The Dammy

The Dammy is a proper Scottish nature reserve tucked away in Aberdeenshire, just a short drive from Arbroath on the coast. It's one of those places that rewards you for bothering to look beyond the main attractions - a wetland site where you can actually spot something interesting without fighting through crowds.

The reserve centres around a network of lochs and marshland, making it excellent for birdwatching. You'll see wildfowl year-round, and if you time it right during migration seasons, rarer species do turn up. The walking trails are straightforward and well-maintained, nothing that'll knacker you out, though the ground can be boggy depending on rainfall. Allow a couple of hours to do it properly - rushing defeats the point entirely.

This works best for nature enthusiasts and serious walkers rather than young kids looking for a quick outing. Bring binoculars and a decent camera if you're into that sort of thing. The reserve is free to access, which is one of its genuine strengths.

For a longer Aberdeenshire break, it pairs nicely with staying at The Grange Glamping not far away - you could combine a morning at the Dammy with afternoon time at the animal experience. The drive from Arbroath itself is straightforward, and the coastal town makes a decent base for exploring the wider area. Best visited autumn through spring when wildlife activity is highest, though it's worth a visit any time you're in the region.