Flee to Scotland’s west coast to unearth the resplendent beauty of Angus. Steeped in history and framed by awe-inspiring landscapes, this heavenly realm sets the most perfect scene for romantic getaways and luxury retreats in style. Stretching from snow-capped peaks to ocean-lapped coast, its reach extends for miles and encompasses a huge array of things to see and do.
Make your magical escape all the more bewitching with our curated collection of unique experiences in Angus, from oceanside art classes under open skies and captivating castle tours, to soul-stirring adventures in the region’s wild heart.
Take to the Skies in a Hot Air Balloon
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Angus is with otherworldly aerial escapades. To pursue an unparalleled perspective, join Virgin Balloon Flights for a spectacular hot air balloon ride near Glamis Castle and absorb the breathtaking vistas overlooking the castle and its verdant surrounds as you float across cerulean skies. Departing on select days during the year, this unique experience also includes a traditional Champagne toast for an added touch of magic.
Enjoy a Tour of Glamis Castle
One of the best things to do in Kirriemuir, a tour of Glamis Castle entices lovers of fairytale forays. Residing in the heart of Angus, this 14th-Century castle encapsulates hundreds of years of fascinating tales and has served as the sanctuary and muse of some of the UK’s most legendary historical figures, such as Mary Queen of Scots and William Shakespeare. In fact, Shakespeare was so captivated by the castle that it’s believed to have served as the inspiration for his play, Macbeth. The castle also happens to be the former childhood home of the late Queen Mother. For a unique experience in Angus, take part in a guided tour of Glamis Castle to uncover some of its private rooms and riveting chapters. Later, you can venture into the grounds to roam its verdant spaces and, on select days of the year, marvel at incredible falconry displays.
Craft Cocktails at Arbikie Distillery
Arbikie Distillery is an artisan distillery situated just outside the coastal hamlet of Lunan. Based in Angus and recognised globally, this independent, award-winning distillery resides with a sprawling 2,000-acre Highland estate, passed through four generations of the same family. With the family having farmed the West Coast lands here since 1660, the latest generations have compiled their expertise to explore new avenues and produce unique ranges of sustainable, field-to-bottle spirits, including gins, vodkas, and the first rye scotch in 200 years. Visit the distillery to discover the Arbikie approach and take part in one of the immersive experiences, such as whisky tasting, gin and vodka tours, cocktail making and more.
Play a Round at Panmure Golf Club
Scotland is believed to be the birthplace of golf and as such is undeniably one of the best places to enjoy a round or two. Taking pride of place in the beautiful countryside surrounding the village of Barry in Angus, Panmure Golf Club is one of the oldest golf clubs in the world, with origins stretching back to 1845. With an extensive sporting heritage, this legendary club is entwined with golfing history and is a must-visit for golfers. Swing by the golf course to enjoy its links and heathland course, designed with tight fairways, manicured greens, demanding carries, and undulating sand dunes for rewarding play. Relax in the clubhouse to refuel after alfresco hours, and to extend your golfing forays, visit the nearby Carnoustie Golf to continue practicing your putt.
Paint the Landscapes with Kate Cunningham Art
The landscapes of Angus are simply breathtaking, decorated with towering mountains, sapphire-hued lochs, and ocean-brushed horizons. To capture some of the majesty of the region with your own personal twist, consider taking a brush to canvas during a bespoke art lesson with local artist, Kate Cunningham. Encompassing both studio-based and plein air workshops around Angus, these varied classes encourage both budding and experienced artists to hone their skills and capture the magic of the region’s spellbinding scenery. Suitable for artists of all generations, Kate’s workshops include both adult and children’s art lessons so that all painters can immerse in this timeless activity and the beauty of Angus’ wild spaces.
Savour the Seasons at Charleton Fruit Farm
Make way to the family-run Charleton Farm for an unparalleled taste of the seasons and immersive experience in nature. An adored attraction in Angus, this welcoming farm is a sought-after destination amongst locals and visitors alike for its natural delights and year-round activities. Evolving its offerings with the seasons, it awaits with a fully stocked farm shop with shelves adorned in local delicacies, a selection of educational animal encounters, and a host of special events throughout the year. Especially enticing, the farm’s pick-your-own opportunities promise a delicious way to enjoy the region’s freshest, seasonal produce, from plump blackcurrants and juicy strawberries in early summer to vibrant, orange pumpkins in autumn.
