kist
Coffee Shop. The four large country parks in Angus are also around the one
pound per car entry limit. These attractions along with the areas Pictish
stones, earth houses, old churches, ruined castles, nature reserves and quaint
villages, mean you don't have to spend a fortune when visiting the Angus area.
Arbroath RNLI Lifeboat Station
back
to top
Historic
Scotland Explorer Pass
Explore 5000 years of Scotland's history. Visitors can save on admission
prices to over 75 of Scotland's historic buildings. The Explorer Pass allows
you free entry to all Historic Scotland properties, free entry to over 300
Historic Scotland events and a free map and information pack. 18 of these
properties lie in the Angus and Dundee area and include the Arbroath Abbey,
Edzell Castle and Gardens, Restenneth Priory, Miegle Sculptored Stone Museum
and Claypotts Castle. The pass also allows access to Edinburgh Castle,
Urquhart Castle and Fort George only a few hours away. You can purchase a pass
to suit your timetable. Choose from a 3 day pass within a 5 day period, a 7
day pass within a 10 day period, or a 10 day pass within a 30 day period. The
Explorer Pass is available at all Historic Scotland properties, available at
all Tourist Information Centres, or can be purchased online. Call the Historic
Scotland information line on 0131 6688831 for more details.
Restenneth Priory
Edinburgh Castle
back
to top
The National Trust For
Scotland
The National Trust for Scotland is a conservation charity that protects and
promotes Scotland's natural and cultural heritage for present and future
generations to enjoy. With over 270,000 members, you can join them from as
little as £3 a month for adults, and £5 a month for families. Enjoy days out
at castles, country houses, gardens and trails 365 days of the year. With
access to hundreds of events throughout the year. From walks and lectures to
art classes, theatrical events and workshops. Gift memberships are also
available and make an ideal gift for Christmas, birthdays, etc. These
memberships can be a one off gift or set up as a continuing gift that carries
on year after year. Call 0131 243955 for more details, or visit www.nts.org.uk
to view a list of all the NTS sites you can visit. The National Trust sites in
the Angus and Dundee area include the House of Dun, Angus Folk Museum, JM
Barrie Birthplace Museum, Finavon Doocot, Camera Obscura and Barry Water Mill.
Also, not too far way are Crathes Castle and Drum Castle in Aberdeenshire,
plus Balmerino Abbey and Hill Of Tarvit House in Fife.
Barry Water Mill
House Of Dun
back
to top
The Royal Discovery
Pass
Another way of saving is by purchasing a Royal Discovery
Pass. The allows you discounted access to both Glamis Castle and the RRS
Discovery. Call 01307 840733 for more details or simply pick up a pass at
either attraction
RRS Discovery
back
to top
The Treasure Ticket
The Treasure Ticket is available to buy and lasts for an entire year. The
Ticket allows one visit per year to Glamis Castle, Scone Palace, Blair Castle,
Dewar's World Of Whisky and Bell's Blair Atholl Distillery. Tickets are on
sale at all attractions, call 01307 840733 for more details.
Scone Palace
back
to top
Real Lives Pass
The Real Lives Pass allows you joint access to the Verdant Works Jute Mill
Museum in Dundee and the Hill Of Tarvit Mansion House in Fife. The pass saves
you a few pounds on the normal fees to these attractions. Or you can purchase
a discounted joint ticket to the Verdant Works Museum and Captain Scott's Ship
the RRS Discovery, both in Dundee just 20 minutes away. Anyone interested in
these offers should contact the local tourist information centre for more
details.
Verdant Works Museum
back
to top
Five Gables
House Restaurant Vouchers
Dining out at a discount is on offer at Five Gables House. We have arranged
discounts with a few local restaurants in the area. These will offer either
Italian, Indian or traditional cuisine. Find sample
menus of these places and other Arbroath restaurants in our guest lounge. Or
if you want to save that little bit more, why not order in from one of our
many takeaway/delivery menus and enjoy your meal at our dining area
overlooking the Arbroath golf course and North Sea. We will supply you with
the crockery, cutlery and condiments you will need, and offer you some tea or
coffee free of charge. You are also welcome to bring any alcohol with you if
you would like to compliment your meal.
Arbroath Smokie
back
to top
Other Discounted
Offers
Other visitor attraction discounts are on offer at various times of the year.
Information about these offers will be available at the local Tourist
Information Centre in Arbroath. During the summer the Discovery Trail Voucher
Brochures are available. With Autumn Offer Brochures and Spring Offer
brochures available at other times of the year. The discounts and venues vary
from year to year, but examples of these offers include 15% off entry to
Glamis Castle, discounted wristbands at Arbroath's Pleasureland, free entry
for children at the Camperdown Wildlife Centre and free entry for one child at
the National Trust venues of House Of Dun, Angus Folk Museum, JM Barries
Birthplace Museum and Barry Water Mill.
JM Barrie's Birthplace Museum
back
to top
Many more events take place throughout the year in Arbroath. Like the annual
Accordion and Fiddle
Festival, the Hairst Summer Arts Festival, Christmas Markets, Gala days, Blues
Festivals, Webster Theatre
shows and much more.
Whether your here for business or pleasure, Arbroath has a lot to offer. For
those with a passion for
football, our local professional team, Arbroath F.C. are the world record
holders for the highest scoring
match (36 - 0) at professional level. Many other visitor attractions are found
in the Angus and
Dundee area. Like the RRS Discovery, HM Frigate Unicorn, Verdant Works Museum
and Sensation Visitor
centre in Dundee. Others include Brechin Castle Centre, Pictavia, Edzell
Castle, Barry Water Mill,
Dunottar Castle, JM Barrie Birthplace Museum, the Carlungie and Ardestie Earth
Houses, the Caterhuns
hill forts, Montrose Basin Wildlife Centre and a whole lot more. We have
information on all the things to see
and do in the area, including opening times, prices, etc.
back
to top
Five Gables House
Elliot, Dundee Road (A92)
Arbroath DD11 2PE
Telephone: 01241 871632
Mobile: 0771 4360008
E-Mail: fivegableshouse@yahoo.com
