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Dundee & Angus

Combine the country's first UNESCO City of Design, the countryside that brought us Aberdeen Angus beef, Arbroath Smokies and Peter Pan, and you’ve got Dundee & Angus! This beautiful, historic and vibrant region is now well-known now thanks to the brilliant V&A, but did you know that things to do in Angus include watersports, hillwalking amongst the glens, historic houses, and delicious food and drink?

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Things to do in Dundee & Angus

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100 unmissable experiences in Angus

An insider's guide to Angus.

Why Angus is blooming gorgeous

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A fantastic tour of the Angus region, designed by you.

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How to travel to and Around Dundee & Angus

Getting to dundee & angus, getting around dundee & angus.

Dundee is a main point on the north east rail line while trains to Angus run along the east coast, stopping in Arbroath, Montrose, Monifieth and Carnoustie.

You can plan a rail journey to Dundee & Angus with  National Rail  or  Trainline

Bus and coach

Dundee is served by coaches from across the UK, while local bus services connect up the smaller towns and villages in the Angus region.

For UK connections visit  Megabus ,  National Express  or  Stagecoach

For a connection in Scotland from places including Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen check out  Citylink

You can reach Angus by heading either north or south towards Dundee, and then using the A92 or A90 roads.

Dundee city can be reached by car along the main motorways. It's around 1 to 2 hours travel from Glasgow, Edinburgh or Aberdeen.

Using an electric car?   View a map of electric charging points in Angus .

Dundee is within easy reach of Glasgow, Edinburgh and Aberdeen airports, if you are flying into Scotland from Europe and beyond.

Dundee does have its own small airport which can be used to travel from London City and Belfast City airports.

Dundee & Angus has an excellent public transport network if you are planning on leaving the car behind. 

Local bus services run across Dundee, Angus and into neighbouring areas. 

Check out Traveline for detailed information on tickets and routes.

Angus has a host of popular cycle routes for those looking to explore on two wheels.

For more information on cycle trails in the area head to VisitAngus

Local trains run regularly to stops in Angus including Carnoustie, Arbroath and Montrose. 

For rail travel within Scotland, always check the  ScotRail  website.

Dundee & Angus is home to an excellent road network with motorwyas as well as more scenic routes for visitors. 

The A90 and A92 run through Angus, providing easy access to the Scottish motorway network and the rest of the UK. 

For detailed info and maps check out the  VisitAngus  website.

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V&A Dundee

See a show or attend a local festival in Dundee & Angus. Check out our listings to see what's coming up, including the Discovery Film Festival in October.

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From top quality beef to local delicacy Arbroath smokies, Dundee & Angus is a great destination for foodies.

The Montrose Basin, Angus

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Accessible Holidays in Dundee & Angus

Discover Dundee & Angus, a region perfect for an accessible holiday. To help put your mind at ease, we’ve teamed up with our accessibility partner AccessAble with wheelchair-friendly accommodation, attractions and facilities included, so it’s easy to check if it suits your needs.

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Angus , Travel Guides

Choose your adventure: 13 things to do in angus.

Angus is a hidden gem on the Scottish east coast, full of spectacular scenery, interesting history and outstanding adventures. From dramatic coasts to dreamy castles and stunning glens , the Angus Tour route makes it easy to explore the highlights of the region away from the main roads. Here are some of my favourite things to do in Angus and a travel guide to help you make the most of your trip.

This post was commissioned by Visit Angus .

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Most people don’t think twice about visiting Angus, a region on the east coast of Scotland – they simply don’t. Instead, they make their way up the road north as quickly as they can.

But they don’t know what they’re missing!

I’ve been to Angus on several occasions and every time I discover something new. To me, there are many reasons to visit Angus:

• Angus is very dramatic coasts to dreamy castles and stunning glens . Whether you want to visit mountains and glens, picturesque rural towns or beaches and cliffs, it’s all there.
• Angus is amazing for outdoor activities in the water and in the mountains.
• It’s manageable in size . You don’t have to decide between visiting the coast or the mountains – it’s all so close together.
• It’s easy to reach and less than 2 hours away from the Glasgow and Edinburgh.
• There are no crowds in sight . That is, for now!

This travel guide includes some of my favourite experiences in Angus and lots of practical travel advice, such as how to get there, where to stay and where to find delicious vegan food.

Table of Contents

The Angus Tour: Adventure Designed by You

The Angus Tour is a new route designed to help you discover the best of Angus whether you want to explore the outdoors, learn about history and heritage, indulge in food and drink, entertain the kids or travel with your dog. There are things to do in Angus for anyone!

However, the Angus Route is a road trip with a twist. Rather than one fixed route, it allows you to pick and choose from a number of suggested itineraries – exploring one theme across the region, or experiencing a mix of activities and places to see in a specific area. It turns your Angus road trip into an adventure designed by you.

The themed itineraries take one to three days and range from wildlife experiences to fascinating history, delicious local produce and breathtaking scenery. You can find the suggested itineraries here .

Angus is a stop on my East Scotland itinerary . If you like what you read here, why don’t you follow it on your next trip to Scotland?

Angus Travel Guide

Where is angus.

Angus lies on the east coast of Scotland, north of Fife across the River Tay, east of Perthshire and south of Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorms National Park.

No matter where you arrive, Angus is easy to reach – just over 1-hour drive from Edinburgh or Aberdeen and under 2 hours from Glasgow.

Angus is a great place to stay as you can reach many places in East Scotland within a short drive. From the Cairngorms National Park to the picturesque forests of Perthshire, the coast of the East Neuk of Fife or the beaches of Aberdeenshire, your adventure doesn’t stop in Angus.

How to get around Angus

A car will give you the greatest flexibility when visiting Angus, but there are also great public transport links.

The train connects the coastal towns from Dundee to Montrose which makes it easy to explore the Angus coast by public transport. Further inland, you can make use of a great network of local buses which connects all the major towns from Brechin to Kirriemuir.

How long to stay in Angus

I recommend spending at least 3 days in Angus to get a taste. That way you can spend one day on the coast, one in the rural countryside and one in the glens.

Of course, there is plenty to do to fill up an entire week in Angus if you have the time to explore longer!

Where to stay in Angus

There are many great places to stay in Angus. You could base yourself in one central location and explore from there, or book several accommodations in different parts of the region.

Here are some of my top accommodation picks in Angus:

Newton Farm Holidays is a great B&B on a small working farm near Forfar. There is one en-suite guest room which can also serve as a family room with a pull-out sofa. Guests have access to a small fridge to store any essentials and an atmospheric dining room. The farm is about 20 minutes from Forfar and ideally located to explore the countryside of Angus.

Lodge on Lochside is a B&B in the serene settings of the Lintrathen Nature Reserve near Kirriemuir. There are five en-suite rooms as well as a guest lounge and kitchen, that is fully equipped to prepare breakfast or even an evening meal. The B&B is well located to visit the Angus Glens. The cafe on-site serves breakfast, lunch and cakes from early morning.

Glen Clova Hotel is a beautiful 4-star hotel at the top of Glen Clova, a picturesque glen at the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. The hotel has 18 bedrooms and 9 self-catering lodges, each with its own private hot tub. There is a great restaurant on-site and many hiking trails that start at or near the hotel.

All of these accommodations also have dog-friendly rooms.

13 Things to do in Angus

Visit glamis castle.

From the mile-long scenic driveway across the grounds to the playful turrets and towers of the castle, a visit to Glamis Castle is a feast for the eyes. The castle was the setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother. It looks back at a long and legendary history.

Join a guided tour of the castle, explore the formal gardens or wander the generous grounds to discover this fascinating place.

Hike the Angus Glens

Nestled on the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park, the Angus Glens are a true hidden gem in the Scottish mountains. From Glen Esk past Glen Lethnot, Glen Clova, Glen Doll and Glen Prosen to Glen Isla in the west, these glens are tranquil and picturesque places to visit.

Enjoy the landscapes from the roadside, go on a hike or bag a Munro, and join a wildlife tour to spot some of the wild animals in the glens – these are among my favourite things to do in Angus.

Corrie Fee and Loch Brandy at Glen Clova/Glen Doll and the Loch Lee circuit at the top of Glen Esk are my top picks for walks in Angus.

Discover history at Arbroath Abbey

While there are many older historic sites to visit, when it comes to the more recent political history of Scotland – Arbroath is the place to be.

In 1320 Scottish noblemen sent a letter to Pope John XXII to declare the independence of the Kingdom of Scotland. This document is known as the Declaration of Arbroath and it is believed that it was drafted and written at Arbroath Abbey.

Visit the ruins of the 12th-century abbey and learn about its political and cultural significance at the award-winning visitor centre.

Afterward, enjoy a wander down to the harbour of Arbroath and the Signal Tower lighthouse.