Find the Falls of Reekie Linn
If you are seeking one of the sweetest and shortest walks in Angus, then turn your attention to Reekie Linn. Nestled close to one of Angus’ best places to eat and reached via a leisurely stroll, this series of falls promises a captivating experience for the seekers of storybook adventures. Adorn your outdoor attire and park in the nearby car park, ready to crunch boots along the riverside trail along the banks of the River Isla. Composed of a series of waterfalls that tumble through a leafy gulley from their mountainous origins of the Cairngorms, Reekie Linn has long captured hearts and minds with bewitching aesthetics and thunderous acoustics. Visit in winter when the river is in full spate and witness the falls at their most spectacular.
Step Through Time at Arbroath Abbey
Explore the mesmerising remains of Arbroath Abbey and uncover nearly a thousand years of history. Founded in 1178 by the King of Alba (William the Lion), the abbey was dedicated to the Catholic saint Thomas Becket. Providing sanctuary for a community of Tironensian Benedictine monks, it became the richest abbey in Scotland and is renowned for its association with the Stone of Destiny. Ever enchanting, the abbey’s romantic ruins today offer thoughtful moments that weave through past and present, as you wander the once-great nave and cloisters and uncover the collection of Medieval abbey buildings. Look out for the abbey’s well-preserved ‘round O’ window - a large circular window in the south gable that became a famous landmark amongst mariners.
Create a Piece of Handcrafted Jewellery
Channel your creativity and craft a bespoke keepsake to cherish with a unique jewellery making workshop in Angus. Hosted by artisan designer-maker, Sheila Roussel, these workshops and classes can be enjoyed individually or within a group setting to learn the art of traditional jewellery making. Learn new skills or polish your techniques under Sheila’s expert tutorage and create memorable pieces to treasure long after your luxury sojourn. To channel your artistry, a variety of workshops are available, such as classes dedicated to making silver rings, pendants, earrings and beach glass necklaces, as well as upcycling costume jewellery and more.
Seek Adventure with SUP2Summit
For those seeking unparalleled pursuits of the adventurous kind, Sup2Summit offers a wonderful gateway to the wild. Specialising in guided outdoor expeditions, the owner of Sup2Summit, Jim Wight, provides unique stand-up paddleboarding and rock-climbing excursions amongst romantic realms of river and ben. Depending on what you are seeking, anticipate dreamy hours of exploration paddleboarding around beauty spots such as Montrose Basin, Lunan Bay, and Catterline Bay. Or, to push your adventures to new heights, venture to the sea cliffs and mountain faces of Angus and Aberdeenshire with Jim to safely scale spectacular routes in unforgettable locations for memories to treasure for a lifetime.
Journey on the Caledonian Railway
For those seeking a nostalgic way to travel in style, the Caledonian Railway promises an unforgettable journey through spellbinding scenery. Embracing the romance of heritage rail, it features lovingly preserved vintage steam and diesel trains that wend through divine Angus countryside. Head over to Brechin to depart from the town’s Victorian station and relish the 4 leisurely miles to the countryside station of Bridge of Dun. Particularly beloved by families, the railway hosts an array of family-friendly events throughout the year and complements its regular summer schedules with seasonal specials, from afternoon teas to Christmas celebrations.
Immerse in Nature at St Cyrus NNR
Just beyond the Montrose Basin on Scotland’s salt-kissed coastline lies St Cyrus National Nature Reserve. Overlooking Montrose Cove, this wonderful nature reserve at the mouth of the River North Esk is home to 375-million-year-old volcanic cliffs, sweeping golden sands, and flower-garlanded grasslands. With more than 300 species of flora, countless insects, birds and animals, as well as stunning marine mammals, the area encompassing St Cyrus NNR is a true sanctuary for wildlife. For a uniquely spellbinding sojourn far removed from the everyday, embark on untamed adventures at St Cyrus and follow its designated trails to savour the blissful quietude, serenaded by ocean breezes through elegant marram grass swathes.
Feeling inspired for a unique experience? Uncover our collection of luxury cottages in Angus.
