Memorial stone to Viscount Melville and William Pitt

Out on the moorland near Mintlaw, there's a modest stone memorial that catches you off guard if you're not looking for it. It commemorates Viscount Melville and William Pitt - two figures from the late 1700s who mattered rather a lot to Scottish politics, though most people driving past have no idea it's there. The stone itself is unassuming, just granite really, but the setting gives it a certain gravitas. You're standing on proper Highland landscape, wind blowing across open ground, the kind of place where you can think without distraction.

It's the sort of thing history buffs and Scottish politics enthusiasts will make a beeline for, though families won't find much to do once they've looked at the inscription and taken a photo. The walk to reach it is pleasant enough if you're staying locally - Aden Caravan & Camping is practically on the doorstep, barely half a mile away, making it an easy detour during a park holiday. You can do the whole thing in twenty minutes, including standing time. No facilities, no admission charge, no faffing about. Just a stone, some history, and space to yourself. Worth stopping for if you're in the area exploring Aberdeenshire's quieter corners, but don't make a special journey unless you're deep into Pittite history or memorial hunting.