Birdwatching at Montrose Basin

The Montrose Basin is a large estuary of the River South Esk, just west of Montrose. Before the river meets the sea, it forms wide mudflats that offer food and shelter for over 100,000 migratory birds. During the summer months, many of them arrive here to form large breeding colonies, but there are also birds that live here year-round. It’s the perfect place for birders!

The visitor centre has panoramic views and many telescopes and binoculars to spot wildlife. There are also a few hides around the basin that can be reached on a network of trails. From September to February this is a great place to see kingfishers!

Another great place for birdwatching is the RSPB nature reserve at Loch of Kinnordy near Kirriemuir. There are three hides along the loch shores.

You might also like: 11 Educational & Science-Based Tourism Experiences in Scotland

Chase waterfalls at Reekie Linn

There are many waterfalls in Angus, especially in the Angus Glens. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in the region is Reekie Linn on the river Isla. The waterfall has its name from the powerful spray that fills the gorge with mist – “reekie” means smokey.

The walk from the car park to the waterfall is very short – about 20 minutes – but the ground can be quite wet and the slopes of the gorge are steep, so take great care. There are several picnic benches along the river, which makes this a great spot for a lunch break.

Indulge in local (vegan) cuisine

Angus is Scotland’s larder on the east coast. The region is known for abundant farming and rich fisheries, from the obvious favourites like Aberdeen Angus cattle to local delicacies like Forfar bridies (meat pastries) and Arbroath smokies (smoked haddock).

But even if you are vegan, you will find plenty of food to indulge in! Much of Scotland’s vegetables and fruits hail from this part of the country, and like everywhere, there is a growing trend to offer delicious, plant-based options.

Here are some of my favourite eateries in Angus that cater to vegans and other dietary requirements. I’d generally recommend giving restaurants a call to book a table and let them know if you’re vegan.

• The Giddy Goose , Forfar – a trendy restaurant with burgers and pizza. Would be great for a night out with cocktails.
• 88 Degrees , Kirriemuir – a quirky cafe in the centre of Kirriemuir.
• Wee Bear Cafe , Lintrathen – a cafe adjacent to Lodge on Lochside, popular with walkers and cyclists. They always have a huge selection of cakes with some vegan options.
• Drovers Inn , near Kirriemuir – a popular countryside restaurant with a big garden and delicious Scottish menu.
• Glen Clova Hotel – excellent food at the hotel’s restaurant in the beautiful setting of Glen Clova. There is a spacious terrace and plenty of tables inside.
• The Old Brewhouse , Arbroath – a quirky pub near the harbour of Arbroath. I loved all the marine decor.
• East Coast Burgers , Montrose – a bright burger joint in the dunes of Montrose beach.

Explore Angus’ picturesque towns & villages

Edzell , Brechin , Forfar , Glamis and Kirriemuir in the countryside; Montrose , Arbroath , Carnoustie and Monifieth along the coast – there are many picturesque towns and villages in Angus.

I recently enjoyed a wander through Forfar – the county town of Angus, which was formerly called Forfarshire. It has a very pretty town centre with lots of independent shops and businesses. Discover quirky pubs and beautiful cobble-stone lanes, or walk up Castle Hill for a view of the area.

Go for a gentle walk in the Sidlaws

The Sidlaws are the local hills of Dundee. Volcanic in origin, the range extends for about 30 miles from Kinnoull Hill near Perth to close to Forfar.

Some of the summits to climb in the Sidlaws are Auchterhouse Hill, Balluderon Hill and Craigowl Hill – the highest in the range. Another popular viewpoint is the top of Carrot Hill which can easily be reached by car.

Explore Glenisla by bike

With its flat coastal trails, far-stretching countryside and winding roads into the glens, Angus is a cyclist’s paradise.

To hire bikes, head to Lintrathen Cycles on the edge of the Lintrathen nature reserve. From here, you can explore the foothills of the Angus Glens, and discover the castles, lochs and tearooms off the beaten path.

I hired an e-bike and cycled from Lintrathen to Kirkton of Kingoldrum and Balintore Castle, which took about 2-3 hours.

Explore more cycling trails in Angus .

Meet the animals at Newton Farm Holidays

The farm at Newton of Fotheringham is small and family-run. Like most farms in the area, they mostly farm cows and sheep, but they also have a plethora of other animals – many rehomed to enjoy the rest of their lives in the beautiful Angus countryside.

Chickens and ducks, a riot of goats, a peacock couple, Highland cows, several alpacas and Lucy, the miniature pig – who isn’t all that miniature.

You can meet the animals on a farm tour or by joining in on one of the farm experiences. From walking the alpacas to brushing Highland cows, bottle-feeding lambs in the spring or getting the goats in – it’s a lot of fun to be around these animals!

The farm is also a great way for people to learn about where their food comes from and regenerative approaches to farming.

Visit the Bothy Experience

The Bothy Experience combines two of my favourite things: gin and bothies.

At the Gin Bothy visitor centre you join a gin tasting or purchase a bottle to take home. Shop local produce and hand-selected gifts at the larder and bakery, or learn about Scottish mountain bothies in the Bothy Tales exhibit.

Spend a day on the beach

The Angus coast is a great place for a beach day. One of my favourite beaches in Angus is Montrose beach which stretched for miles just north of the town. You could follow the trails and the sands all the way to the estuary of the river North Esk.

South of Montrose is a smaller, but beautiful beach at Lunan Bay . Other popular Angus beaches include Carnoustie and Broughty Ferry .

If you want to see the coastline from the water, check out Sup2Summit who do SUP lessons and tours along the Angus coast.

Discover geology at Seaton Cliffs

The Seaton Cliffs extend north from Arbroath and are a great place to see spectacular red sandstone formations – sea caves, stacks, blowholes and arches. There is a great trail along the cliffs and you caneither walk all the way to Auchmithie and take the bus back, or turn around anytime to retrace your steps.

To explore the cliffs and caves from the seaside, get in touch with Arbroath Cliff Tours .

As you can see, Angus has a lot going for itself. No matter what aspect of Scottish culture you want to experience – there are things to do in Angus that will help you dive right in!

Planning a trip was never easier than with the Angus Tour route. I hope I’ve inspired you to do just that and discover one of Scotland’s hidden gems.

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Santa's Grottos in Angus for 2024

View all Santa's Grottos in Angus for 2024. As Christmas approaches get into the festive spirit with a visit to a local Santa's Grotto! Check out our growing list of grottos in Angus below.

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The Angus Tour – Adventure designed by you

The east coast of Scotland has so much to offer. A peaceful and tranquil escape, Angus is the perfect step away from the everyday.

Come and awaken your senses, taking in our rich history, heritage and culture. Relax and unwind in our wide-open outdoor spaces, with miles of stunning views and an abundance of nature and wildlife.

Experience our local food and drink including the world famous Arbroath Smokie and the iconic Forfar Bridie as well as a host of locally produced confectionary, spirits, beers, juices and even tea and coffee!

Nestled between the north of Dundee and south of Aberdeenshire, Angus is easily accessed by road, rail and air. Once you’re here it’s easy to get around with great public transport links, plenty of electric vehicle charging points and miles of walking and cycling paths.

The Angus Tour allows you to design your own adventure whilst you discover our towns, villages and glens. Browse our suggested itineraries below, or choose bits and pieces from each to create your own.

Share your adventures with us using #TheAngusTour and #VisitAngus.

The Angus Tour Itineraries

3 day itinerary, discover our coastal heritage, enjoy relaxing outdoor experiences, dog-friendly holidays in angus, explore our rich history, taste our delicious food & drink, explore active outdoor experiences, inspiration to help plan your trip.

Where to Stay

Travelling to Angus Made Easy

Insider's Guide to Angus

Visit Angus App

Dog Friendly Angus

A Guide to Wild Swimming in Angus

Children's Trails in Angus

Visit Our Towns, Villages and Glens

Arbroath, the largest town in Angus, is home to the famous Arbroath Smokie

Brechin is the only city in Angus, on account of its medieval cathedral

Carnoustie, the youngest town in Angus, is world famous for its golf

Enter the charming village of Edzell under the ‘Dalhousie Arch’

Forfar was once the seat of Scotland's King Malcolm Canmore

Kirriemuir is known as the gateway to the glens

Monifieth dates back to the 9th century and was once a Pictish centre

Montrose is a bustling coastal town with an ancient history

• The Angus Glens

The atmospheric Angus Glens offer superb walking opportunities

Visit the picturesque village of Glamis, built in the late 1700s

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100 things to do in Angus: Full ‘Insider’s Guide’

Visit Angus has launched its full insider’s guide of 100 Unmissable Experiences to help families get out and about this summer.

There are loads of amazing things to do in the region and the new Visit Angus guide includes 100 attractions, activities and places to eat, hand picked by Angus residents to help you choose your perfect day out.

Launched with a stunning beach mural in Montrose , the guide of 100 Unmissable Experiences is the perfect place to start planning summer staycations. You can read the full list below.

