Loch Croot

The water at Loch Croot sits dark and still, reflecting the rolling moorland that surrounds it near Maybole. It's a modest Scottish loch - nothing like the dramatic Highland lochs you'll see further north - but that's rather the point. This is genuine lowland countryside, quiet and unshowy, where you're more likely to spot a heron than another tourist.

The loch itself is small enough to walk around in under an hour, though the paths aren't always obvious. Locals fish here, and in winter the place has a real sense of isolation that some find atmospheric and others just find damp. Bring proper waterproofs either way. There's a rough car park area if you can find it, and from there it's a short walk down through farmland to reach the water's edge.

This isn't a day-trip destination on its own. But if you're staying at Freedom Fields Glamping nearby - and those reviews suggest it's well worth it - Loch Croot makes a decent morning walk before heading elsewhere. The Ayrshire coast and Culzean Castle are both within a reasonable drive, so slot this in between bigger attractions rather than making it the main event.

Walkers and bird enthusiasts will appreciate it more than families with young kids. There's nowhere to eat, no facilities, and frankly it's the sort of place you visit in decent weather. On a grey November day it's moody; in summer sunshine it's rather pleasant.