Arbroath 7.3 miles. This inviting bungalow sits in Redcastle in Lunan Bay, Angus. Enjoying a country setting and benefitting from easy access to the beach, Rowan Cottage is a delightful escape for a family and their pooch seeking a break to the northern shore of the Beauly Firth. After parking up directly outside the property, step into your new home-from-home and make yourself comfortable in the lounge, complete with two sofas, a TV and woodburner. Carry the conversation into the kitchen, where the head chef can rustle up something delicious, whilst the dining room is set with crockery and cutlery. Take the evening outdoors and relax at the picnic bench as you catch the last of the days sunlight, before retreating to the woodfired hot tub for a soak under the stars. Wash away the day in the shower room before retiring to the double or twin bedroom, each neutrally presented. Redcastle is an idyllic holiday base and the neighbouring Lunan offers Imrie’s Bar & Grill, where you can treat the group after a long day out. Head to Lunan Bay Beach and uncover this true Scottish gem, regarded as one of the finest beaches on the entire east coast, this stretch of sand provides rocks and caves at the northern end and a ruined castle at the south. Keen walkers can venture over to the outstanding Cairngorms National Park for a day of adventure among the picturesque Scottish landscapes, while there are several National Trust for Scotland delights within a short drive. Head to the large town of Arbroath, where you can spend an afternoon exploring a range of independent shops before choosing an excellent restaurant, with many offering the famed Arbroath Smokie. Capture the beauty of east coast of Scotland with a stay at Rowan Cottage.

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.

EPC Rating: Band E

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