Backwood Hill

The walk up Backwood Hill takes about forty minutes if you're moving at a decent pace, and the reward is a proper panorama across Aberdeenshire's rolling farmland. From Huntly, it's a straightforward ascent through moorland - nothing technical, just steady gradient and fresh air. The summit itself isn't dramatic, but on a clear day you can see for miles in every direction, which makes the effort worthwhile.

This is ideal territory for walkers who want something achievable without needing full fell-walking kit. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger ones might struggle with the length rather than the difficulty. The path is generally well-trodden and doesn't require navigation skills, though bring decent boots - it can be boggy in patches.

Go early morning if you can. The light's better, and you'll avoid the afternoon mist that rolls in frequently. Allow two hours total if you want to sit at the top with a flask and actually look at the view rather than just photographing it.

If you're staying at Huntly Castle Holiday Park just down the road, this makes a cracking half-day outing. It's the sort of walk that leaves you feeling you've done something without eating up your entire day. Weather is the main variable - pick a decent window and you've got yourself a proper morning out. No facilities at the summit, so bring water.