Mearns Academy Library

The library at Mearns Academy in Aberdeenshire isn't going to set your heart racing, but it's a solid stop if you're already in the Laurencekirk area and need to kill an hour or grab some peace and quiet. It's a working school library, so don't expect the hushed grandeur of a Victorian reading room - you'll find the usual mix of textbooks, fiction, computers, and that particular smell of institutional buildings everywhere in Scotland.

Really, this works best for families staying at Royal Arch Riverside Park or St Cyrus Holiday Park who fancy a rainy-day option or need to sort out some research. Young readers might browse the teen section, though frankly most will be itching to get back outside. The space itself is functional rather than inspirational - clean, well-lit, decent enough if you need to escape a downpour, but you're not missing anything if you skip it.

You'll want to check opening hours in advance since it's part of the school - access can be limited outside term time or after 3pm. There's no charge to use it, which is the main advantage. Combine it with a proper walk round the Mearns countryside or head to one of the nearby parks if you want something with actual teeth to it. St Cyrus Holiday Park's coastal location is far more interesting if you've got the time.