Beauty Spots

• Arbirlot Falls
• Brown and white Caterthuns
• Carrot Hill
• Elephant Rock
• Kinpurney Hill
• Loch Brandy
• Montreathmont Forest
• Shakin Brig, Edzell
• Vale of Strathmore

Coasts & Water

• Arbroath Cliffs
• Arbroath Harbour
• Forfar Loch
• Loch of Lintrathen
• Montrose Beach
• Reekie Linn
• Scurdie Ness

Family Days Out

• Auchterhouse Country Sports
• Brechin Castle Centre
• Caledonian Railway
• Glamis Castle
• Kirriemuir Hill
• Monikie Country Park
• Murton Farm and Nature Reserve
• Newton Farm Tours
• Redwings Mountains Horse Sanctuary
• West Links, Arbroath

Food & Drink

• Bakers and confectioners
• Butchers and game dealers
• Distillers and distilleries
• Farm shops and delis
• Fish and shellfish
• Fruit and vegetables
• Juice, coffee and tea
• Visitor experiences

Hidden Gems

• Castle Hill
• Craigmill Den, Carnoustie
• Friockheim Woods
• Kirriemuir Den
• Pictish Stones inc Pictish Room, Aberlemno
• Queens Well
• St Vigeans Sculptured Stones Museum
• Scott Wilson Memorial
• Tayside Police Museum

Nature & Wildlife

• Balgavies Loch
• Barry Buddon
• Glen Lethnot
• Loch of Kinnordy
• Montrose Basin Visitor Centre
• Montrose Bay
• Wild South Esk Trail

Places to Eat

• Andreous’s Bistro, Arbroath
• Armstrongs, Glamis
• But n Ben, Auchmithie
• Cashley’s, Forfar
• Drovers Inn, Memus
• Glen Clova Hotel
• Roos Leap, Montrose
• Room with a View, Piperdam
• Sinclairs Kitchen, Forfar
• Wee Cook Kitchen , Carnoustie

Visitor Attractions

• Arbroath Abbey
• Arbroath Signal Tower Museum
• Brechin Cathedral
• Edzell Castle
• Hospitalfield
• House of Dun
• Inglis Memorial Hall and Library
• JM Barrie’s Birthplace
• Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre

Walking Routes

• Arbroath to Auchmithie
• Airlie Monument
• Blue Door Walk, Edzell
• Caddam Woods, Kirriemuir
• Carmyllie Circular Trail
• Cortachy River Walk
• Crombie Country Park
• Mount Keen and Queen’s Well
• Sidlaw Hills

Cycling Routes

• Arbroath Harbour to Barry
• Edzell to Inchbare
• Forfar to Glenogil
• Keptie Pond to Letham Grange
• Kirriemuir to Loch of Lintrathen
• Kirriemuir to Glenisla
• Kinnordy to Kingoldrum
• Letham, Guthrie and Pitmuies
• Monifieth to Carrot Hill
• Montrose Basin

FESTIVE FUN WEEKENDS

• Elaine Millan
• Countryside Adventure

Come along to a Festive Fun Weekend at Monikie Country Park where you can meet Santa or the Grinch in their Grotto or help the Monikie Elves with this years Christmas decorations!

Location: Monikie Country Park

Address: Panmure Rd, Monikie, Angus, DD5 3QA

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An A to Z Guide Of The Towns and Villages in Angus

There is a lot of character and attraction in the towns and villages of Angus . This post lists the best towns and villages in Angus that you must visit.

Angus is one of the most stunning regions in Scotland to visit.

Angus has a gorgeous coastline which stretches from Monifieth to Montrose . There are lovely seaside towns along the coast that offer brilliant beaches, golf courses and fantastic visitor attractions.

There are more towns inland. Forfar is the main settlement and is home to the delicacy – Forfar Bridie .

Brechin is the cathedral city known for its famous round tower. Finally, Kirriemuir is the town which is known as the ‘ Gateway to the Glens ’.

On top of these stunning towns are beautiful villages in the rolling countryside. Glamis is a small village where Glamis Castle is located. 

Also, there is Edzell Castle with a gorgeous walled garden. Finally, Froickheim is a small community with lovely woodland walks.

Angus and its glens are a perfect destination for all tourists. Winding roads and paths make great routes for walkers, drivers and cyclists. Along the way, there are fantastic views and wildlife-spotting opportunities. 

Arbroath is the largest town in Angus , it has a population of 22,000 people. This beautiful coastal town dates back to the 12th century, Arbroath is located 15 miles northeast of Dundee .

This is a traditional seaside town, with a picturesque harbour.  Arbroath is home to the famous Arbroath Smokie .

An Arbroath Smokie is haddock smoked over the wood fires and is considered a famous delicious delicacy all over the world. There is a trail to follow where you can learn more about the history of the Smokie .

Also, the ruins of Arbroath Abbey are located in Arbroath . Arbroath Abbey was founded in 1178 by King William the Lion of Scotland.

The Arbroath Abbey is where the ‘ Declaration of Arbroath ’ was signed in 1320. This historic site is now open to the public and you can learn more about the history of the abbey.

Bells Rock Lighthouse is Britain’s oldest surviving offshore lighthouse. Arbroath Signal Tower Museum is where you can learn about the history and heritage of the town. 

Families can have a few hours of fun at West Links . Then after exploring watch a performance at the Webster Memorial Theatre .

Long sandy beaches and stunning sandstone cliffs surround the town. One of my favourite walks is at Seacliffe Nature Reserve where you will see the red rock formations, stacks and deep caves.

It is the perfect place for a walk or to take your kayak into one of the sea caves. 

Arbroath Accommodation: Brucefield Boutique B&B , The Mill Lade – Hidden House , Drummygar Mains

Things To Do In Arbroath:

• Seacliffe Nature Reserve
• Arbroath Abbey
• Arbroath Smokie trail
• Webster Memorial Theatre
• Arbroath Signal Tower Museum
• Arbirlot Falls

Brechin is the only ‘city’ in Angus , on account of its medieval cathedral. The cathedral is the only surviving cathedral of its type to survive in Scotland .

The round tower was built in the eleventh century. You can explore the fascinating history of the steam and diesel locomotives at the Caledonian Railway .

Listen out the locomotive waking up the sleep ‘city’ on Sunday mornings in the summer. The train carries passenger between the Victorian Brechin Station and nearby Bridge of Dunn . 

At the Townhouse Museum , you can learn about the 18th-century building and its role in the people of Brechin . This is where the courts were held and the criminals were kept in jail. 

Visitors can see the remains of iron-age hill forts, at the Caterhuns . Also, it is interesting to see the skills of the prehistoric man.

Brechin Castle Centre is a 70-acre country park with a fantastic play area, fairy trail, large garden centre, and coffee shop.

Nearby, in Aberlemo village, you can discover the original home of the Harley Davidson family at Netherton Cottage . Also, you can visit the Pictish Room to learn about Angus’ Pictish heritage . 

Brechin Accommodation: Gramarcy House , Greenden Farmhouse , The View – Brechin

Things To Do In Brechin:

• Brechin Cathedral
• Caledonian Railway
• Townhouse Museum 
• Brechin Castle Centre

Carnoustie is Angus’s newest town, just 200 years old. This small coastal town is located between Arbroath and Monifieth .

It is steeped in culture and history. Visitors can walk along the coast and view the beaches.

The Angus Coastal Route runs along the coast, and you can walk this section in Carnoustie .  Craigmill Den is a stunning woodland for nature lovers and is a haven for wildlife.

Barry Budden dates back to 1850 and has been used by many cadets from Forfar and Fife regiments. Nowadays, this area is excellent for coastal walks and wildlife watching.

Carnoustie is famous for golf and is often paired with St Andrews for golf championships.

This small coastal town has hosted The Open Championship 8 times on the Championship links course . Thus, Carnoustie is a destination for budding golfers who wish to test their skills.

To capture the history, visitors can view the 19th-century Barry Mill . Barry Mill is one of the few remaining working water mills in Scotland .

The mill was the centre of a beating community, the mill provided food and jobs for people for over 800 years. 

Enjoy the great outdoors at one of the two country parks near Carnoustie and Monifeith . Crombie Country Park has a wide range of walking & cycling trails through the woodland and past the lochs. 

There are three trails, The Discovery, Peddieston and Birchwood at Crombie . Monikie Country Park has two large lakes and a large watersports site that operates from April to October.

Easthaven is a small community just north of Carnoustie . This area has a strong history, Easthaven was one of the earliest recorded fishing communities. 

Easthaven is well-known for its scenic beach and has achieved Beautiful Scotland Gold Award for its charming flower displays. Once, it was a popular tourist resort, and many people are attracted to visit the area today. 

Carnoustie & East Haven Accommodation: Seaview Guest House , Carlogie House , The Beach Boathouse

Things To Do in Carnoustie:

• Carnoustie Bay
• Barry Mill 
• Carnoustie Golf Links
• East Haven Beach
• Angus Coastal Path
• Craigmill Den
• Monike Country Park
• Budden Ness
• Barry Buddon
• Crombie Country Park

Edzell is the most charming village, it is described as the ‘jewel in the crown of Angus’. The town was renamed in 1818, previously it was named Slateford .

