From Wikitravel

For other places with the same name, see Aberdeen (disambiguation).

Aberdeen [1] is the third-largest city in Scotland, United Kingdom, with a population of over 220,000. It is a harbour city located on Scotland's north-east coast, approximately 120 miles (190km) north of Edinburgh and 400 miles (650km) north of London, where the Rivers Dee and Don meet the North Sea. It is an important sea port, regional centre, and the hub of the North Sea oil industry.

Although remote by UK standards, Aberdeen is a prosperous and cosmopolitan city (partly due to North Sea oil) and is characterised by its grand and ornate architecture. Most buildings are constructed out of granite quarried in and around the city, and as a result, Aberdeen is often referred to as The Granite City. It is also known for its outstanding parks, gardens and floral displays, visible throughout the city, as well as its long, sandy beach. Aberdeen also boasts the title of Oil Capital of Europe.

Aberdeen does not attract as many tourists as other Scottish destinations such as Edinburgh or St Andrews, and can feel more authentic. It is a great place to stop for a couple of days on a tour of Scotland, and especially good as a base for exploring the wider region to take advantage of the castles, golf, whisky distilleries, scenery, mountains (including skiing and snowboarding), coast and other attractions in Aberdeenshire and Royal Deeside. Alternatively, Aberdeen's remoteness makes it an interesting destination for a short city break if you really want to get away from the stress.

[edit] Understand

Aberdeen is a small city of 220,000 - smaller than Glasgow and Edinburgh, but significantly larger than other Scottish cities. Developing primarily in the middle ages but on the site of an ancient settlement, it has a distinct identity, dialect and accent. By UK and even Scottish standards it is geographically remote and often the status of jokes to this effect (the nearest city is much smaller Dundee 70 miles away). Despite this, Aberdeen is surprisingly easy to reach and appears as a modern and prosperous city. Visitors are often surprised to find a such a significant and vibrant city so far north. Partly due to its prosperity and its status as the only large population centre in the region, it has the amenities and facilities of a much larger city. These characteristics at times give Aberdeen a feeling of self-sufficiency and of being remote from problems elsewhere.

Aberdeen is one of the most prosperous places in Scotland, due primarily to the North Sea oil industry, and has low unemployment (just over 2% in February 2012). Perhaps due to this, crime in the city is low compared to other UK cities. Immigration due to the oil industry and the universities gives the city a cosmopolitan air that often surprises visitors, and when out and about in the city it is now common to hear citizens speaking languages from all over the world.

Much of the city's prosperity came from the sea and its important harbour - until the mid-20th century fishing and mercantile trading was a mainstay of the economy, and then it developed as the main base for North Sea oil. Historically, local agriculture and manufacturing (e.g. paper and cloth) were also sources of wealth. Today, most people in the city work for one of the many companies that make up the oil industry or have a relative or close friend who does, and these jobs are often well-paid. Many work offshore and commute for two weeks or so at a time via helicopter, which are conspicuous in the sky above the city. However, a small but significant section of the population did not benefit from North Sea oil and continue to experience poverty and deprivation. Aberdeen also has one of the oldest universities in Europe (founded 1495) and the two universities today have a total of 30,000 students.

During the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries, growing prosperity led to many grand civil engineering projects, including Union Street (much of which is actually a bridge) and the construction of many large and ornate buildings. Grand architecture is one of the city's most distinctive features, with neoclassical styles being prominent. Importantly, nearly all pre-1960s buildings are constructed of granite blocks, giving the nickname "The Granite City". These granite buildings sparkle in the sunlight, most noticeable when you walk or drive past. As technology improved, granite could be worked more and more cheaply, allowing later buildings to have ever more ornately-carved stonework such as that of Marischal College. However, highly-decorated facades in granite were still expensive and demonstrated the owner's success and status, with side and rear walls left in cheaper, unworked stone as in Bath. Many of these buildings (particularly in the city centre) are currently in need of restoration and have an air of faded grandeur. Buildings are no longer constructed in granite but it is still used extensively as a facing material and granite chippings are heavily used in the concrete used in modern buildings (and Aberdeen concrete also sparkles in the sunlight due to the granite content).

After the discovery of North Sea oil in the 1960s, the city expanded greatly from a quiet backwater to major energy centre. There has been significant inward migration and the city has absorbed many outlying villages. The city has continued to grow, although many families moved to exurbs and outlying towns due to more affordable property prices there. Large numbers commute to Aberdeen for work from these towns and villages, with notoriously heavy traffic at rush hour. Many outlying areas of the city retain the feel of a village in parts. Perhaps the best examples of this are the line of suburbs stretching towards Royal Deeside, including Cults and Peterculter.

[edit] Talk

In Aberdeen, Scottish English is the usual language. Unlike the highlands and islands, Scottish Gaelic (usually pronounced "gallic" not "gae-lic") is not widely spoken and is rarely heard. However, there is a local dialect, called Doric, now spoken primarily by middle-aged and older people and those from lower social classes. More than most Scots dialects (e.g. Glaswegian), Doric can be confusing at first. This includes for native English speakers - while Scots accents are frequently heard on TV and radio around the UK and other places, Aberdonian accents are almost never included. As a result those from England and other English-speaking countries can be confused even when there is no problem with those from other parts of Scotland.

With time you quickly pick up what people mean, which is often clear from the context. In fact, most people do not speak in dialect but in a standard Scots accent similar to that elsewhere and which does not pose a problem for most visitors, so do not be put off. However, you are likely to hear Doric spoken by some while out and about, particularly if you travel by taxi or bus.

Upon first hearing it, the distinctive accent and words used may seem utterly impenetrable, even to other Scots. Doric has its origins in the farming communities nearby and is not spoken as widely as it used to be, but is prominent among taxi drivers, bus drivers, older people, working-class people and others. Few young people speak in it, or may speak in it only with close family and switch to standard Scots English when around others.

There is a good chance you will encounter the Doric dialect on your travels, so here are a few commonly used words with translations:

• "Fit like?" - A greeting, essentially, "How are you doing?".
• "Nae bad yersel?" - A reply, essentially, "Not bad, yourself?".
• "Fit?" - "What?".
• "Fa?" - "Who?".
• "Far?" - "Where?".
• "Fan?"- "When?".
• "Aye" - "Yes".
• "Na'" - "No" (usually, an n sound followed by a vowel constitutes "no".
• "Wee" - "Little", though this famous Doric word has become common in other areas worldwide nowadays.
• "Dinnae ken/Da ken" - "Don't know".
• "Hay min" - "Excuse me good sir?"
• "far aboot ye fae?" where are you from?
• "ben a/eh hoose" - "Through the house/in the other room"
• "gie" - "give"
• "guy" - "very"

If you politely suggest you don't understand, almost all Doric speakers will be able to switch to more standard English to converse with you, particularly if you are from outside the UK. A good number have no traces of it whatsoever in their speech, particularly in the middle and upper social classes. Do not confuse this with an English accent as this is likely to cause offense.

