Angus glens by Neil Bremner

Thursday 28th - Sunday 31st May 2009

Glens Walking Festival 24 spectacular guided walks over 4 days Queens Well, Glen Esk

walkingfestival@angusahead.com www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival

Welcome Welcome to Angus, to the Festival and to a walking opportunity, which we believe will open your eyes, stimulate your senses and reveal to you many of the hidden treasures of this enigmatic part of Scotland. For the 7th consecutive year the organisers invite you to explore the Angus Glens - perhaps one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets! The award winning four day Festival is now engraved in the very fabric of Scotland’s outdoor activities calendar. It includes evening entertainment as well as walks to suit all tastes and abilities. Experienced mountain leaders, many of whom live or work locally, will guide you on each walk and Countryside Rangers and Estate Managers will support your experience with their knowledge of local history, wildlife and farming. The Event Centre KIRRIEMUIR is the Event Centre and starting point for most of the walks. Nestled on the southern slopes of the Grampian Hills, it is a bustling market town known locally as the Gateway to the Glens. Less than an hour’s drive from the town, are the six other Burghs of Angus with their own distinct character and visitor attractions, and close by is the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother, Glamis Castle.

flights of fancy may have been imaginary, but like him you can see what he saw, hear what he heard and experience the Spirit of the Glens as he did. Who knows where this experience may take you...? Like giant fingers, Glens Isla, Prosen, Clova, Lethnot and Esk reach out from the lowlands (Straths) in to the hills and mountains that form part of the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. There will be opportunities to explore both lowlands and high mountains during the course of the Festival. A few of the Peaks over 3000ft (Munros) are on the programme and lower level walks are also featured.

The town has its own local history museum, located in a 400-year-old Town House and the unique Camera Obscura situated on a hill above the town. Most famously it is the birthplace of JM Barrie, whose house has been restored, and is one of many properties now owned and managed by the National Trust for Scotland.

Mountain top, coastal trail or country park, each has their own story to tell about Angus, no more so than in the natural history of these physically contrasting sites: golden eagle, peregrine falcon and merlin eke out their dramatic lives alongside capercaillie, grouse and ptarmigan. Herds of majestic red deer roam across the heather moors and flighty roe deer forage in coniferous plantations further down in the valley. On the coast the red sand stone cliffs are home to families of sea birds, whilst out at sea the basking shark and dolphins may even put in an appearance.

The Angus Glens It is not a giant leap of the imagination to muse that Barrie’s writing of Peter Pan was inspired to some extent by the magical scenery, folklore, legends and pastoral influences that were a part of his daily life. What is certain is that the story of Peter Pan will stimulate the imagination of children and adults alike for generations to come. Barrie’s 2

Jock’s Road

Purple Saxifrage

Glen Esk

The geological features of the Glens were sculpted during the Ice Age thousands of years ago. Many of these features are reflected in place names such as Corrie Fee (Corrie of the Deer) and Hill of Strone (Hill of the Sharp Point) and can be seen on several of the walks.

Walking for Health Everyone who walks regularly knows of the health benefits. Walking briskly for just 30 minutes a day can help you to:

Time and nature have left each Glen with its own unique character. Special places will be visited, for example, Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve (NNR) with its rare alpine plant communities, visited by the amateur botanist and author of the Lord of the Rings, JR Tolkien or Glen Doll where golden eagles soar in search of food and nesting material.

• Sleep better

• Feel good – a real sense of well being • Have more energy • Reduce stress • Control blood pressure • Manage your weight That’s why the 2009 Festival is reaching out not just to established walkers, but to people who are new to walking in the country or who are relatively inactive. Walking is an ideal activity to promote and increase fitness because it is easier to start and keep going than other types of exercise. Also, going from inactive to moderately active produces quicker health gain.

Each Glen is accessed via lowland plain where cattle and sheep are grazed. Each is characterised by meandering rivers and streams where anglers fish for trout and salmon; by steep sided slopes dotted with plantations of pines harvested for their timber; by a patchwork of heather-clad moors managed by the estates for sporting purposes; and by rugged mountain tops where climbers and hill walkers can marvel at the panoramic scenery below.

Walks which are ‘Strenuous’ or ‘Very Strenuous’ require a good level of physical fitness. ‘Moderate’ and ‘Easy’ walks are best for people who are currently less active (and perhaps newer walkers). Forfar Loch ‘All Abilities’ walk is suitable for everyone and includes wheelchair access.

The Angus Coast NEW for the Angus Glens Walking Festival 2009, by popular demand we are including coastal walks and inviting you to further explore the geo-diversity of Angus. We have added three moderate walks to the programme, one in the Sidlaw Hills and two along the Angus Coast.

Remember walking is generally safe and all walks are accompanied. But if you have any doubts about your health or fitness level speak to a medical practitioner first.

