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The Royal Burgh community emerged toward the eastern coast of Scotland in Angus. The Pictish nation long dominated the lands and established the area as a cultural, religious and possibly an administrative centre during the early years of Brechin’s development. Despite continued efforts to defend the land, the Romans invaded and constructed a camp here. The Romans continued the war for supremacy and fought the Picts north of Brechin in what became known as the Battle of Mons Graupius. Once Empire experienced defeat and the Romans abandoned the territory, the Picts regained control. Battles waged on between the native peoples and the Scots or the Vikings.
Through the centuries, Brechin emerged as a destination of religious importance. St. Drostan arrived in the area during the 6th century, and by the end of the period, converted the former Druids to Christianity. Heavily influenced by Scottish occupation, the Picts eventually joined the Celtic church. The arrival of Catholicism in the 1100s soon smothered the Celtic religious influence. Kenneth II dedicated the community and territory to God in 995AD, inspiring the construction of a monastery and a cathedral commemorating St. Mary. Another church followed in 1300 and in 1572, James VI attached a hospital to the church that cared for the community’s impoverished.
David I acquired the land from his brother William in 1178. Brechin passed through one wealthy family to another thoughout its history by inheritance or marriage. The burgh initially remained prosperous as abbots and bishops traditionally came from wealthy families. These families, in turn, commonly shared their wealth with the church. From the reign of David on, Brechin was the site of conflict and tragedy. Attacks imposed on Brechin by the Earl of Moray, required David I and his army to defend the land. In 1295, King John angered English King Edward by aligning with France. The king and his army attacked in the night, stripping John of all his power and properties.
Sir Thomas Maule regained Brechin for Scotland, fighting with the help of William Wallace. In 1305, William Wallace endured capture by Edward and his forces in Brechin and was subsequently executed. After Wallace’s death, Robert the Bruce became king of Scotland and championed for the country’s freedom. Finally at peace, tragedy struck Brechin in the form of the plague in 1350. The next century brought prosperity and growth. However, the plague returned in 1648, claiming two thirds of Brechin’s population. The community struggled forward and in the 1800s, the textile industry once again brought wealth. Brewing and distilling were also major industries. By 1870, Brechin had four mills, three of which contained powered looms. Brechin obtained railway service in 1895.
Activities and Attractions
Enjoy a pleasant day out in the Brechin countryside by travelling up Castle Street and visiting the Brechin Castle Garden Estate. Encompassing over 50,000 acres (20,000 hectares) of land, the estate contains beautiful gardens and wooded areas with water features. Have a picnic lunch and explore the terrain, or indulge in a little bit of angling. The current castle originated in the 1600s, but includes portions of the structure built in the latter 1200s. The facility offers accommodations for individuals on holiday, golf or hunting excursions. The garden centre retails a variety of plants and offers gardening tips. The site additionally provides light lunches and beverages for those visiting the park.
The Brechin Cathedral is a popular destination of interest with a long history in the community. The church contains sculptures dating from the early construction of the building. The St. Mary stone carving features Mary with the Christ child surrounded by ancient evangelists. Other prized sculptures include medieval stones and a Romanesque font. The building additionally features numerous stained glass windows, created in the 20th century and depicting various biblical stories and the saints. Also unique to the church is an Irish round tower, constructed sometime during the 11th century. The structure stands 86 feet (26 metres) tall, contains seven stories and has an octagonal spire. The ancient stone doorway features elaborate carvings.
The Brechin Town Museum building was originally constructed in the 1790s. The structure served many purposes over the centuries including housing the Chamber Council, court system and prison. The museum features collections dating from prehistoric times. Metal jewellery from about 1800 BC includes an intricate necklace, indicating the advancement of the culture. Marvel at the ivory and wood used to create authentic Scottish Highland bagpipes, which date to 1750. Observe a historic weapons collection that includes flintlock pistols from the 18th century. The facility also has exhibits featuring historic legal documents from the early medieval period through the Georgian era.
Places to Stay and Dining
Though a moderately sized community, Brechin offers elegant hotel options. Luxurious, but affordable rooms promise plenty of space and neutral décor for optimum comfort and relaxtion. The facilities also provide a selection of fine complimentary toiletry products.
The Ballie Restaurant offers International cuisine choices that include vegetarian alternatives. Have a Tuscan meal prepared with traditional Italian vegetables, combined with cheese in a filo pastry and served with salad and potatoes.
Accommodation in Brechin
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