Arbroath Courthouse

Angus

In Person

2025 Theme

The Arbroath Courthouse is a landmark historic building located at the heart of Arbroath. Originally serving as the Townhouse and Guildry Hall, it later became the principal courthouse, standing as a proud symbol of local heritage, civic life, and architectural beauty.

Following years of disuse, this important structure is now undergoing a sensitive and ambitious restoration, led by the Arbroath Courthouse Community Trust (ACCT) – a dedicated group of volunteers passionate about breathing new life into the building for the benefit of the community.

The vision of the Trust is to preserve the courthouse’s historical character while transforming it into a vibrant, accessible space for community events, arts, culture, and enterprise. Restoration works will protect the building’s unique features, such as its grand courtroom spaces, traditional masonry, and period detailing, while carefully modernising facilities to meet today’s needs.

In its new life, the Arbroath Courthouse will offer:

A flexible events and performance space for hire
A community cinema
Areas for local groups, businesses, and charities to meet and collaborate
Opportunities for exhibitions, workshops, and creative projects
A welcoming venue for all ages

Although restoration is ongoing, the Trust has already opened parts of the building to the public, hosting a growing calendar of events that demonstrate its potential as a lively and inclusive community asset. The work of the Arbroath Courthouse Community Trust is supported by the local community, grant funders, volunteers, and project partners — all united by a shared belief that this iconic building should once again play a central role in Arbroath’s story.

For Doors Open Days, volunteers will offer guided tours of the building, focussing on the history of The Courthouse and The Guildry Hall, as well as an overview of the renovation works that are underway, transforming the Courthouse into a modern, fully functional community space in the centre of Arbroath.

Booking is not required. This will be a drop-in open day style event, providing tours, general information and updates on the project.