In most of the north east, meals may be referred to differently from other areas. As elsewhere, the first meal of the day is "breakfast". The second meal of the day (at lunchtime) is "dinner", sometimes pronounced "daenner", but however it is said, it is usually very easy to recognise. The main evening meal is often referred to as "tea". For, example, you might be asked "What did you have for your tea?", which means what did you eat at your evening meal.

[edit] Get in

Although Aberdeen is remote by UK standards, do not be put off as with modern air and rail transport links it is remarkably easy and fast to get to. Journeys by bus or car to the city can be long so many travellers arrive by plane (a flight of an hour or so from London) or train.

[edit] By plane

Aberdeen Airport (IATA: ABZ) [2] is situated at Dyce, only 7 miles (11km) from the city centre. The airport offers a wide range of domestic and short-haul international flights, primarily to European destinations. It is operated by BAA, the same company which runs London Heathrow, London Stansted and Glasgow Airports but operations tend to be smoother than at Heathrow. Many Aberdonians rely heavily on the airport when travelling to the midlands and south of the UK and abroad, due to the remoteness of the city. The airport is also one of the world's largest heliports, serving the offshore rigs in the North Sea. Helicopters are highly conspicious at the airport (and in the skies over Aberdeen) and can often be seen from the terminal building windows.

[edit] Getting to/from the Airport

To travel between the airport and city centre, the bus is the quickest and most convenient option. The 727 bus route (branded "JET") operates distinctive blue buses which run frequently between the bus station at Union Square on Guild Street, Broad Street, and the Airport. The service has improved dramatically in recent years with the launch of the 727 route. In May 2012, a single ticket costs £2.50 and a return (good for 28 days) costs £3.80. Dyce has a railway station but it is the wrong side of the runway from the terminal and inconvenient to get between station and airport terminal, although there is a bus link. Unless you are going to another destination on the railway line, the 727 bus is the best choice. Info and timetables are available at the bus company's website: [3]

Getting to/from the airport by taxi is also popular (be prepared for large queues at the airport for a taxi if a flight was busy). Taxi is a good option if not coming from the city centre or if you have a lot of luggage. Allow approximately £20 for a one-way trip between the airport and city centre. If you need to arrive at the airport early in the morning, do not count on finding a taxi in the street; book your taxi with the taxi company the night before. Hire cars are also available from the major international companies at the airport.

[edit] Destinations

Major hub destinations include London-Heathrow (with British Airways), London-Gatwick (with Flybe, codeshare with British Airways), Paris-CDG (with Air France), Amsterdam (with KLM) and Frankfurt (with Lufthansa). There are also international flights to Dublin (with Aer Lingus), Copenhagen (with SAS), Bergen, Groningen, Stavanger, Oslo and Baku, Azerbaijan (another oil city). UK destinations include Birmingham, Norwich, London-Luton, , Newcastle, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Bristol, Exeter and Southampton, as well as Wick (in the far north of Scotland), Orkney and Shetland. A route to London City Airport will commence in Autumn 2012. Other routes cater to the oil industry, including Scatsta on Shetland. Occasional longer distance holiday flights also operate on a seasonal basis.

[edit] By train

Aberdeen Railway Station is located in the city centre on Guild Street, one block from Union Street. It is now part of the Union Square development, which also includes the Bus Station. The Harbour is at the other end of Guild Street and ships in port (primarily offshore platform support vessels) can be clearly seen. Aberdeen is the busiest railway station north of Glasgow and Edinburgh, with inter-city, regional and sleeper train services provided to and from all parts of Great Britain. The section from Montrose and Stonehaven to Aberdeen is one of the most scenic in Britain, as spectacular cliffs soar below into the North Sea. This view is especially impressive at sunrise.

When arriving by train, do not throw your ticket away as subway-style ticket barriers are used. If you are travelling with luggage, board the train early as luggage racks fill up very quickly, especially on inter-city services. A useful left-luggage facility can be accessed from the plaza outside. Ticket machines on the concourse and in the travel centre allow you to collect any tickets purchased on the internet (you need the payment card plus the confirmation number but can use any train company's machine as they are all part of the same system).

Train companies serving Aberdeen are:

• East Coast [4] is a state-owned company which provides inter-city trains to/from London (King's Cross) via major east-coast cities such as Edinburgh (via the iconic Forth Bridge), Newcastle, York and others. InterCity 125 trains are used which travel at 125mph (200km/h) south of Edinburgh, reaching London in just over 7 hours.
• CrossCountry, [5] provides inter-city services via eastern Scotland to the English north-west, midlands, west and south-west of England, including Carlisle, Manchester, Birmingham and Bristol. Some services stretch to Penzance in Cornwall in South-West England - the UK's longest train journey. Voyager trains are used which travel at up to 125mph (200km/h).
• ScotRail [6] is currently run by global transportation company FirstGroup which was founded and has its HQ in Aberdeen (by the bus depot on King Street). ScotRail trains run between Aberdeen and all Scottish cities as well as many intermediate destinations, including Glasgow, Edinburgh (via the Forth Bridge), Dundee and Inverness. Services also reach north-west into Aberdeenshire and Moray and these are popular with commuters. Inter-city services typically use Turbostar trains travelling at up to 100mph (160km/h), reaching Edinburgh in about 2-and-a-half hours and Glasgow and Inverness in three hours. Local services often use Express Sprinter trains which can reach 90mph.
• ScotRail also operates the Caledonian Sleeper overnight train to/from London (Euston), which leaves every night except Saturdays at around 20.30. Twin-berth cabins are provided (with bunk beds), which you often have to share with a same-sex stranger if travelling alone. The cabins are cramped but a great deal of luggage can be carried (although not in your cabin). A lounge car with bar also sells snacks. Alternatively, you can reserve a seat. Having only a seat is very much less comfortable on the 12-hour journey but cheaper than a bed, although "bargain berths" can be available through the website when booking in advance.

[edit] Station Facilities

There is a Travel Centre with ticket office and information (e.g. timetables), although it is not open in the late evening. There are also automatic ticket machines in the concourse. Tickets purchased in advance (e.g. on the internet) can be collected from any of these machines. The first-class lounge is inside the Travel Centre. Luggage trolleys are provided without charge and a left-luggage facility is available from the front plaza. A waiting room is on the main concourse, as is a WH Smith store selling books, magazines and snacks. There is also a café. There are toilet facilities (30p charge applies), in addition to those in Union Square (free to all).

