Wild Swimming
Lunan Bay
Lunan Bay is one of Angus's finest beaches — about 1.6km of east-facing sand about 4.5km south of Montrose, with a distinctly wild, uncrowded character and a SEPA-designated bathing water classified Excellent for 2026. The red sandstone ruins of Red Castle, whose remains are a 15th-century keep, stand on high ground at the south end, just south of the mouth of the Lunan Water. Cold North Sea exposure, quiet weekdays and the castle backdrop make this one of eastern Scotland's best wild swim beaches.
Quick facts
- Type
- Beach
- Region
- Angus
- Grid ref
- NO 691 516
- Entry
- Sandy shore
- Depth
- Medium (chest-deep)
- Midges
- Low
- Dogs
- Off-lead OK
- Water quality
- SEPA 2026 classification: Excellent
Key hazards
- cold North Sea water
- cold water shock
- rip currents near the river mouth
Getting there
Car park at the bay, with a short path across the dunes to the beach. Do not try to cross the Lunan Water at its mouth — there is no safe crossing. Access rights apply.
Safety
SEPA-designated bathing water, classified Excellent for 2026. Currents can be strong near the Lunan Water mouth — stay well away from the river mouth for swimming and never try to wade across it. No lifeguard. North Sea water is cold year-round.
Best for
- eastern Scotland beach
- Red Castle photography
- quiet weekday swim
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 07:16
- Sunset
- 16:31
- Civil dawn
- 06:36
- Civil dusk
- 17:11
NOAA Solar Calculator · 31 October 2026
Common questions
- Is Lunan Bay a good wild swim beach?
- Excellent for experienced open-water swimmers — clean, uncrowded, and dramatic. The rip current near the river mouth means beginners should stick to the central section of beach.
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