What to see and do in Aberdeen
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
The Maritime Museum (AB11 5BY) lays bare Scotland’s age-old stories of the sea, with exhibits dedicated to all manner of nautical activity. Contained within one of the city’s oldest buildings, you’ll find a stunning view over the harbour. Find out about Aberdeen’s shipbuilding history, as well what went into the construction of the oil and gas rigs that help keep the lights on all over the world.
The Gordon Highlanders Museum
Share in the stories of this historic army regiment and the brave men who signed up from every walk of life to defend their country with this extensive collection of wartime artifacts and regalia. At the Gordon Highlanders Museum (AB15 7XH), you’ll discover inspirational tales, a recreation of life in a WWI trench, plus an armoury stocked with weapons used from the Napoleonic Wars to the present day.
Hazlehead Park
The Granite City has several wide-open green spaces, offering some respite from the bustling streets. On the outskirts of Aberdeen, Hazlehead Park (AB15 8BE) has wonderful walks, nature trails and rousing rose gardens to rest your eyes on. There’s also a hedge maze to explore and Pets’ Corner – where you can say hello to a wide range of furry friends, including a Shetland pony.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen Art Gallery (AB10 1FQ) is one of the city’s most attractive uses of the granite so commonly found in the region’s buildings, with its rich rock columns built from locally sourced materials. The gallery is home to a large collection of works from the British masters including Francis Bacon, Paul Nash and Henry Raeburn. It also showcases the work of current Scottish artists and specialises in Post-Impressionist Britain.
Aberdeen’s best hotels
The Chester Hotel
With your choice of more than 70 rooms - each elegant yet understated, with a luxury feel throughout – plus fine dining at the IX restaurant, The Chester Hotel (AB15 4YP) is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike.
The Station Hotel
The Victorian-style Station Hotel (AB11 6GN) in the heart of town offers modern furnishings with a touch of the traditional and a large selection of rooms.
Copthorne Hotel
As visually arresting from the outside as it is spacious and comfortable in its rooms, the Copthorne Hotel (AB10 1SU) is one of Aberdeen’s ost celebrated granite-built sights.
Aberdeen’s best places to eat
Atlantis
Twenty thousand leagues of delicious seafood are served up here, as well as the world-famous Aberdeen Angus steak, amid sensational seafaring surroundings in the Broomhill area of the city.
Moonfish Café
An eight-course tasting menu featuring the freshest local ingredients is the highlight of this charming venue, tucked into the side streets of Aberdeen’s Castlegate area.
The Silver Darling
Seaside views, succulent seafood and divine decor await – make sure you book a table by the window as they fill up fast.
Yatai Izakaya
This Japanese eatery – just a short walk from the train station - is authentic from the moment you kneel at your table. Have a word with your waiter about what you like (and don’t like), and they’ll do the rest.
Best day trips from Aberdeen
Castle Trail
This ravishing road trip takes in 19 of Scotland’s most magnificent castles. Savour the experience and steep yourself in history. Give yourself a few days to cover this scenic 300+ mile route.
Cairngorms National Park
The heart of the Highlands brings together spectacular scenery, rare wildlife and challenging hikes into one unmissable destination. It’s just over an hour drive from Aberdeen to the edge of the Cairngorms.
Banffshire Coast
More amazing scenery awaits on the Aberdeenshire coast – from rugged castles to pristine beaches. If you time your visit right, you might even spot some dolphins along the sea.
