Brechin Library

The library in Brechin itself is worth a quick stop if you're passing through East Pitforthie on your way to somewhere else, though it's hardly a reason to plan a detour. It's a functional, modern space - the kind of place locals actually use rather than somewhere that screams 'tourist attraction'. You'll find the usual collection of books, reference materials, and computers for public use, all kept in decent order.

The staff are genuinely helpful, which makes it a sensible refuge if the Scottish weather turns grim and you're staying nearby at Dovecot Caravan Park. Kids won't spend hours here - it's not one of those flashy discovery centres - but if you need to charge phones, use WiFi, or grab something to read for the evening, you could do worse. The opening hours are a bit patchy (closed Wednesdays before 4pm, shuts at 1pm on Saturday), so check ahead if you're planning a specific visit.

Really, this is background furniture for a broader Highlands trip rather than a main event. If you're based at Dovecot for a week, you might slip in on a rainy afternoon. Otherwise, stick to the outdoor attractions that make Aberdeenshire worth the journey. The library does what libraries do - competently - but that's about the measure of it.