Hatchet Harry's

Axe throwing in Aberdeen - it's exactly as fun as it sounds, and frankly a bit more satisfying than you'd expect. Hatchet Harry's is a proper venue where you get proper instruction before you start hurling axes at wooden targets. The staff know what they're doing, which matters when you're holding a sharp implement.

It's the sort of thing that appeals to groups more than solo visitors. Stag dos and birthday parties absolutely love it, but honestly, anyone who fancies a go will have a laugh. You're stood in a safe lane, axe in hand, aiming at a target - there's something primal about it that makes even office workers feel briefly competent. The instructors keep things moving and make sure nobody does anything daft.

Practical details: it's located near Ferryhill, just outside Aberdeen proper, so it's accessible without being city-centre expensive. Allow a couple of hours if you're doing this with friends - instruction takes time, and the waiting around between turns is half the appeal. Best to book ahead rather than turning up cold, especially weekends.

If you're staying at Deeside Holiday Park, it's about six miles away, so easily doable as an afternoon diversion from the park circuit. Not a bad break if you're mixing walking trails and outdoor activities - something completely different that gets everyone talking afterwards. Worth the trip if your group's into that sort of thing.