Gardyne Den

A steep woodland walk that cuts through a proper gorge - this is Gardyne Den, just inland from Arbroath on the Aberdeenshire coast. The burn runs through sandstone cliffs, and on a decent day the light filters through the canopy in that way that makes you remember why you left the car behind.

It's less manicured than some forest walks. The path drops down sharply - your knees will know about it on the way back up - and the surrounding trees are tall enough to muffle the world outside. Real woods, basically. You'll spot the den itself, a rocky overhang that's nothing dramatic but worth the scramble to see it. The whole thing takes maybe forty minutes at a steady pace.

Families with young kids should manage it, though the descent is steep enough that you'll want firm shoes and someone holding hands on the way down. Older walkers might find the climb back up tedious rather than challenging. If you're after a gentle meander, look elsewhere. This rewards effort more than it rewards casual strollers.

The Grange Glamping over near Arbroath makes a decent base if you're spending a few days in the area - it's close enough for a morning walk without feeling like you're wasting the day on travel. Admission details are scarce, so check locally in Arbroath before you head out. Winter can make it muddy; autumn's probably your best bet.