Skatie Shore

The stretch of sand and shingle at Skatie Shore, just south of Stonehaven, is one of those east-coast Scottish beaches that rewards the visitor willing to look past the initial bleakness. On a grey day it feels properly austere, but come back when the light's right and there's real charm to the place.

It's a working beach, which matters. You'll see fishing boats, working harbours, the everyday reality of the Scottish coast rather than a prettified postcard version. The sand itself is decent for a paddle or a walk, though it does get pebbly depending on the tide. Kids will find enough to do for a couple of hours - rock pools, shells, the usual beach treasures - but this isn't Blackpool. It's the kind of beach you visit because you're already in the area, not because you've driven three hours specially.

Free to access, naturally. Allow an hour or two depending on mood and tide times, which you'll want to check before heading down. The walk from Stonehaven town centre takes about twenty minutes, so it's very accessible for caravan holidaymakers staying at Stonehaven Queen Elizabeth Park or Upper Crawton Park nearby.

Best visited on a dry day with decent light, ideally in summer when the water's less of a shock to the system. Winter brings proper drama to the beach, but you'll need proper waterproofs and patience. Real local knowledge: come early to beat any crowds from the town, and check what the tide's doing before you arrive. It transforms the space entirely.