Many other shopping and eating facilities are located in the Union Square complex which can be accessed directly through the concourse and is integrated with the station. These include the drugstore Boots, Costa Coffee, Starbucks, Marks & Spencer Simply Food and many other shops and restaurants. Facilities at Union Square open late into the evening and also include ATM machines, through-access to the city's bus station, and a hotel.

[edit] Parking and Onward Transportation from the Station

Medium-term parking is available in the adjoining College Street Car Park (access only from College Street) and a small number of free spaces inside the station which offer parking for 20 minutes only. Taxis are available from a stand within the station concourse, and are popular with travellers carrying luggage. Regional and national bus services (including buses to Aberdeen Airport) depart from Aberdeen Bus Station, which is located on the other side of the adjoining Union Square complex. It is possible to walk directly from the concourse, through Union Square and to the bus station without entering the open air. This option is useful in winter and periods of bad weather.

[edit] By bus/coach

Aberdeen Bus Station is at Union Square, on Guild Street. Route 727 buses to/from the airport operate from here. Regional buses operated by Stagecoach Bluebird also arrive and depart for towns and villages all over Aberdeenshire, including stops in Royal Deeside. Inter-city services operated by Scottish CityLink and Megabus (at low fares) connect to major destinations but not as many as by train and are significantly slower and less comfortable. However, they are often cheaper than train travel. If travelling to/from Glasgow (3.5 hours away), the CityLink Gold luxury service provides a very comfortable journey.

However, there is no direct service to/from Edinburgh and a change must be made at Dundee bus station or Perth park-and-ride (these locations can be unpleasant at night). Day and overnight coach services are also available to/from London (operated by National Express) and calling at intermediate destinations. These take 12 hours from London Victoria Coach Station and are by far the least comfortable way to arrive from the south of the UK, but fares are economical. Bus station users can make use of all facilities at Union Square and the railway station, such as the left-luggage facility (see above).

[edit] By ferry

Aberdeen Harbour is located in the city centre, and can be plainly seen from many streets including Market Street, Guild Street and the Shiprow. Car ferries to and from the Northern Isles are operated by the state-owned NorthLink [7] and these arrive from Lerwick, Shetland and Kirkwall, Orkney at the ferry terminal at Aberdeen harbour. The terminal is just off Market Street, opposite the car entrance to Union Square. Foot passengers are also conveyed.

[edit] By car

Aberdeen lies halfway along the main A90 trunk road that hugs the eastern, North Sea coast of Scotland between Edinburgh, Dundee and Peterhead (north of Aberdeen). It is a high-quality dual carriageway with a speed limit of 70mph (110km/h) for most of the route. With relative ease this permits access by car from the south. Allow approximately three hours from Edinburgh and slightly more from Glasgow, assuming no traffic. Other roads allow easy access from other parts of Scotland. However, journeys from south of the border with England can be lengthy and draining compared to train or air travel. The Dundee to Aberdeen section of the A90 has a large number of speed cameras and is often heavily patrolled by mobile speed camera vans and unmarked police cars, as a result of numerous dangerous junctions on the route. From Aberdeen, the A96 runs roughly north-west over the Highlands to Elgin and Inverness.

If you do not want to take your own car, it is easily possible to rent a car in Aberdeen from well known companies such as Avis, Hertz and Enterprise, as well as local companies such as Logan Car Hire [8]. These are based at the airport and throughout the city, for example Enterprise has a branch at Skene Square, a short walk from the city centre.

Although nearly all city streets are lit, most roads leading into the city (including the A90 and A96) are not lit except at major intersections so be prepared to use main beam (i.e. high beam) headlights if necessary. Roads in Aberdeenshire are among the most dangerous in the UK, due to frequent bends and chicanes, narrow carriageways, and excessive speed by many drivers. Drive cautiously if you are not familiar with a rural road, e.g. treat junctions and bends with care and avoid exceeding the speed limit. Local drivers (many in powerful German cars bought with oil money) who are familiar with the roads often drive aggressively or overtake, and this is partly responsible for the high accident rate. Do not be intimidated into going too fast and remain at a speed you are comfortable with as aggressive drivers will simply overtake.

In winter, roads are often affected by snow and fog (especially those more inland). Main roads are gritted but local roads are not, leading to very slippery conditions and increased risk of accidents. This is compounded by the fact that few cars are fitted in winter with snow tyres (although these are available) or snow chains. Avoid car travel in poor winter weather unless you are experienced with driving in these conditions.

[edit] Get around

[edit] On foot

Walking is an excellent way to get around Aberdeen, particularly around central areas, as the city centre is relatively compact. However, the city is not that small (e.g. Union Street is one mile long) so for longer journeys, wheeled transport may be useful. Walking is also by far the best way to appreciate the grand architecture of the city. Weather in winter can be chilly and windy but it does not rain or snow frequently so do not be put off (wrap up warm if you need to).

[edit] Pedestrian Maps

Aberdeen has a mediaeval layout like many cities in the UK, so for the first-time visitor, a map is helpful. There are quite a few of these located around the city centre, mainly in points of interest (e.g. the Castlegate). However, you will probably find it useful to purchase a map of the city to carry with you (e.g. from the Tourist Information Centre on the corner of Union Street and Shiprow) or if you won't be leaving the city centre, to print one out from the internet before you arrive. Alternatively, a smartphone's map feature can be very useful as the city is covered in detail by services such as Google Maps.

Aberdeen walking directions [9] can be planned online with the walkit.com [10] walking route planner.

[edit] By bus

City buses are run by First Aberdeen [11], a division of FirstGroup who have their global HQ next to the bus station on King Street. FirstGroup is an Aberdeen company; it developed out of the privatised Aberdeen city bus corporation, which grew massively following numerous mergers and takeovers. There are around 22 bus routes and most operate on a hub-and-spoke system, i.e. a route starts in a suburb or on the outskirts, comes in through the city centre, and then goes out to another suburb. Services begin around 5AM and end close to midnight with a few night services at weekends. First Aberdeen buses do not carry change so you need to use the exact fare. Day and weekly passes are available that can save money, particularly if you are a student. All buses are modern and have low-floor access.

The network uses a colour-coded system with main routes having a colour (e.g. 3 is purple, 20 is indigo, 1&2 are red) while less important routes have no colour. The map is in the style of the London Underground which helps to find your way around. Information on routes is available on First Aberdeen's website [12], but for face-to-face info, bus maps, timetables and bus passes, call into the First Travel Centre on Union Street, between Market Street and the Shiprow. It is open 9-5 every day except Sunday and public holidays.

