Cullen Beach side, Buckie

The stretch of sand at Cullen, just along the coast from Banff, is one of those beaches that rewards you for turning up at the right time. Golden sand slopes gently into the North Sea, with the old viaduct looming dramatically above - a proper Victorian railway monument that gives the place real character. The walk down from the village takes minutes, and once you're there, it's genuinely quiet compared to the honeypot beaches further south.

It's excellent for families with younger kids who want to build castles without fighting crowds. The sand holds perfectly, and there's enough space to spread out even in summer. Older children might get restless if the weather turns, though the rock pools at low tide keep hands occupied for a good half hour. Walkers will appreciate the wider coastal path here - you can easily combine it with neighbouring stretches and work up an appetite for fish and chips back in Banff.

If you're staying at either Sandend Holidays or Portsoy Links - both cracking spots - Cullen Beach is the obvious half-day stop. It's only a handful of miles from either park. The beach is free and accessible year-round, though you'll want decent weather to make it worthwhile. Allow a couple of hours if you've got small children, less if you're just passing through. The viaduct is photogenic whatever the light, so bring a camera. Winter storms can make it moody rather than inviting, so aim for late spring through early autumn for the best experience.