Repentance Tower

This three-storey sandstone tower stands a few miles outside Lockerbie, looking out over the Annan Valley like some stern Victorian watchman. Built in the 1870s, it was erected as a penance of sorts - a landowner's way of making amends for his past, hence the rather dramatic name. The tower itself is modest in scale but commanding in presence, and you can walk right up to it across farmland, though there's no public access inside.

It's the sort of place that appeals most to history buffs and photographers rather than young kids after an afternoon's entertainment. The real draw is the walk itself - you get decent views across the rolling Lowlands, and on a clear day it's worth the trek just for the landscape. Allow 45 minutes for a gentle ramble there and back, depending on where you park.

Lockerbie being just down the road makes this easy to slot into a larger park holiday - you're well placed between Hoddom Castle Caravan Park and Cressfield if you're based in the area. It's free to visit, though there's no visitor infrastructure whatsoever, so come equipped. Winter can be bleak here; spring and autumn tend to work better. Don't expect crowds or tourist facilities. You're getting a bit of quiet Scottish history and fresh air, nothing more, nothing less.