Bannockburn Monument

The field at Bannockburn is where Scottish history turned itself inside out. On 24 June 1314, Robert the Bruce's army of maybe 7,000 men faced off against Edward II's force of around 20,000 - and won. The monument itself is a chunky stone rotunda topped with a bronze statue of Bruce on horseback, and it stands right where the fighting happened, just outside Stirling.

You can wander the battlefield itself, which is genuinely moving if you care about medieval warfare or Scottish independence. The monument visitor centre gives you the context without being heavy-handed about it. Allow two hours if you're going to read everything and actually look at the ground properly.

History enthusiasts will find it essential. Families with teenagers keen on Scottish culture get a lot from it. Younger kids, truthfully, might find it a bit abstract - it's a field, a statue, and interpretive boards, which won't grip them for long.

It's free to visit the monument and grounds, though the visitor centre may charge - worth checking ahead. Go on a clear day if you can; the views across to Stirling Castle are proper brilliant, and you'll actually get a sense of the lay of the land.

If you're camping at Witches Craig, which is only four miles away, it's a natural half-day stop before or after exploring Stirling itself. The site's close enough that you could do it on foot if you fancy a walk.