Who knows where this experience may take you...? 3

Braemar

Strachan

9 B97

e De

A957

Balmoral Forest

CARINGORM NATIONAL PARK ANGUS GLENS Tarfside GLEN E

B9 B936

Auchtermuchty

B961

B94

A914

A913

Letham

Arbroat Arb Arbroath roath h Muirdrum

Carnoustie Monifieth

Leuchars

A914

Cupar

Marywell

A92

Newburgh

B96

A933

Inverness Aberdeen

Tayport Newport-on-Tay

FIFE

B937

M90

Wormit

Bay

B912

A92 A930

A85

A913

Abernethy

Dundee

Glencarse

Ea r n

Letham

B9127

Birkhill

A90

Auchterhouse

Abernyte

Lunan Lunan Friockheim A92 Inverkeilor

Ta y

A928

Montros Mont Montrose rose e

Perth

B945

Glamis

Balbeggie

A932

Newtyle 54

B953

Johnshaven

A934

B9113

Guthrie

Forfa Fo Forfar rfarr B9

A923

A933

128

Coupar Angus

B91

Oathlaw

A928

Meigle

Tay

A935

B957

A926

A923

A94

Esk

Tannadice

A926

A94

Marykirk

Alyth

Inverbervie

Brechi Brechin rechin n

Kirriemuir

Westmuir

A92

Laurencekirk

A937 So uth

B95

B967

2 B91

5 B95

B95 BACKWATER RESERVOIR

A93

Pert Pe Perth rth h

A90

A93

6 B96 B91 20

Edzell

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ANGUS

A90

Fordoun

Fettercairn

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GLEN

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GLEN ISLA

Clova

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Drumlithie

B974

94 7

B974

Stonehaven

A91 en Ed 939 B

St Andrews Bay

Dundee Edinburgh

Glasgow Prestwick Newcastle

St Andrews Andrewss Andrew

B940 Leeds

York Hull

Liverpool

Manchester

KEY: National Tourist Route

Main Roads

London - Aberdeen main railway line

Railway routes

Dundee Airport

Airports

Birmingham

Bristol

London

Plymouth

Route Maps The following Ordnance Survey publications are relevant to the area featured in the Angus Glens Walking Festival. • Explorer 388. Lochnagar, Glen Muick & Glen Clova. Explorer 381. Blairgowrie. 1:25,000 scale (4cm to 1km or 2.5 inches to 1 mile). Retail price: £7.99 each. • Landranger 44. Ballater & Glen Clova. Landranger 53. Blairgowrie and surrounding area. 1:50,000 scale (2cm to 1km or 1.75 inches to 1 mile). Retail price: £6.99 each. All maps are packed with useful information to help you get to know the area including viewpoints, places of interest and visitor information. To place your order, please contact Brechin Visitor Information Centre on 01356 623050. 4

Programme of Walks and Entertainment Thursday 28th May Walk 1

Driesh and Cairn Inks

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Brian Crowe, Mike McLaggan, Mountain Leaders, Pete Lunnon, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 16km/10 miles linear. Ascent: 800m. Start: Glen Doll car park, 09.15 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.30) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Clova Hotel, 16.00 for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. This superb hill walk follows good tracks from Glen Doll to take the Kilbo Path onto the Shank of Drumfollow. The path is left for a stiff climb onto Driesh (947m, a Munro). An undulating ridge is followed over Hill of Strone and Cairn Inks (where, in centuries past, the local witches gathered and hurled their spells down on to the residents at Milton of Clova in the glen below), with superb views, before a steep descent into Glen Clova for refreshments. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 2

Glen Prosen to Glen Isla

Grade: Strenuous

Leader: Lisa King, Angus Council Ranger, Reg Popham, Mountain Leader, Gordon Snedden, Mountaineer. Length: 17km/11 miles, linear. Ascent: 500m. Start: Glen Prosen village, 09.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.00) Grid Ref: 328 657 Finish: Kirkton of Glenisla, 15.30. Refreshments available at the Glenisla Hotel. (Return bus from Glen Isla to Kirriemuir at 16.30 approx.) Grade: Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear and packed lunch required. From Glen Prosen, the walk climbs over Hill of Strone (512m) before descending through forestry to Glenhead, near Backwater Reservoir. Hill paths are taken into more forestry before the final descent into Glen Isla. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 3

Loch Brandy and Loch Wharral

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Ian Pert, Ben Robertson, Mountain Leaders, Norman Greig, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 12km/8 miles, linear. Ascent: 600m. Start: Wheen Cottage, 10.45 (bus from Kirriemuir at 10.00) Grid Ref: 353 715 Finish: Milton of Clova, 16.00 for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. From Wheen Cottage the walk ascends steeply to beautiful Loch Wharral, climbing above the loch and turning west to then pass above the equally beautiful Loch Brandy before descending steeply via The Snub to Glen Clova. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 4

Fort to Fort via Fossils, Sidlaw Hills

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Craig Borland, Angus Council Ranger, Scott Martin Mountain Leader, Niall Lobley, Perth and Kinross Ranger. Length: 10km/6 miles, linear. Start: Balkello Community Woodland, 11.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 10.30) Grid Ref: 365 385 Finish: Denoon Law for bus to Strathmore Arms, Glamis, for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Moderate. Boots required. Please bring a packed lunch. Investigate the fossil-bearing rocks on Balkello Hill, onto the Iron Age hill fort on neighbouring Auchterhouse Hill. Then over the Sidlaws’ to the second hill fort of the day Denoon Law, legendary first site of Glamis Castle. The geology and landforms of the area will be explained as will the flora and wildlife. Limit: 30 Cost: £12 5

