Gardenbank Wood

The woodland walk through Gardenbank Wood near Laurencekirk is properly rewarding if you're after something short but not dull. It's a proper forest rather than a manicured park - tall conifers, decent paths, and that lovely smell of pine and earth underfoot.

You're looking at maybe 45 minutes to an hour for the main loop, which makes it ideal for families with younger kids who need a break from the car. The paths are manageable, though there's a bit of climbing in places. It's the kind of walk where you don't need special kit - trainers do the job on a dry day, but bring wellies if rain's been heavy.

Historically minded visitors won't find much in the way of ruins or interpretation boards, so don't come expecting a narrated forest tour. What you get is genuine woodland, birdsong, and a chance to stretch your legs without committing to a full-day hike. If the midges are fierce you'll notice them, so aim for late morning on a breezier day.

For a base, the nearby Glen Dye Cabins and Cottages (5.2 miles away) would suit a family wanting walking trails as part of their holiday - the ratings speak for themselves. Royal Arch Riverside Park is another solid option at 6.3 miles if you prefer a caravan-style setup. Either location makes this woodland walk an easy half-day detour rather than a destination in itself. Worth doing if you're in the area, but don't rearrange your itinerary to get here.