Southfield Meadows

If nature doesn’t come to you, you’ll need to go to it… and a good local spot for that is Flanders Moss National Nature Reserve (10 minutes’ drive), an ancient landscape where you can look out for birds and lizards or climb the viewing tower for long-ranging views. For more exotic sightings, head to Blair Drummond Safari and Adventure Park (15 minutes) to see lions, monkeys and penguins (and a collection of dinosaurs too…) You’ll spot Stirling Castle (20 minutes) long before you arrive – it’s up at the top of a volcanic hill and it’s a fine place to visit, to hear the history of Mary Queen of Scots, William Wallace and Bonnie Prince Charlie and visit a collection of well-preserved buildings. Doune Castle (15 minutes) isn’t in quite such a good state, but it’s still worth a visit for an atmospheric stroll. More intrepid walks are all around in Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park (25 minutes), along with watersports, fishing, climbing and loch cruises.