Heatherhall Woods

You won't find crowds at Heatherhall Woods - and that's precisely what makes it worth the short drive from Cupar. These Fife woodlands are proper woodland walking country, the kind of place where you might actually hear birdsong instead of other tourists. The trees here are substantial, the paths well-trodden but not overdone, and there's a genuine sense of getting away from things without needing to drive for hours.

It's a straightforward proposition: woodland trails through mixed forest, good for a brisk hour-long walk or, if you've got kids who move at their own pace, a couple of hours of gentle pottering. The paths are accessible enough for reasonably fit walkers, though it's not flat in places. Locals come here regularly, which tells you something - this isn't a one-off Instagram stop, it's proper countryside on your doorstep.

If you're based at one of the nearby parks - Balbirnie Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Campsite is only 4.7 miles away, or The Rings if you're after something simpler - Heatherhall fills a gap between sitting in camp and driving to the bigger attractions. It's the kind of spot that works brilliantly on a dreich afternoon when you want fresh air and greenery but aren't up for a major hike.

Bring proper boots if it's been wet. The woodland floor can be squelchy, and that's half the appeal really - it feels like actual woodland rather than a manicured park. Worth the detour from your holiday base.