Walk 5

Glen Doll Forest and Corrie Fee NNR

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Ken Slater and Alan Brennan, Angus Council Rangers. Length: 10km/6 miles, circular. Start: Glen Doll car park, 11.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 10.45) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 15.30 for bus to Glen Clova Hotel for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Moderate. Boots required. Please bring a packed lunch. Good tracks and paths lead through Glen Doll Forest into Corrie Fee, noted for its alpine flora and glacial topography. The geology, flora and wildlife of the Corrie and surrounding area will be explained. Limit: 30 Cost: £12 Thursday’s Evening Event – Slide Presentation and Buffet Slide presentation - “The Himalayas’ Island Peak to Everest Base Camp” by Alan Brennan, Angus Council Ranger Service. Airlie Arms, Kirriemuir. (Venue to be confirmed).

Cost: £10

Friday 29th May Walk 6

Tom Buidhe and Tolmount

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Ian Pert, Scott Martin, Mountain Leaders, Graham Christer, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 18km/11 miles, circular. Ascent: 1,000m. Start: Glen Doll car park, 09.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.15) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Clova, 16.00. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.15) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. This walk takes in two Munro’s. The route heads out along Jock’s Road (the oldest Right of Way in Scotland). After 4 miles it leaves the path to climb over open ground to the summit of Tom Buidhe. A steady descent to the col, then a climb to the top of Tolmount gives stunning views into Glen Callater. The route returns via Crow Craigies and Jock’s Road. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 7

The Capel Mounth to Spittal of Loch Muick

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Glyn Jones, Balmoral Ranger Service, Ben Robertson, Mountain Leader, Lisa King, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 23km/14miles, circular. Ascent: 949m. Start: Glen Doll car park, 09.15 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.30) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 16.00. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. An interesting route with good views into Glen Muick and across the Cairngorms all on good tracks. An old Right of Way is taken from Glen Doll to the Spittal of Loch Muick. Returning via the banks of Loch Muick, Alan’s Hut and Bachnagairn. From here the route follows the impressive steep sided glen back to Glen Doll car park. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 6

Walk 8

Airlie Ridge

Grade: Strenuous

Leader: Reg Popham, Colin Sinclair, Mountain Leaders, Alan Brennan, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 17km/11 miles, linear. Ascent: 507m. Start: Scott Monument, 09.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.30) Grid Ref: 371 605 Finish: Glen Clova, 15.30. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.30) Grade: Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. We follow the path from near the Scott Monument (erected in memory of Captain Scott who stayed in the glen before going off to the Antarctic) to the Airlie Monument (erected in memory of the 9th Earl of Airlie) and, while admiring the extensive views in all directions, follow the ridge northwards by The Goal and Cairn Leith to pick up the Minister’s path to Glen Clova and follow the River South Esk to the Glen Clova Hotel for refreshments. The path is generally good but with a few wet areas.

Walk 9

Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Grade: Strenuous

Burnt Hill, Glen Esk

Leader: Andy Malcolm, Stalker, Dalhousie Est., Mike McLaggan, Mountain Leader, Tim Caselton, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 11km/7 miles, linear. Ascent: 560m. Start: Gleneffock Farm, 10.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 9.00) Grid Ref: 456 789 Finish: Glen Esk car park, 15.30. Bus to The Retreat for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. After leaving Gleneffock Farm there is an ascent to Cairn Caidloch and then to Burnt Hill. The descent from Burnt Hill leads to Inchgrundle and then a stroll along the north shore of Loch Lee before arriving at Loch Lee Church (ruin) and graveyard. There are many interesting gravestones here including that of Alexander Ross (b.1699), headmaster at Loch Lee School who, in 1768 published the story of Lindy and Nory (The Fortunate Shepherdess), which was acclaimed throughout Scotland. Nearby is Invermark Castle (ruin) which was built in 1526 by the Lindsays of Edzell Castle. This walk is mostly on good hill tracks. Walk 10

The Queen’s Well and Loch Lee, Glen Esk

Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Grade: Moderate

Leader: Gordon Snedden, Mountaineer, Kevin Bickerstaffe, Mountain Leader, Ben Herschell, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 10km/6 miles, circular. Start: Glen Esk car park, 11.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 10.00) Grid Ref: 447 803 Finish: Glen Esk car park, 15.30. Bus to The Retreat (Folk Museum) for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Moderate. Boots and waterproofs required. Please bring a packed lunch. This is a walk steeped in history. It follows good tracks through upper Glen Esk to the Queen’s Well, a stone monument marking a visit by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, then returns by Loch Lee, with its ruined church and Invermark Castle. This is a low level walk, the views are excellent and the history is fascinating.

