Laurencekirk

A town in the heart of the Howe of Mearns, developed largely as a result of the patronage of Lord Gardenstone in the 18th century.

He introduced loom weaving and encouraged the manufacture of snuff boxes. Although both trades have died out, snuff boxes made by Charles Stivens are still most collectable.

Overlooking the town on the highest point of the Hill of Garvock at 914ft is the Johnstone Tower, erected in the early 19th century by James Farquhar from stones left over from the building of his own mansion.

The old name of Laurencekirk was originally known as Kirkton of Conveth (St Laurence) but in 1779 it became a burgh of barony under its new name.