Arwen

The granite monument that stands on the hillside near Fraserburgh catches you off guard with its sheer scale. Arwen isn't some sprawling heritage site with gift shops and interpretive boards - it's a single, striking structure that commands attention across the landscape. The walk up rewards you with proper views across Aberdeenshire's rolling terrain, and on a clear day you can see well beyond the immediate surroundings.

Historically minded visitors will get the most from this one, though the hike itself is genuinely pleasant regardless of what brought you here. The monument itself is relatively modest once you reach it, so I'd suggest allowing an hour total rather than planning an entire afternoon around it. The real appeal is the climb and the vantage point rather than lingering at the top for ages.

Practically speaking, there's no visitor infrastructure to speak of, so bring decent footwear and water. It's free to visit, naturally. If you're staying at Down On The Farm just a few miles away, this makes an excellent morning excursion before heading back for lunch. The drive from Fraserburgh is straightforward enough, though you'll want a car or serious walking legs to get there.

It's worth the detour if you're already in the area, particularly if the weather's cooperating. On a drizzly afternoon it loses some appeal, but during sunshine the walk's genuinely rewarding. Families with older kids will manage it fine; younger children might find the uphill slog tedious.