Carnoustie

A beautiful bay with golden sand nestled below the world famous Carnoustie Golf Course, which played host to the Open Golf Championships in 1999 and 2007. This small beach is a little gem, and although feels remote in nature, is only a few minutes walk from the train station and the town of Carnoustie. The beach is easily accessed by steps and ramps and the adjacent Leisure Centre offers excellent sport facilities along with outdoor tennis courts, children's play area, paddling pool and free car parking. It is also near the town's shopping centre.

History

The town was founded in the late 18th century, and grew rapidly throughout the 19th century due to the growth of the local textile industry. It was popular as a tourist resort from the early Victorian era up to the latter half of the 20th century, due to its seaside location, and is best known for the Carnoustie Golf Links course. It is located at the mouth of the Barry Burn on the North Sea coast, it is the fourth largest town in Angus. 

Salmon were caught in nets on Carnoustie Beach and the small fishing fleets of Westhaven and Easthaven caught cod for export and haddock which was largely destined for Dundee and Forfar. Lobsters were caught for live export to London and crabs were caught for local use.

Natural Space

Some open grassland adjacent to the play area, open views out to sea over the sandy bay.

Setting

The beach is incorporated into a leisure centre, with sports facilities, play areas and a promenade with open views out to sea.

Getting There

Carnoustie is situated 10 miles north of Dundee just off the main A92 dual carriageway (follow signs for Arbroath from Dundee) and on the main east coast Scottish railway line between Edinburgh and Aberdeen, Carnoustie is easy to reach by car or public transport. The Sustrans National Route 1 also passes by Carnoustie. There are three access points to the beach.

Water quality information

This beach is a designated bathing water site. Further information about water quality at this site can be found on the SEPA website. Please observe local signage and only swim where it is safe to do so.