Balnakilly

A scatter of ancient stones on a hillside near Blairgowrie might not sound thrilling, but Balnakilly rewards the curious. This is a proper archaeological site - Bronze Age standing stones that have survived thousands of years on moorland that feels properly remote despite being just outside town. You won't find interpretive boards or visitor facilities here. It's just you, the stones, and the landscape they were placed in.

The site itself takes about 30 minutes to explore properly, depending on how much poking about you fancy. The walk from the car park is straightforward enough, though the ground can be boggy in wet weather - boots are non-negotiable. What you get is a genuine sense of connection to people who lived here over 3,000 years ago. No crowds, no gift shop, no Instagram selfie-stick nonsense.

History buffs and serious walkers will find this worthwhile. Families with young children might struggle unless they're the type to appreciate quiet contemplation and a bit of a moorland trek. There's something rather moving about standing where Bronze Age folk once gathered, but you need patience and a decent map - or a GPS fix before you head out.

If you're staying at Glenshee Glamping nearby, it's a decent half-day outing to combine with a walk around Blairgowrie itself. Worth the detour if ancient stone circles genuinely interest you. If you're after something flashier, this isn't it.