Edzell Golf Club

The 18-hole course at Edzell sits on the edge of the Grampian foothills, about twenty minutes south of Stonehaven. It's a proper test without being cruel - tree-lined fairways, decent length, and enough elevation change to keep you honest. The clubhouse is traditional without being stuffy, and you'll find golfers of all abilities here, not just the low-handicappers.

If you're a keen golfer, you'll want at least a full day to play a round and take in the views across toward Cairn o'Mount. Non-golfers will find themselves a bit stranded, though there's decent walking country nearby. The course doesn't shout about itself - no fancy resort bells and whistles - which is rather refreshing. You pay green fees as you'd expect, and weekday rates are friendlier than weekends.

It works well as part of a Deeside golf trip, though it's not one of the name courses. If you're based at Dovecot Caravan Park just three miles away, it's an easy dash over for a few holes in the evening. Royal Arch Riverside Park, slightly further out near Laurencekirk itself, gives you decent access too. Spring and early autumn play better here than high summer - the ground firms up nicely. Worth checking their website for membership deals if you're planning multiple rounds during your stay.