Lunan Bay and Red Castle

The beach at Lunan Bay is one of the most picturesque places in Angus. We take the  dog there for walks especially in the winter when it is usually deserted.  In the summer its a favourite place families, dog walkers, horse riders and beach sports such as kite flying and kite buggying. 

Unfortunately, for some unknown reason our dog chases kites until she is exhausted. So we steer clear if we see any kites when we get to the  car park. On this walk we went to a quieter part of the beach via the ruins of the castle.

Lunan Bay lies between Montrose to the north and Arbroath to the south. The ruins of the Red Castle which dates back to the 1100s sits on a hill above the Bay and the colour of the stone gives it it's name.  As with many small settlements in the area fishing was the main way of earning a living. Wild salmon fishing with traditional nets is still practiced at this beach.
The river of Lunan Water flows into the Bay at the base of the Red Castle effectively cutting the beach in two except at low tide.The curve of the bay stretches from the old lime kilns at Boddin Point in the north to Ethie Haven village in the south
The bay is surrounded by sand dunes and low cliffs were fulmars nest in season. Its a favourite place for families, dog walkers, horse riders and beach sports. When I get the Aberdeen train south to Edinburgh I always try to sit on the side of the train to see the panoramic views of Lunan Bay.


The surrounding countryside to the north. Lunan Water below.

 

The castle is a great vantage point to see the beach and Lunan water flowing down to the sea. The dog is interested in other things.....

 

Looking north from the ruins towards the Lime kilns at Boddin Point.

Wildflower meadow of red campion, gorse and elders about to flower.

 

Down the path from the castle towards the beach

The beach inspired garden of one the houses.

Fisherman's sheds. You would you risk parking here?

The cliffs and caves at the north end of the beach. Lunan Water cuts the Bay in two.

The traditional nets catch the salmon as the tides recede.

 

Ethie Haven Fishing Village marks the south end of the bay.

One last view of the Castle and a buttercup meadow from road.