Mill St Park

A strip of woodland and grassland that runs along the Ericht Water just outside Blairgowrie, Mill St Park is the sort of place locals know and visitors somehow miss. It's not dramatic - no lochs, no mountain views - but it's properly decent for a riverside wander, especially if you're based at Nethercraig Holiday Park nearby.

The main draw is the water itself. The Ericht flows through here with enough character to make it interesting, and there are decent paths along both banks if you fancy a proper walk. Trees line most of the route, so it's sheltered even when the wind's up. Bring binoculars if you're into birds - you'll spot wood pigeons, the odd heron, maybe a kingfisher if you're lucky and patient.

For families with young kids, it's more of a 20-minute leg-stretch than a day out. Older children and keen walkers will get more from it, particularly if you combine it with a longer circuit. The park ties into the broader network of paths around Blairgowrie, so you're not stuck with just what's here.

It's free, naturally, and there's no strict visiting hours - the kind of place you can slip into whenever. Morning light hits the water nicely, making it worth the trip early if you've got a camera. Muddy after rain, so plan accordingly. It won't blow your mind, but it's a solid local spot that fills a gap perfectly well if you're staying in the area and want some fresh air without driving.