Arbroath is the perfect destination for a family day out, offering plenty to see and do along its picturesque coastline. Start your adventure at West Links Park, a beachfront gem packed with swings, climbing frames, and a crazy golf course. For indoor fun, head to Jumping Joeys soft play centre or catch the latest movies at Arbroath Cinema, ideal for rainy days.
Stroll along to Arbroath Harbour to watch the fishing boats and explore the charming shops. Treat the family to freshly caught fish and chips or a delicious ice cream as you soak up the harbourside atmosphere.
Don’t miss the Signal Tower Museum, where kids can learn about the iconic Bell Rock Lighthouse and pirate Ralph the Rover through engaging exhibitions, quizzes, and games.
Check out what’s on at the Webster Memorial Theatre hosting family-friendly performances and events year-round. Creative kids will love Potter Rhoney, a fun and welcoming paint-your-own-pottery studio that’s perfect for hands-on entertainment.
With its blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and tasty treats, Arbroath offers something for every family member to enjoy.
Start your visit with a trip to the Caledonian Railway, a heritage railway run by passionate volunteers. Hop aboard a steam train and travel the scenic route from Brechin to Bridge of Dun. Throughout the year, the railway hosts fantastic events, including the popular Day Out with Thomas.
Brechin Castle Centre, located on the town’s outskirts, is a must-visit for families with young children. The centre offers everything from all-terrain go-karts and a giant sandpit to a zip slide and farm-themed courtyard. Don’t miss the magical fairy trail winding through the woodland. Pack a picnic or enjoy a family meal at the on-site café.
History enthusiasts will enjoy visiting Davidson Cottage, in nearby Aberlemno, the former home of William C Davidson, father of the founders of Harley-Davidson. The restored cottage showcases what life was like for the family in 1857, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Head to Edzell to experience the quirky Shakin Brig, a pedestrian suspension bridge over the River North Esk. Kids will love the thrill of crossing the bridge, which gets its name from the fun shaking sensation. Use the Visit Angus app to play a family game of Pooh Sticks while you’re there.
Don’t miss the Glenesk Folk Museum, a charming spot where children can learn about life in the glens through interactive exhibits, vibrant murals, and a Bronze Age tomb in the gardens. Originally created in 1955, this museum offers an engaging mix of history and outdoor fun.
With its blend of heritage, outdoor activities, and unique attractions, Brechin should definitely be on your hit list for family days out.
The Sandy Sensation playpark, located on Carnoustie’s seafront is a firm favourite with kids who love the wooden climbing frames and splash zone. There’s also a great café in the nearby Leisure Centre – great for refuelling!
Young budding golfers will love Carnoustie Nestie – a short six-hole junior course at Carnoustie Golf Links. The course is free to play and clubs are available from the Carnoustie Golf Centre. Kids will also love the golf simulators in the Performance Centre, free for under 16’s when accompanied by a paying adult.
Just outside of Carnoustie, Craigmill Den offers a quiet woodland walk with lots of wildlife spotting opportunities – see what you can spot and try to identify them.
You can continue from here to the picturesque East Haven village. The pretty little bay is hugely popular with families as the sandy bay and small natural harbour provide g a safe area for children to play amongst the rock pools during low tide. It really is one of Scotland’s hidden gems.
Don’t miss a visit to Barry Mill, a working water-powered corn mill that produced oatmeal and animal feed, as well as providing work for local people, right up until 1982. Get a glimpse into the tough working day of the miller and the wheel turning and the machinery moving. There are also some fantastic walks suitable for families of all ages arounds the grounds, with the chance to spot dippers, kingfishers, herons, woodpeckers and a whole host of woodland wildlife.
Kids will absolutely love visiting Newton Farm, a working farm just outside of Forfar where you can enjoy a range of farm experiences. Take a guided tour to find out where your food comes from. Kids and adults alike can meet the friendly animals including goats, sheep, pigs and even alpacas.
Murton Farm and Nature Reserve is also a great spot for little ones. There is a very friendly collection of animals and birds including the adorable Kune Kune pigs and a play area with sand pits, pedal toys, and a variety of outdoor toys including in ground trampolines. There’s also a tearoom where you can enjoy a light lunch or a snack.
Frosty’s Soft Play is a fantastic indoor play centre with excellent equipment providing an adventure for children of all ages, as well as a café serving home baking, snacks, hot & cold drinks.
Don’t miss a visit to Forfar Loch Country Park. Enjoy a walk around the loch with wildlife spotting opportunities and have fun in the playpark. There are also regular events taking place with the ANGUSalive Countryside Rangers.
