Victoria Park

The wetland reserve sprawls across Aberdeenshire's flat terrain like someone's forgotten garden - reeds, open water, and scrubby woodland that shouldn't be nearly as rewarding as it actually is. You're walking here to spot birds, full stop. Winter brings overwintering wildfowl in decent numbers; spring and autumn get the migrants. Bring binoculars or you'll spend half your time squinting at distant silhouettes.

It's the kind of place where an hour feels right unless you're a serious birder, in which case you could easily stretch it to three. The paths are straightforward, no real hills to speak of, and it works brilliantly for families with younger kids if they're keen on spotting things - the patience requirement is genuine though. Adults who just like a quiet walk without crowds will find it rather restful, though calling it scenic would be generous.

Based near Cornhill, it slots nicely into a longer Deeside trip. The Grange Glamping is only 5.3 miles away if you're after something with a bit of personality, or Deeside Holiday Park gives you more conventional park facilities at 6.1 miles. If you're staying at either, Victoria Park works as a morning or late-afternoon wander before doing something else. Worth the detour if you're into birdwatching or need somewhere quiet to clear your head. Everyone else might find it a touch underwhelming.