Travel Guide to Aberdeen

Known as the 'Granite City', Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. With a variety of incredible activities to enjoy and a rich history reflected in sights to visit, it's a wonderful place to spend some time. You can get lost in Old Aberdeen, explore castle ruins, learn about the history of gin production and enjoy some incredible food. 

 

Things to See in the City

Old Aberdeen

Old Aberdeen is the spot if you’re a culture vulture or a history maven. With cobbled streets running through the area, you can go back in time. Visit the beauty of the Cruikshank Botanic Garden on King’s College campus, with its stunning sunken garden and incredible variety of floral species. Enjoy a peaceful ‘Cathedral Walk’ through Seaton Park and along the trail to St Machar’s Cathedral, or tour King’s College, which was founded in 1495 and with it’s beautiful Imperial Crown on its tower is the heart of the University of Aberdeen.

 

City of Aberdeen Gin Distillery & Gin School

Hidden within a historic railway arch, take advantage of this hidden gem located in the heart of the city. This is Aberdeen’s first distillery to open after nearly 80 years with the aim of revitalizing Aberdeen’s lost distilling history. It has also become the first Gin School in Aberdeen! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to not only get a tour of the distillery but also to craft your own gin.

 

Johnston Gardens

If you love Japanese culture, you will enjoy Johnston Gardens.  Looking like something from a fairytale, the impressive garden with its serene lake, picturesque bridge (perfect for a romantic photograph) and colourful displays of flowers, is the ideal destination.

Open 24-hours a day it’s a wonderful place to head for a morning walk or an evening stroll to decompress after a busy day.

 

Dolphin Spotting

If you love dolphins but the closest you’ve got is watching Flipper then head for the Greyhope Bay Centre in Aberdeen Harbour. As it’s close to the North Sea, a trip to Aberdeen could provide you with the perfect opportunity to spot a dolphin in its natural habitat. You can even take a boat ride out to sea and get a bit closer to these intelligent mammals.

 

 

Hidden Gems in Aberdeen

Aberdeen is full of incredibly beautiful locations to visit. From ancient standing stones to marvellous waterfalls and hidden beaches that could be part of a movie set.

Crawton Waterfall

Just along the coast from the city is this natural beauty. A great destination for hikers and birdwatchers, these towering falls are a beautiful and one of only a small number in the UK that actually gush into the sea. Set into the rugged coastline it’s a sight that’s somewhat off the beaten track, but that makes this beautiful and quiet destination a must-see.

 

 

Easter Aquhorthies Stone Circle

Believe it or not, this stone circle is actually older than Stonehenge! Though the purpose of these stones (as with many) remains unknown, it is incredibly still complete and is almost 20-metres wide.

Set in a beautiful field this destination makes for a beautiful walk.

 

 

Hackley Bay

Secluded, and set within a nature reserve, this beach has beautiful golden sands and is surrounded by cliffs, making it a stunning location to enjoy privacy and quiet. A 20-minute walk from the nearest carpark, lack of road access means that this gorgeous beach is often deserted.

 

 

Popular Places to Dine in Aberdeen

With a wide variety of cuisines on offer and a great selection of different dining experiences, you won’t be short of places to eat in Aberdeen.

Whether you want something incredibly traditional like haggis, neeps and tatties, a gourmet French meal or something spicy, you won’t be short of choices.

 

 

No. 10 Bar and Restaurant

This subterranean restaurant has a sophisticated air, and with a menu offering a great selection of traditional Scottish fare it’s the place to go for your dream comfort food. It also has a great cocktail menu.

 

Monsoona Healthy Indian Cuisine

You won’t find any fried foods here. This Indian restaurant serves healthy, authentic cuisine in a vibrant setting.

 

Shepherds Rest

This pub is known for its great amenities, friendly atmosphere and incredible food. With a wide menu, reviews cite its fish and chips as being top notch. Unsurprising when you consider the city’s connection with fishing.

 

Cafe Boheme

A romantic and intimate restaurant ideal for a night out with the one you love. Serving a menu of exquisite French café food and seafood specials.

 

Stay with Charles Hope in our Aberdeen Aparthotel

Are you still searching for accommodation in Aberdeen? Why not check out our selection of serviced apartments in Aberdeen?

Our charming and cosy studio apartments offer the perfect urban retreat for those seeking a modern and convenient place to stay. In just a short walk you’re in Castlegate with its shops, restaurants and cafes, perfect for an early morning coffee run! You can also treat yourself at bustling Union Square, filled with high-street stores, and boutiques.

The surrounding area features granite buildings which made the city famous, including impressive structures such as Cowdray Hall and Aberdeen Art Gallery. You’ll be able to enjoy some beautiful views with Union Gardens situated just opposite the aparthotel building.