Scott park

Scott Park sits a few miles south of Montrose, a proper working nature reserve rather than a manicured visitor attraction. You're looking at woodland walks through mixed forest with occasional open glades - the sort of place where you actually might spot something interesting rather than just follow a tarmac path past information boards.

The reserve works best for keen birders and folk who enjoy a quiet woodland wander without the crowds. Roe deer are common enough, and if you time it right you'll hear more than you see - that's rather the point. The walking is gentle, nothing strenuous, so it suits families with younger kids, though there's not a café or visitor centre to break things up.

Allow an hour or two depending on how thoroughly you explore. It's free to wander, which is decent. The best time is early morning when wildlife is most active, though midweek visits in spring and autumn tend to be less busy.

If you're staying at St Cyrus Holiday Park nearby, Scott Park makes a straightforward morning excursion - close enough not to eat into your day, different enough from a beach to break up the routine. The Aberdeenshire coast around here has plenty to offer, so don't plan your whole stay around this reserve, but slot it in as a half-day when you fancy getting under the trees.