The main street in Edzell is lined with 19th-century buildings. Featuring some lovely teashops and antique emporia.

There is something special about the place and you can feel it when you go under the Dalhousie Arch at the beginning of the village. The Dalhousie Arch was erected in 1887, in memory of the 13th Earl of Dalhousie and his wife. 

Head to the sandstone ruins of Edzell Castle , located half a mile west of the village. Here, visitors can explore the lovely walled gardens.

The walled garden was created in 1604 and includes a lovely summer house, square tower, heraldic sculptures and carved panels.

There are lovely walking routes in Edzell , all not far from Main Street . Just north outside the town, head to the Blue Door Walk and find the fine walk to the Rocks of Solitude . 

Head down Gassy Braes and have a wee shoogle on the Shakin’ Brig’ . The Skakin’ Bridge is a 100-year-old suspension bridge over the River Glen Esk .

Edzell is the nearest settlement to Glen Esk , a lovely remote hilly area. Walkers can explore Invermark Castle , Loch Lee , Mount Keen and the Falls of Unich .

Plus, many other walking trails and mountains in this glen, Glen Lethnot and the rest of the Angus Glens .

Edzell Accommodation: Smiddy Bothy , Birch Tree Cottage , Dunlappie Lodge

Things to do in Edzell:

• Shakin’ Brig
• Edzell Castle
• Dalhousie Arch
• Blue Door Walk

Forfar is one of the most accessible towns in Angus , it is located just off the A90, between Dundee and Aberdeen . Historically, Forfar was once the seat of Scotland’s King Malcolm Canmore. 

At the Meffan Museum and Art Gallery , you can learn about the history of Forfar , and view the rich art that reflects the heritage of Angus .

Also, at the Meffan Museum you can get an insight into the grim history including the 17th century witch hunts. 

Balmashanner Monument is Angus’s best historic monument and a well-known A listed building on Balmashanner Hill .

It was erected in 1920 and was dedicated to Queen Mary. There are great views across the Valley of Strathmore to the Braes of Angus on a clear day.

Finally, do not miss the Farmer’s Market which is enjoyed by locals and visitors throughout the year.

Forfar Accommodation: Gardener’s Cottage , North Lodge

Things to do in Forfar:

• Forfar Loch Country Park
• Balmashanner Monument
• Angus Farmers’ Market
• Murton Farm 
• Restenneth Priory

Friockheim is a small village outside Arbroath , dating back to 1814. Interestingly, Froickheim translates to ‘Heather Home’.

‘Fraoch’ is Scottish Gaelic for heather, and ‘Heim’ is German for home. The settlement grow when a flax spinning mill was built here.

There are two woodlands which as perfect for walking and getting active in the outdoors.

Glamis 

Glamis is a lovely small village which first appeared in the 18th century. The village was built by the 9th Earl of Strathmore.

Pictish stones can be found in Glamis . 

Glamis Castle is located in Glamis village. This is the location of the legendary setting of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and the riot of turrets and towers is a lovely sight.

Glamis Castle was the home to the Queen’s Mother in the 20th century and the Earls of Strathmore since 1372. At the castle, you can explore the magnificent gardens and take a route to the interiors of the castle. 

The Bothy Experience is a local gin tasting company located in Glamis village. This is where you can learn about the Gin Bothy and the story of Scottish bothies. 

Also, visitors can purchase goods in the Bothy Larder Shop or book one of the tasting rooms to sample what is on offer. 

Just outside the village, you will find Ogilvy Visitor Centre . Since 1910, the Ogilvy family have been farming in Angus and distilling potato vodka. 

Glamis Accommodation: Woodview Cottage , Drumshademuir Caravan & Camping Park

Things to do in Glamis:

• The Bothy Experience
• Glamis Castle
• Angus Folk Museum

Kirriemuir is known as the gateway to the glens. Glen Clova and Glen Prosen are accessible from Kirriemuir . There are many beautiful nature walks in Glen Clova in Corrie Fee , Mayar and Dreish . 

The creator of Peter Pan, Sir JM Barrie was born here, and a museum run by the National Trust is located in his childhood home. In addition, there is a Peter Pan themed Neverland play park on Kirriemuir Hill . 

Look out for the stature of Peter Pan in the centre of town. Barrie gifted a camera obscura to the people of the town from which you can enjoy the surrounding countryside. 

Nearby is the Loch of Kinnordy which is a Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) reserve. The area is a haven for birdwatchers with an array of wetland birds attracted to the area.

Kirriemuir Accommodation: Greenmyre Farmhouse , Lindsay Cottage , Cullew Bothy ,

Things to do In Kirriemuir:

• Loch of Kinnordy

Dating back to the 9th century and was once a Pictish centre. Pictish stones were uncovered at the historic St Rules Church .

Also, an Iron Age fort can be located two miles north of the village.

In the 18th century, the whale industry brought people to live and work here. Then, Monifieth largely expanded due to the jute industry at the start of the 19th century. 

The coastal town has very close links to Broughty Ferry and Dundee . There is a lovely coastal path which stretches from Broughty Ferry to Barry Buddon , showcasing the best of Monifieth Beach and Blue Seaway Park .

Monifieth Accommodation: Panmure Apartment , Riverview

Montrose is a bustling coastal town surrounding the Montrose Basin . Interestingly, the high street of Montrose is one of the widest streets in Scotland.

Montrose has its own museum which displays a wide range of art, sculprues and historical relics. Also, you can learn more about the heritage of Montrose on the Montrose Heritage Trail which starts at the town steeple.

One of the important landmarks in Montrose is the Scurdie Ness Lighthouse . Scurdie Ness Lighthouse has protected this part of coastline the Angus coastline for almost 150 years and continues to guide ships and boats to this day. 

Also, visitors can enjoy the outdoors, and view birds and other wildlife at Montrose Basin . In addition, Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre is the site of Britain’s first operational military air station, established in 1913.

Located near Montrose , is the stunning House of Dun . The House of Dun is a stunning Georgian mansion dating back to the 18th century. 

Boddin Point and Elephant Rock are not far from Montrose . Elephant Rock is a large interesting feature as it is a rock shaped like an elephant.

Boddin Point is scenic but eerie as there is a ruined building and old fishing boats.

Not far from Montrose is the small former village Ferryden , separated by a river but linked by a bridge. A popular Farmers Market is held in the town on the first Saturday of every month.

Montrose Accommodation: India Lane Cottage , Charleton Farm Cottage , Townhouse Montrose

Things to do in Montrose:

• Montrose Basin
• Scurdie Ness Lighthouse
• Air Heritage Museum 
• Montrose Museum 
• Montose Heritage Trail
• House of Dun
• Elephant Rock
• Boddin Point

Letham is the largest village in Angus with a population of 2,000 people. If you have an interest in horticulture, then visit the Pitmuies Gardens . Here, you can enjoy roses, herbaceous borders and woodland walks.

Rescobie Loch is a tranquil lake suitable for boating and fishing. Visitors can stop by Murton Farm for a cuppa and to view the farm animals.

Nearby Accommodation: Courtyard Cottage

Things to do in Letham

• Pitmuies Garden
• Rescobie Loch
• Murton Farm

Tealing is a small village located at the foot of the Sidlaw Hills . The Sidlaws are one of my most favourite places to walk in Angus as it is not to difficult and you get rewarding views across Angus and Dundee . 

Tealing Dovecot and Earth House are remnants of the Iron Age. Tealing Earth House was discovered in the 19th century and dates back to the Roman occupation. 

Tealing Accommodation: The Old Stables

Things To Do In Tealing

• Tealing Dovecot
• Tealing Earth House
• Sidlaw Hills
• Carrot Hill

How many towns are in Angus?

There are seven towns in Angus . All have lovely views of the rolling countryside or coastline. Plenty of things to do for visitors or locals. 

What are the seven towns in Angus?

The seven towns in Angus are Arbroath , Brechin , Carnoustie, Forfar , Kirriemuir , Monifieth and Montrose . All have plenty of tourist attractions for visitors and locals.

Arbroath , Carnoustie , Monifieth and Montrose are the coastal towns. While, Forfar , Brechin and Kirriemuir are the inland towns.

The post list things to do in some of the towns and villages in Angus . Angus has seven small towns, all with their own character and historical routes. Five villages are mentioned in this post. 

From Glamis Castle to the ‘Arbroath Smokie’ there is so much to discover in Angus . A populist walking route along the Angus coast is called the Angus Coastal Route .

Walking, driving or cycling the Angus Coastal Rout e is a great way to explore this part of Angus .

Winter at Angus

Winter at angus glen

Embrace the glow​, angus glen's winter lights ​, winter at angus glen.

