Baird Park

The woodland walk through Baird Park is a proper tonic if you're staying in Stonehaven. It's a modest nature reserve that doesn't pretend to be anything grander than it is - just a decent stretch of local woodland with paths that meander through trees and open out to views across Aberdeenshire.

What you get here is peace and quiet, which matters more than you'd think after a day on the coast. The paths are easy enough for families with younger kids, though it's not a major expedition - allow an hour if you're taking your time, less if you just want fresh air and a quick stretch of the legs. On a clear day there's enough space to feel like you've properly escaped, even though you're minutes from the caravan parks clustered near Stonehaven.

The reserve works best as a companion piece to your park holiday rather than the main event. If you're based at Stonehaven Queen Elizabeth Park or Upper Crawton, it's close enough for a morning walk before heading out elsewhere. Birdwatchers might find something worth noting, but don't expect the dramatic Highland scenery you'd get pushing further inland. It's the sort of place that does exactly what it says on the tin - gives you trees, soil underfoot, and room to think.

Go when the weather's cooperating. A drizzly February morning here is miserable. Spring and early summer are far better bets, when there's actually something growing and moving.