Lancelot Covert

You'll find yourself walking through proper ancient woodland the moment you enter Lancelot Covert, a forest that feels genuinely remote despite being within striking distance of Arbroath on the Aberdeenshire coast. The trees here are dense and old - the kind of place where light filters through in patches and you can actually hear yourself think. It's woodland as it should be, all mossy undergrowth and towering pines rather than manicured paths.

This is where serious walkers come, not casual strollers. The terrain demands decent boots and some stamina. You're looking at a solid couple of hours minimum if you want to do the forest justice, longer if you plan to explore the quieter tracks properly. The understory is thick enough that summer visits can feel claustrophobic, so spring or autumn work better - you get more light and fewer midges.

Families with young kids might find it a bit much; older children who've done a few woodland walks will get more from it. For nature types and photographers, especially those interested in native Scottish woodland, it's absolutely worth the detour from wherever you're staying. The nearest glamping and caravan options - The Grange Glamping (5.2 miles away) and Dovecot Caravan Park (5.5 miles) - both make decent bases if you're planning a proper park holiday in the region.

No visitor facilities that we can find, so bring what you need. It's free to access, which is rare enough to mention. Go when the weather's settled; this isn't a place to find your way out of in thick mist.