Wedderhill

The walk up Wedderhill is genuinely rewarding - you're looking at roughly 45 minutes of steady climbing from near Cookney, but the effort pays off once you reach the summit. It's not dramatic in the Alpine sense, but that's precisely what makes it work. On a clear day, the views across Aberdeenshire roll out properly, with the Cairngorms visible if you're lucky. The hill itself is moorland terrain - heather, grass, and the occasional rocky outcrop underfoot. You'll likely have the place to yourself, which feels increasingly rare these days.

This is a walker's hill rather than a sightseeer's destination. Families with youngsters might find it a bit of a slog for limited payoff, but teenagers who've done a few walks will crack on fine. The nearby Deeside Holiday Park is well-positioned if you're basing yourself in the area and want to tick off a handful of local walks - Wedderhill works nicely as a half-day excursion alongside exploring the broader Deeside countryside.

Timing-wise, tackle it in the morning before the weather turns. There's no facilities at the summit, so bring water. The free admission is a given - it's open moorland. Allow two hours return including a rest at the top, longer if you're not a regular walker. Worth doing? Absolutely, if you're already in Aberdeenshire and want a proper walk without the tourist crowds.