Walk 11

Coastal Crawl, Arbroath to Auchmithie

Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Grade: Moderate

Leader: Richard Averiss, Craig Borland, Angus Council Rangers. Length: 6km/4 miles, linear. Start: Victoria Park, Arbroath, 10.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.15) Grid Ref: 658 413 Finish: Auchmithie, 13.00. Refreshments available at “But ‘n Ben”. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 15.00) Grade: Moderate. Boots required. This walk follows the Angus Coastal Path along the top of the 400 million year old red sandstone cliffs starting at Victoria Park, Arbroath and finishing in the coastal village of Auchmithie. These cliffs are undoubtedly the glory of the Angus coastline, both for their striking geological formations like sea caves, natural arches and pinnacles carved by the sea and their wealth of coastal wildlife. Limit: 24 Cost: £12 7

Friday’s Evening Event - Buffet and Traditional Scottish Music Join us for an evening of traditional music, provided by “The Session Band”, and supper at the Strathmore Arms, Glamis. Transport from Kirriemuir to Glamis at 19.15, returning at 23.00.

Cost: £14

Saturday 30th May Walk 12

Jock’s Road, Braemar to Glen Doll

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Ian Pert, Ben Robertson, Kevin Bickerstaffe, Mountain Leaders. Length: 20km/12.5 miles, linear. Ascent: 771m. Start: Auchallater, Braemar 9.30, (bus from Kirriemuir at 8.15) Grid Ref: 155 882 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 16.30. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.30) Grade: Very Strenuous - a high level of fitness is required. Full hillwalking gear required. Bring a packed lunch. Jock’s Road is said to be the oldest Right of Way in Scotland. It links Glen Clova with Braemar and was an old drove road. The route starts at Auchallater by Braemar and follows good tracks alongside the River Callater. Good views and level ground by the side of Loch Callater until the climb out of the glen to the plateau and Crow Craigies. This section is very steep!! A long descent into Glen Doll with good views to finish. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 13

Glen Lethnot to Glen Clova

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Tim Caselton, Angus Council Ranger, Mike McLaggan, Mountain Leader, Gordon Snedden, Mountaineer. Length: 18km/11 miles, linear. Start: Waterhead car park, 09.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.45) Grid Ref: 464 717 Finish: Glen Clova Hotel, 16.00, where refreshments will be available. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. This walk follows the Water of Saughs in Glen Lethnot and passes close to the Shieling of Saughs before ascending Black Shank and The Goet. The route continues across the plateau with good views to Green Hill (896m) above Loch Brandy before descending to Glen Clova. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 14

Mayar and the Kilbo Path

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Brian Crowe, Steve O’Kane, Mountain Leaders, Norman Greig, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 14km/9 miles, circular. Ascent: 800m. Start: Glen Doll car park, 10.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.00) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 15.00. Bus to Glen Clova Hotel for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.00) Grade: Very strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. The walk climbs out of Glen Doll forest on the old Kilbo Path, Right of Way and once on the ridge turns off to climb the Munro Mayar (928m). The walk then descends through Corrie Fee NNR back into the forest for the return to Glen Doll. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 8

Walk 15

Glen Uig and Glen Quharity

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Jamie Stormonth Darling, Lednathie Estate, Colin Sinclair, Mountain Leader, Alan Brennan, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 11km/7 miles, linear. Ascent: 250m. Start: Wester Lednathie, 10.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.30) Grid Ref: 328 630 Finish: Ley, 15.00 for bus to Lochside Lodge for refreshments. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.30) Grade: Moderate. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. The walk, which is all on established hill tracks, starts at Wester Lednathie and climbs through moorland and woods, up and over Bodandere Hill with views of Glen Uig, the route continues down the Dairy Burn to Balintore Castle, where some of the castle’s history will be explained. Then on to Glen Quharity and through the Craigs of Balloch with good views of Backwater Reservoir on the descent to the pickup point. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 16

River North Esk, Dalbog Farm to The Retreat

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Ken Slater, Angus Council Ranger, Scott Martin, Mountain Leader, Liz Pawley, Ecologist. Length: 14km/8.5 miles, linear. Start: Dalbog Farm, 10.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 9.30) Grid Ref: 586 719 Finish: The Retreat, 15.00, where refreshments will be available. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.00) Grade: Moderate. This walk follows the River North Esk on good tracks and will be a countryside stroll. The ground is good underfoot and there is little climbing involved, however it is a fair distance. Hear about the ecosystem of the river and the wildlife it supports both under and above the water. There will also be a chance to visit The Retreat Folk Museum for a look round and for tea and buns. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 17

Glen Doll Forest and The Dounalt Riverside Walk

Grade: Easy

Leader: Graham Christer, Lesley Wood, Angus Council Rangers. Length: 8km/5 miles, circular. Start: Glen Doll car park, 10.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.45) Grid Ref: 283 761 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 15.00. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.30) Grade: Easy. Boots required. Please bring a packed lunch. Good tracks and paths lead through the forest to the head of Glen Doll and Jock’s Road. The walk will continue to the forest edge, where it crosses the bridge and returns via the opposite bank. The area is noted for its Alpine flora and wildlife as well as its social history. Limit: 30 Cost: £12 Saturday’s Evening Event - Ceilidh Supper Join us for a walkers’ supper and an evening of Scottish music and dancing at Memus Village Hall, 19.30 to 23.00. Music by the “George Rennie and Nigel Jelks Ceilidh Band”. This event will be one of the highlights of the Festival. Transport from Kirriemuir at 19.15, returning at 23.00.

