Alaistair Polson Memorial

The Alastair Polson Memorial sits quietly in the Highland landscape near Aviemore, a small but significant reminder of a life lost in service. It's the sort of place you stumble upon rather than plan for - easy to miss if you're not looking, but worth the detour if you're spending time in the area.

Polson was a local figure, and the memorial marks his memory with the kind of understated dignity you often find in Scottish Highland monuments. There's no visitor centre or café - it's just you, the landscape, and the inscription. Depending on where exactly you find it, the views across the Cairngorms can be rather fine. It takes about fifteen minutes to pay your respects, though walkers exploring the wider terrain might linger longer.

This appeals most to history buffs and those with a connection to the area. Casual tourists won't find much to occupy them for long, but if you're already rambling near Aviemore - perhaps staying at Dalraddy Holiday Park just three miles away - it's a meaningful stop. Admission is free, as these memorials usually are.

The real value is in pairing it with proper Highland walking. The monument works best as part of a larger day out rather than a standalone destination. Early morning or late afternoon light makes the spot feel particularly poignant. Go in decent weather; there's no shelter, and mist can make the location feel rather bleak.