The Guynd

The Guynd is a proper little nature reserve just outside Forfar that punches above its weight. It's a modest woodland and grassland site run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, the kind of place locals know about but tourists often miss entirely. You'll find it quieter than the big-name reserves, which is exactly the point - there's something rather nice about wandering through without crowds.

The reserve itself covers around 40 hectares of mixed habitat. There are woodland trails that take you through Scots pine and birch, plus open grassland where you might spot red squirrels if you're lucky, or at least the evidence they've been about. Birdwatchers take this place seriously - great spotted woodpeckers, redpolls, and various raptors turn up regularly. Even if ornithology isn't your thing, it's a solid walk with proper scenery and the kind of quiet that actually feels restorative.

It works brilliantly as part of a broader Aberdeenshire holiday. Nearby Forfar has the standard amenities, and if you're staying at Greenhillock Glamping just down the road, The Guynd makes for a morning or early afternoon sortie before heading elsewhere. Allow two to three hours for a proper explore - longer if you're serious about wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars and patience. It's free to access and genuinely worth the detour if you're in the region and after something low-key and genuine.