Balmerino Abbey

The ruins of Balmerino Abbey sit quietly on the banks of the River Tay, about five miles south of Cupar, and they're genuinely worth a detour if you're camping nearby. Founded in 1227, it's a proper slice of medieval Scotland - what remains is mostly the church walls and tower, enough to get a real sense of the place without it feeling like you're staring at rubble.

You can wander the grounds freely and there's something oddly peaceful about it. The setting helps - you're surrounded by woodland and the river murmurs away in the background. History buffs will spend a good hour picking over the stonework and reading the carved details. Families with younger kids might find thirty minutes is enough; there's not a huge amount to do beyond looking and imagining, which is either exactly what you want or a bit thin.

It's free to visit, which is a bonus. No facilities to speak of though, so come prepared. Late spring and summer are best - you'll see the grounds at their greenest and there's actually something quite romantic about wandering round on a decent afternoon.

If you're staying at Snugs at Logie Farm just down the road, this makes a cracking leg-stretch on your way to exploring the wider area. It's not a full day out, but combined with a walk along the river or a visit to nearby Cupar, it slots in nicely. The abbey itself isn't flashy or heavily restored - it feels real, which is exactly why it works.