Rosehearty Beach

The beach at Rosehearty sits on Aberdeenshire's northeast coast, a proper working-village sort of place rather than a polished seaside resort. You get a sweep of sandy shore backed by low cliffs and the village straggling up behind - fishing boats still operate from here, which gives the whole spot an authentic feel that's become rare along this stretch.

It's the kind of beach that rewards a good walk rather than a day planted in one spot. The sand is decent enough when the tide's out, and there's enough going on - rock pools, driftwood, views across to Fraserburgh - to keep you occupied for a couple of hours. Families with younger kids will find it manageable; older ones might get restless unless they're into geology or photography.

Weather-wise, expect wind. This is northeast Scotland, and the Atlantic doesn't pull its punches. Summer's the obvious call, though autumn can be surprisingly clear. The village itself has a few shops and cafes if you need a break from the elements.

If you're staying at Down On The Farm or AC/DC Glamping just down the road, Rosehearty makes an easy morning or afternoon slot. It's not a destination beach - you won't travel an hour out of your way for it - but as part of a wider Aberdeenshire coastal loop taking in Fraserburgh and the surrounding villages, it's well worth twenty minutes of your time. The real charm is in its ordinariness.