A goalless draw ensured Arbroath will play Scottish Championship football next season while Hamilton must try to do the same via the play-offs.
Accies began the day bottom of the table and staring at automatic relegation but a point lifted them above Cove Rangers on goal difference.
Instead, they will take on either Alloa or Airdrie in the League One play-offs as they attempt to secure second tier football again.
Chances were at a premium – Hamilton’s Daniel O’Reilly had a shot saved by Derek Gaston in the first half while in the second David Gold came close twice in quick succession for Arbroath, hitting the bar on the second occasion.