Fraserburgh Leisure Centre

The leisure centre in Fraserburgh is the sort of place you'll find yourself returning to if you're staying in town for more than a day or two. It's got a decent swimming pool, a gym, and sports halls - nothing fancy, but everything works and it's kept clean. The pool is the real draw for families, especially younger kids who can burn off energy during rainy Aberdeenshire afternoons.

If you're based at Down On The Farm a few miles out, this becomes your backup plan when the weather turns, which it does regularly on this stretch of coast. The staff are friendly enough, and entry costs won't break the bank, though I'd ring ahead to check their current charges and opening hours before making the trip in.

Realistic expectations matter here. This isn't a destination in itself - you're not driving an hour out of your way for it. But paired with a park holiday exploring the Banffshire coast, taking a walk around Fraserburgh's fishing harbour, or visiting nearby attractions, it slots in perfectly for a morning swim or an hour's worth of activity when plans need changing. Allow an hour or two depending on what you fancy doing. Summer holidays are busier, so go mid-morning or early afternoon if you want actual space in the water.