Old Edzell was built around Edzell Castle the family seat of the Lindseys. It was known in the 18th century for the quality of its steel pistol making.. In 1818 the parish church moved from Edzell to the village of Slateford , which was subsequently, renamed Edzell. Today Old Edzell houses ruins of the castle and the early church.

Edzell was enlivened by the arrival of the railway bringing Victorian tourists to the purpose built hotels and golf course. The village continues to attract summer visitors to the riverside and woodland walks. The golf course remains a draw to those looking for a woodland alternative to the Mearns many fine links courses. Visitors can complete their day in Edzell by walking through the Dalhousie Memorial Arch across the High street to dine in the traditional hotels.

Nestling at the foot of Cairn O Mount Fettercairn is one of the prettiest towns of the Mearns. It is built round a central square dominated by the arch which was built to commerate the visit of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert in 1861. A walk around the town will bring you across other landmarks such as the Mercat Cross and an elaborate fountain erected in 1869 to the honour the memory of Sir John Hepburn Stuart Forbes, Baronet of Pitsligo and Fettercairn.

The Victorian arch in central Fetercairn isn’t the only link to London aristocracy. The Queen’s cousins the Bowes-Lyons and Somervell families have Fettercairn House on the outskirts of the town and nearby Fasque House is the seat of the Gladstone family birth place of 19 th century British Prime Minister Sir William Gladstone.

The Fettercairn distillery is claimed to be the second oldest licensed distillery in Scotland. Although it was rebuilt several times around 1900 it can trace its history back to 1824. It’s latest major refurbishment was in 1966 to update the factory and incorporate a visitors centre which draws the whisky enthusiasts.