In the northeast of Scotland lies the old city of Aberdeen, Scotland’s third most populous city, otherwise known as the Granite City due to its granite-made buildings. The grey color of the stone gave the city another nickname from the locals, the Silver City by the Golden Sands. It is probably frequently overlooked on the list of Scotland’s top travel destinations, but we’re here to show you why you should include Aberdeen on your next trip to Scotland. Being such an old city, Aberdeen is home to 263 majestic castles rich with history. Its beautiful architecture, which draws inspiration from the Victorian era to the Neo-Gothic era attracts tourists from all around the world to Aberdeen. Check these out and more on this list of things to do in Aberdeen, the UK.
1. Explore Provost Skene's House
As the city of Aberdeen is so rich in culture, it’s a no-brainer that it is home to some of the last remains of significant historical periods. Take Provost Skene’s House, one of Aberdeen’s last medieval buildings. Back in the 1500s, this building served as a townhouse, home of wealthy merchants and bishops. The building has since then transformed into an attractive period museum showcasing authentic 17th- and 18th-century rooms, including bedrooms, parlors, and great halls. These rooms are works of art themselves—in the great hall, look up at the ceilings plastered with artworks from the 1660s, during the English Interregnum times. Enter the 17th-century bedroom and be greeted by amazing sculptures. It’s also easily accessible, with its location situated in the heart of the city.
Provost Skene's House
Address: Guestrow, Flourmill Ln, Aberdeen AB10 1AS, United Kingdom
Website: Provost Skene’s House
2. Visit Aberdeen Maritime Museum
With the city’s location near the harbour, the award-winning Aberdeen Maritime Museum invites you to hop on a journey to discover the history of Aberdeen, including its harmonious affair with the seas that made it the Granite City that it is today. The nautical-themed museum situated in the historic Shiprow is renowned for its exhibits on fast-sailing ships, fishing, port history, shipbuilding, and displays of the North Sea oil industry. Get the rare chance to have a detailed look at the historic ships and oil rig models, paintings, whalers, and many more. It’s utilised fully to create an educational experience for its visitors, with hands-on exhibits, touch-screen consoles, and education rooms. It’s a great way to learn and get insights into the history of Aberdeen, and it’s free of cost! The museum also includes a small café offering fine food and drinks in a splendid setting.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Address: Shiprow, Aberdeen AB11 5BY, United Kingdom
Website: Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 3pm
Price: Free admission
3. Take a stroll around Cruickshank Botanic Garden
If you’re craving more of a nature scene, Cruickshank Botanic Garden is the place for you. Besides its unprecedented beauty which is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, the gardens aim to create a deeper connection in the relationship between nature and the people of Aberdeen. With a shrub border, a rock and water garden, sunken garden, rose garden, herbaceous border, and a collection of over 2,000 nationally important labelled plants, the picturesque 11-acre (4.4 hectares) garden is open to visitors all-year-round. It’s the perfect place to take a break, and enjoy a peaceful relaxation and maybe even have a picnic with your loved ones.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
Address: St Machar Dr, Aberdeen AB24 3UU, United Kingdom
Website: Cruickshank Botanic Garden
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9am - 5pm; Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: Free admission
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4. Pay tribute at Gordon Highlanders Museum
For 200 years, the North East of Scotland birthed the Gordon Highlanders—ordinary men who became the finest regiments the British Army has ever seen. Follow the footsteps of the soldiers and celebrate each of their unique stories brought to life at Gordon Highlanders Museum, located in a 19th-century cottage, the former home of leading Scottish artist Sir George Reid. The museum is the only five-star military museum in Scotland, committed to preserving and sharing the legacy of Scotland’s own Gordon Highlanders. The museum boasts a collection of uniforms, medals, and weapons alongside media exhibits and holds a fine programme of events throughout the year.
