Step into a world of noble families, royal intrigue and centuries-old stonework with Angus’ incredible collection of castles and historic houses, each offering a window into the past.

Glamis Castle: Legendary, royal, and hauntingly beautiful, Glamis is the childhood home of the Queen Mother and is famously linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth. With its grand architecture, opulent interiors, and ghost stories, it’s a must-visit for any history buff.

Edzell Castle: Known for its exquisite 17th-century walled garden, Edzell Castle is a picturesque ruin that reflects the Renaissance tastes of its noble owners. Don’t miss the unique carvings symbolising the liberal arts.

Invermark Castle: Set against the dramatic landscape of Glen Esk, this remote tower house once guarded against cattle raiders. It’s now an atmospheric ruin offering a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent history.

House of Dun, Montrose: This magnificent Georgian mansion, designed by William Adam, is a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. Filled with fine art, ornate plaster ceilings, and tales of aristocratic life, the house overlooks the Montrose Basin nature reserve — an inspiring blend of history and natural beauty.

Hospitalfield House, Arbroath: This beautiful historic house, originally built as a hospital to support the new Benedictine Abbey in Arbroath, inspires creativity through its artist residence programme. The impressive Victorian building was left in trust to support artists by Patrick Allan-Fraser and his wife Elizabeth Fraser in 1843. It is a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage, with stunning interiors and a fascinating history.

Dive deeper into local life and history at Angus’s excellent museums, where stories are brought to life through fascinating collections that span art, aviation, archaeology and more.

Arbroath Signal Tower Museum: Built in 1813, Signal Tower served the lighthouse until it was decommissioned in 1955 and became a museum in 1974. Discover the story of the Bell Rock Lighthouse, the world’s oldest surviving sea-washed lighthouse, and the lives of the lighthouse keepers who braved the elements.

Montrose Museum: One of Scotland’s oldest museums, Montrose Museum was built in a neo-classical style with ionic columns at the entrance, inspired by Greek temples of learning. Dive into local history, from the earliest archaeological finds to the Marquis of Montrose and the Jacobite uprisings, through to contemporary maritime history.

Meffan Museum, Forfar: Meffan Museum opened in 1898, having been funded by Miss Jane Meffan in memory of her father William who was a former Provost of the town. Home to a remarkable collection of Pictish stones, the museum tells the story of Forfar’s past, including the Forfar Witches, and doubles as a contemporary art gallery.

Glenesk Folk Museum: Situated in the stunning Angus Glens, this museum offers a charming insight into the traditional way of life, with reconstructions of traditional rooms and exhibitions covering crafts, farming, and folklore.

William Lamb Studio, Montrose: Preserving the studio of renowned 20th-century Scottish sculptor William Lamb, this space offers a unique insight into the life and work of an artist who captured many iconic Scottish figures, containing Lamb’s sculptures, carvings, and drawings.

Angus is full of one-of-a-kind experiences that bring history to life – experience the grand scale of Angus’s history at these iconic sites.

Arbroath Abbey: One of Scotland’s most significant historic sites, this is where the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320 – a key moment in the fight for Scottish independence. Explore the magnificent ruins and feel the weight of this historic moment.

Montrose Air Station: Explore Britain’s first operational military airfield, complete with restored aircraft, hangars, and personal stories from the brave men and women who served there through two World Wars.

Barry Mill, Carnoustie: Discover the engineering behind traditional milling in a picturesque setting at this restored 19th-century mill. See the massive waterwheel in action and learn about the historic craft of milling grain, a crucial part of Angus’s rural economy.

Kirriemuir Camera Obscura: Gifted to the town by JM Barrie, this rare Victorian attraction offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside through a fascinating optical device – a fascinating blend of history and technology.

Davidson Legacy Cottage, Aberlemno: Celebrate the roots of the iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle brand with a visit to the family home of William C. Davidson, one of the co-founders. It’s a reminder of the simple yet resilient life of Angus’s ancestors.

Caledonian Railway, Brechin: Experience the golden age of steam travel with a nostalgic ride through the Angus countryside on this lovingly preserved heritage railway in Brechin. It’s a perfect way to experience the romance of the railway age.

Throughout Angus, memorials offer places for reflection, honouring the lives and legacies of those who shaped the region’s story.

Scott Wilson Memorial, Glen Prosen: Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Angus Glens, a stone memorial stands as a poignant tribute to two of Britain’s most renowned, yet ultimately tragic, Antarctic explorers – Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his chief scientist, Dr. Edward Adrian Wilson.

Queen’s Well, Glen Esk: This unusual crown shaped monument was built over a natural spring in 1861 in honour of Queen Victoria, who stopped here with her consort Prince Albert to drink from the spring en route from Balmoral to Glen Mark. A peaceful and scenic stop for walkers and history fans alike.

Balmashanner Monument, Forfar: This striking war memorial stands proudly above the town, offering a powerful tribute to those who served and a magnificent viewpoint over the surrounding countryside. The building was dedicated by Queen Mary on 11 September 1921 and comprises a square tower, with battlements and turret, built from local sandstone.

WWI Angus Heritage Trail: Every parish in Angus has at least one memorial to the servicemen and women who fell during the Great War. Memorials were created by communities, schools and churches, amongst others. Some are on public view whilst others are behind closed doors.

Angus has produced pioneers, storytellers, rock stars, and ancient peoples whose legacies continue to inspire and endure.

The Picts: Mysterious and masterful, the ancient Scots left a powerful mark on Angus. The Aberlemno Standing Stones showcase their unique symbol stones and artistic skill. Dating back over 1,200 years, they are among the finest surviving examples of Pictish art, with intricate carvings depicting battles, symbols, and Christian imagery, offering a direct link to this fascinating culture.

JM Barrie: The beloved creator of Peter Pan was born in Kirriemuir, and his birthplace is now a museum. Don’t miss the Peter Pan statue in the town, a whimsical tribute to the author and his most famous character, the boy who never grew up.

Bon Scott: The legendary AC/DC frontman spent part of his early life in Kirriemuir. Fans can visit the Bon Scott statue in the town — a rock ‘n’ roll landmark with global appeal. The town celebrates his legacy each year with the annual Bonfest Music Festival, a pilgrimage for music fans from all over the world.

Hugh Munro: The man who mapped the mountains, Sir Hugh Munro compiled the first list of Scottish mountains over 3,000 feet – now known as Munros. Hillwalkers across the world continue to follow in his footsteps, ensuring his legacy lives on in every climber who seeks to ‘bag a munro’.