Where better to start than with the area’s most famous delicacy, the Arbroath Smokie. Spend the morning following the Arbroath Smokie Trail, a sensory experience featuring five key destinations between Arbroath and Auchmithie that tell the story of the world-famous Arbroath Smokie.
This trail boasts magnificent views of the Angus coastline and introduces you to some of the best places to enjoy the Smokie. We recommend you download the audio guide and podcast to act as a tour guide while you experience the trail.
Signal Tower Museum
The first stop on the Arbroath Smokie Trail is the Signal Tower Museum, where you’ll hear the fascinating stories of Arbroath’s maritime heritage and world-famous Smokie. The Signal Tower was the shore station and family accommodation for the Bell Rock Lighthouse, Britain’s oldest surviving rock lighthouse.
- Location: Ladyloan, Arbroath, DD11 1PU
- Opening times: Wednesday to Monday, 10.30am to 4pm (closed Tuesday).
- Entry: Free
- Accessibility: Partially suitable for visitors with limited mobility with some accessible parking available.
Arbroath Harbour
A bustling hub of activity, Arbroath Harbour is the perfect spot for a day out in Angus. Watch working fishing boats as they land their catch or prepare for their next journey to sea, all while soaking up the lively atmosphere of this historic harbour.
Savour the flavours of the sea with locally caught fish and seafood, available from the many fish and chip shops and restaurants nearby. Treat yourself to langoustine scampi, monkfish, scallops, mackerel, or classic haddock and cod.
No visit to Arbroath is complete without sampling a freshly cooked Arbroath Smokie—a unique and delicious taste of Angus that’s steeped in tradition. Pair it with the stunning views of the marina, and you’ve got an authentic Scottish coastal experience to remember.
- Location: Ladybridge Street, Arbroath, DD11 1PD
- Accessibility: Mostly smooth flat surfaces with accessible parking bays alongside the harbour.
The Fit o’ the Toon
The Fit o’ the Toon is the old part of the town where the Brothock Burn meets the sea. This land was given to attract fishermen to Arbroath in the 1800s and is where fishing families once lived in traditional cottages.
Today, you’ll find local fisheries selling fresh fish and seafood. Enjoy the authentic aroma from the Smoke Houses as they prepare Smokies using the traditional methods passed down through generations.
- Location: 1 High Street, Arbroath, DD11 1BH
Arbroath Cliffs
Discover some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Angus along the Arbroath Cliffs, a perfect route for nature lovers and those seeking to experience Scottish wildlife. This stunning coastal path stretches four miles to the charming fishing village of Auchmithie, the historic birthplace of the famous Arbroath Smokie.
The clifftop walk offers dramatic views of steep cliffs, natural sea caves, hidden coves, and impressive blowholes. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique red sandstone formations, including the striking Deil’s Heid sea stack, shaped by centuries of coastal erosion.
Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins in the waters below. This trail is also a fantastic spot for Scottish wildlife enthusiasts looking to experience nature up close, with opportunities to see a range of species in their natural habitats. With secluded beaches and incredible views, this is a must-do adventure for anyone exploring Angus and seeking to connect with Scottish wildlife.
- Location: Victoria Park, Kings Drive, Arbroath, DD11 5BL
- Accessibility: Most of the path is relatively level with a firm, even surface; however, towards Carlingheugh Bay, the path is narrow and close to the cliff edge in some places.
Auchmithie
Auchmithie was first mentioned in parish records in the 13th century and would have been part of the Abbott of Aberbrothock lands that were tied to Arbroath Abbey.
Auchmithie’s natural harbour had supported a fishing industry long before Arbroath was seen as the primary location for the fishing fleet. The story goes that ships and raiders from Scandinavia often came to Auchmithie and some even settled here.
This traditional method of smoking the fish originated in Auchmithie and is still used today to give world famous Arbroath Smokies their delicious smokey flavour.
- Location: Auchmithie, Arbroath, DD11 5SQ