Discover the enchantment of ‘Winter at Angus Glen’! We’re bringing you a variety of dining experiences to savour, while our outdoor displays and holiday entertainment will captivate you throughout the season. Come and make cherished winter memories with us.

When you rent the facilities at Angus Glen you are provided with:

• A key account manager to assist with planning the details for a flawless event • Convenient location – just 37 kilometers from Toronto’s Union Station • Breath-taking views of the golf course • Free wifi throughout the clubhouse • Award-winning service from our front-line staff • An exceptionally talented catering staff • Ample free parking • Washroom and locker facilities

Every detail of your event is perfectly executed from the moment you drive on to the property to the moment the last guest leaves.

JANUARY HOURS

Guess what’s back? ✨ Embrace the Glow Lights at Angus Glen are ready to shine! Join us from Wednesday to Saturday to bask in the magical glow. 🌟 See you there!

  Last Day  – January 27, 2024

Fire Performance by North Fire Circus

November 24 December 21 December 22 8pm - 8:30pm performance Exciting news, everyone! North Fire Circus is making a limited-time return this season. Prepare to be spellbound and dazzled by their thrilling and fiery performance. Get ready for an amazing show!

Santa Clause is coming to town

November 24 / 6pm - 9pm December 1, 15, 21, 22, 23 / 5:30 - 8:30PM Join us in spreading holiday cheer as Santa makes a grand entrance! 🎅✨ We've got a season full of events to meet Santa, capture magical moments in photos, and enjoy heartwarming storytime with the jolly man himself. Bring your kids and let's make this holiday season unforgettable!"

Storytime with Santa

December 1 & 15 6pm & 7:30pm Hey, come on over to Silo Kids Fridays – we've got Storytime with Santa! You can visit with Santa, hear cool stories, and even take a family photo. It's like a family tradition, and it's so much fun! Event located: The Silo Grill.

Dinner Series

Thank you for all your support! Our Dinner Series events are sold out!

Winter at Angus Glen brings a feast of dining opportunities to celebrate the festive season. From our beloved Sunday Brunch Buffet to Dinner Buffet, Plated Dinner, and a Winter Solstice Celebration, we’ve got it all! Make your reservation today.

* Reservations to be secured with credit card

Winter at Angus Plated Dinner

November 17 7 pm Kicking off the season with a delectable twist! Join us for a memorable multi-course set dinner as we launch the festive season.

Dinner Buffet Extravaganza

November 24 7 pm Step into a world of culinary delight and fiery enchantment with our Dinner Buffet extravaganza! Enjoy oysters on a half shell, succulent Angus Prime Rib, Roasted Turkey at the carving station, and a heavenly chocolate fountain. Then, prepare to be mesmerized by the spellbinding fire show courtesy of North Fire Circus.

Christmas x Winter Solstice Dinner Buffet

December 22 7 pm Experience a magical celebration of Winter Solstice and Christmas at our extraordinary dinner buffet. Savor seasonal flavors, enjoy the radiant glow of our 18th hole light displays, and be mesmerized by the scintillating North Fire Circus fire show. Plus, Santa's special visit adds holiday joy to this unforgettable night of dining and entertainment!

Sunday Brunch Buffet

Get ready to brunch in style with our fabulous Sunday Buffet Brunch at Angus Glen Golf Club. Our brunch has been making waves in the brunch scene, and we invite you to join the excitement!

Golf Simulator

Snow can’t stop your swing!  Gather your buddies and tee off at our Angus Glen golf simulator to chase those winter blues away. Our GolfIn sim offers an accurate and realistic golfing experience, powered by IDRA’s cutting-edge sensor technology. Whether you’re honing your skills or seeking some indoor fun with friends, swing by today and make every day a golf day!”

Want to know more about our Winter at Angus activities and events?

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About Angus Glen Golf Club

Golf at Angus Glen Golf Club offers beauty, challenge, first-class service and maybe best of all, variety. Angus Glen consists of two 18-hole championship golf courses in Markham, Ontario known internationally for hosting the Canadian Open and Pan Am Games.

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• 905-887-0090 | Main
• 905-887-5157 | Tee Time
• 416-832-7807 | The Silo Grill
• 10080 Kennedy Rd, Markham, ON L6C 1N9
• Winter at Angus Tournaments & Corporate Events
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Hours of Operation

• Mon - Wed: 9 am – 8 pm
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Things to Do in Angus, Scotland - Angus Attractions

Things to do in angus, explore popular experiences, popular cities in angus.

Ways to tour Angus

• Scottish Highland Games Day Trip from Edinburgh

Glamis Castle and Bonnie Dundee Tour from Dundee

• Private Balmoral Glamis Dunnottar Castles Tour from Aberdeen

Scottish Castles Glamis and Dunnottar Italian Tour Guide

Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass

• Private Coastal History, Dunnottar Castle and Distillery Tour

Glamis Castle and Bonnie Dundee Tour from St Andrews

Scottish Mountain Sunrise, Angus

• Braemar Balmoral Castle Driving Tour, Whisky the Highlands

Top Attractions in Angus

Private Sightseeing Tours

Ports of call tours, tours & sightseeing, cultural & theme tours, what travelers are saying.

• Arbroath Abbey
• Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre
• Arbroath to Auchmithie Coastal Path
• Bon Scott Statue
• House of Dun
• Montrose Basin Visitor Centre, Scottish Wildlife Trust
• St Cyrus National Nature Reserve
• The Crown Tour of the Royal Castles of Scotland Day Tours
• Caledonian Railway
• Glamis Castle

Top Things to Do in Angus, Scotland - Angus Must-See Attractions

Things to do in angus, explore popular experiences, popular cities in angus.

Ways to tour Angus

• Scottish Highland Games Day Trip from Edinburgh

Glamis Castle and Bonnie Dundee Tour from Dundee

• Private Balmoral Glamis Dunnottar Castles Tour from Aberdeen

Scottish Castles Glamis and Dunnottar Italian Tour Guide

Northern Highlights Sightseeing Pass

• Private Coastal History, Dunnottar Castle and Distillery Tour

Glamis Castle and Bonnie Dundee Tour from St Andrews

Scottish Mountain Sunrise, Angus

• Braemar Balmoral Castle Driving Tour, Whisky the Highlands

Top Attractions in Angus

Private Sightseeing Tours

Ports of call tours, tours & sightseeing, cultural & theme tours, what travellers are saying.

• Arbroath Abbey
• Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre
• Arbroath to Auchmithie Coastal Path
• Bon Scott Statue
• House of Dun
• Montrose Basin Visitor Centre, Scottish Wildlife Trust
• St Cyrus National Nature Reserve
• The Crown Tour of the Royal Castles of Scotland Day Tours
• Caledonian Railway
• Glamis Castle

10 Things To Do In Angus: All With Fascinating Stories

Published by Graeme on November 16, 2023 November 16, 2023

There are so many things to do in Angus, but it’s easily one of Scotland’s most underrated regions. Visitors often drive through it to reach the castles of Aberdeenshire or round it towards the alluring Highlands. Unfortunately, those who do are missing out on a whole host of activities and some fascinating Angus stories .

No matter what you’re interested in, you can find it on a visit to Angus. From the coastal towns and beaches, to lavish castles and historic ruins, to the solitude of the Angus Glens and hills. If you want access to a bustling city then Dundee is just a short trip away . The only thing you might struggle finding is enough time to see it all.

If a visit to Angus sounds like something you’d like to do with an experienced guide, then send me a message now about  booking a Scotland’s Stories tour!

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Visit Angus’ Most Popular Home – Glamis Castle

I’m not supposed to have favourites, but it’s hard to look past the incredible Glamis Castle. This place is packed full of stories, making it one of the most popular things to do in Angus. 2022 saw the castle celebrating 650 years since John Lyon was first named Thane of Glamis so there’s a lot of history here.

There are a plethora of ghosts hiding out here including a page boy who likes to trip guests up, a grey lady in the chapel and a mysterious hidden room. A previous Lord of Glamis is said to be trapped inside, doomed to play cards with the Devil for eternity. From outside the castle, there appears to be one window with nothing but a stone wall behind it.

Not every story is spooky however, Glamis Castle is also the former home of the Queen Mum. Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon wasn’t born here but her father inherited the castle when she was just a few years old. Glamis became a popular summer home for her and she even helped run it as a home for wounded soldiers in WWI. Even as a royal, the Queen Mum would regularly visit Angus to stay in her old home.

I ended up dedicating an entire article to cover all of the stories crammed inside these walls.

Enjoy Smaller Stories In Kirriemuir

Not every thing to do in Angus centres around great nobles, bloody battles or ghastly ghosts. In fact, Kirriemuir should probably be known as the town of wee stories.

The Star Rock Shop is the oldest sweet shop in Scotland, run by Liz Crossley-Davies today using the same recipe as David Ferguson did in 1833. David was a stonemason by trade but had tragically been forced to give up his livelihood after an accident. Instead of giving up like many might, he created Star Rock to sell from his front room!

