Arbroath

Scotland > East of Scotland > Angus > Arbroath

Located of the A92, 18 miles West of Dundee. Robert the Bruce signed Scotland's Declaration of Independence in 1320 at Arbroath Abbey. It was made a Royal Burgh in 1599.

Today it is mainly a seaside destination, fishing port and renowned for its smoked fish trade, producing the " Arbroath Smokie" haddock smoked and flavoured over an oak fire, which have won international acclaim.

Arbroath Abbey founded by King William the Lion in 1176 has his remains buried before the high alter of the Abbey. It also contains the circular window known as the "O" of Arbroath which when it was lit acted as a beacon for mariners in ancient times. The Abbot's house is now a museum. The Abbey was dedicated to St Thomas a Becket.

Sir Walter Scott used Arbroath as the backdrop to his novel "The Antiquary" where it was called Fairport.

The area contains a number of cliffs and caves with the usual folklore that they have been used for smuggling. These include Masons, Dickmonts Den and the Forbidden Cave. The stack called "Pint Stoup" stands nearby on the coast.