Time To Reflect
This year’s Arbroath 2020 festival shines a light on the Angus town’s past, present and future
On the 700th anniversary of the Declaration of Arbroath, discover its history and the celebrations planned to commemorate it
TODAY, Arbroath is a traditional seaside town, known for visitor attractions that include its picturesque harbour, a miniature railway and the ruins of a massive medieval abbey.
It’s also the home of the iconic Arbroath smokie – haddock smoked over wood fires – which is considered a delicacy all around the world.
Seven centuries ago, however, Arbroath was also central to Scottish political affairs. The vast red sandstone abbey was the showpiece of the highly influential Benedictine order of monks, and its abbot – Bernard of Kilwinning – also happened to be the chancellor of Scotland.
Although the town which grew up around the abbey may have remained, at heart, a seafaring community, the abbey itself dominated the politics of the day, including the composition and dispatch of the 1320 Declaration of Arbroath.
This April marks the 700th anniversary of this historic letter declaring Scotland’s independence, and a sixmonth-long festival, Arbroath 2020, has been planned to celebrate the town’s role in Scotland’s history.
“The highly significant part Arbroath played is worthy of a series of celebrations that will be remembered for generations,” says Harry Simpson, chair of Arbroath 2020. “Many months of creativity, planning and hard work by the festival committee, our partner organisations and local groups have resulted in an exciting and ambitious programme of celebrations.” Festivities include high-profile events, concerts, exhibitions and special community-focused projects, all taking place throughout the picturesque harbour town, and centred around Arbroath Abbey.
“The events taking place in Arbroath this year will shine the light on our historic town, bringing people together and attracting visitors from near and far.”