First Aberdeen has a reputation for mediocre service and high fares that are raised frequently with little notice or justification. Citizens frequently complain about the service and it is often the subject of scrutiny in the local press. However, most services are adequate (1 and 2 are particularly good) although after 7pm all run only every 30 minutes. First also run a popular Park & Ride [13] (National Park and Ride Directory) from the western suburb of Kingswells (just off A944) and the large northern suburb of Bridge of Don (off A90). The Bridge of Don service runs from the Exhibition and Conference Centre, which is easy to spot on the main road by its airport-like tower. Parking is free, and the service costs £3 for a return journey to anywhere on the route. Up to two under 16s go free when accompanied. Day passes are available for purchase if you are planning to change buses.

Some buses are also run by Stagecoach Bluebird [14], but apart from one route (No.59), these are running between the bus station at Union Square and towns and villages in Aberdeenshire and are not an option for within-city transport. Towns and villages closer to Aberdeen generally have more frequent services (for example, a 15 minute frequency to the exurb of Westhill) than those farther out (e.g. Peterhead). For single fares, Stagecoach are generally cheaper within the city than First (and give change), but not as frequent and go fewer places. Fares are based on destination, but there is a day pass called the Explorer which allows you unlimited use of the entire Stagecoach network to a certain distance.

[edit] By taxi

Taxis are widely available from a number of ranks dotted around the city centre. Most Aberdeen taxis are saloon cars or people-carriers rather than London-style black cabs. Taxis and their drivers must be registered with the City Council and will carry an official plate (usually on the back) indicating this. The main ranks are located off Union Street at Back Wynd, Market Street and inside the railway station. There are more located further up Union Street.

Taxis are a popular way for Aberdonians to return home from a night out, so at night they can be harder to come by. After dark, they can be hired only at designated posts on Union Street. On busy weekend nights, be prepared to queue for significant periods among drunken revellers, when these ranks are often patrolled by taxi marshalls. At night it can can be difficult to hail a taxi on the street as many do not give any indication if they're available for hire and many will not pick up groups of males. To call for a taxi, one useful number is ComCab at 01224 35 35 35. Fares are high, but always go by the meter price and are regulated by Aberdeen City Council.

[edit] By bicycle

Due to the many narrow roads and inadequate lane provisions, this can be rather treacherous at times. Cycle lanes are appearing (but are often shared with buses) as are cycle "boxes" at traffic lights so the situation is getting better for those who cycle. It's getting easier to park a cycle too, the council now provide loops for chaining bikes within the city centre streets and within the multi-storey car parks.

It is possible to cycle from Aberdeen city centre to Peterculter along the Old Deeside Railway line. The line begins just outside Duthie Park and passes through Garthdee, Cults, Bieldside and Milltimber before ending at Station Road. It is mostly paved with very few breaks where it is necessary to cross the road. It is very scenic and relaxing, and is also used by people walking dogs, riding horses, other cyclists, and other people just enjoying a stroll, so being courteous is a must. There are signs placed along the line with bits of history about the line and how it came to be.

[edit] By train

Prior to the 1960s, Aberdeen had a suburban rail service but like many lesser-used routes in the UK, this was closed during the "Beeching Axe" of the 1960s. The only stations in the city now are the main railway station on Guild Street in the city centre, and a single suburban station at Dyce. As a result, rail transport is unlikely to be an option for within-city transport other than to Dyce, but it can be useful for travel to outlying towns. Local services run to:

Dyce - On the north west of the city along the Inverness line. This may be an option for travelling to the airport, but less convenient than the 727 bus for most travellers. It may be a preferable way to travel in rush hour as the journey time is 10 minutes as opposed to the hour+ it takes on the bus due to traffic congestion. There are plenty of trains, though the frequency is quite scattered. Dyce station is located just off the main street.

Inverurie - The next stop up the line from Dyce, out of the city in Aberdeenshire. The station is located a short walk from the pleasant town centre. Many commuters live in Inverurie.

Portlethen - The first stop south on the line. There are extremely few services stopping here outwith rush hour. The station is on the east of the town on the road to the old village. A walk from here to the main shopping area will take you around 10-15 minutes, there are buses that run every 20 minutes just outside the station if you need to use them.

Stonehaven - The next stop down from Portlethen. Trains are fairly frequent (at least once an hour). Buses to Stonehaven centre depart from the hotel across from the station, or you can walk (takes 10-20 minutes depending on your speed). Stonehaven is a pleasant harbour town which attracts tourists, including to see the spectacular ruins of Dunottar Castle. Between here and Aberdeen, look out the sea-side of the window for spectacular coastal views.

[edit][add listing] See

• Aberdeen Art Gallery [15] Schoolhill. Tel: 01224 523700, [16] Open Tuesday-Saturday 10.00AM-5.00PM, Sunday 2.00PM-5.00PM. The Aberdeen Art Gallery is set in a Victorian building with an exquisite marble and granite main hall. In the several large rooms there are housed paintings and sculptures numbering in the hundreds, featuring Impressionist pieces as well as modern art and works by the Scottish Colourists. There is also a display of antique silverware and decorative pieces. There are also numerous special exhibits by many acclaimed artists, a recent example being Quentin Blake. For those who like art, an afternoon could easily be spent here, but at least a quick browse is well worth it for anyone. Admission free.

• The Gordon Highlanders Museum [17] St. Lukes Viewfield Road. Tel: 01224 311200, [18]. Open first Tuesday in April to last Sunday in October, Tuesday-Saturday 10.30AM-4.30PM, Su 1.30PM-4.30PM (last admission 4PM). November-March open by appointment only. Closed Mondays. At the Gordon Highlanders Museum you can re-live the compelling and dramatic story of one of the British Army's most famous regiments, through the lives of its outstanding personalities and of the kilted soldiers of the North East of Scotland who filled its ranks. Exhibits include a real Nazi flag from Hitler's staff car, and there is a small cinema where you can watch a film on the history of the regiment. For the younger visitors there are a number of uniforms to try on, and there is also a coffee shop. For those interested in military history this small gem is a must. Admission: Adults: £2.50, Children: £1.00, Seniors: £1.50, Closed season: £3.00.