Gordon Highlanders Museum
Address: St. Luke’s, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen AB15 7XH, United Kingdom
Website: Gordon Highlanders Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4:30pm (closed on Sun and Mon)
Price: 8 USD
5. See the William Wallace Statue
Sculpted by William Grant Stevension in 1888, the sculpture is a tribute to a great man of Scottish history, Sir William Wallace, a Scottish knight who became one of the main leaders during the First War of Scottish Independence. The classical statue, sitting bold and tall opposite His Majesty’s Theatre, makes for a great photo opportunity when visiting Aberdeen. Historical info is inscribed on all four sides of the plinth, to ensure that visitors get to learn about the man every Scot is proud of.
William Wallace Statue
Address: Aberdeen AB10 1NP, United Kingdom
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
6. Marvel at Scottish art at Aberdeen Art Gallery
As the main visual arts exhibition space in the city of Aberdeen, the gallery is recognized for its fine collection of not only modern Scottish art, but international art as well, including the works of Joan Eardley, Barbara Hepwoth, Samuel Peploe, and Tracey Emin. There are plenty of interactive media for visitors to learn more about each artwork, and activities to get children involved as well. If you decide to visit, you’re just in time as they have just undergone a four-year, EUR 34.6 million renovation and expansion to create a better experience for its visitors.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Address: Schoolhill, Aberdeen AB10 1FQ, United Kingdom
Website: Aberdeen Art Gallery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 4pm
7. Browse through religious relics at St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral
Research trip to Aberdeen Cathedral of St Mary of the Assumption.
Posted by Blairs Museum on Wednesday, 14 August 2019
St. Mary’s Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church and serves as the main place of worship in the diocese of Aberdeen. Located in the heart of the city, the cathedral is an important and beautiful site built in the 1860s and designed by Alexander Ellis. It’s home to some religious artefacts, including those by Charles Blakeman, Gabriel Loire, Ann Davidson, and more.
St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral
Address: 16-20 Huntly St, Aberdeen AB10 1SH, United Kingdom
Website: St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral
8. Have fun at Codonas Amusement Park
Perfect for a family day out with the kids, Codonas Amusement Park is Scotland’s favorite amusement park. The park, situated adjacent to the Aberdeen Beach and Queens Link, boasts an outdoor amusement park, golf, bowling, and an adventure play area. From cosmic bowling, to video game arcades, to thrilling rollercoasters, there’s always something fun for everyone.
Codonas Amusement Park
Address: Beach Blvd, Aberdeen AB24 5ED, United Kingdom
Website: Codonas Amusement Park
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 10am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 10am - 1am
9. Try your luck at Grosvenor Casino
Being one of the 57 chains of UK’s biggest casino brand, The Grosvernor Casino Aberdeen is one that’ll exceed your expectations. It’s fully equipped facilities makes it a local favourite leisure destination. Relax at their sport and entertainment lounge, play a game of poker or two and when all that builds up a hunger, have a delicious feast at their restaurant. Finish up with a drink at the bar and call it a night. The casino includes four blackjack and five roulette and poker tables to create the best gaming experience you can get.
Grosvenor Casino
Address: 5 Exchequer Row, Aberdeen AB11 5BW, United Kingdom
Website: Grosvenor Casino
Opening hours: 12pm - 6am (daily)
10. Spend an afternoon of learning at Aberdeen Science Centre
Awaken the scientist within you and visit Aberdeen Science Centre, Scotland’s first-ever science and discovery centre. At Aberdeen Science Centre, you and your whole family are guaranteed the most wholesome educational experience yet. Have some laughs and get entertained while watching their live science shows and put on your thinking hats to try out over 50 of their interactive exhibits. Ready to take a blast into space? You’re in for an out-of-this-world adventure with their gravity-defying planetarium shows! Aberdeen Science Centre is truly the perfect place for a family fun day out.
Aberdeen Science Centre
Address: 107 George St, Aberdeen AB25 1HU, United Kingdom
Website: Aberdeen Science Centre
Opening hours: Wed - Mon: 10am - 5pm; Tue: 10am - 3pm
Price: From 5 USD
Aberdeen awaits you
From beautiful historical buildings and monuments to entertainment-filled activities for all, it’s no wonder Aberdeen is a must-visit destination when visiting Scotland, alongside Edinburg or Glasgow. Check out these things to do and more and have a splendid holiday ahead.
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