Forest bathing at Craigtoun Country Park

Craigtoun Country Park lies about two miles from St Andrews, set in 47 acres of grounds with wooded areas, two ponds, open grass and a series of old formal gardens, including the Italian and Japanese gardens and Cypress Avenue. Volunteers from the Friends of Craigtoun now look after the gardens. It is not a wild wood, but the mix of mature trees and water makes it an easy place to start if you want somewhere gentle and close to town.

Entry and parking are free, and there is a café and toilets, including a Changing Places facility, so it suits a first visit or anyone who needs good facilities. In summer the play areas and seasonal rides draw families, so for a quiet couple of hours come out of season or early in the day, and head for the wooded edges and the ponds rather than the play area. Dogs are welcome on leads near the play areas.