Birds of prey

A birds of prey centre somewhere near Forfar in Aberdeenshire - if you're into raptors, this is genuinely worth stopping for. You'll see everything from red kites to golden eagles, depending on the season and what they've got in on the day. The handlers know their stuff and aren't afraid to let these magnificent creatures fly, which beats standing in front of glass all afternoon.

It's the sort of place that'll grab anyone with even a passing interest in wildlife. Kids usually come away properly excited, though don't expect them to stay entertained for more than ninety minutes unless they're bird fanatics. Adults who like photography or ornithology will get far more out of it - there's proper decent photo opportunities if the light's right.

Nearby Greenhillock Glamping would make a solid base if you're mixing this with other Aberdeenshire walks or exploring the Highlands further north. The centre itself runs seasonal flying displays, so ring ahead before you go - timings change and you don't want to show up when they're doing maintenance or training. It's free or paid admission depending on their current setup, so check their website or call first.

Worth the detour if you're in the area and the weather's decent. Much less appealing on a rainy day when outdoor viewing becomes a bit grim.