Another famous son of Kirriemuir was Bon Scott from AC/DC who lived here until the age of 6. He is remembered by bagpipe holding statue and the annual festival of Bonfest .

Kirriemuir’s most famous international story though, has to be Peter Pan. The author JM Barrie grew up in the little town, second youngest of 10 children. Inspiration for his classic tale is thought to have come from a family tragedy.

Barrie’s elder brother and his mother’s favourite son died at 13 years old. The biggest consolation for the grieving woman was that their lost boy would never grow old. He remained an innocent child in her memory. Next time you’re visiting Angus in the summer, make sure to stop by the JM Barrie Birthplace!

Step Back Into Angus History At The Meffan Museum

When it comes to Angus history, don’t miss the region’s elaborately carved Pictish stones. While some of Scotland’s best examples are found in Aberlemno, they are covered in winter to protect them from the weather. Conservation groups have difficult decisions around these important historic monuments. Is it best to limit how well visitors can see them but ensure they can remain out in the wild?

The Meffan Museum in Forfar has done the opposite. Amongst their other fascinating exhibits such as a stone burial cist and 1000 year old log boat, are a collection carved Pictish stones. Safely indoors and with perfect lighting, we can see the shapes and symbols so much easier. It also makes it perfect if you’re looking for things to do in Angus on a rainy day!

We might have no idea what they mean, but just the stones alone tell us some of the very oldest stories from Angus.

Dig Into The Angus Archives At Restenneth

I’ve always enjoyed the quiet Restenneth Priory. It’s tucked away well off the usual roads, surrounded by farmed fields and blissfully peaceful. The oldest section of the spire might actually be one of the first stone built churches in Scotland. Around 710AD the Pictish King Nechtan asked a Northumbrian abbot for assistance in building a stone church and this is a very likely location.

The most common reason that people might visit isn’t actually the priory though. An unassuming building passed on the short drive is home to the Angus Archives . Inside you can explore Angus stories, family histories and records that may help trace your ancestors from this region. It’s completely free to browse the burgh records along with their collection of public and private diaries and letters.

Hike Up To The Caterthuns

High in the hills behind Edzell, the short hike up the Caterthuns is one of my personal favourite things to do in Angus. These strangely named mounds are the remains of two Iron-Age forts, with a car park in the middle. The White Caterthun has ramparts made of stone, carried up over 2000 years ago. The Brown Caterthun is defended by simple ramparts of earth and heather.

It only takes around 10 minutes to hike to the top of the White and take in the immense size of the stone fort. The views in every direction over the rolling Angus hills are worth it. It takes slightly longer to walk up the Brown Caterthun, more like 25 minutes and it’s much harder to make out the shape of any remains.

We don’t really know how the Caterthuns were used. Were they were truly defensive forts, a thriving settlement or maybe even a ritualistic site? However, they do provide some great legends!

Fairies are said to live beneath these hills, a pot of gold is buried here somewhere and the White Caterthun was of course built by a witch. She shifted thousands of stones to build the impressive oval fort, in just one morning while carrying them in her apron!

Things To Do In The Angus Glens

If you like a taste of the Highlands, then you don’t need to leave Angus for that. There are plenty of things to do in the Angus Glens and each has their own unique character. I love Glen Esk in particular, where you can find a castle, hike a Munro , explore a peaceful loch and discover plenty of great stories.

It’s a long, winding road to the carpark at the end of Glen Esk, but even the drive is relaxing. Once there you have the choice of heading to the peaceful, old kirk at Loch Lee, or into Glen Mark.

Glen Mark was once the hideaway of James Carnegy the Laird of Balnamoon. He was a Jacobite on the run after the 1746 Battle of Culloden. Knowing he couldn’t return to his ancestral home, Carnegy spent most of his time hiding out in a secret cave deep in the glen. The rebel Laird was eventually betrayed by the local minister and dragged to London for trial.

Fortunately, he had taken his wife’s surname shortly before the Jacobite rising. The arrest warrant only showed his former name so he got off on a technicality to return to Angus and live the rest of his life in peace.

Visit Arbroath Abbey For National History

Tucked away on the coast, Arbroath Abbey is closely associated with one of the most significant events in Scottish history. When it comes to incredible Angus stories, you can’t possibly miss it out! Back in 1320, this was the location for the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath . It was a letter to the Pope, not from the King but from the Barons of Scotland.

The declaration called for the Holy Father’s support in recognising Robert the Bruce as the rightful King of Scots and an end to war with the English. The most stirring section reads:

“ As long as but a hundred of us remain alive, never will we on any conditions be brought under English rule. It is in truth not for glory, nor riches, nor honours, that we are fighting, but for freedom – for that alone, which no honest man gives up but with life itself .”

A less well known story is the Battle of Arbroath in 1445, a clash that took place right outside the abbey gates. Alexander Lindsay was upset that he had been replaced by Alexander Ogilvy as the Abbey’s Bailie of Regality. He brought a large army to Arbroath, badly outnumbering Ogilvy and his allies.

Lindsay’s father the Earl of Crawford arrived, rode in between the two sides and called for calm heads. One of the Ogilvy men mistook his shouts for an order to attack, launching a spear and killing him instantly. The following battle was long and bloody, but the Lindsays eventually came out on top.

Fill Your Stomach With An Arbroath Smokie

You simply can’t visit Angus and not try an Arbroath Smokie. This local delicacy is protected by law and must be made by traditional means within 5 miles of Arbroath. Fresh haddock are gutted, split, salted and dried then hung in pairs inside a special barrel above a smoky wood fire.

Enjoy walking the Arbroath Smokie Trail from the Signal Tower Museum, past the new harbour and the site of the old at Danger Point. The trail then leads along the top of the cliffs, all the way to Auchmithie where the smokie was first invented. Don’t forget to pick one up on your walk and enjoy a surprisingly sweet and delicate treat.

The method of preparing smokies has probably been around for a long time, maybe even brought over by the Vikings. There is a more entertaining story that explains the origin of the fish dish in Auchmithie though. Haddock had been tied in pairs and hung from the rafters inside a fishing cottage when a fire broke out. The cottage was burned to the ground, but the smoked fish was retrieved from the ashes and the smokie had been born!

Live The High Life At House of Dun

The perfectly symmetrical House of Dun , built in 1730, is a great thing to do in Angus for the whole family. Taking 13 years to finish, this Georgian masterpiece replaced a medieval towerhouse that had been home to the Erskine family for centuries. The family continued to live here right up until 1947 when the house was gifted to the National Trust for Scotland along with all of the furnishings.

Easily the most iconic feature from House of Dun is the incredible plasterwork in the saloon. For some of the trickier objects such as woven baskets or stringed violins, the real object was dipped in plaster and hung on the wall. Inside that plaster case is a perfectly entombed 300 year old object!

If you know what you’re looking for then you can even spot hidden messages in the imagery. The Erskines were secret Jacobites, opposed to the Union of the Crowns but also employed by the British government. To show his disdain, David Erskine hid his sympathies in images such as the God of War standing on the English crown with a defeated lion peaking out. There are also white roses, thistles and Fleur-de-lis scattered around.

Visit Angus’ Last Working Watermill

Found not far from Carnoustie, I think Barry Mill might be the best kept secret in Angus!

For hundreds of years, watermills were a vital part of life and without them people didn’t eat. Unfortunately, there are very few left in working condition, which is what makes Barry Mill so important!

There has been a mill on this site since at least 1539, although most of this building is from the 19th Century. Amazingly, Barry Mill was still running as a commercial operation just over 40 years ago. The process has barely changed in all that time, with every step powered by water from the Barry Burn. Kids and adults alike will be hypnotised by the intricate combination of levers, pullies and cogs.

You can see the enormous kiln where the grain was dried after delivery. Then follow the process where it’s poured down a chute, shovelled into sacks and pulled up to the loft by a chain. Next the grain is poured into a hopper and filtered down to the first set of grinding wheels.

An automated elevator of cups lifts it all back up and into the second set of stones. That’s where the oats are properly ground into oatmeal, ready for delivery. It’s incredible to see how innovative people were and how intricate a process like this is.

Scotland has a lot of stories about millers and grain, this place brings them to life!

Where To Eat In Angus

Glenesk Folk Museum – If you’re enjoying a day out up Glen Esk then there’s no better place for soup and a cake than the Glenesk Folk Museum!

Armstrong’s Bar & Restaurant – Not far from Glamis, you’ll find the family friendly Armstrong’s serving good, local food.

But n Ben, Auchmithie – Serving lunch and dinner, you’ll want to book ahead to grab a spot at the traditional wee But n Ben in Auchmithie. A treat if you like seafood in particular!

Where To Stay In Angus

Airlie Arms Hotel – Stay in the wee red town of Kirriemuir at the Airlie Arms, central enough to explore all of Angus!

Tigh Na Leigh – In the quiet town of Alyth you’ll find one of the most luxurious guest houses in Scotland at Tigh Na Leigh!

