Discover Arbroath by Motorhome : Complete Guide
Introduction
We’re delighted to present our complete travel guide to Arbroath, a charming town in Scotland. In this guide, we’ll take you through the fascinating history of this ancient royal city, give you tips on the best time to visit depending on the climate, and help you plan your budget. We’ll also be sharing our best spots for parking and sleeping in a motorhome, as well as our recommendations for local restaurants and activities not to be missed. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or planning your first road trip, we’re confident this guide will help you make the most of your stay in Arbroath.
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What is Arbroath in Scotland?
History of Arbroath
Arbroath, also known as Aberbrothock in Scottish Gaelic, is a former royal town in Scotland. Its history dates back to the Iron Age, when the Picts inhabited the region. However, Arbroath remained a small village until 1178, when King William I of Scotland founded an abbey which was completed in 1233. Over time, the abbey fell into disuse and eventually disappeared, but it left an indelible mark on the town’s history.
Arbroath is also known as the birthplace of the Declaration of Arbroath, a declaration of Scottish independence signed by the nobility in the 14th century. The ruins of the ancient Abbey of Arbroath are at the heart of the history of this declaration and remain a major tourist attraction in Scotland.
During the Industrial Revolution, the jute industry enabled Arbroath to expand, as did Dundee. A new harbor was built in 1839, and by the end of the 19th century, Arbroath had become one of Scotland’s largest fishing ports. Today, Arbroath is still known as the birthplace of the Arbroath haddock.
Geographical location
In terms of geography, Arbroath is located on the North Sea coast, around 27 kilometers northeast of Dundee and 82 kilometers south of Aberdeen. Arbroath is also a port, not far from the mouth of the Brothwick.
How to get to Arbroath
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To get to Arbroath by air, you can land at Edinburgh International Airport, which is the nearest airport. From here, you can take a train to Haymarket, then another to Arbroath. The fastest flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle airport to Edinburgh airport takes around 1h 45m. Several airlines, including Air France, offer direct flights.
To get to Arbroath by train, you can take the Eurostar train from Paris Nord to London St Pancras Intl, then the train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh, and finally the train from Edinburgh to Arbroath. The total journey takes around 10h 33m. Train services are operated by Eurostar and First ScotRail Service.
To get to Arbroath by car or motorhome from France, you can drive to Calais, take the ferry to Dover, then drive to Arbroath. Another option is to drive to Calais-Frethun, take the Eurotunnel to Folkestone, then drive to Arbroath. The total journey takes around 12h 25m with the Eurotunnel and around 13h 32m with the ferry.
e didn’t take the Tunnel or the Ferry from Calais to the UK. In fact, our journey began in the Netherlands! From Rotterdam, it’s easy to get to the UK. Then just follow the country’s east coast to discover the wonders of Scotland!
Climate: When to visit Arbroath by motorhome?
Arbroath, a picturesque town on the east coast of Scotland, enjoys a temperate oceanic climate. The average maximum temperature in Arbroath is 11°C over the year, ranging from 6°C in January to 17°C in July. Rainfall averages 537mm over the year, with a minimum of 27mm in April and a maximum of 65mm in August.
| Month | Average temp (°C) | Rainfall (mm) | Weather | Opinions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 4°/6° | 40mm | ☔ | Very unfavorable |
| February | 4°/7° | 40mm | ☔ | Very unfavorable |
| March | 5°/8° | 30mm | ☔ | Very unfavorable |
| April | 6°/10° | 27mm | 🌦 | Unfavorable |
| May | 9°/12° | 40mm | 🌦 | Unfavorable |
| June | 12°/15° | 48mm | 🌤 | Unfavorable |
| July | 13°/17° | 59mm | ☀️ | Favorable |
| August | 13°/17° | 65mm | ☀️ | Favorable |
| September | 11°/15° | 38mm | 🌤 | Unfavorable |
| October | 10°/12° | 56mm | 🌦 | Unfavorable |
| November | 7°/9° | 52mm | 🌦 | Unfavorable |
| December | 5°/7° | 45mm | ☔ | Very unfavorable |
After analyzing this data, we can conclude that the best time to visit Arbroath is from June to September, with particularly pleasant weather in July and August. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, May, June and September are also good choices, although the weather is a little less favorable.
Our road trip adventure through Scotland took place from July to August 2022. That year, the country, like the rest of Europe, experienced exceptional heat. On the Isle of Skye, in Portree, we even met locals who were completely baffled by the weather. But rest assured, we were treated to the famous Scottish rain! Especially in Edinburgh! After all, Scotland wouldn’t be the same without the refreshing showers that make it so charming! As far as Arbroath was concerned, it was sunny during the day and rainy in the evening – we’d almost say the perfect climate for vanlife in summer!
Sleeping spots and RV parks in Arbroath
Here are the top 5 spots to sleep in a motorhome in Arbroath, Scotland, ranked by user reviews and ratings:
- 📍🥇 Victoria Park: Located in the heart of the city, this park offers an ideal setting for a peaceful night’s sleep. With its proximity to the city center, you’ll have easy access to all amenities.
- 📍🥈 Keptie Pond: A tranquil spot next to a pond, perfect for those looking to get closer to nature. The soothing sound of the water and the view over the pond make this place particularly attractive.
- 📍🥉 Arbroath Harbour: For lovers of the sea, this spot offers stunning views of Arbroath Harbour. You can fall asleep to the sound of the waves and wake up to a magnificent view of the boats.
- 📍 Elliot Caravan Park: This caravan park offers clean facilities and friendly staff. It’s close to a retail park and beach, making it convenient for shopping and leisure.