• The Maritime Museum [19] Shiprow. Tel: 01224 337700, [20]. Open Tuesday-Saturday 10.00AM-5.00PM, Sunday 12.00PM-3.00PM. This attraction, rated five-star by the Scottish Tourist Board, offers an extraordinary insight into the mechanics and technology of ships and oil rigs, Aberdeen's rich maritime history and the lives of some of the people who have worked offshore in the North Sea for the past 500 years. The newest part of the complex is a blue, glass-fronted building on the cobbled Shiprow, just minutes from Union Street. Inside is a spiral walkway, rising upwards around an eye-catching model of an oil rig. Connected to this structure are the much older buildings which take visitors through a series of castle-style corridors and staircases to reach the numerous room sets, historical artefacts and scale models. If your time in Aberdeen is limited, go and see this. There is so much to see, and even the buildings themselves are worth a look. There is also a restaurant - slightly expensive, but the food is pretty good. Admission free.

• The Marischal Museum [21] Broad Street (entrance through arch). Tel: 01224 274301, [22] Open Monday-Friday 10.00AM-5.00PM, Sunday 2.00PM-5.00PM. The museum is currently closed until mid-2010 due to the extensive building work being performed to convert Marischal College into the Aberdeen City Council headquarters. Covering 8000 years of local and world history, this generally undiscovered museum houses the results of numerous expeditions by local people over the past two centuries. The collection, spread over several floors in the stunning Marischal College building, includes pieces from such diverse locations as the Balkans and Tibet. As well as the varied international exhibits, the museum also presents an insightful look at the history of the north-east of Scotland under the banner of The Encyclopaedia of the North-East. Very worthwhile, and considering the range of excellent displays the free admission seems all the better. Admission free.

• Footdee (commonly known by the Doric name "Fitty") A former fishing village absorbed by the city. Located at the foot of the River Dee (hence the name) this area is a laid back cluster of traditional, small, quaint houses and quirky outhouses.

• Old Aberdeen The oldest part of the city and location of Aberdeen University's King's College Campus. Laid back with many old buildings. The near by St. Machar Cathedral is steeped in history and worth a visit. Old Aberdeen's sights are located around the High Street, the Channory and to a lesser extent Don Street. The nearby Seaton Park is also popular but should be avoided at night.

[edit][add listing] Do

The nearest Aberdeen has to a Bohemian Quarter is centred around Belmont Street, halfway down Union St. It has many nice bars, live music venues, a couple of second-hand book stores and an arthouse cinema, named The Belmont.

• Satrosphere Science Centre (Aberdeen Science Centre), The Tramsheds, 179 Constitution Street, Aberdeen, AB24 5TU, ☎ 01224 640340, [23]. Satrosphere Science Centre is Scotland’s first science and discovery centre, and first opened to the public in 1988. The centre has over 50 hands-on interactive exhibits and live science shows, which inspire the scientist within as well as entertain the whole family. It is primarily aimed as towards Children.  edit

• What's On in Aberdeen (Events listing for Aberdeen), [24]. Guide to what's happening in Aberdeen: who's playing where, events, restaurants, special offers, where to stay.  edit

[edit] Work Out

Gyms and fitness facilities are very popular in Aberdeen (exercising outside is not always possible due to the weather!). If looking for a workout while visiting, and you can manage on your own, try the popular PureGym on the Shiprow in the city centre, [25] (next to the Hotel Ibis), which offers a day pass for £6 and is open 24-hours. It has a full range of cardio equipment, resistance machines and large free-weights area. An NCP car park is next-door. The pass can be purchased from a machine at the entrance and gives you a PIN which you type into a keypad to gain access. From the morning till 8pm staff are in attendance but after that CCTV cameras flood the area and impenetrable metal turnstiles permit access only to those with a PIN from a day-pass or regular membership. As a result it is safe and not intimidating even late at night, with a surprising number exercising there till the early hours. Bring a padlock for the locker or buy one from the vending machine.

Further from the city-centre, the two universities also operate high-quality sports and fitness facilities open to the public, including large indoor sports halls. The University of Aberdeen's Aberdeen Sports Village on Linksfield Road (close to the main campus at Kings College) has a wide range of facilities but no pool (a 50m pool is under construction), and RGU:SPORT at The Robert Gordon University's Garthdee campus has similar facilities with its own pool. Numerous athletes train at both facilities. All are generally open from 6am-10pm on weekdays and 8am-8pm on weekends. Their websites have full details. Numerous other private chains operate in the city (e.g. DW Fitness, David Lloyd, Bannatyne's, etc.) and are popular.

Another option is provided by council-run services (branded as Sport Aberdeen[26]), which include leisure centres, swimming pools and an ice-skating arena. One of the most popular is the the Beach Leisure Centre [27] on the Beach Promenade. Access to the gymnasium is £4.40 and there are also various other facilities for exercise and indoor sports. The swimming pool is of the "water-park" style and not good for swimming laps, but offers a wide range of attractions including water slides, rapids and waves, and is a great destination for the whole family. If looking for a pool you can do laps in, try the one at RGU:SPORT (see above) or one of the council-run pools in the suburbs.

[edit] Sports

If speculating is more your thing, why not go and watch Aberdeen's home grown, Scottish Premier League football (soccer) team Aberdeen Football Club (or "The Dons") at work at their home ground of Pittodrie [28]?

Aberdeen's long beach is also ideal for water sports such as surfing, windsurfing and Kitesurfing. Various dry slopes at the Aberdeen Snowsports Centre at the Bridge of Dee (next to the big Asda) cater for skiing and snowboarding, with public sessions, classes and equipment hire.

[edit] Theatre/Concerts

If you want to go and see a show or a concert, there are four main venues in Aberdeen, each a distinct and atmospheric setting for any kind of performance:

• The Music Hall [29] on Union Street offers most of the classical music events, but is becoming a more popular venue for other forms of music.
• His Majesty's Theatre [30] on Rosemount Viaduct plays host to the vast majority of musicals and plays which visit Aberdeen. Recent examples include the famous Miss Saigon. If you are in town over the Christmas period with children, a trip to a showing of the annual pantomime is a must!
• The Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC) [31] on the A90 (in Bridge of Don) is the venue for most of Aberdeen's pop and rock concerts. In frequent years wrestling has been a fixture as well. The venue has recently been dramatically expanded, and most functions are now held in the brand new building. If you are stuck for finding the AECC, look for the tall viewing tower, a fixture of the new structure. It is easily visible from most points close to the River Don.
• The Lemon Tree [32] was once regarded as a rather "fringe" venue, and indeed it still is the launching platform for many alternative acts, but the sheer variety of talent on display (blues, rock, comedy and dance, to name but a few genres) rivals that of the three venues above. The interesting location creates a great atmosphere, and is one of the main venues for the annual International Jazz Festival (see below).

