Brownside Hill

The walk up Brownside Hill from Banff is straightforward enough, and on a clear day the views across Aberdeenshire and out towards the coast are genuinely worth the effort. It's not a slog - more of a brisk country walk than a proper fell hike - which makes it ideal if you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks and fancy stretching your legs without committing to an all-day expedition.

The hill itself is modest in stature but commands a decent vantage point over the Deveron Valley. On the way up you'll pass through mixed woodland and open moorland, the kind of landscape that feels properly Scottish without demanding serious hiking boots or navigation skills. Allow a couple of hours return if you're taking it steady. The path is generally well-trodden, though it can be boggy in places after rain - which is most of the time in these parts.

Families with older kids will manage it fine. Younger ones might find it a bit of a plod, but the views from the top tend to make the climb feel worthwhile. History buffs won't find much to get excited about - there's no castle or ruin at the summit, just the landscape itself.

If you're based at Myrus Holiday Park in Macduff or Turriff Caravan Park, this makes a solid morning outing that won't gobble up your whole day. Pair it with a wander around Banff town itself and you've got a proper day sorted. Free to do, obviously - just turn up and walk.