John Forbes's Memorial Cairn

A modest pile of stones on the Aberdeenshire moors marks where John Forbes fell in 1747, fighting for the Jacobite cause. It's not much to look at - just a cairn with a plaque - but it carries real weight if you know the story. Forbes was a local laird caught up in the aftermath of Culloden, and this quiet spot near Strathdon is where history stopped for him.

You'll want good boots and an ordnance survey map for this one. It's not a car-park-to-view-in-five-minutes affair. The walk out across the hills rewards those who take time with it, though the cairn itself won't occupy you for long. History buffs and serious walkers get the most from it - casual visitors might find it a bit underwhelming without the backstory.

It's free and accessible year-round, though winter weather can make the approach dicey. Allow an hour or two depending on your fitness and how far you roam once you're out there. The Cairngorms Glamping & Campsite is just 4 miles away, making this a natural addition to a wider moorland walking holiday in the region. Howe of Torbeg, another excellent option at 5.4 miles, puts you in good striking distance too.

Go if you're combining it with other Jacobite sites or planning serious hill walking in the area. Skip it if you're after something with visitor facilities or guaranteed visual impact.