[edit] Learn

• University of Aberdeen, [33]. One of the oldest universities in the UK (founded 1495), it is renowned for its teaching and research in a full range of disciplines including the liberal arts, sciences, social sciences and the professions. Until the University of the Highlands and Islands was created in 2011 with its centre at Inverness, Aberdeen was the most northerly university in the UK. It is a research-focused university of about 14,000 students, most at its main Kings College campus in Old Aberdeen, but some at its Medical School at Foresterhill. The Medical School is prestigious and the centre of a great deal of research, including development of the MRI scanner. The university's iconic buildings, Marischal College (in the city centre but no longer used for teaching) and the tower of Kings College, are also iconic images of the city of Aberdeen. A huge new library was opened in 2011 at the Kings College campus. It is of unusual architecture for Aberdeen, taking the form of a seven-story zebra-striped tower. It is open to the public and outstanding views are available from the upper floors.  edit

• The Robert Gordon University (RGU), [34]. Usually referred to as "RGU", it became a university in 1992 but developed out of an educational institution dating from the 18th century founded by the merchant and philanthropist Robert Gordon. The word "The" is officially part of the title. RGU has two campuses, one in the city centre at Schoolhill and a larger suburban campus at Garthdee, by the banks of the River Dee. It has recently been rising rapidly in university rankings and was named Best Modern University in the UK for 2012 by the Sunday Times, in addition to other recent awards. It is a teaching-focused university of about 15,500 students but significant research is also conducted (but not as much as the University of Aberdeen). Degrees are offered from undergraduate to PhD level in a wide range of disciplines, primarily (but not limited to) vocational and professional disciplines and those most applicable to business. It has become known for its high level of graduate employment.  edit

• Aberdeen College, [35]. The largest further education college in Scotland, it has campuses within the city and without. Its largest facility is on the Gallowgate on the outskirts of the city centre.  edit

[edit][add listing] Buy

Aberdeen is the shopping capital of the north of Scotland, drawing shoppers from the entire region. As there are no other nearby cities and oil money means many Aberdonians have money to spend, there are a large number and quality of stores in the city for its size. For many decades, the main shopping street was Union Street, which rivalled the most prestigious streets in Britain. Today, Union Street is still considered the spiritual heart of shopping in Aberdeen and contains many shops, but primarily chain stores found in high streets all over the UK. A walk up and down Union Street is essential for any first visit to Aberdeen. The dramatic architecture, although now mostly in need of restoration, is not visible in storefronts at street level - look up to see the impressive carved granite and grand designs of each building. Unlike other grand streets in the UK (such as Grey Street in Newcastle or the Royal Crescent in Bath), but like Princes Street in Edinburgh, each building on Union Street is different to the next in stature and architectural style. Sidewalks on the street get very busy during the day and especially on weekends.

In recent years more upmarket stores have been gravitating from Union Street and other streets to the shopping malls in the city centre, and independent stores to the streets around Union Street. At the same time, some shops on Union Street have been moving downmarket. As a result, shopping in Aberdeen is spread out around Union Street, these malls, and surrounding streets. The shopping malls are extremely popular with Aberdonians. They include the Bon Accord Centre, the St. Nicholas Centre, the Trinity Centre, The Academy (boutique shops), and the newest and largest, Union Square [36] on Guild Street. Today, nearly all the stores found on British high streets can be found in Aberdeen at these malls, on Union Street or a surrounding street. Most shops open at 9am and close at 5pm or 6pm. Late-night shopping (till 8pm) is on Thursdays in Aberdeen, except Union Square where shops are open till 8pm every weeknight.

Some of the many high-street stores that may be useful when travelling include the following, but there are many more:

• John Lewis, Bon Accord Centre/George Street, department store
• Debenhams, Trinity Centre, department store
• Marks and Spencer, St. Nicholas Square (off Union Street, clothing and food) & Union Square (homewares and food)
• BHS, Union Street, department store
• Next, St. Nicholas Centre (largest), Union Square (smaller) & Berryden Retail Park, fashion and homewares
• Boots, Union Street, Union Square and Bon Accord Centre, large drugstore
• Primark, Union Street, fashion and limited homewares
• Topshop and Topman, Union Street (smaller) and Bon Accord Centre (larger), fashion
• River Island, Bon Accord Centre, fashion
• New Look, Bon Accord Centre (larger) and Union Square (smaller), fashion
• Hollister, Union Square, beach-inspired fashion
• GAP, St. Nicholas Square, fashion
• H&M, St. Nicholas Centre & Union Square, fashion
• Zara, Union Square, fashion
• Jack Wills, Schoolhill (opposite Aberdeen Art Gallery), fashion
• Waterstones, two branches on Union Street, books
• HMV, Trinity Centre/Union Street, music, movies and games
• One Up, Belmont Street, brilliant independent music store
• Forbidden Planet, Schoolhill, Science Fiction store

When shopping, don't be limited to the malls and chain stores! Aberdeen has a large collection of small, tucked-away shops which can provide everything from Bohemian dressware to Indian furniture. If you are adventurous you may uncover a hidden wonder. Good streets to find independent stores in the city centre are Rosemount Viaduct, Holburn Street, Rose Street, Chapel Street, Belmont Street, Upperkirkgate and The Green, along with Rosemount Place in the Rosemount area (to the north of the city centre).

[edit] Markets

The Aberdeen Country Fair [37] is a farmers' market and craft market on the last Saturday of every month, and takes place on Belmont Street. It is very popular and one of the largest in Scotland and stalls sell high-quality local produce, foods and crafts.

Aside from this there are few markets in Aberdeen aside from irregular international and Christmas markets which are organised every so often, typically on Union Terrace. There is also a less prestigious market on the Castlegate every Friday selling general items.

[edit] Supermarkets and Food Stores

If you are looking for food (e.g. if staying in one of the aparthotels or walking round the city has made you hungry), or general items such as toothpaste, these are good places to go. Like most people in the UK, Aberdonians buy much or all their food and everyday items at supermarkets, of which there are many in the city, but the largest ones tend to be in suburbs or on the outskirts. Most open till 9pm or later every night. If you have a car, the Tesco Extra hypermarket at Danestone and Asda superstore at Bridge of Dee are open 24-hours. Some of the useful, more central stores are as follows:

• The Co-Operative, Union Street and George Street, small supermarkets in city centre that offer most everyday items. Union Street store open till late every day.
• Marks & Spencer, St. Nicholas Square/St. Nicholas Centre and Union Square, upmarket supermarkets.
• Morrisons, King Street, larger supermarket popular with students
• Asda, Beach Retail Park, behind funfair, large supermarket useful if you are in the beach area and Garthdee Road, very large supermarket open 24 hours.