Cost: £14

Sunday 31st May Walk 18

Mount Keen, Glen Esk

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Andy Malcolm, Stalker, Dalhousie Est., Brian Crowe, Mountain Leader, Pete Lunnon, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 17km/11 miles, circular. Ascent: 750m. Start: Glen Esk car park, 09.15 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.15) Grid Ref: 447 803 Finish: Glen Esk car park, 16.00. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. This is a chance to climb Scotland’s most easterly Munro. The walk starts through the beautiful upper part of Glen Esk, passing the Queen’s Well. The ascent then starts, firstly by a steep zigzagging path and then by a long steady ascent with the target always in sight. From the summit there is a very extensive view across Deeside. The return is by the same route. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 19

Glen Prosen to Clova via Driesh and Mayar

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Ben Robertson, Mike McLaggan, Mountain Leaders, Norman Greig, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 17km/10.5 miles, linear. Ascent: 800m. Start: Glen Prosen Lodge, 09.15 (bus from Kirriemuir at 08.30) Grid Ref: 289 680 Finish: Glen Doll car park, 16.00 for bus to refreshments at Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. From Glen Prosen follow tracks and ascend Lick and the Shank of Driesh to the summit at 947m. Continue west across the plateau with good views to the summit of Mayar 928m. The descent via Corrie Fee NNR gives good views of the geomorphological features of the Reserve. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 20

Glen Prosen via Cat Law to Backwater

Grade: Very Strenuous

Leader: Jamie Stormonth Darling, Lednathie Estate, Alan Brennan, Angus Council Ranger, Ian Pert, Mountain Leader. Length: 14km/9 miles, linear. Ascent: 700m. Start: Pearsie, Glen Prosen, 10.00 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.30) Grid Ref: 354 618 Finish: Backwater Reservoir, 15.30 for bus to refreshments at Peel Farm, Lintrathen. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 17.00) Grade: Very Strenuous. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. From Glen Prosen a climb over Long Goat is made and the ridge is then followed onto Cat Law, which offers superb views. The route then drops to Balintore Castle and Westerton and passes around Macritch Hill to Backwater Reservoir. Stretches of this walk are on rough ground. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 Walk 21

Minister’s Path and Banks of River South Esk

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Hector MacLean, Balnaboth Estate, Tim Caselton, Angus Council Ranger, Scott Martin, Mountain Leader. Length: 11km/6.5 miles, linear. Ascent: 200m. Start: Glen Prosen Village, 10.15 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.45) Grid Ref: 328 657 Finish: Milton of Clova, 14.30. Refreshments will be available at the Glen Clova Hotel. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 15.30) Grade: Moderate. Full hillwalking gear required. Please bring a packed lunch. This walk follows the route once taken by the Minister between services in the two glens, and is thus very suitable for a Sunday. It climbs out of Glen Prosen to reach 400m on Drumwhern before descending into Glen Clova. The route then follows the bank of the River South Esk to the Milton of Clova. Limit: 30 Cost: £15 10

Stalker and dog

Walk 22

Above Loch Lee

Adder

Coastal Crawl Mains of Usan to Scurdie Ness and SWT Centre

Grade: Moderate

Leader: Richard Averiss, Angus Council Ranger, Neil Mitchell, SWT Reserve Manager. Length: 6km/4 miles, linear. Start: Mains of Usan, 10.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 09.45) Grid Ref: 728 557 Finish: Scottish Wildlife Trust Centre, 13.30. Sandwich lunch provided. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 15.00) Grade: Moderate. This walk starts at Mains of Usan, which is situated on this historic coastline between Lunan Bay and the mouth of the River South Esk. It follows the dramatic coastline north to Stevenson’s Lighthouse at Scurdie Ness and then turns inland to follow the River South Esk through Ferryden to the enclosed estuary of Montrose Basin. The walk ends with a visit to the Scottish Wildlife Trust Centre, sited on the south shore of the tidal basin for great views of the birds that feed in the estuary. Telescopes provided at the Centre. (Sandwich lunch included). Limit: 30 Cost: £12 Walk 23

The Rocks of Solitude and The Burn House

Grade: Easy

Leader: Ken Slater, Angus Council Ranger, Reg Popham, Mountain Leader. Length: 8km/5 miles, circular. Start: Edzell Petrol Station, 11.30 (bus from Kirriemuir at 10.45) Grid Ref: 600 689 Finish: The Burn House, 14.30 where refreshments will be available. (Return bus to Kirriemuir at 16.00) Grade: Easy. Some slippery sections. Boots recommended. Please bring a packed lunch. This is a favourite local walk. A wooded trail follows the River North Esk upstream, across the Highland Boundary Fault to the Rocks of Solitude with their unusual geology. The return is mainly by the same route. The walk includes a visit to The Burn House for a tour of the Mansion House and Gardens, including teas. (Costs for admission and tea included). Limit: 30 Cost: £12 Walk 24

Forfar Loch

Grade: All Abilities

Leader: Craig Borland, Angus Council Ranger. Length: 5km/3 miles, circular. Start: Ranger Centre, Forfar Loch Country Park, 13.00 Grid Ref: 450 507 Finish: Ranger Centre, Forfar Loch Country Park, 15.30. Tea and buns included. Grade: All abilities. (Own transport required) The Loch is situated on the edge of the town of Forfar and is home to a variety of animals, birds and plants. The natural and social history of the Loch and its surroundings will be explored, including St. Margaret’s Inch, site of a prehistoric settlement and medieval chapel. (Tea and buns included). Limit: 15 Cost: £5

Red Deer

Glen Esk

Reekie Lynn

Information Travel to Kirriemuir Kirriemuir is on the A926 and A928, 8km/5 miles west of Forfar and 28km/18 miles north of Dundee, the nearest railhead. There are good bus services to Kirriemuir from both Dundee and Forfar.