Kirriemuir is a must-visit destination for families, especially fans of Peter Pan, as it’s the birthplace of author J.M. Barrie. Dive into the enchanting world of Neverland with these exciting attractions:
JM Barrie’s Birthplace: Step inside the humble home where Barrie grew up, explore the room where he slept, and visit the washhouse where he performed plays for his family. Don’t miss the crocodile in the garden! While in town, stop by the statue of Peter Pan in the town centre, a nod to Barrie’s beloved creation.
Camera Obscura: Gifted to the town by Barrie himself, this unique attraction is located on Kirrie Hill. Offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Angus countryside, it’s one of only three camera obscuras in Scotland and a treat for kids and adults alike.
Neverland Playpark: Celebrate the magic of Peter Pan at this imaginative play area on Kirrie Hill, designed to commemorate Barrie’s 150th birthday. Themed equipment includes a pirate ship, a Lost Boys hideout, Captain Hook, a crocodile, and even an aerial slide. It’s a place where kids can truly let their imaginations soar.
Kirriemuir Den: Back in the heart of town, enjoy the tranquility of this beautiful green space. With the Gairie Burn running through it, the Den is perfect for a peaceful family walk or a lively play session. There’s even a small play park for younger children.
With its rich literary history and fantastic family-friendly attractions, Kirriemuir offers an unforgettable day out that’s perfect for parents and kids alike. Make it a part of your Angus family adventure today!
Just outside of the town, in nearby Lintrathen, Peel Farm has a coffee shop, gift shop, farm shop and nature trail. The nature trail is the ideal way to enjoy a relaxing stroll through some amazing scenery. Along the way you will have the opportunity to spot song birds, butterflies and wildflowers and there is an activity sheet available from the coffee shop to keep little ones entertained- and the big ones too!
Monifieth is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of outdoor activities, adventure parks, and countryside escapes. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:
Blue Seaway on Monifieth Beachfront: This popular spot is perfect for kids and adults alike, featuring putting greens, tennis courts, a bowling green, wheeled sports facilities, and two exciting play parks. It’s the ideal place for little ones to burn off energy while parents enjoy the scenic seaside views.
Monikie and Crombie Country Parks: Just a short drive from Monifieth, these parks are must-visits for nature lovers. Both offer picturesque trails for walking and biking, along with play parks to keep younger adventurers entertained. Monikie Country Park also features watersports, making it a hub of family-friendly activities.
Piperdam Golf and Lesiure Resort: A treasure trove of family fun, Piperdam offers a wide range of activities, including archery, segway adventures, foot golf, crazy golf, and a dedicated soft play centre in the Activity Barn. Whether rain or shine, there’s always something to enjoy.
Forbes of Kingennie Country Resort is nestled in the Angus countryside and this resort is packed with family adventures. Try your hand at fishing in the peaceful ponds, navigate the exciting Angus Thistle Maze, or challenge yourself on the 18-hole putting green. With nature trails and wildlife to discover, it’s an idyllic spot for outdoor family fun.
Montrose is packed with exciting activities and attractions, making it the perfect destination for family adventures. Step back in time at Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre, the site of Britain’s first operational military airfield. Kids will love exploring airplane exhibits, trying on vintage uniforms, and learning about the inspiring stories of the men and women who served there.
The fantastic Montrose Playhouse has three screens showing the latest films for the family to enjoy. The venue also has a packed programme of events, workshops, classes and activities aimed at all ages and abilities.
Montrose beachfront is another fantastic spot for families. At Montrose Splash, kids can enjoy a purpose-built play area with equipment for all ages and a refreshing splash zone. Afterward, take a stroll along the stunning Montrose Beach, which stretches three miles to the North Esk River. A circular walk takes you along the beach and back via the historic North Water Viaduct, offering breathtaking views of Scurdieness Lighthouse.
Lunan Bay is one of Scotland’s most beautiful beaches. A few miles south of Montrose the beach is a popular destination for surfers and horse riders and is also a fantastic place to go bird watching. And of course, it’s perfect for a relaxing day building sandcastles and paddling in the sea.
Don’t miss a trip to Montrose Basin Visitor Centre. Overlooking the picturesque Montrose Basin, this fantastic centre provides stunning views and the chance to spot a host of wildlife using the telescopes and binoculars provided. Little ones will love the wildlife-themed kids’ corner and outdoor mud kitchen.
Montrose and Angus are bursting with family-friendly attractions, from parks and museums to outdoor adventures. For even more inspiration, visit our “things to see and do” section and start planning unforgettable family day out in Scotland.
Angus truly offers something for everyone – a must-visit destinations for fun, exploration, and relaxation.
For information on public toilets throughout Angus, please see the Angus Council website for up to date information.
