Logierieve Wood

A proper woodland picnic spot near Ellon, Logierieve Wood is the kind of place you'd stumble upon by accident and then keep coming back to. It's nothing fancy - just a neat clearing with tables among the trees, far enough off the main road to feel like you've found something locals know about.

The wood itself is pleasant enough for a wander, especially if you've got young kids who need to burn off energy between lunch and the drive home. The mature trees give decent shade on sunny days, which matters more than you'd think when you're trying to keep sandwiches edible in July. It's not a destination in itself - you won't spend three hours here - but it's a solid place to pause when you're exploring Aberdeenshire's quieter corners.

Families with small children will appreciate the space to let them run around safely. It's also convenient if you're based at Ythan Valley Campsite, just under five miles away, though honestly you could fit a visit here into almost any route through the area. The site appears to be free and accessible most of the year, though I'd check locally about winter weather or any seasonal closures.

Go here if you're the type who packs a proper picnic and actually bothers to sit down and eat it. Skip it if you're after woodland walks with views or dramatic scenery. It's functional, it's pleasant, and it does exactly what it says on the tin.