Charges There is a charge per person for each guided walk and evening events. Both charges include return transport, where necessary, from the Event Centre. Pre-booking for walks and for evening events is essential as many have limits on numbers. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;All Abilitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Walk is discounted at ÂŁ5 but you will need your own transport to the start of the walk.

Accommodation There is an excellent range of accommodation in the Walking Festival area, both in Kirriemuir and in the Angus Glens, including hotels, guesthouses, bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation. There are also several excellent camping* and caravan parks.

Dogs In common with other similar events, dogs are not allowed on Festival walks. Many walks go through livestock areas or places where ground-nesting birds breed, and May is a sensitive time of year. This rule is strictly applied (guide dogs excepted).

Accommodation in the Glens is listed on pages 14 and 15. For other accommodation in Angus visit www.angusahead.com or www.visitscotland.com *Please note the campsite and Youth Hostel in Glen Doll marked on the OS map Landranger 44 at GR 285 758 are no longer open.

Liability Participants in the Angus Glens Walking Festival take part at their own risk, and the organisers and sponsor bodies shall not be liable for any accident or injury, however caused. The event is covered by public liability insurance, but you are strongly advised to check that you have adequate personal accident insurance.

Smoking Please do not smoke while on a guided walk, both out of consideration for others and also to avoid any undue risk of fire. Car Parking/Bus Service There is free public car parking in Kirriemuir, which is well sign-posted. Start and finish points for walks often have very limited car parking, so we advise that you use the Walking Festival bus service which is included in the cost of the walks.

Walk Leaders All walks will have experienced leaders and first aiders. Many leaders are local folk who work in the Angus Glens or Countryside Rangers who will be able to pass on interesting information about the landscape, its wildlife and human history. Qualified Mountain Leaders will lead all high-level walks.

Refreshments For your enjoyment and relaxation, refreshments are available to purchase from local establishments at the end of each walk. Where stated in the programme you should provide your own packed lunch, which can be obtained either from your accommodation provider or local shops.

Event Manager The Event Manager is the Angus Glens Walking Festival Chairman, Mick Pawley, Countryside Services Manager, Angus Council.

Glen Doll

Small Tortoiseshell, D Bulmer

Walk Grading Walks in the Festival have been graded in order that you can select walks suitable for your level of fitness; descriptions are included in this programme. The ascent is given where this is significant. Selecting suitable walks will enable you to get the most pleasure and satisfaction from the Walking Festival - and leave you some energy to spare for the evening events!

Glen Clova

Information on the Walking Festival and the surrounding area will be displayed at the Event Centre. There will be the opportunity to book any vacant next day walks. Booking This year we are introducing an on-line booking service, which can be located at www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival

Equipment Most walks require full hillwalking gear including boots, waterproof jacket and over trousers, hat, gloves, spare fleece, spare food and water. Where stated you should provide your own packed lunch. You may also wish to bring binoculars.

Please remember to book your bus transport and entertainment at the same time, as numbers are limited. Spaces will be allocated at the time of booking. Remember to print off your receipt information. Bookings will be confirmed in writing if made before May 21st 2009.

All Abilities Walk 24, Forfar Loch Country Park, is suitable for all abilities, including wheelchair access. The walk will be led by the Angus Council Ranger Service and will look at the natural and human history of the area.

If you prefer to book over the telephone please contact Brechin Visitor Information Centre on 01356 623050. (A booking fee of 50p will be charged). Daily Registration All Walkers must register at the Event Centre 15 minutes prior to bus departure, in person or by phone (07736 640 951), if meeting bus en route or travelling by own transport. If you do not register you will not be permitted to join the walk.

Walk Numbers For reasons of both safety and comfort, lower and some mid-level walks will be limited to a maximum of 30 people. Higher walks may have lower limits, due to distance and severity of terrain. Limits are clearly indicated in this programme. Pre-booking for walks is therefore essential.

Cancellation Walks may be altered or cancelled at short notice beyond the organisersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; control, including severe weather conditions, but alternatives will be offered where possible.

Event Centre The Event Centre will be at Kirriemuir Town Hall. It will be open from 07.45-12.00 and 15.00-18.00, Thursday to Sunday.

