Belts of Shanquhar

The Belts of Shanquhar is a proper woodland walk that cuts through ancient forest near Huntly in Aberdeenshire. It's the sort of place where you actually feel the Highlands closing in around you - proper old Scots pine and hardwoods that have been here for centuries. The paths wind through the trees with enough variation to keep things interesting, and you'll spot the burn running through in places, which the kids tend to find compelling. Most folk reckon on allowing two to three hours for a decent wander, though you can knock it down to an hour if you're just after a quick forest fix. It's free, naturally, with no visitor facilities to speak of - so bring water and don't expect a cafe at the end of it. The woodland is genuinely atmospheric without being spooky, and walkers will appreciate the peace you don't get near more famous spots. Families with older children who can manage uneven terrain will find it rewarding; younger kids might find it a bit samey after a while. There's no specific best time to visit, though autumn when the light filters through differently does something quite special. It sits well within reach of Huntly Castle Holiday Park if you're basing yourself in the area - close enough for a morning or afternoon outing without eating into driving time. The Belts aren't the sort of destination you plan a trip around, but they're genuinely worth the detour if you're staying locally and fancy proper woodland without crowds.