Dunbarney Church

A roofless medieval church standing alone in Perthshire countryside - it's the kind of place that stops you mid-walk. Dunbarney Church dates back to the 13th century, though what remains now is essentially the skeleton of what was clearly an important structure once. The stonework tells the story better than any plaque could: you can see where the roof timbers sat, trace the outline of windows, pick out the masonry that's survived six centuries of Scottish weather.

It's genuinely atmospheric, especially if you arrive when there's no one else about. The church sits within its own small burial ground, hemmed in by trees, and the whole site has that particular quiet you only get at places forgotten by modern life. You'll spend maybe twenty minutes here - thirty if you're the type to photograph every detail or sit and soak it up.

Historie enthusiasts will find it worthwhile; walkers passing through Perthshire on a wider route might easily make it a brief stop en route between Perth and elsewhere. It's not one for keeping children occupied for long, though the open nature and graveside history might intrigue older kids interested in medieval architecture.

The nearest proper base is Perth itself, though if you're staying at Maycroft Retreat just five and a half miles away, this makes for an excellent morning detour. Combine it with exploring the wider Perthshire landscape - the region has decent walking nearby. Free to visit, no facilities on site, so plan accordingly.