Free things to do in Arbroath

Start with the Signal Tower Museum on an opening day if you want the day to have more than a seaside walk. Ordinary entry is free, and the Bell Rock story and fishing displays explain the working coast outside. Keep a tower tour as a separate decision rather than assuming that free museum admission includes every guided opportunity. The winter timetable is narrower, so check it before setting out. Walk on to the public harbour areas at a pace that lets you watch the boats and look at the surrounding streets. It is a working place, so stay clear of secured pontoons and equipment. Buying smokies or a meal can be a pleasant addition, but this guide does not count a purchase as a free attraction or promise a free tasting. West Links provides the outdoor finish: play, picnic space and a section of seafront. Choose the park or promenade if the shore is unsuitable, and check seasonal toilets before relying on them. Parking, travel and any optional amusements belong in the budget even when admission to the public space costs nothing. The paid abbey, St Vigeans museum and theatre are left out of this collection. For a shorter plan, keep the museum and harbour together and leave West Links for another day. If the museum is closed, a modest harbour-and-park visit is more realistic than calling this an indoor all-day itinerary.