Edzell: Cultural history and riverside walks

Edzell can be considered for a travel decision through two themes: architectural and local history, and walks by the river and gorge. Its history includes a rare, little-altered 19th-century public library, the Shakkin' Brig and the walled garden at Edzell Castle. The walks complement these historical themes with riverside scenery and a circular route with specific details. If you are looking for a hotel in Edzell, you can first consider whether you would like to include the town's history or the walks in your travel plans.

Library and bridge: two perspectives on Edzell's history

The Inglis Memorial Hall contains a rare example of a little-altered 19th-century public library. Lieutenant Colonel Robert William Inglis gave Edzell the Inglis Memorial Hall and Library in 1898. This brings together two distinct historical perspectives: the library is a rare, little-altered example, while 1898 marks the donation of the institution to Edzell. For context, this connects a distinctive example of a library with a specific event in the town's history.

The Shakkin' Brig is a pedestrian suspension bridge built around 1900. A footpath crosses the River North Esk over it, between the parishes of Edzell to the west and Fettercairn to the east. The bridge thus combines a clearly defined type of structure and an approximate date with a specific river crossing. This offers a different perspective from the Inglis Memorial Hall: the Brig is about crossing the river, while the Hall is notable for its rare library example.

Edzell Castle and the walled garden

The walled garden at Edzell Castle was laid out in 1604. The architectural framework surrounding the garden is considered unique in Britain. The date and framework draw attention to two specific features: the historic garden and its architectural design. The garden thus complements the library history and river crossing with a distinct focus on garden architecture.

Walks by the river and through the gorge

The Blue Door Walk focuses on the landscape and route. It runs through a gorge below cliffs, follows the river and offers views into the Angus Glens. In Edzell, it starts along a lane leading off High Street, between the Old Post Office and the Garage Forecourt. As local access points can change, check before setting off that access to the starting point is still available.

The Edzell to Inchbare Circuit is an easy 8.5 km circular walk; the stated duration is one hour, and it starts on High Street in Edzell. The distance, duration and difficulty rating offer different points of reference for planning your day. Compared with the Blue Door Walk, which is described in terms of its scenery, the Circuit places greater emphasis on the route. Check current route information before setting off so you can factor the walk into your plans.

Discover more destinations: Monikie, Dykehead, Tarfside, Kinnaird, Kirriemuir, Tannadice, Menmuir, Westmuir.

For the broader travel overview: Angus.