Location Guide print

ABERDEEN 2026

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AB OU T ABERD EEN

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AT T RAC TIONS

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LOC ATION

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A G ROWING HUB

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H I S T O R Y AN D C UL T U RE

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H I DDE N GE M S

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T H AN K Y O U

ABOUT ABERDEEN

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W

elcome to Aberdeen!

Set along Scotland’s dramatic northeast coast, Aberdeen is a city where striking natural beauty meets rich heritage and modern ambition.

Known as the Granite City for its shimmering s to n e a rc h i te c t u re , Aberdeen blends historic charm with a forwardthinking energy, creating a destination that feels both timeless and vibrant.

Perfectly positioned between rugged coastline and rolling countryside, Aberdeen offers the best of city living with easy access to some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. From golden sandy beaches stretching along the North Sea to nearby castles, forests, and the Cairngorms beyond, adventure and tranquillity are never far away.

for energy, innovation, and international business.

Beyond its industry, Aberdeen is a city made for exploring and unwinding. Enjoy coastal walks along the beach promenade, spot dolphins in the harbour, or relax in one of the city’s many green spaces such as Duthie Park and Seaton Park. Food lovers will feel right at home too, with a growing dining scene that celebrates fresh local produce, independent cafés, and welcoming pubs.

Aberdeen’s cultural life is equally compelling, with theatres, galleries, live music venues, and festivals bringing the city to life throughout the year. Its warm community spirit and balance of tradition and progress make it a place that feels welcoming from the moment you arrive.

Whether you’re visiting for business, a short break, or an extended stay, Aberdeen offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, cultural depth, and modern comfort. It’s a city that surprises, inspires, and invites you to stay a little longer.

Aberdeen’s history is woven into its streets and landmarks. Wander through Old Aberdeen to discover cobbled lanes, centuries-old buildings, and the iconic King’s College Chapel, or admire the grandeur of Marischal College, one of the largest granite buildings in the world. The city’s maritime and oil heritage has shaped its global outlook, transforming Aberdeen into a key hub

ABERDEEN

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AT TRACTIONS, ADVENTURES & T IMELESS HISTORY

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Tucked away at the edge of Aberdeen’s bustling harbour l i e s Fo o t d e e , known locally as Fittie, a hidden gem that feels like a village frozen in time. Founded in the early 19th century by civil engineer John Smith, Footdee was built as a purpose-designed fishing community, offering shelter and stability to the city’s fishing families while remaining quietly separate from the growing industrial port around it.

Arranged in neat squares facing the sea, Footdee’s low granite cottages are full of character and charm. Each home is uniquely decorated, with colourful sheds, intricate carvings, hand-painted signs, and lovingly curated gardens that reflect the pride and creativity of its residents. It’s a place where tradition meets personality, and no two corners feel quite the same.

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Despite its proximity to the city centre, Footdee feels wonderfully secluded. The sound of gulls, the salty sea air, and views across the North Sea give it a peaceful, almost storybook quality.

Historically rooted in Aberdeen’s maritime past, the village offers a rare glimpse into the lives and resilience of the fishing communities that helped shape the city.

Today, Footdee remains a lived-in community rather than a tourist attraction, which only adds to its magic. A quiet wander through its lanes feels like discovering a secret, an authentic, humanscale contrast to the grandeur of Aberdeen’s granite architecture and modern waterfront.

For visitors, Footdee is a reminder that some of the most memorable places aren’t marked by grand landmarks, but by atmosphere, history, and heart. It’s a hidden corner of Aberdeen that rewards curiosity and invites you to slow down and look a little closer.

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LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION Aberdeen is a vibrant coastal city where historic granite architecture meets modern living. Known as the Granite City, it offers a unique blend of rich heritage, thriving business and energy sectors, and easy access to stunning beaches and countryside.

From the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen to the lively city centre and scenic coastline, Aberdeen combines culture, character, and convenience, making it an inviting destination for both short visits and longer stays.