One Strathview, Forfar – Forfar is a main hub so a perfect place to stay in Angus. One Strathview makes a great B&B to use as a base too!

Old Brewhouse, Arbroath – How about a dog friendly hotel right on Arbroath’s waterfront? Just don’t eat smokies in the bedrooms…

If you enjoyed discovering these fun things to do in Angus, then head north and explore the City of Aberdeen!

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Writer and Storyteller

Wendy S. · April 11, 2022 at 3:20 pm

SO , so much to tell about a district that might(?) get driven past !!!…endless , stories and facts that really ‘tweak’ the imagination and interest … but , in one word …. ‘Glamis 🏰’ is sheer magic … ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿!!!

Graeme · April 20, 2022 at 6:11 pm

Glamis is just incredible! That’s only the tip of the Angus iceberg though, so many less well known places to stop and explore!

Rita Davidson · April 20, 2022 at 12:34 pm

I rarely go on facebook anymore. Glad I saw this today. A gem . Often I find more to my liking things that seem of much substace are off the beaten path. Thanks for sharing . Indeed this would be a destination for me if ever I were to travel . Beautiful vistas that giveaway to peaceful contemplation. History that too gives a feeling of a people past and my own need to feel connected.

Graeme · April 20, 2022 at 6:09 pm

I’m glad you spotted it today as well! It’s often the best way to travel, just a little off the beaten path where you have the chance to enjoy places that others are missing.

It’s the history that attracts me most!

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Jurors to visit George Alan Kelly property in rancher’s murder trial

NOGALES, Ariz. (KGUN) — Jurors will visit George Alan Kelly’s ranch in his trial for second degree murder. He’s accused of shooting and killing a Mexican National crossing his property.

Multiple media outlets, including KGUN 9 requested the chance to take video of the visit.

WATCH KGUN 9 NEWS AT 5 & 6 MONDAY FOR CRAIG SMITH'S FULL REPORT

The judge in the case rejected ranch access but did approve a compromise to allow video related to the ranch visit.

Usually we try to be observers, not participants, in the stories we cover. But in the Kelly case, we ended up speaking in court about media access to an important event in the trial.

George Alan Kelly’s ranch is practically a character in the case.

There’s been a lot of testimony about what he could see and hear from his house, testimony about the distance from the house to where the victim was found, even testimony about how his horse behaved as people crossed Kelly's ranch and Kelly fired nine shots from his rifle.

Attorneys for both sides asked Judge Thomas Fink to allow jurors to see the ranch for themselves.

The issue in Monday’s hearing was whether media could get pictures and video of the ranch visit.

Judge Fink ruled it would be too hard to be sure jurors would not be shown on camera. That’s forbidden in Arizona. It’s seen as a threat to the jurors safety.

Judge Fink also says he can’t bring media crews onto Kelly’s private property.

The judge says he recognizes the high interest in the case and has allowed camera access as long as it does not show jurors; so in this case he will allow video of the jurors' van leaving the court complex as long as no jurors are on camera.

The ranch visit is tentatively set for Thursday afternoon.

Kelly is charged with second degree murder in the death of Gabriel Cuen Buitema.

GEORGE ALAN KELLY TRIAL

• Kelly trial continues with more witness testimony
• DNA analysts testify in rancher’s murder trial
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• Rancher’s murder trial: Was someone else the real killer?

The rancher says he heard a shot, saw what he took to be smugglers crossing his property and fired warning shots. The second degree murder charge is for cases where someone is accused of murder without pre-meditation, or doing something so indifferent to human life that a person was killed.

——- Craig Smith is a reporter for KGUN 9 . With more than 40 years of reporting in cities like Tampa, Houston and Austin, Craig has covered more than 40 Space Shuttle launches and covered historic hurricanes like Katrina, Ivan, Andrew and Hugo. Share your story ideas and important issues with Craig by emailing [email protected] or by connecting on Facebook and Twitter .

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Column: More than just a store, 99 Cents Only gave a fair shake to all who entered

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At 8:30 on Sunday morning, the parking lot at the 99 Cents Only store in Santa Ana was already beginning to fill. A few days earlier, the chain had announced it was closing all 371 of its stores in California, Nevada, Arizona and Texas.

This location off Main Street had seen better days. Unhoused people wandered near the trash bins. The walls and walkway leading to the front door were grimy. A massive window decal of fresh fruit near the entrance was peeling.

No one smiled while grabbing a shopping cart and walking in, even though all items were 10% off and signs screamed “Everything Must Go! Up to 30% Off.” Customers expressed their condolences to anyone with a name tag and vented to anyone who would listen.

“I blame [Gavin] Newsom,” said Rick Juarez, 53, referencing the California governor as he entered the store to stock up on batteries. He had shopped at this location for “at least” 20 years. “Too many taxes, too high the minimum wage. These companies just can’t compete, and so they have to close. And it’s poor people like us who end up suffering.”

Victor Barrios said he hopes the rumors of investors wanting to save the 99 Cents Only empire were true.

“This needs to stay open,” the 38-year-old delivery driver said. “I make OK money, and buying here helps me. But imagine if you’re on WIC? If you’re on Social Security? You need a place like this. Are people now supposed to go to Ralphs? Or Target? With what money?”

99 Cents Only to close all 371 stores and wind down its business

The City of Commerce deep-discount retailer, for years one of the few true “dollar” stores, calls it quits after more than four decades.

April 5, 2024

I can count on my hands the number of times I had previously shopped at 99 Cents Only, and maybe even on one hand — I’m more of a swap meet kind of guy. I’ve only gone with my wife, only to this location. But I had to visit out of respect — and sadness.

The 99 Cents Only Stores’ demise is another blow for the thrifters who make Southern California tick.

For generations, millions of us — immigrants, long-timers, working-class folks, or people who just want a good deal — have fueled an alternate economy far removed from fancy department and grocery stores. We patronize swap meets, Salvation Army stores, half-off warehouses and garage sales. Food comes from bartering with neighbors, or outlets like 99 Cents Only. My people inspired Carey McWilliams to half-jokingly call Los Angeles the “junkyard for a continent” in his 1946 masterpiece, “Southern California: An Island on the Land.”

Even today, as I make a good living and my wife runs her own restaurant, we live a penny-pinching life. A grocery splurge for us isn’t Whole Foods or Erewhon; it’s Trader Joe’s. I get my shirts and khakis at Marshalls or Ross Dress for Less, and guayaberas at the Anaheim Indoor Swap Meet or Olvera Street. The last time I spent more than $100 on an item of clothing was a black suit from Nordstrom for my mother’s funeral.

Those of us in this fellowship of frugality seek out bargains because we know that California’s booms inevitably end in bust. That’s what makes the imminent end of the 99 Cents Only empire — which started in Westchester in 1982 — so distressing.

Interim Chief Executive Mike Simoncic said in a statement that the chain was closing because of “significant and lasting challenges in the retail environment.”

Even though it was a multibillion-dollar company, 99 Cents Only operated under a premise straight from the Great Depression: a fair shake for everyone who entered. Here, the retiree shopped alongside the hipster, and the only colors that mattered were the bright blue and pink on the marquee of each store. The chain had locations in blue-collar towns such as Santa Ana and Colton, but also suburbs such as Alhambra and Santa Monica.

Yes, off-brands and remaindered products made up the bulk of offerings, but treasures awaited for those who regularly came. One day, you’d get a generic brand of sriracha, another time, regular Tapatío hot sauce at prices you last saw during your childhood. And who knew when you might encounter a small blowup doll of AC/DC frontman Angus Young, like I did on Sunday?

There was a camaraderie among fans that rivals such as Dollar Tree or Dollar General or even Walmart were never able to match. Founder Dave Gold was a SoCal business iconoclast on the level of In-N-Out founder Harry Snyder and cafeteria magnate Clifford Clifton, who made sure that the least among us could eat and shop like kings.

Nowadays, discount shopping is just an Amazon click away — a race to the bottom of inferior products and loneliness.

“I could buy toys for my younger kids, my older kids could get pens for school, and I could do groceries for all of us,” Altagracia Nuñez told me in Spanish as she perused the beauty aisle, where sticks of men’s and women’s deodorant looked like tumbled dominoes. “And the prices, of course.”

She stayed quiet, then offered a weak laugh. “Well, everything is more expensive nowadays, so I guess this had to end.”

Dave Gold dies at 80; entrepreneur behind 99 Cents Only chain

April 26, 2013

Friends told me that their local 99 Cents Only stores were beginning to look as bereft as the pandemic days. But the Santa Ana branch I visited was well stocked. It was interesting to see what was available and what wasn’t.

The shelves that once held reusable containers were empty, but the Easter decorations hadn’t moved. There were no more bleach bottles by LA’s Totally Awesome, but the rest of the brand’s cleaning products were available. Milk was sold out, but stacks of bland El Comal corn and flour tortillas — already marked 50% off — were barely touched.