...walks to suit all tastes and abilities. 13

Accommodation in the Angus Glens This section details the accommodation within the Glens of Angus, for other accommodation please refer to www.angusahead.com or www.visitscotland.com Those businesses that have been quality graded are listed as well as those that have not. If you prefer to book VisitScotland quality assured accommodation through a Visitor Information Centre, please contact Brechin VIC on 01356 623050. HOTELS AND INNS Lochside Lodge and Roundhouse Restaurant, Bridgend of Lintrathen, DD8 5JJ

01575 560340 www.lochsidelodge.com

★★★★

Castleton House Hotel, Eassie, Glamis, DD8 1SJ

01307 840340 www.castletonglamis.co.uk

★★★

Glen Clova Hotel, Glen Clova, DD8 4QS

01575 550350 www.clova.com

★★★

Panmure Arms Hotel, 52 High Street, Edzell, DD9 7TA

01356 648950

★★★

The Glenesk Hotel, High Street, Edzell, DD9 7TF

01356 648319 www.gleneskhotel.co.uk

★★★

Thrums Hotel, Bank Street, Kirriemuir, DD8 4BE

01575 572758 www.thrumshotel.co.uk

★★★

The Glenisla Hotel, Kirkton of Glenisla, PH11 8PH

01575 582223 www.glenisla-hotel.com

★★

Strathmore Arms Hotel, 1 The Square, Glamis, DD8 1RS

01307 840248

www.panmurearmshotel.co.uk

BED AND BREAKFASTS Alexandra Lodge, Inveriscandye Road, Edzell, DD9 7TN

01356 648266 www.alexandralodge.co.uk

★★★★

Falls of Holm Farmhouse, Welton Road, Kingoldrum, DD8 5HY 01575 575857 www.fallsofholm.com

★★★★

Hatton of Ogilvy Farm B&B, Glamis, DD8 1UH

01307 840229

★★★★

Kinnaber, Ramsay Street, Edzell, DD9 7TT

01356 648051 www.kinnaber-bedandbreakfast.co.uk

★★★★

Muirhouses Farm, Cortachy, DD8 4QG

01575 573128 www.muirhousesfarm.co.uk

★★★★

Purgavie Farm, Lintrathen, DD8 5HZ

01575 560213 www.purgavie.co.uk

★★★★

The Glebe Bed & Breakfast, 5 The Glebe, Edzell, DD9 5SZ

01356 647278 www.theglebe.biz

★★★★

Atholl Cottage, 2 Robertson Terrace, Forfar, DD8 3JN

01307 465755 www.athollcottage.com

★★★

Blibberhill Farmhouse, Bliberhill Farm, Aberlemno, DD9 6TH

01307 830323 www.blibberhill.co.uk

★★★

Brathinch Farm B & B, by Brechin, DD9 7QZ

01356 648292

★★★

Doune House Guest House, 24 High Street, Edzell, DD9 7TA 01356 648201

★★★

Negara, 35 High Street, Edzell, DD9 7TA

01356 647463

★★★

Crepto B & B, 1 Kinnordy Place, Kirriemuir, DD8 4GW

01575 572746

★★

Glencoul House, Justinhaugh, DD8 3SF

01307 860248

★★

North Esk Lodge, 18a High Street, Edzell, DD9 7TA

01356 647409

★★

Arndean, Linross, Glamis, DD8 1QN

01307 840535 www.arnbog.btinternet.co.uk

Chapelton Farmhouse, Menmuir, DD9 7QN

01356 648239

Glenmarkie Guesthouse, Glen Isla, PH11 8QB

01575 582295 www.glenmarkie.co.uk

Pineview, 19 Dundee Road, Glamis, DD8 1RJ

01307 840740

CARAVAN AND HOLIDAY PARKS Drumshademuir Caravan Park, Roundyhill, Glamis, DD8 1QT 01575 573284 www.drumshademuir.com

★★★★★

Nether Craig Caravan Park, near Alyth, PH11 8HN

01575 560204

★★★★★

Glenesk Caravan Park, Edzell, DD9 7YP

01356 648565 www.caravancampingsites.co.uk

★★★★

Eastmill Caravan Park, Trinity Garden Centre, Brechin, DD9 7EL 01356 625206 14

SELF CATERING Crawford Cottages, Foreside of Cairn, Justinhaugh, DD8 3TQ 01307 860260 www.crawfordcottages.co.uk

