Springfield Park

You'll find Springfield Park just inland from Arbroath, a nature reserve that punches above its weight if you're after genuine Highland scenery without the tourist crowds. The walk itself takes you through proper woodland - the sort of place where you actually spot things moving in the undergrowth rather than just hoping you might.

It's best suited to keen walkers and anyone with a serious camera. The trails wind through native woodland with decent views across the surrounding countryside, and there's enough variation to keep you engaged for a couple of hours. Children will manage the main paths, though younger legs might find the steeper sections tedious.

We visited on a drizzly afternoon in early autumn and had the place almost entirely to ourselves - which rather tells you how many people know about it. That's either brilliant or a hint that the signposting could be better. The reserve is free to access, though you'll want to check locally for any seasonal closures before making the trip out from Arbroath.

If you're staying at The Grange Glamping just down the road, this makes a solid half-day addition to your itinerary. It's low-key enough that it won't feel like you're ticking boxes, and the woodland trails offer a genuine break from the main park facilities. Worth the detour, though don't expect facilities beyond a car park.