3 Best Sights in Stonehaven, Aberdeen and the Northeast

It's hard to beat the cinematic majesty of the magnificent cliff-top ruins of Dunnottar Castle, with its panoramic views of the North Sea. Building began in the 14th century, when Sir William Keith, Marischal of Scotland, decided to build a tower house to demonstrate his power. Subsequent generations added to the structure, and important visitors included Mary, Queen of Scots. The castle is most famous for holding out for eight months against Oliver Cromwell's army in 1651 and 1652, thereby saving the Scottish crown jewels, which had been stored here for safekeeping. Reach the castle via the A90; take the Stonehaven turnoff and follow the signs. Wear sensible shoes, and allow about two hours.

A vintage art deco gem that opened in 1934, the Olympic-sized Stonehaven Open-Air Swimming Pool is the only remaining outdoor heated pool in Scotland. Seawater is pumped in and warmed up to a balmy 29°C (82°F). Run by a local trust, this place is perfect for families. Wednesday's midnight swims (£9) let you float under the stars.

Crime and punishment in days gone by are the central themes at this community-run museum in a 16th-century building that was once Stonehaven's jail and courthouse. Exhibits include the wooden stocks, where up to seven miscreants at a time could be publicly humiliated, and the crank, an appalling torture machine. There's also an eclectic collection of old farming tools and household utensils.