Townhead Strip

A long, narrow strip of Caledonian woodland threading through the Aberdeenshire landscape, Townhead Strip is the sort of place that rewards a proper wander rather than a quick pass-through. The trees here are dense enough that you lose the outside world within minutes, which makes for a genuine escape even if you're only a few miles from Montrose.

It's a walker's spot, mainly. The forest floor is soft underfoot and the canopy thick enough to offer real shelter on drizzly Scottish days. Bird watchers tend to linger here longer than most - there's proper woodland bird activity if you're patient and quiet. Kids might find it atmospheric for the first twenty minutes or so, but without a specific trail or dramatic viewpoint, they'll likely want to move on.

Townhead Strip works best as part of a wider exploration of the area rather than a destination in itself. It slots in nicely with a caravan holiday at either Cloak or Upper Crawton Park, both nearby, as an easy morning or afternoon detour. If you're staying in the region and fancy a straightforward forest walk without the crowds of more famous spots, this delivers. The real appeal is the peace and the sense of stepping into proper woodland - which, in the Aberdeenshire highlands, is worth its weight.

Allow an hour or so for a decent wander, longer if you're the contemplative type. It's free to access and there's no formal infrastructure, so come prepared for muddy boots and Scottish weather.