General Burnett Memorial Tower

The General Burnett Memorial Tower stands as a sturdy stone monument on the Aberdeenshire hills, built to commemorate a local military figure. It's the sort of Victorian-era tower you'll spot from miles away - a proper focal point if you're walking this corner of the Highlands.

What you're actually doing here is combining a bit of history with some decent leg work. The tower itself is fairly straightforward - you walk to it, take a look, maybe read the plaque if the light's good enough, and move on. The real appeal is the journey through the countryside around Banchory and what the views offer once you've made the climb. On a clear day, the vistas across Aberdeenshire justify the effort; on a grey one, it's a bit of an anticlimax, to be honest.

This works best for walkers and history enthusiasts comfortable with rough terrain and Scottish weather. Families with young kids might find it a slog, and there's not much to keep them entertained beyond the walk itself. Allow an hour or so for a straightforward visit, longer if you're exploring the surrounding countryside.

If you're based at Banchory Lodge Caravan Park or Feughside, both within easy striking distance, this fits neatly into a half-day outing. Pair it with a walk along the Dee Valley or a stop in Banchory itself for lunch. It's the kind of spot that rewards a bit of effort without demanding your entire day.