Banff

Two harbours frame this ancient coastal town where the River Deveron meets the North Sea. Banff wears its maritime heritage with pride - fishing boats still work from the old harbour while pleasure craft bob alongside. The town's golden sandstone buildings catch the light beautifully on clear days, particularly around the historic core where Banff Parish Church stands sentinel.

Walking the harbour walls gives you proper perspective on the Moray Firth coastline stretching towards Macduff across the bay. The Hill of Alvah and Hill of Newton provide cracking walks with views right across Aberdeenshire's rolling farmland. Both peaks are an easy drive from town and well worth the effort on a decent day.

Banff's maritime story runs deep. The Captain George Duff Memorial and various war memorials, including the town's main War Memorial, tell tales of seafaring sacrifice. St Andrew's Episcopal Church anchors the spiritual side of things, while the Biggar Memorial Drinking Fountain stands as one of those wonderfully Victorian civic gestures.

The coastline here is spectacular but often overlooked by tourists rushing to the Highlands. Hospital Island and the Scury Islands offer wildlife watching, though you'll need a boat to reach them properly. The nearby Lighthouse gallery showcases local artists and makes for a pleasant browse.

Getting here is straightforward via the A98 coastal route from Aberdeen (about 45 miles) or inland from Huntly. The railway closed decades ago, so it's car or bus. Staying at one of the touring parks along this stretch of coast - Banff Links Caravan Park sits right in town - puts you perfectly placed for exploring both the rugged shoreline and the gentler inland countryside of Buchan.