Drummond Castle Gardens

The moment you climb the castle stairs and look down, you understand why Drummond Castle Gardens matter. This is a proper formal garden - all geometric precision and Scottish grandeur, spread across 2,000 acres of Perthshire countryside just outside Crieff. What you're looking at is a St Andrew's Cross pattern carved into the earth itself, surrounded by hedges that have been getting shaped into submission for centuries.

You'll walk the main terrace most of the time, taking in the layout and the views across to the Tay valley. History types will appreciate the bones of it - the garden design dates back to the 17th century, though the Victorians had their way with it too. Families with young kids might find it bit slow after an hour, since there's not much to do except look and walk. But if you've got walkers in the group or anyone who actually enjoys standing still to appreciate a view, it's proper worth the effort.

The nearest town of Crieff gives you cafes and shops when you're done, and there's several caravan parks within a few miles - Braidhaugh Holiday Lodge is barely two miles down the road if you're basing yourself in the area for a park holiday. Summer's your best bet for visiting, when the whole thing's properly maintained and open. Check ahead for opening hours and admission prices before you make the trip - these castle gardens can be fussy about their seasons.