Robert Ferguson of Raith Memorial

A modest stone monument in East Lothian marks the spot where Robert Ferguson of Raith met his end in 1648 - a figure most folk have never heard of, which rather sums up how history works. He was a local landowner caught up in the Civil War turmoil, and this memorial is the sort of thing you stumble upon while walking through the Lowlands rather than deliberately hunt down.

The stone itself is understated, which feels appropriate for a man whose moment came and went five centuries ago. There's no visitor centre, no gift shop, no fuss - just the memorial in its landscape. You can walk round it, read the inscription if the light's right, and contemplate what it meant to be a minor player in major events.

This appeals most to local history buffs or anyone doing a proper walking tour of East Lothian. Families with young kids won't find much to hold their attention for long - five minutes and you're done. But if you're staying at Haven Seton Sands Holiday Village nearby, it's a decent excuse for a ramble, especially if the weather's cooperating.

There's no charge and no opening hours to worry about - it's just there. Allow fifteen minutes if you're on a walking route, longer if you've got an interest in 17th-century Scottish history. Worth a slight detour if you're exploring the wider area, though don't expect crowds or facilities.