★★★★

Finavon Castle by Forfar

07966 181849 www.finavoncastle.co.uk

★★★★

Kalulu House, East Murthill, Tannadice, DD8 3SF

01307 860205 www.kalaulu-house.co.uk

★★★ ★★★★

Oakbank, 6 Castle Gardens, Edzell, DD9 7SY

01356 648615 www.edzelloakbank.co.uk

★★★★

Pearsie Lodge, Pearsie Estate Co. Ltd., Cortachy, DD8 4QB

01575 540234 www.pearsie-lodge.com

★★★★

The Hideaway, Balkello Farm, Auchterhouse, DD3 0RA

01382 320261 www.balkello.com

★★★★

Ascrieve Garden Cottages, Kingoldrum, Kirriemuir, DD8 5HA 01575 574718

★★★

Auchavan Stables, Glen Isla, PH11 8QW

01738 710440

★★★

Bank Cottage, Hatton of Ogilvy Farm, Glamis, DD8 1UH

01307 840229

★★★

Broom Cottage, Broom Farm, Tannadice, DD8 3SJ

01307 850267

★★★

Glenprosen Cottages, Balnaboth, Glen Prosen, DD8 4SA

01575 540302 www.glenprosen.co.uk

★ - ★★★

Hunters Cabins, Justinhaugh, DD8 3SB

01307 860305 www.hunterscabins.co.uk

★★★

Larch Cottage, Kirkton of Glenisla, by Blairgowrie, PH11 8PH

01575 530258 www.eastmillholidays.co.uk

★★★

Littleton of Airlie Farm Cottages, Littleton of Airlie, DD8 5NS

01575 530422 www.littletonofairlie.com

★★★

Netherton Self Catering, 8 The Glebe, Edzell, DD9 7SZ

01356 648426

★★★

Rose Cottage, 4 Manse Road, Edzell, DD8 5DF

01356 647409

★★★

The Neids, Glen Isla, PH11 8PT

01575 560731

★★★

Weavers Cottage, 92 Glamis Road, Kirriemuir, DD8 5DF

01575 572085 www.cottageguide.co.uk/weaverscottage

★★★

Westmuir Holidays, Netherton Gardens, Westmuir, DD8 5LE

01828 632568 www.westmuirholidays.co.uk

★★★

Winters Cottage, Dykehead

01608 682570

★★★

Avon & Airlie Sporting Ltd., Little Kenny, Lintrathen, DD8 5JD 01575 560235 www.avonandairliesporting.com Balhall Cottage, Menmuir, DD9 7RW

01356 660284

Caliscotia, Rowan Cottage, Balkeerie, Glamis

01382 580648

East Mills Farms, Hole of Ruthven, DD8 5NZ

01575 530470

Glen Clova Self Catering, Glen Clova, DD8 4QS

01575 550350 www.clova.com

Jackdaws Nest, Woodburn, Halhill Farm, Edzell, DD9 7XT

01356 648286

March Burn, Glen Clova, DD8 4RA

02392 632911

Middleton Farm Bothy, Glen Isla, PH11 8HR

01575 560731

Newton Hotel, Glamis Road, Kirriemuir, DD8 5ED

01575 572755

Presnerb, Glen Isla, PH11 8QW

01738 710440

Roineach Mohr, Glen Clova, DD8 4RA

01575 550216

St Drostans Church and Lodge, Glenesk

01569 730967

Steading Cottage, West Seaton Farm, Arbroath DD11 5SB

01241 873216 www.cottageguide.co.uk/steadingcottage

The Bothy, Clachnabrain, Glen Clova DD8 4RS

01575 540330

The Old Brewhouse, Bamff, near Alyth

01828 632992 www.bamff.co.uk

HOSTELS AND BUNKHOUSES Prosen Hostel, Balnaboth, Glen Prosen, DD8 4SA

01575 540238 www.prosenhostel.co.uk 01575 540302

★★★★

Glen Clova Bunkhouse, Glen Clova, DD8 4QS

01575 550330 www.clova.com

★★★

Highland Adventure Centre, Knockshannoch, Kirkton of Glenisla, PH11 8PE

01575 582238 www.highlandadventure.co.uk

Visit www.angusahead.com for more accommodation 15

outdoor Mountains, Glens, Forests and Coastline â&#x20AC;&#x201C; An Angus Adventure Walking Watersports Cycling Tarfside Gorge

Crombie Country Park

Lunan Bay

Red Craig

Glen Isla

Climbing

Come and enjoy the Angus Glens any time of year

Check out our website for further information www.outdoorangus.co.uk for further information

You will find a wide range of outdoor activity providers, mountain leaders and quality accommodation all ready to make your activity break to Angus one to remember.

Horse Riding Fishing Golf Beaches

Choose a more

active

Two-thirds of people in Scotland are not active enough to benefit their health. This is continuing to have serious effects on the health and well-being of large sections of the population. The flip-side is that active people live longer and healthier lives than inactive people.

life

Try to make walking a part of your normal day. Try to make it part of your life.

Being active: • reduces the risk of heart disease by half • reduces the risk of type II diabetes • reduces the risk of a number of cancers • improves your mood and reduces the risk of depression

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Angus Glens Walking Festival would not have been possible without the generous support of the following bodies and organisations: Angus Council, VisitScotland Angus and Dundee, NHS Tayside, Scottish Natural Heritage, Cairngorms National Park Authority and Forestry Commission Scotland. The Festival has been organised and supported by a committee including representatives from the above bodies, local communities and businesses. The support of landowners, farmers and estates whose land we cross, and without whom the Festival could not take place, is also gratefully acknowledged. Photography: VisitScotland Angus & Dundee, Angus Council, Scottish Viewpoint and generous contribution of walkers.

Eastern Cairngorms Access Project (ECAP) The Eastern Cairngorms Access Project created and repaired some of the most popular paths across the East Cairngorms and upgraded visitor facilities such as small rural car parks and picnic areas. This provides key public access points to the countryside. For further details go to www.visitcairngorms.com or pick up a leaflet about Walking in Glen Clova or Glen Esk from the Event Centre.

Angus Glens Walking Festival 2010 Thursday 3rd to Sunday 6th June Check out the website from January 2010 www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival Corrie Fee NNR

For bookings go to www.angusahead.com/walkingfestival email: walkingfestival@angusahead.com Corrie Fee NNR

Kestrel, J Pekenham

The content of this publication, or sections of it, can be made available in alternative formats or translated into other community languages. Please contact the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ACCESSline on 08452 777 778 for further information or email accessline@angus.gov.uk Angus Council Print & Design Unit

Glen Esk