Drumchock Wood

Deep in the woodland south of Crieff, Drumchock Wood is the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick loop. Ancient trees tower overhead, their roots creating natural steps down the forest floor, and the whole thing feels properly remote despite being just a few miles from civilisation.

It's genuinely excellent for families with older kids who can manage uneven ground without complaint. Younger ones might struggle with the terrain, but there's something almost primeval about it that keeps people engaged - you're not just walking, you're properly exploring. Walkers will find themselves returning to different sections throughout the year, as the seasonal changes shift what's on show. The autumn colours are particularly worth timing a visit for.

The woodland is free to access and you'll need a couple of hours to do it justice, longer if you're the type who stops constantly to look at moss patterns and bird calls. There's no visitor facility here - bring water if you're planning anything substantial.

If you're staying at Loch Earn Leisure Park, just six miles or so away, Drumchock makes a cracking half-day excursion that breaks up the holiday routine. It's the sort of place that doesn't appear in many guidebooks, which is precisely why it's worth the drive from wherever you're based in the area.