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The eastern Montrose coastal town lies in the eastern region of Scotland. Standing stones indicate the prescence of people during prehistoric times. The Norse Vikings established a sizable settlement here. The natural harbour also tempted the Danes who invaded many times from 980 AD on. David I acquired the territory, founded a settlement and Montrose received burgh status in 1140. The community flourished under the supervision of Malcolm IV, who regularly donated proceeds to the Restenneth Priory. In 1178, William the Lion constructed a castle nearby and visited often. A fire ravaged Montrose in 1244.
Edward I and an army of 30,000 men arrived one night in 1296, seized the castle and stripped King John de Balliol of all power and holdings. The following year, William Wallace arrived with his own army and slew the entire English garrsion guarding the castle.
By 1488, Montrose became a dukedom, putting wealthy aristocrats in charge of the community. The citizens of Montrose routinely fell vicitm to the Lairds of Dun, who ransacked the town, stealing livestock and property. The people demanded protection from the Duke, but the matter was finally resolved by James IV. Montrose was a successful trading center, exporting cured salmon, hides and skins.
During the 1600s, exports included barley and wheat. Products commonly imported included flax, fruit and salt, along with timber and wine. The 1700s brought more turbulence to Montrose, as the community experienced the Jacobite uprising in 1716. Thirty years later, a major naval battle occurred off the coast of the local harbour.
During the second world war, the Royal Air Force had a base in Montrose, training and housing pilots. The base also served as housing for aircraft squadrons. The military presence exposed the community to bombing on more than one occasion by the Germans. So many evacuees arrived in Montrose; the town ran out of accommodations.
Activities and Attractions
The Montrose waterfront is spectacular. There are over 3 miles (4.8km) of sandy beaches for pleasant strolls or lying in the sun. Water sports are plentiful, whether guests enjoy boating, swimming or surfing. Embark on a coastal cruise or a deep sea fishing adventure. The Montrose promenade has arcades, amusement rides and a variety of unique boutiques and cafes.
Explore local history and culture by visiting the Montrose Museum. The facility contains collections representing the archaeology, geology, industrial and social histories of the community. Visitors see prehistoric flint and stone tools and weapons, Roman jewellery and medieval swords. Discover the animal and bird life indigenous to the area and marvel at the sculptures of local artist William Lamb.
The Montrose Air Station Heritage Centre presents the history of the Royal Flying Corps. Hear and see the story of the regiment that spanned across Britain and protected the country. Trace the evolution of aircraft from inception to the present day. Learn about the perils of flying, especially during war time and see the memorials commemorating those who gave their lives for the cause. Collections and exhibits include actual and model aircraft, artefacts, documentation and photographs. Guests have the chance to see antiaircraft weaponry and the radar used for tracking enemy planes. The facility also has examples of the Anderson shelters and pillboxes, used during the war, which protected citizens and military personnel.
Visitors step back in time and experience life as a wealthy Scottish nobleman when journeying to the Dun House. Nobles often preferred grand manor houses to old drafty castles. The Dun House is a fine example, containing the original elaborate décor and furnishings. See the marvellous plasterwork featured in the dining room and saloon, and the wall coverings of the tapestry room. Gaze in amazement at the primitive bathtubs and showers kept in the dressing rooms. See the equipment used for entertainment in the theatre room, used long before the invention of DVDs and televisions. Tour the areas of the house designed for special chores and the service staff.
Places to Stay and Dining
Many hotels in the Highlands of Montrose feature personal hot beverage appliances, microwaves and refrigerators. For a change of pace from typical restaurant meals, guests may choose purchasing fresh products at the local farmer’s market.
Whether desiring fast food or a traditional home cooked meal, guests find both at the Roo’s Leap restaurant. Enjoy a whopping beef burger, prepared and topped with American, Aussie or Oriental ingredients. Feast on a chicken enchilada platter, served with refried beans and salad.
Accommodation in Montrose
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