Everyone’s shopping cart seemed fuller than usual, and they all seemed to have at least one package of both toilet paper and cleaning towels. I didn’t need either, or anything, really. So I bought an array of canned goods from a bygone era — Hormel canned tamales, Armour potted meat, Libby’s chicken Vienna sausages and pork luncheon meat, whatever on Earth that is — to mark the end of another Southern California classic.

The Frito-Lay and Takis displays near the checkout counter were picked clean, as was the Pepsi cooler. Cheery new jack swing tunes played on invisible speakers. Behind me, a man softly sang to himself “ Se va, se va la 99 ” (“It’s going, the 99 is going”). In front of me, a woman announced in Spanish to no one in particular, “I think I’ll come back here another time.”

“We close June 3,” the cashier responded. “Come back.”

He let a beat pass. “Come here until we’re done.”

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Gustavo Arellano is a columnist for the Los Angeles Times, covering Southern California everything and a bunch of the West and beyond. He previously worked at OC Weekly, where he was an investigative reporter for 15 years and editor for six, wrote a column called ¡Ask a Mexican! and is the author of “Taco USA: How Mexican Food Conquered America.” He’s the child of two Mexican immigrants, one of whom came to this country in the trunk of a Chevy.

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When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Restaurants Food and Drink | Black Angus Steakhouse launches a 60th…

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Restaurants food and drink, restaurants food and drink | black angus steakhouse launches a 60th anniversary celebration with all the trimmings.

Customers are coming to Black Angus Steakhouse in 2024 for the same reasons as they did in 1964, according to Deborah Shapiro,  vice president of growth.

“People want to get the best quality steak for their money.”

The chain has been known for affordability and Western atmosphere for 60 years, she said in a recent phone interview.

But as Black Angus markets its diamond anniversary, it is also heading in new directions.

The actual anniversary is April 1, Shapiro said, and Black Angus will celebrate with a $19.64 Retro Special that includes a 6-ounce sirloin steak marinated in a whiskey pepper sauce and served with crispy onion strings and two sidekicks, as the chain calls its sides. It will be available April 1-7, along with $2 margaritas and drink specials.

The restaurant chain is also serving brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday throughout April. The menu is beefy and includes such items as a Steak Breakfast Burrito and Tomahawk & Eggs for Two, plus items such as Molasses Bread Avocado Toast and the usual mimosas and Bloody Marys.

“Like breakfast, but cooler,” reads a Facebook post.

Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Friday, March 8, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Server Alex Chavez brings food to customers at the Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Friday, March 8, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Diamond Cut Prime Rib: served with Atomic Raw Horseradish, house-made Au Jus at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

BBQ Burnt Ends Green Chile Mac and Cheese at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Oscar Top, a 16oz. ribeye topped with lobster, Oscar includes: fresh Lobster, Béarnaise Sauce and fresh grilled asparagus at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Fernando Garcia Director of Culinary Operations, prepares a Tomahawk Steak Dinner for two, a 36-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye with signature steakhouse butter to top, served with four Classic Sidekicks, soup or salad, and one appetizer and dessert at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Oscar Top, a 16-ounce ribeye topped with lobster, Oscar includes: fresh Lobster, Béarnaise Sauce and fresh grilled asparagus at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Jenni Salazar, drector of training, prepares a Gold Strike Margarita, glass with ½ Kosher salt rim, lime wedge, Corazon Blanco Tequila, Patrón Citrónge Liqueur and fresh lime-agave mix, at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Supreme Stuffed Baked Potato: Broccoli and Queso: broccoli, queso cheese sauce, onion straws and garlic butter at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Supreme Stuffed Baked Potato: Bacon and Bleu, bacon: blue cheese crumbles, Chipoltle ranch and green onions at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Fernando Garcia, director of culinary operations, prepares a Tomahawk Steak Dinner for two, a 36-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye with signature steakhouse butter to top, served with four Classic Sidekicks, soup or salad, and one appetizer and dessert at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Protein ad Grain Bowl with grilled steak, fresh cucumbers, red cabbage, shredded carrots, diced tomato, caramelized onions, signature crispy zucchini, base of the bowl is fresh greens and 5-grain rice pilaf and drizzled with Balsamic vinaigrette at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Supreme Stuffed Baked Potatoes: Bacon and Bleu: Bacon: Blue Cheese Crumbles, Chipoltle Ranch, Green Onions, BBQ Pork: BBQ Sauce, Pork Rib, Queso cheese sauce, Tortilla strips, Cotija Cheese, Broccoli and Queso: Broccoli, Queso cheese sauce, Onion straws, Garlic Butter and BBQ Burnt Ends Green Chile Mac and Cheese at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Jenni Salazar, director of training, prepares a Strawberry Lemon Drop, a martini glass with a ½ Sugar Rim, lemon wedge, red color Smirnoff Vodka, fresh lemon, strawberry and cranberry, shaken, at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Fernando Garcia, director of Culinary operations, prepares a Tomahawk Steak Dinner for two, a 36-ounce Tomahawk Ribeye with signature steakhouse butter to top, served with four Classic Sidekicks, soup or salad, and one appetizer and dessert at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Fernando Garcia, director of culinary operations, prepares a 16-ounce ribeye topped with lobster at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Supreme Stuffed Baked Potato: Broccoli & Queso, broccoli, queso cheese sauce, onion straws and garlic butter at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Fernando Garcia Director of Culinary Operations, preparing steaks at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Jenni Salazar, Director of Training, prepares a Gold Strike Margarita, glass with ½ Kosher salt rim, lime wedge, Corazon Blanco Tequila, Patrón Citrónge Liqueur and fresh lime-agave mix, at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Loaded Steakhouse Fries, melted cheese, sour cream, fresh house-made guacamole and pic de gallo, grilled steak and fries tossed in roasted jalapeño butter, at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Crab and Potato Cake, 2 cakes topped with a whipped feta and cucumber dressing, at Black Angus Steakhouse in Burbank on Thursday, March 7, 2024. (Photo by Hans Gutknecht, Los Angeles Daily News/SCNG)

Brunch started as a lead-in to the actual anniversary, which Shapiro said is April Fools’ Day, but is part of what she called a year full of fun.

‘You leave feeling full’

Black Angus was founded by the late Stuart Anderson , a World War II veteran from Washington state. He wasn’t a cowboy but could dress the part. He also wasn’t a cook but found he had a taste for the restaurant business, according to his 2016 obituary.

He got his start by buying a hotel with a restaurant in Seattle.

As Black Angus grew into a chain, it became known for “one price steak dinners”  that included salad, baked potato and garlic toast for $2.95.

That price is just a memory, but Black Angus continues to offer value for money the way Anderson did, according to Shapiro. It has a Square Cow menu, available until 6 p.m. weekdays, with most items at $20 or less. Among them are a 6-ounce top sirloin, grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, a prime rib sandwich, french dip and burgers.

There’s also the Campfire Feast dinner for two at $69, which Shapiro called a core menu item for decades. It includes two entrées, four sides and a dessert to share.

“He founded the restaurant on the principle that if you’re a hardworking, everyday worker you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for price,” Shapiro said. “We have 21-day aged steaks still to this day. We make sure our desserts are the top quality. You can have a massive cheesecake or a big mud pie or fudge cake. You leave feeling full with leftovers and that you ate a quality steak. It was worth what you paid.”

Changing with the times

In January, the Wall Street Journal published a feature called “Steakhouses are in, but not for their steak.” It put forward the idea that younger customers enjoy the vibe of a steakhouse but don’t necessarily want to eat beef.

Black Angus is in line with that thinking, Shapiro said, through business partnerships. Among them is Big Nose Kate, a whiskey that Melissa McCarthy and her husband Ben Falcone have invested in. The whiskey is available for sipping but has also been used in menus for the chain’s occasional experience dinners.

Black Angus is also partnering with Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, a Los Angeles business that also recently turned 60 , to elevate its beverage menu.

“OK, if we’re going to double down on brunch, we can’t just serve any old coffee,” said Shapiro.

Black Angus has been redecorating its interiors in recent years, lightening up dining rooms and auctioning off western photos that hung on its walls. But Shapiro said the new art is by the same photographer that Stuart Anderson picked and features real cowboys.

“All of our stores have wood paneling throughout the entire store,” she said. “Even though we refreshed the inside of our stores, we remained true to our heritage, which is very important to us, and that’s why our customers loved it. We didn’t really remodel, we just stayed true to our heritage.”

Black Angus’ headquarters are in Burbank. The chain has shrunk from a high of around 100 restaurants in 2001 but has 32 locations, most in California, plus Arizona, Washington, New Mexico and Hawaii.

The chain has launched a retail business, shipping raw steaks well beyond its footprint.

“It is our goal to grow,” Shapiro said. “We now do mail-order service throughout the continental United States. We’re looking at where people are ordering from as possible locations to open in the future. It would be sort of a reverse Gold Rush.”

Black Angus Steakhouse

Information: blackangus.com

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