Aberdeen
Aberdeen or the “Granite City” as it is sometimes known, is Scotland’s third most populated city, and is situated in the North East coast of Scotland.
The impressive Grampian Mountains dominate the skyline to the west of the city, while the dramatic coastline frames the east, creating one of Scotland’s most beautiful cities. The city, with a population of 210,000 boasts a major seaport and university. It is often seen as the backbone of Scottish economy, due to the great deal of offshore oil located in the North Sea nearby, with some even calling it the oil capitol of Europe.
Areas
Aberdeen is divided into many areas, the most notable of these being Old Aberdeen, and Footdee.
Old Aberdeen used to be a separate burgh, but became part of the city in 1981. Key features here are the old cobbled streets, and buildings dating back to the 15th Century. It is here that Aberdeen University is located, along with other places of note, such as Kings College & Chapel, The Old Town House, and St. Machars Cathedral.
Footdee (known as “Fittie” to the locals) is an old little fishing village on the outskirts of Aberdeen. It is located at the river end of the Beach Esplanade, and sits where the River Don meets the sea. It is made up of charming little fishing cottages, and is the best place to go in Scotland in my opinion for some incredible sea food.
Activities and Things to Do
There are a whole range of activities and things to do in Aberdeen. You can play on championship golf courses, or visit the world’s only Malt Whiskey trail. Follow the castle trail, or head to the coast for vast deserted beaches, beautiful little fishing villages, and dramatic cliff tops. Go for a night out in the town’s many pubs, head along to Belmont Farmers Market, or hit the ski slopes! There is simply a huge variety of things to do here to suit your interests, and get the most of your trip.
Other notable highlights include a trip on the Orient Express which departs form Aberdeen train station, ballooning over Crathes Castle and Castle Fraser, or a trip out down by the harbour to watch the dolphins.
Architecture and Landmarks
Known often as the “Granite City”, Aberdeen is easily recognized by its Victorian era granite architecture. The hard grey stone is one of the most durable materials available and explains why the city’s buildings look brand new, when unlike other Scottish cities where sandstone has been used; the buildings are not weathering and need very little structural maintenance.
Amongst the most notable buildings on Union St (the city’s main street) are the Town Hall, County Bank, and the Music Hall. Also worth a look is the Town House on nearby Castle St.
Transport
By Air
Aberdeen Airport serves a number of domestic and international airports including France, the Netherlands, and Spain amongst others. Booking flights to Aberdeen online can obviously save you a bit of money too when booking!
The heliport which serves the oil industry and rescue services is one of the busiest commercial heliports in the world.
By Rail
Aberdeen railway station is on the main UK rail network and connects to major cities such as London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.
By Bus
FirstGroup operates the majority of city buses under the name First Aberdeen. Also Stagecoach and Megabus also run coaches to/from the city for competitive prices.
Where to Stay
As with every city in Scotland, there are so many types of accommodation to suit what your needs whether you are after budget backpacker accommodation, or a 5 star luxury hotel. Below are some good website to get you started.
Alternatively, if you are on a strict budget and are open to all forms of accommodation, the free service Couchsurfing is something I would recommend. If you are travelling through Aberdeen more slowly however, the best tip I could give is to rent or share a flat (apartment). The best place to find such a thing is via any local letting agency, or for flat shares in particular, the website Gumtree is very good as you can advertise and respond to ads there for free.
Events
There are many events all year round in and around Aberdeen. Below are some of the most popular.
City of Aberdeen Highland Games
20th June, 10am – 5pm. Traditional Highland Games including heavy events, piping, dancing, tossing the caber, craft and trade stalls, and fairground.
Burning of the Clavie
11th January. Ancient traditions are rekindled at this ancient fire festival in Brander Street, Burghead.
Stonehaven Fireball Festival
31st December. Held in Aberdeen’s High Street, this annual procession keeps an ancient custom alive. Forty Five participants swing balls of fire above their heads, finishing off by throwing the fireballs into the sea at harbour.
Nightlife
Tiger Tiger
1-2 Shiprow (off Union Street). Five bars and a club make the restaurant at Aberdeen’s Tiger Tiger an ideal choice for a night out, mostly frequented by a young crowd. Live DJ’s every night.
Snafu
Union Street. This small club (capacity 350) has found flavor and following with so many top DJs, and established strong local support. For such a small club this really is a heavy weight when it comes to providing a great night out.
Revolution
25 Belmont Street. What seems like just a small, stylish bar with comfy booths and a real fire is actually hiding a secret. Downstairs is a much larger bar with a spacious terrace, and great place to hang out and have a drink during summer.
The Illicit Still
Guest Row, Broad Street. Head downstairs to find a warm pub atmosphere. The sofas, seats, booths, and tables are great for cosy conversations around the fire. There is a really good wine list, cocktails, and food available. Football on the TV and Franz Ferdinand on the sound system, this place is a bit of a bit of a split personality, but somehow very appealing.
Aberdeen is an incredible city with a warm heart. Venture outwith Scotland’s central belt and head up to the capitol of the North East!