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A GROWI NG HUB Marischal College One of the largest granite buildings in the world, Marischal College is an iconic symbol of Aberdeen. Its striking silver-grey façade dominates the city centre and showcases the craftsmanship that earned Aberdeen its “Granite City” nickname.

Old Aberdeen & King’s College Step back in time among cobbled streets, historic buildings, and the beautiful King’s College Chapel with its crown tower.

This area feels like a village within the city and is perfect for a peaceful wander.

Aberdeen Beach & Esplanade

A long stretch of golden sand just minutes from the city centre. Ideal for coastal walks, sunrise views, and spotting dolphins offshore, one of Aberdeen’s most loved natural highlights.

Duthie Park & the David Welch Winter Gardens

One of the city’s most beautiful green spaces, home to Europe’s largest indoor gardens. A year-round highlight, especially in colder months.

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Union Street & The Green The heart of the city, lined with shops, cafés, historic pubs, and galleries. Union Street connects many of Aberdeen’s key landmarks and offers a lively urban atmosphere.

HISTORY AND CULTURE THE NO RT H S H I D D E N G E M Aberdeen Art Gallery, originally opened in 1885 and extensively refurbished in 2019, is one of Scotland’s premier art museums. Located in the heart of the city, it is managed

by Aberdeen City Council and forms part of the National Galleries of Scotland.

The gallery houses an outstanding collection of fine and decorative art, ranging from 19th-century Scottish paintings to contemporary works. Highlights include masterpieces by the Scottish Colourists, a world-class collection of British art, and a variety of international pieces. The gallery also showcases decorative arts, sculpture, and ceramics, making it a cultural hub for both locals and visitors alike.

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Footdee, locally known as Fittie, is a historic fishing village at the eastern edge of Aberdeen’s harbour, originally laid out in the early 19th century to provide homes for the city’s fishing community. The village reflects a carefully considered plan to offer practical, durable housing while creating a distinctive and picturesque settlement by the sea.

Footdee remains one of the finest surviving examples of planned fishing villages in Scotland. Its layout includes small squares of granite cottages, each with unique decorative features, colourful sheds, and charming gardens, many maintained by the families who have lived here for generations. The village is a testament to Aberdeen’s maritime heritage, blending functional architecture with aesthetic detail, and provides a rare glimpse into the lives of the city’s historical fishing community.

HIDDEN PL ACES TO VISIT THAT NEED TO BE SHARED! Duthie Park & David Welch Winter Gardens Duthie Park spans over 44 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and parkland, offering a peaceful escape for walks, picnics, and wildlife spotting. Its well-kept paths make it accessible for everyone, while the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of Europe’s largest indoor gardens showcases exotic plants, tropical flowers, and serene water features year-round. The park’s charming cafés and seasonal events add a warm, community-focused touch to every visit.

Footdee (Fittie) Nestled at the eastern edge of the harbour, Footdee is a hidden village full of character. Visitors wandering through its cobbled lanes and granite cottages can enjoy colourful gardens, decorative sheds, and a real sense of local history. The village offers a quiet retreat from the bustle of the city, while still providing glimpses into Aberdeen’s maritime heritage and traditional community life.

Aberdeen Beach & Promenade Aberdeen’s golden sandy beach stretches for miles along the North Sea, ideal for leisurely walks, birdwatching, or spotting dolphins offshore. The promenade is lined with cafés, ice cream stalls, and the occasional pop-up market, making it a perfect spot to soak up the coastal atmosphere. For those seeking scenic views, the surrounding cliffs and nearby parks provide peaceful spots to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

Scotstown Moor & Seaton Park These green spaces offer a quieter side of the city, with trails winding through open fields, woodland, and ponds. They are perfect for dog walking, jogging, or simply taking in the local wildlife, providing a welcome retreat from the urban centre while remaining close to Aberdeen’s key attractions.

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ABERDEEN

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T H A N K YO U FROM

ABERDEEN