Montrose is a friendly town between the picturesque Angus Glens and the North Sea. Beautiful beaches, rolling dunes and a wildlife-rich tidal lagoon showcase the natural beauty of the Scottish coast. A bustling high street and links-style golf courses offer a taste of local history and culture.
Things to do in Montrose
Hunt for shells on the golden sands of Montrose Beach. Grass-covered dunes fringe the beach and provide a habitat for local birdlife. Hot summer days are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and enjoying picnics. Stop by the beachfront kiosk for coffee, cake and sandwiches.
Shops, cafes and atmospheric pubs line bustling Montrose High Street. It’s one of the widest high streets in Scotland and framed by handsome heritage buildings. Gothic-style Montrose Old soars over the thoroughfare and features a 67-metre-tall spire.
Family-friendly trails skirt Montrose Basin, a tidal lagoon fed by the South Esk River and the North Sea. The muddy shoreline is an important habitat for rare birds like pink-footed geese. Join a guided tour run by the Montrose Basin Wildlife Centre to learn more about the unique coastal ecosystem. Scurdie Ness Lighthouse stands guard over the entrance to the basin and has been guiding ships along the North Sea coast for almost 150 years.
Montrose is a golfer’s paradise and gateway to some of the most prestigious courses in Scotland. The 1562 Course at Montrose Links is one of the oldest in the world and features the most of the dramatic North Sea backdrop. Wrap up your game with a dram of Scottish whiskey at the atmospheric clubhouse.
Getting around Montrose
Montrose is compact and easy to explore on foot. The town is a 45-minute drive from Dundee, one hour from Aberdeen and two hours from Edinburgh. Montrose Railway Station offers connections to major Scottish cities. Rent a car for the freedom to explore the historic county of Angus at your own pace. Edinburgh Airport is a two-hour drive away.