Ferrets

The Ferrets - yes, that's genuinely what it's called - sits just outside Forfar as one of Aberdeenshire's more eccentric roadside stops. It's exactly what the name suggests: a landmark dedicated to ferrets, complete with displays and enclosures where you can actually see these weaselly creatures up close. They're far more engaging than you'd expect - proper little escape artists with personalities for days.

This is absolutely a family thing, particularly if your kids are into animals or you want something a bit different from the usual Highland attractions. The visit won't eat up your whole afternoon - reckon on an hour or so, maybe ninety minutes if the ferrets are being cooperative. It's the sort of place that works brilliantly as a quick stop between other activities rather than a full day out.

If you're basing yourself at Greenhillock Glamping just down the road, the Ferrets makes for an easy diversion. It's quirky enough to break up a park holiday without requiring any serious commitment, and the locals seem genuinely proud of it - there's something rather lovely about a place that doesn't try to be anything grander than it is. Not one for the history buffs or serious hill walkers, but for families who enjoy a bit of oddball charm, it hits the spot.