Deer Park

The deer roam freely across open parkland just outside Arbroath, and it's one of those places that works better than you'd expect for a rainy afternoon. You get proper views of the animals without the theme-park theatrics - just grass, trees, and genuinely wild-feeling creatures that don't seem bothered by visitors wandering about. The whole thing has a relaxed, unpretentious vibe that's refreshing after hitting the coastal attractions in town.

It's brilliant for families with young kids, especially those still at the age where spotting deer is genuinely exciting rather than Instagram fodder. Older children and walkers will appreciate the space to actually move around rather than shuffle through a queue. The park works as a half-hour stopover or a longer morning if you take your time and pack binoculars.

Getting there from Arbroath takes minutes by car. If you're staying at The Grange Glamping just down the road - that's the obvious choice for the full experience - you could walk here in good weather, though it's not really designed as a dedicated walking destination. Hillhead Caravan Park is equally close and gives you a proper base for exploring both the park and the surrounding Aberdeenshire countryside.

Admission details are light, but it's the sort of place that won't cost you much either way. Worth the detour if you're in the area for a few days, though it won't sustain a full day on its own.