Site of former Wallaces Cave

The cave itself is long gone - eroded away centuries ago by the Ayrshire coast - but the legend of William Wallace sheltering here still draws walkers to this windswept stretch of South Ayrshire shoreline. You won't find much in the way of physical remains, which is precisely why a lot of people skip it. That said, if you're already pottering around this part of the coast between Girvan and Stranraer, it's worth the detour for the walk alone.

The approach takes you down to the foreshore where the cave once sat. It's a bracing coastal ramble with decent views across to Ailsa Craig, and the rocky terrain gives you a proper sense of why medieval fugitives might have sought refuge here. The sandstone cliffs are dramatic enough, even if the famous cavern itself has vanished into history. Bring decent shoes - the rocks are slippy and the wind comes straight off the sea.

Historically-minded visitors will get more out of this than families with small children, though teenagers keen on Scottish independence struggles might find it interesting. Allow an hour for the walk and a poke about. Free, naturally, though there's no visitor infrastructure whatsoever.

If you're staying at Haven Craig Tara Holiday Park nearby, this makes a decent half-day outing to break up the routine. Pack a thermos - there's nowhere to buy hot drinks. It's bleak and windswept, but that's rather the point.