Arbroath

The tang of salt air mixes with the unmistakable aroma of smokies drifting from the harbour. This east coast fishing town has been perfecting its famous haddock cure for centuries, and the smell alone tells you you're somewhere proper Scottish.

Arbroath's red sandstone cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop to a town that refuses to be just another seaside resort. The ruins of Arbroath Abbey dominate the skyline - this is where Scotland's Declaration of Independence was signed in 1320, making it one of the most significant sites in Scottish history. Signal Tower Museum sits nearby, chronicling the town's maritime heritage in fascinating detail.

Beaches stretch both north and south. The shoreline here is brilliant for walks, especially when the evening light catches the cliffs. Red Castle perches on rocks just south of town - a proper ruin that's well worth the scramble for the views alone.

Just up the coast, Montrose Basin Local Nature Reserve draws birdwatchers from across Scotland. The visitor centre at the Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve is excellent, particularly during migration seasons when thousands of geese and waders stop over.

Getting here couldn't be easier - the A92 coastal road connects Arbroath directly to Dundee (20 minutes south) and Aberdeen (an hour north). The railway station has regular services to both cities too.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense. You're close enough to walk into town for those legendary smokies, yet far enough out to enjoy the quieter coastal stretches and inland attractions like Pitmuies Gardens when you fancy a change from the sea air.