Francis Masson

The Francis Masson memorial sits quietly in Old Aberdeen, a modest tribute to a man most people walk past without a second glance. Masson was a botanist and plant collector of some repute in the 18th century, and if you're into horticultural history or the vagaries of Scottish scientific achievement, there's genuine interest here. The site itself is straightforward - you're looking at a marker or memorial rather than a grand structure, which rather suits the understated character of Old Aberdeen itself.

This is really one for the history enthusiast or the botanist with time on their hands. If you've got kids, they might find it a bit abstract unless they're already interested in plants and exploration. The walk through Old Aberdeen to find it is pleasant enough, though, and you can combine it with the other attractions in the area without much bother.

The memorial is free to visit - you just turn up. Allow ten minutes, maybe twenty if you're reading everything and taking it in properly. Best visited as part of a broader wander through Old Aberdeen rather than as a specific destination in itself. If you're staying at Seaview Caravan Park down the coast, it's an easy jaunt inland for a morning. Go when the weather's reasonable so you're not standing about in the rain squinting at plaques.