Rodney Gardens

The moment you walk into Rodney Gardens, you're struck by how quiet it is - proper peaceful, especially given it's barely three miles from Perth town centre. This nature reserve sits tucked away from the main drag, offering woodland paths and open grassland where you'll spot everything from woodland birds to the occasional deer if you're lucky. The trails wind through a mix of mature trees and newer plantings, so there's actual variety as you walk rather than the trudge through same-old same-old you get at some reserves.

It's the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick circuit. Allow an hour minimum if you want to do it justice, longer if you're serious about the birdwatching or just fancy sitting on a bench and doing bugger all. Families with kids will find enough open space to let them burn energy, though it's not a playground destination - don't expect swings or slides.

Geography-wise, it slots neatly into a Perthshire caravan holiday. Scone Camping and Caravanning Club Site is right on your doorstep at 2.6 miles, as is Perth Caravan Park, both decent bases for exploring the area. If you're staying further afield at Newmill Farm, it's still only a 15-minute drive. Pop in between visits to Scone Palace or riverside walks along the Tay - it's essentially a free local breather rather than a destination in itself.