In addition, there are an increasing number of handy The Co-Operative, Sainsbury's Local and Tesco Express mini-supermarkets/ convenience stores in the city centre and around. These are all open from early till late (often 11pm). Useful such stores include Sainsbury's Local on Upperkirkgate/St. Nicholas Centre and Rosemount Place, Tesco Express at the western end of Union Street, and numerous Co-Operative branches such as the west end of Union Street, Rosemount Place and numerous suburbs. If hungry late at night, there is a 24-hour convenience store on Market Street.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Aberdeen has hundreds of restaurants, catering for every taste, to choose from. As with shops, there are well-known, easy to spot places, and out of the way ones. However, we'll leave the exploring up to you. Here is a list of more popular haunts in the central area, sorted by "cuisine":

If you want a lunchtime soup or sandwich try the Beautiful Mountain or Books and Beans on Belmont Street. Both are popular because of their good soup, sandwiches and atmosphere.

• Earl Of Sandwich, Market Street. The best sandwich shop in town playing the best music in town. Moving soon to just around the corner on 'The Green', the original village centre of Aberdeen.
• Pizza Express, Union Street. A very good menu with great food. Modern setting. Not the cheapest, but reasonable.
• Lahore Karahi, King Street. A relatively new entrant to the established Aberdonian Curry Houses, Lahore Karahi offers arguably the most authentic Pakistani/Indian cuisine, and at the best of prices too.
• Musa art and music cafe, 33 Exchange St. A great restaurant/cafe/art gallery with the best food in Aberdeen and sometimes with live music
• La Lombarda, 2-8 King Street. One of Aberdeen's most popular Italians, and with good reason. Good location next to Castlegate. Claims to be oldest italian restaurant aorund but food is far from beign 'good'italian. It's more english style italian version.
• Little Italy, 79 Holborn Street. A bit pricey, but a wonderfully rustic decor makes for great atmosphere. A bit out of the way.
• KURY, 22-24 King Street. Consistent rave reviews make this Indian restaurant a hotspot. Slightly overpriced, but it's worth it.
• The Royal Thai, [38]. The oldest Thai restaurant in Aberdeen and it shows in how exceptional the food is.  edit
• Yatai, 73-75 Skene Street, a short walk from Union street. Small and a little expensive, but excellent Japanese food including Sushi.
• Chinatown, 11 Dee Street, just off Union Street. Great Chinese food along with nice, vibrant decor and a bar make this restaurant highly recommended.
• Jimmy Chung's, 401-405 Union Street.
• Yu, 347 Union Street. Reasonably-priced food. Good, but nothing to shout about. Convenient location.
• The Illicit Still, off Broad Street. Sensibly priced pub grub.
• The Bassment, Windmill Brae, off Union Street. Really good American grill reasonably priced. Also do excellent cocktails, served with more than a little flare!
• The Beautiful Mountain, Belmont Street. Fine sandwiches, soups, smoothies and Sunday breakfasts!
• Kilau, Little Belmont Street. Crepes, sandwiches, coffee, art and Irish Tony!
• Nazma Tandoori, Bridge Street. Alongside the Blue Moon, Holburn Street, this is the most authentic and finest Indian restaurant in Aberdeen.

[edit][add listing] Drink

Like any Scottish city Aberdeen has a large number of bars and nightclubs. The role of alcohol in Scottish culture is frequently debated but for better or worse, heavy drinking is a feature of nights out for many in Scotland, especially on weekend nights. However, this is less pronounced in suburban establishments and those outside the city-centre or catering to an older clientele. Aberdeen is a city with a large number of young people (including students and young professionals) and people of all ages who like to go out. As a result, while not on the same level as Glasgow, nights out are often lively - much livelier than many visitors would expect. Especially on weekend nights, the city centre is full of revellers, even in the most severe winter weather (Aberdonians, like those in Newcastle, often do not dress for a night out according to the weather).

There are hundreds of licensed premises in the city that cater for every taste, from upmarket bars, to more casual bars, and a wide range of pubs. There are also numerous clubs, some very good (e.g. Snafu on Union Street opposite the Town House). Due to the large student population there are often student deals around. These may be extended to everyone and not just those with student ID cards. If you plan to go to a club, bring photographic ID showing your date of birth as this is often demanded by doormen - a photocard driving licence or passport is effective. Remember that smoking is illegal inside public venues - you will notice crowds of smokers standing outside even in freezing conditions.

The usual and most approachable starting point for a night out is Belmont Street. It is home to numerous bars and nightclubs. Union Street and to a lesser extent Langstane Place and Bon Accord Street (off Union Street) are also destinations for a night out due to their numerous venues. Various other city-centre streets are also home to drinking establishments.

• Triple Kirks [Exodus Nightclub]. An excellent student & local drinking hole and part of the ScreamPubs chain. Save money with a yellow card. Exodus focuses on Indie/Alternative and Classic Rock, Pop & Soul.
• Revolution Bar. Part of the Revolution chain specialising in cocktails. Has a wonderful smoking terrace out the back.
• The Wild Boar. A quieter setting, sometimes with acoustic live music. Known for its wine selection.
• Siberia (or Vodka Bar). Serves 99 flavours of vodka and has a smoking terrace out the back.
• Cafe Drummond's. A small late-licence venue which focuses on live bands.
• O'Neils. Irish themed pub with a nightclub upstairs.
• Ma Camerons. The oldest pub in the city. Shows live football in a traditional pub setting with a roof garden.
• Old School House. A quieter pub near Belmont Street.
• Slain's Castle. A highlight of Aberdeen's pub scene. An old church converted into a gothic style pub, famous for it's Seven Deadly Sins cocktails. Hallowe'en is a particularly eventful night here.
• Enigma. Located in the Academy Shopping centre, with a secluded licenced courtyard.
• The Robert Gordon University (RGU) Student Union. Located at the end of Belmont Street near Aberdeen Art Gallery and RGU's Schoolhill building. It is the only student union bar in Aberdeen. Highlights include cheaper drinks on a Monday, pool tables and low prices. Be prepared to show a UK student ID card or be accompanied by someone with an RGU ID card.

All of the above bars serve a variety of food at reasonable pub prices, with the exception of Cafe Drummond's.

One street along from Belmont Street, is Liquid Nightclub. Located on Bridge Place, this is by far Aberdeen's biggest nightclub and regularly features guest DJs. Entry is usually around £5 it has discounted drinks every night. Also nearby is Espionage(The Cesspool of Aberdeen), catering for a slightly older market. No door charge, but full price drinks and incredibly rude staff members, possibly the reason for it's nick name.

