Walk this way

Going for a walk as a family is a great way for the kids to explore the outdoors and have some time away from their phones and tablets. We’ve chosen four walks that combine interesting routes with places to stop for a treat. 

Snipefield Woods & Sculpture Trail 

This is a delightful walk for smaller kids, as they can explore the forest for fairies and gnomes, as well as discovering the carved animal sculptures along the trail. If you’re lucky, you might also spot some real wildlife. It can be muddy, so wellies are advised and buggies may get bogged down.  

There’s a circular trail that takes around an hour to ninety minutes, or you can cut this in half by heading straight to the sculpture trail from the car park. 

You’ll find Snipefield just past Oldmeldrum on the A920 between Cairnhill and Colpy, or you can approach from the A96. What 3 Words for the entrance is lawyer.history.trails. Afterwards, head to the café at Lochter Activity Centre for some snacks. 

Aden Country Park

You’ll find Aden up near Mintlaw. There’s so much to explore here, from forests to ruined buildings and reconstructions of rural life and work, so it should appeal to kids of all ages. There are lots of walks through the 230 acre grounds and often some interesting activities organised by the farming museum and ranger service if you pre-book. 

There are also children’s play areas, an outdoor gym, an enclosed dog agility area, BBQ and picnic areas, sensory gardens and a café and gift shop for a little rest and recuperation before heading home. Check out what’s happening at adencountrypark.org.uk

Stonehaven Coast

There’s plenty to recommend a family stroll along the beach or boardwalk at Stonehaven, from rock pools to guddle, in to cute dogs in need of a pat, to the picturesque harbour with its bobbing boats and historic buildings. There’s also a great playpark at the leisure centre and a skateboard park too. The main difficulty is deciding whether to have an ice cream or fish and chips. The correct answer may be to have both and extend your walk by marching uphill to Dunnottar Castle. The castle is worth exploring and the interpretation signage is excellent. If you’re still peckish, there’s a welcoming snack bar at the top of the hill. 

Hazelhead Park

If you’d rather take your stroll within the city boundaries, then Hazelhead is a great option for taking the kids for a walk. You might spot a red squirrel or two in the woods, or you could encourage your offspring to get lost in the maze. There are peaceful formal gardens, play areas, sculptures and the delightful Pet’s Corner, where you’ll find  a host of birds, farm animals and small furries, as well as alpacas, a Shetland pony, miniature donkeys, fish and reptiles including a Burmese python. There’s a great café for when you’re all pooped out too.