Forbidden Cave

There's something properly unsettling about a cave with a name like this. Forbidden Cave sits in the Scottish Highlands near Arbroath, and you'll understand the appeal once you're standing at its entrance - it feels genuinely off-limits, even though you're allowed inside.

The cave itself is modest in size but atmospheric. You'll duck through the narrow opening and find yourself in a cool, damp chamber where the rock walls close in around you. It's the kind of place that feels ancient and slightly eerie, particularly if you visit on an overcast day when the light outside barely penetrates. Bring a torch - it's darker than you'd expect, and the uneven floor demands respect.

Walkers and geology enthusiasts will get the most from it. If you're doing a longer ramble through the Aberdeenshire hills, it's worth the diversion, though don't expect a vast underground system. Half an hour is plenty to explore properly and take a few photos. Kids aged eight and up will find it interesting, though younger ones might find the confined space a bit claustrophobic.

Access details are sparse online, so check locally before you go - weather and cave conditions can affect entry. If you're staying at The Grange Glamping nearby, it makes a decent morning activity before or after exploring the surrounding parkland. The cave works best as part of a broader walk rather than a standalone destination, but the slight sense of adventure - and that evocative name - makes it worth seeking out.