On either side of Belmont Street and you'll find many other pubs:

• The Prince of Wales St Nicholas Square, Just off of Union Street. Boasting one of the longest bars in Aberdeen and eight Real Ale pumps, sometimes called the "PoW" or quite simply the "Prince", this pub is one of the hidden gems of Aberdeen packed with locals, oil workers and Students alike. They keep their beer exceedingly well.
• Soul in the converted Langstane Kirk. Uppermarket.
• The Moorings which can be found by heading down Market Street and turning left when you get to the harbour, is probably the finest watering hole for those of a rock'n'roll persuasion. It's a drinker's paradise, with over a huge range of world beers, real ale, real ciders, a collection of authentic absinthe, a huge selection of rums, and even outlandish tiki cocktails served in pint jars. Regular live music nights (both local and touring bands), a welcoming atmosphere and Aberdeen's best jukebox make this a must for any visiting rockers. The pub's logo, a mermaid twined round a Flying V guitar, features on t-shirts for sale behind the bar. Open till 3am at the weekend.
• Tonic Very cheap and popular, especially during the week.
• Paramount Next to Tonic and very similar.
• Korova Bar Three floors, rock and alternative music, very popular.
• Prohibtion Mainstream.
• Society Two floors, renowned for it's cocktails.

Major nightclubs in Aberdeen include:

• Tiger Tiger One of the most popular clubs in the city.
• Espionage is a large club on Union Street.
• Snafu Small indie club, generally cheap and student geared.
• Liquid Large and mainstream. Reasonably priced.
• Priory Renowned as Aberdeen's most violent nightclub. Small and dingy, not popular with locals.
• Korova Klub Rock and alternative club beneath a bar of the same name. Cheap and large.
• Aurum As a rule, expensive and mainstream.
• Exodus As a rule, cheap with very varied music. Tuesday nights (which feature soul, motown tc. music) are particularly popular.

• The Grill, Union Street (Opposite the Music Hall). A small severely plain interior, but a haven for a whisky connoisseur; whiskies from Scotland and around the world. Tasting menu available.  edit

[edit][add listing] Sleep

• Aberdeen Youth Hostel[39], 8 Queen's Road. Tel: 0870 004 1100. A SYHA Hostel in a historic building near the city centre.

• The Mariner Hotel, 349 Great Western Road, ☎ 01224 588901, [40]. A cozy hotel in Aberdeen's pretty west end. Rates from 70 pounds to 150 (for couple suite). The hotel features an amazing restaurant with excellent options both for meat-lovers and vegetarians. 70-150.  edit
• The Marcliffe at Pitfoddels, North Deeside Road, Pitfodels [41] is a 5 star hotel just outside the city center with a Spa and conference facilities.
• Mercure Ardoe House, South Deeside Road, Blairs, AB12 5YP Phone: +44 (0)1224 860600 is set in a Victorian mansion house, that looks somewhat like a castle. It is located just outside of town.
• Skene House, 6 Union Grove, AB10 6SY, Phone: +44 (0)1224 580000 has three hotels in the town, all set in old tenement blocks. Each room has its own kitchen and living room and is basically an apartment that is run like a hotel.
• Malmaison Aberdeen, 53 Queens Road, AB15 4YP, Phone: +44 (0)1224 321371, formerly the Queens Hotel.
• Hilton Treetops Hotel, 161 Springfield Road, Cragiebuckler, AB15 7AQ Phone: +44 (0)1224 313377 is a large comfortable hotel located in a suburb.
• Doubletree by Hilton, Beach Boulevard, AB24 5EF Phone: +44 (0)1224 633339 Not to be confused with the above, it is a large hotel and leisure club located in the centre of Aberdeen beside the beach.
• Park Inn Hotel Aberdeen, 1 Justice Mill Lane, AB11 6EQ, ☎ +44 (0) 1224 592 999, [42]. Hotel opened in August 2010.  edit

[edit] Stay safe

Aberdeen is a very safe city, particularly in the city centre and areas tourists are likely to visit, and it is safe for women to walk alone. However, use common sense. Whether male or female, avoid walking through deprived areas such as Tillydrone (north of Bedford Road and east of St. Machar Drive) and Torry (the south bank of River Dee) as these have a relatively higher crime rate. Also, do not walk alone south of the River Dee at night as muggings and assaults here are reported frequently in the media.

Street beggars sometimes operate in the city-centre, but are relatively harmless. Do not give any money to a street beggar as it is often spent immediately on drugs or alcohol. Aberdeen beggars are not aggressive and while they will ask passers-by indiscriminately for spare change, they can just be ignored. Aberdeen is a harbour city and prostitution occurs in certain streets in the harbour area. Prostitutes (who are primarily drug addicts) are typically provocatively dressed and may approach male passers-by saying "Are you looking for business?". Do not engage a prostitute as this is illegal.

The main possibility of hassle is with alcohol-related aggression at night (particularly weekend nights). While few Scots would admit it, most cannot handle anything like as much alcohol as they would claim and on nights out, many (men and women) drink far more than they can handle. Public drunkenness on weekend nights is an issue in Aberdeen, as throughout Scotland. As a result, brawls, assaults and abuse (e.g. racist or homophobic language) are not uncommon and there is a heavy police presence on weekend nights. To avoid any hassle, firstly avoid drinking more than you can handle yourself. Avoid arguments, making eye contact with groups of males, or staring at obviously drunken individuals. Also, be aware of having your drink spiked; do not allow a stranger to buy a drink for you or let your glass out of your sight, even for a moment.

Finally, anti-English racism can occur, but is rare. It is more likely when individuals have been drinking, or in deprived areas. As a result of historical oppression by England, anti-English feeling runs high but problems occur only if you are perceived to be insensitive or offence is taken. Avoid insensitive displays of English symbolism such as England sports kit (e.g. football shirts) and the St. George's Cross. Also avoid making jokes about the relationship between England and Scotland or disparaging remarks about Scotland if you have an English accent. There are thousands of English people living in Aberdeen, but they tend to blend in and their keep their Englishness to a low profile.

[edit] Get out

Aberdeen is a good location to stay if you want to see castles, play golf or go on a distillery trail. Within 30 miles you can visit Crathes, Drum and Dunottar Castles.

The Malt Whisky Trail route is about 30 miles north and involves a number of distilleries including the Glenfiddich and Glen Grant tours.

If you want to play golf, the Royal Aberdeen golf course was founded in 1790 and is the sixth oldest in the world and the Royal Deeside course in the River Dee's valley are both excellent.

The nearby town of Stonehaven is a popular location for visitors. It features an art deco outdoor pool and a pleasent seafront. The nearby Dunottar Castle is extremely popular.

The "Royal Deeside" area is also popular. Towns such as Aboyne, Ballater and Braemar are worth a visit. Balmoral Castle is very popular due to its Royal connection.

This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!