- 📍 Colliston – 1 Cotton of Colliston: A quiet parking lot next to Colliston village hall. It’s an ideal place for those looking for a quiet place to spend the night.
These locations offer a variety of experiences, whether you’re looking to be in the heart of the action in the city, close to nature or enjoying a sea view.
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We found a spot between the sea and the town’s soccer field, where many other vans and motorhomes had landed. It was a really great place. And the next day, a Saturday, was match day, so the atmosphere was great, but also very friendly. The spot was just a few minutes from the port which, as history and the boats remind us, was one of the country’s first harbours.
Where and what to eat in Arbroath
Arbroath, a charming fishing town on Scotland’s east coast, is a true gourmet’s paradise. The town is famous for its delicious local dishes, and more specifically for its smoked fish and welcoming restaurants.
Arbroath’s restaurants
- 1. 🍽 Townhouse Hotel: A family-run hotel with restaurant in the center of Arbroath.
- 2. 🍽 The Hub @ Friockheim: A community space with a café and gym.
- 3. 🍽 Smithies Deli & Gin Emporium: A café, deli and gin emporium in Arbroath.
- 4. 🍽 Hospitalfield House: A historic house with walled gardens, a fern and a garden café.
- 5. 🍽 The Old Boatyard Restaurant: Enjoy a variety of dishes on offer.
Arbroath specialities
Arbroath is famous for its “Arbroath Smokie”, a haddock traditionally smoked over hardwood. This dish is so unique that it has been granted protected status under European law. Arbroath Smokie is produced by attaching the tails of two salt-cured haddock, which are then hung on sticks. A fire of beech and oak wood is lit in a “smoking pit” prepared by placing half a barrel of whisky in the ground. The haddock sticks are then placed on the smoking “well” and cooked until they reach the golden-copper tones of a true Arbroath Smokie. You can enjoy Arbroath Smokie as you would any smoked fish, or use it in traditional recipes for smoked haddock, such as Scottish crayfish scinque or smoked haddock soup.
Ok, so smoked fish is the typical dish of this city, so we tried it at The Old Boatyard Restaurant and indeed it was very very good! Nevertheless, we tried it as a starter and you know what I had for my main course? And yes, mussels. As I explained in the Vanlife Guide to Glasgow, my first experience with Scottish mussels was so remarkable that I wanted to try it again… And I can confirm that it’s a real pleasure.
We were also able to test a Scotch Whisky, and learned that it could be drunk, and was even recommended, with a little spring water from which the precious nectar was made. A fine restaurant in any case.
Travel budget for a RoadTrip to Arbroath
The currency used in Scotland is the pound sterling (GBP). The cost of living in Scotland is 7.5% lower than in France, and local purchasing power is 5.7% higher. When traveling, plan on a local budget of at least €108 per person per day.
– Meal in a mid-range restaurant: €29(+16% on 🇫🇷)
– Fast-food menu: €7(-23% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Local beer (50 cl draught): €4.5(-25% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Single public transport ticket: €2.9(+76% on 🇫🇷)
– Monthly public transport pass: €76(+51% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Unleaded petrol (1 liter): €1.65(+6% on 🇫🇷)
– Budget hotel (double room): €68(+18% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Mid-range hotel (double room): €104(+25% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Top-of-the-range hotel (double room): €173(-38% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Pair of jeans (Levis 501 or equivalent): €68(-16% compared with 🇫🇷)
– Summer dress in a major retailer (Zara, H&M…): €34(-3% compared to 🇫🇷)
– Pair of sports shoes: €73(-13% compared with 🇫🇷)
It’s true, Arbroath and the UK in general can seem quite expensive for us French. We found that food and activities were quite expensive. However, beer and cider are very affordable. As for Arbroath, it’s a smaller town, and from this latitude, it’s less expensive than the two big cities in the south of the country.
Video of our citytrip
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What to do in Arbroath
Here is a list of things to do in Arbroath by theme
- Take a stroll along the Arbroath coast and watch the sun set over the North Sea.
- Visit the romantic ruins of Arbroath Abbey, a place steeped in history and mystery.
Arbroath also hosts a special event called “Seafront Spectacular”. It’s a summer event that includes an air show and attracts many visitors. It offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere and take part in a variety of fun activities.
Conclusion: Why visit or return to Arbroath?
We hope this comprehensive travel guide to Arbroath has given you a clear idea of what this Scottish town has to offer. Whether it’s its rich historical past, temperate ocean climate, welcoming RV spots or delicious local cuisine, Arbroath has something for everyone. We are convinced that your road trip to Arbroath will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to consult our guide before you go, and don’t hesitate to share your own experiences and advice with us. Bon voyage!
FAQ
You can reach Arbroath by plane, train or car. If you choose to fly, Edinburgh International Airport is the nearest. From here, you can take a train to Haymarket, then another to Arbroath. If you prefer the train, you can take the Eurostar from Paris Nord to London St Pancras Intl, then the train from London Kings Cross to Edinburgh, and finally the train from Edinburgh to Arbroath. Finally, if you choose to drive, you can drive to Calais, take the ferry to Dover, then drive to Arbroath.
The best time to visit Arbroath is from June to September, with particularly pleasant weather in July and August. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, May, June and September are also good choices, although the weather is a little less favorable.
There are several places where you can sleep in your motorhome in Arbroath. Top spots include Victoria Park, Keptie Pond, Arbroath Harbour, Elliot Caravan Park and Colliston – 1 Cotton of Colliston.
Arbroath offers a variety of activities, whether you’re interested in romance, culture, sport or annuals. You can walk along the coast, visit Arbroath Abbey, hike along the coast or take part in SeaFest, an annual festival celebrating Arbroath’s maritime heritage.
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