The White Mannie

Standing on the cliffs near Buckie, the White Mannie is exactly what the name suggests - a tall white stone figure carved into the rockface, watching over the Moray Firth. It's a proper local landmark that's been there since 1887, though honestly, the story behind it matters more than the thing itself. Some say it marks a smuggler's route, others reckon it's just a quirky Victorian folly. Either way, it's become one of those spots locals are quietly proud of without making much fuss.

The walk to reach it is the real draw here. You'll clamber down the cliff path from the village above, and once you've made the effort, you get a decent stretch of coastline to yourself. On a clear day the views across to the Moray coast are cracking. It's free, takes about half an hour to get down and back up depending on your knees, and you won't be battling crowds.

Walkers and photography types will get the most from this. Families with young kids might find the path a bit awkward, and it's not the sort of thing you'll spend hours at - more a worthwhile detour if you're already exploring the Buckie area. Both Greencraig Pods (3.9 miles away) and Sandend Holidays offer good bases for the region if you're planning a proper coastal break. Go on a day with decent weather - the cliffs can get grim and slippery when it's wet.