The old square

The Old Square is a proper nature reserve tucked into the landscape near Laurencekirk, and it's the sort of place that rewards a slow wander rather than a quick dash through. You're looking at open ground with scattered woodland - nothing dramatic, but genuinely peaceful in a way that feels rare these days. The walking is straightforward enough for families, though it's not a manicured trail situation; you'll be picking your own route through native vegetation, which some folk find liberating and others find a touch underwhelming. Birdwatchers and plant enthusiasts will get the most from a visit here. Allow a couple of hours if you're really paying attention, or half that if you just fancy a stroll to clear your head.

It slots in nicely as a morning excursion if you're based at Royal Arch Riverside Park or St Cyrus Holiday Park, both within easy reach. Neither is a long drive, so you could easily combine it with other local walks in the area without burning the whole day. The main thing to manage expectations on - it's genuinely wild and understated rather than a showcase sort of reserve. That's either its greatest strength or its main weakness depending on what you're after. Go when the weather's decent; there's precious little shelter, and Scottish wind has a way of taking the shine off things.