The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Angus

Angus offers a fantastic selection of outdoor adventures for families. You'll find over 190 hiking trails, with nearly 100 of these rated as easy, making them ideal for family outings. The diverse landscapes ensure there's always something new to explore.

Angus is perfect for families due to its incredibly diverse and accessible landscapes. You can choose from gentle riverside walks, tranquil lochside paths, invigorating coastal trails, or woodland adventures. Many routes are designed to be less strenuous, ensuring enjoyment for all ages and abilities, and often feature points of interest like castles or natural wonders.

Yes, Angus has many enjoyable circular routes perfect for families. For a gentle woodland stroll, consider the Monikie Country Park loop, which is easy and offers a pleasant experience. Another option is the scenic Scurdie Ness and Elephant Rock loop along the coast, offering sea views and unique rock formations.

Absolutely! Angus is home to some impressive waterfalls that are great to visit with family. The Reekie Linn Waterfalls near Lintrathen offer a short woodland trail leading to powerful cascades, especially after rain. Another beautiful spot is the Rocks of Solitude near Edzell, where a peaceful riverside trail winds through a gorge with magnificent falls.

Many of the easier trails in Angus are suitable for pushchairs or toddlers, particularly those in country parks or along well-maintained paths. Forfar Loch Country Park provides a scenic and accessible walk, and Crombie Country Park also offers dog-friendly trails that are generally flat and easy to navigate with little ones. Always check specific route details for terrain suitability.

Angus is rich in wildlife. On coastal walks, you might spot various seabirds, seals, and even dolphins or whales further out. Inland, especially around areas like Loch Lee or the Montrose Basin Bird Hides, you could see deer, red squirrels, and a wide array of bird species, including migratory birds. Keep an eye out for buzzards soaring overhead in the glens.

Yes, many family-friendly trails in Angus are dog-friendly. Country parks like Crombie Country Park welcome dogs, and most public footpaths and trails across the glens and coast are accessible for dogs on leads. Always remember to keep your dog under control, especially around livestock, and clean up after them to preserve the natural beauty for everyone.

Angus offers numerous scenic viewpoints and landmarks. The dramatic glacial amphitheater of Corrie Fee in Glen Doll is awe-inspiring. For historical interest, you can explore the ruins of Red Castle or Invermark Castle Ruins. Kinpurney Hill features Kinpurney Tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Dundee and the Tay Estuary on clear days.

The best time for family hiking in Angus is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is milder, days are longer, and the landscapes are vibrant with wildflowers or autumn colours. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but spring and autumn can be less crowded and equally beautiful. Always be prepared for changeable Scottish weather, regardless of the season.

Many country parks and popular trailheads in Angus offer facilities like cafes, toilets, and designated picnic areas. Monikie Country Park, for example, has visitor facilities. For other trails, it's a good idea to pack a picnic and snacks, as many routes lead through more remote natural areas. Local towns and villages often have cafes and shops for refreshments before or after your hike.

The komoot community highly rates hiking in Angus, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the region's stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes from coastal paths to serene glens, and the well-maintained trails suitable for different fitness levels. Many highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the chance to connect with nature.

For family hikes in Angus, layering is key due to changeable weather. Bring waterproof and windproof outer layers, comfortable hiking shoes or boots, and appropriate clothing for the season. Always pack plenty of water, snacks, a first-aid kit, sun protection, and a map or GPS device. For younger children, consider a carrier for longer distances and extra layers.