Dog-friendly glamping near Arbroath

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The classic Scottish fishing town of Arbroath is home to long stretches of sandy beach, towering sandstone cliffs and an attractive harbour that is typically busy with fishing boats. It’s perhaps best known, however, for the Arbroath Smokie, a type of smoked haddock that has protected destination of origin status and is still made here in family-run smokehouses. Visitors should take a wander through the ‘Fit o’the Toon,’ as the harbour area is known locally, and pay a visit to Arbroath Abbey, associated with the Declaration of Arbroath, which asserted Scotland’s independence from England in 1320. 

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Top-rated campgrounds near Arbroath

The classic Scottish fishing town of Arbroath is home to long stretches of sandy beach, towering sandstone cliffs and an attractive harbour that is typically busy with fishing boats. It’s perhaps best known, however, for the Arbroath Smokie, a type of smoked haddock that has protected destination of origin status and is still made here in family-run smokehouses. Visitors should take a wander through the ‘Fit o’the Toon,’ as the harbour area is known locally, and pay a visit to Arbroath Abbey, associated with the Declaration of Arbroath, which asserted Scotland’s independence from England in 1320. 

100% (18)

Top-rated campgrounds near Arbroath

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Dog-friendly glamping near Arbroath guide

Where to go

Auchmithie

This quaint little fishing village is believed to be where the Arbroath Smokie was first created. You can reach Auchmithie by following a three-mile- (five kilometre-) long coastal footpath that takes you over the red sandstone Seaton Cliffs and past dramatic sea stacks, natural arches and caves all the way to the bay below the town of Auchmithie.

Lunan Bay

Another few miles up the coast, Lunan Bay is a stretch of golden beach backed by tall sand dunes and framed by low cliffs at either end. It’s a destination for hardy surfers who brave the bay's chilly waters, as well as horse riders, who trek along the beach, and birdwatchers who can spot such rarities as great grey and red-backed shrikes. Lunan Bay Campsite has grass pitches next to the beach.

St Cyrus

The village of St Cyrus is home to a national nature reserve that is known for its flower-rich grasslands, volcanic cliffs and beach, which provide attractive settings for long walks as well as diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife, including many species of bird. A 15-minute drive inland, Dovecot Caravan Park has pitches for tourers and tents.

When to go

For making the most of long (and, with luck, sunny) days, spring and summer are the most appealing times to visit. A warm sunny day on the Angus coast beaches, especially on Lunan Bay, may have you disbelieving you’re still in Scotland and it’s your best window of opportunity for taking a dip in the sea. Winters tend to be grey, wet and short (the sun sets around 4 p.m. in winter) but do provide conditions that make the cliffs especially dramatic.

Know before you go

  • The weather in Scotland is changeable, even in summer. Come prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
  • Wild camping is permitted throughout Scotland, as long as you follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.
  • The coastal walk from Arbroath to Auchmithie travels close to the cliff edges: wear sturdy footwear and avoid the extreme edges, particularly in high winds.
  • Arbroath is connected to Dundee by a frequent bus service. From Dundee you can catch a train or bus to all major Scottish cities.