Maw Skelly

The walk up to Maw Skelly is steep and genuinely worth doing on a clear day. You're climbing through moorland that feels proper remote - no twee signs, no crowds, just you and the view stretching across Aberdeenshire towards the coast. The viewpoint itself rewards the effort: you can see all the way to Arbroath on a good morning, and the Highland landscape rolls out in front of you in shades of brown and green depending on the season.

It's the kind of spot that suits serious walkers rather than casual strollers. Your legs will feel it, and there's no cable car or café halfway up - which is exactly why it's good. Most people will need a decent couple of hours including a sit-down at the top with a flask. Bring proper boots if you've got them; it gets boggy after rain.

Historically, this is old hill-fort territory, though the ruins themselves are subtle - you need to know what you're looking at. That's part of the appeal if you're into Scottish archaeology and prehistory. Families might find it a bit of a slog unless the kids are already keen walkers.

If you're based at The Grange Glamping just a few miles away in Arbroath, this makes an excellent morning venture. The drive from the glamping site is quick, parking is straightforward, and it breaks up a park holiday without demanding you go miles out of your way. Admission is free. Go when the weather's settled - there's absolutely nothing between you and the wind up there.