Arbroath is a bustling seaside town which still has an active fishing fleet, and there are many restaurants, pubs and shops on hand. The town is dominated by Arbroath Abbey, where the famous Declaration of Arbroath (signifying Scotland's independence from England) was signed in 1320.
The local delicacy, the Arbroath Smokie - smoked haddock - (which actually originated in Auchmithie) is not to be missed. Follow the aroma and you will arrive at one of the tiny smokehouses to see the famous Smokie being prepared for purchase - excellent eaten hot or cold.
This cliff-top walk is an excellent option for parents with older children who need less supervision near cliff edges. The walk starts from Victoria Park in Arbroath and eventually leads to the old fishing village of Auchmithie, taking you past spectacular sea stacks, cliffs and caves.
There are also numerous pretty flowering plants. In spring, meadowsweet and marsh orchid grow beside woodland flowers such as primrose and violet. You can also find sea campion and other truly maritime species, such as purple milk-vetch.
Start your walk at Victoria Park, near Whiting Ness. Follow the Seaton Cliffs Nature Trail (cliff-top path) which is managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. The trail goes into areas of SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and the sea cliffs are spectacular. There are 15 interpretative points of interest along the trail and you're likely to spot a wide variety of sea birds including Guillemots, Razorbill, Eider Duck, Rock Doves, Fulmars, Herring Gulls, Shags and Kittiwakes. Look out for passing Peregrine Falcons, Dolphins and comical Puffins too.
The Trail is signposted, near a sandstone arch called the Needles E'e and beyond, there are various natural features to stop and admire including Dickmonts Den, the Deil's Heid, Maiden Castle ruins and Carlingheugh Bay, which eventually lead to Seaton Den. Take care along the cliffs and keep to the paths.
At the furthest point of the reserve, cross over to Seaton Den and make your way around the edge of the farmland and head north-east into Auchmithie.
Auchmithie is a small fishing village sitting on sandstone cliffs above a shingle beach and with an old, pretty harbour dating back to 1891. Sir Walter Scott wrote about Auchmithie in his novel 'The Antiquary' whilst staying at the Waverley Hotel in the village.
To return to Arbroath, retrace your outward route or follow the road back into Arbroath.
