Aberdeen Things To Do

Sights
Old Aberdeen features Union Street, the Brig O’Balgownie bridge and the fine granite buildings that have made Aberdeen famous. Marischal College is one of the world’s largest granite buildings, and contains the eccentric, eclectic Marischal Museum. Old Aberdeen is also home to 15th century St Malcher's Cathedral and 16th century King's College with its beautiful college quadrangle and chapel museum. Provost Ross's House is the oldest building in the city. 16th century Provost Skene's House boasts fine period rooms, costumes and religious paintings. The Tolbooth is a wonderfully preserved 17th century prison with a highly entertaining museum dedicated to crime, punishment and torture! Superb walks along the River Don and in Seaton Park.

Seaside attractions
The working harbour area is always interesting and is home to the award-winning Aberdeen Maritime Museum. Aberdeen beach is a favourite with windsurfers and surfers. The beach scene is always entertaining and the promenade has a great collection of cafes and bars. Walk south of the city to the charming 19th century fishing village of Fontdee and stroll among the quaint fisherman’s cottages. Children will enjoy Codona's Amusement Park on the seafront and The Boardwalk, a family entertainment complex.

Museums & Galleries
Aberdeen Art Gallery, in an elegant Victorian building, focuses on art of the 19th and 20th centuries. Peacock Visual Arts is Aberdeen’s premier contemporary arts centre. Original prints for sale. The Carby Art Gallery features the work of Iain Carby and local artists. The Satrosphere Science Centre is terrific fun for all ages. The Gordon Highlanders Museum is a very entertaining interactive homage to the Gordon Highlander regiment. The Lighthouse museum has great views of the coast.

Nightlife
The city’s mix of students, oil workers and locals gives Aberdeen nightlife a unique flavour. Aberdeen has a surprisingly cosmopolitan choice of cafes, bars and restaurants.  Explore Belmont Street and Union Street for a broad selection of Aberdeen nightlife that includes traditional pubs, theme pubs, stylish cocktail bars, live music venues, lively discos and a small but thriving clubbing scene. For an independent cinema try the Belmont. His Majesty's Theatre presents drama, opera, ballet and dance. The Music Hall holds larger concerts and shows.

Excursions
Long weekend breaks in Aberdeen allow more time to explore the superb surrounding countryside. Great castles like Balmoral, Ballindalloch, Dunottar and Drum. Guided tours of famous Aberdeen whisky distilleries like Glen Grant and Glenfiddich. Superb golf at the venerable Royal Aberdeen and Royal Deeside courses. The Aberdeen coastline has several superb unspoilt beaches.