Captain's Wood

Dense woodland stretches across the hillside just outside Banchory, offering proper Scottish forest walking without the crowds you'll find at more famous spots. Captain's Wood covers a fair bit of ground with well-established paths winding through mixed trees - mostly Scots pine and birch from what I could see during my visit.

Families will find it manageable enough for youngsters who can handle a decent walk, though there are some steeper sections that might challenge little legs. Dog walkers absolutely love it here - plenty of space for them to roam and interesting scents to follow. The paths aren't particularly well-marked, so keep your wits about you if you're planning a longer explore.

What strikes me most is how quiet it gets once you're properly into the trees. You might hear the odd dog walker or mountain biker, but it's generally peaceful enough for those seeking a bit of forest therapy. The views back towards Banchory through the trees are rather lovely, especially in autumn when the birches turn.

Allowing an hour or two should give you a good taste, though serious walkers could easily spend half a day here. It's free access as far as I know, making it a budget-friendly addition to a stay at one of the nearby caravan parks like Banchory Lodge or Silverbank. Perfect for burning off energy before heading back to base.