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Aberdeen at Night: Top 14 Things to Do for an Unforgettable Time!

I once took a journey around Aberdeen and found myself completely baffled by what to do after the sun went down. I mean, I literally called and asked my cousin, “What are the best things to do at night here?”

He just chuckled and said, “Cous, you’re in for a treat.” Let’s just say, I discovered Aberdeen has a vibrant nightlife that one just can’t miss.

From haunted spots that’ll make your hair stand on end to cosy pubs where you’ll find yourself in the middle of a Karaoke session, Aberdeen’s got it all. So, you better check out the list I’ve made below!

Enjoy live music at Krakatoa, a quirky rock ‘n’ roll bar

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Website: https://krakatoa.bar/ 
Address: 2 Trinity Quay
Contact details: +44 122 458 7602
Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Tuesday, Thursday – 2 PM to 1 AM
  • Wednesday – 2 PM to 2 AM
  • Friday and Saturday – 2 PM to 3 AM

Cost: ££

If you’re looking for a rock ‘n’ roll adventure in Aberdeen, Krakatoa is your go-to spot. This bar is known for its vibrant live music scene, where you can catch everything from local bands to touring acts.

Trust me, the lineup is pretty diverse, and it’s a cool place to discover some new sounds. They even have these psychic Karaoke nights—yes, that’s a thing—where you and your friends can belt out your favourite tunes.

Aside from the music, their drinks menu is something you can’t miss. They’ve got a mix of crafted cocktails, ciders, beers, and spirits that really hit the spot, along with some awesome snacks and quick bites.

Pro tip: 

They often have deals and offers that make it even more enticing. You might want to keep an eye out for their social media updates to catch some exclusive discounts.

Check out some craft beers at Fierce Bar Aberdeen

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Website: https://fiercebeer.com/pages/aberdeen-bar 
Address: 4-6 Exchequer Row
Contact details: +44 122 403 5034
Operating hours: 

  • Monday – 3 PM to 10 PM
  • Tuesday and Wednesday – 3 PM to 11 PM
  • Thursday – 12 PM to 11 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 12 AM
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM

Cost: £££

Fierce Bar Aberdeen boasts a fantastic selection of craft beers that are brewed with a whole lot of passion and creativity. Whether you’re a fan of IPAs, stouts, or something more experimental, you’ll likely find something to your taste here.

You won’t just be limited to local brews; Fierce Beer often features guest taps, including some rare and seasonal options. Additionally, they’ve got some cool merchandise too, so maybe snag a souvenir to remember your night.

Pro tip: 

Sometimes they host special events or release limited-edition beers, so check their calendar and social media for updates to not miss out on something special.

Dance the night away at The Tunnels

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Website: https://www.facebook.com/tunnelsaberdeen 
Address: Carnegie’s Brae
Contact details: +44 122 421 1121
Operating hours: Tuesday to Sunday – 11 PM to 3 AM
Cost: ££

The Tunnels is where you go if you want to dance till the wee hours of the morning in Aberdeen. Located in—you guessed it—actual old tunnels, this venue offers an underground experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.

DJs spin everything from techno and house to drum and bass, so there’s always a beat to keep you moving. The place is also known for hosting live gigs and themed nights, providing a different experience each time you visit.

Plus, the drinks are reasonably priced, which is always a bonus. And don’t worry if you’re not into dancing non-stop; they’ve got some chill areas where you can take a break and still enjoy the vibe.

Pro tip: 

Be prepared for a late night. The tunnels usually kick into high gear around midnight, so pace yourself and maybe grab a nap beforehand!

Indulge in seafood dishes at Moonfish Café

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Website: http://www.moonfishcafe.co.uk/ 
Address: 9 Correction Wynd
Contact details: +44 122 464 4166
Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Thursday – 12 PM to 2 PM, 6 PM to 9 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM, 6 PM to 9 PM

Cost: £££

Moonfish Café offers some of the freshest and most delicious seafood dishes in Aberdeen. Their menu features a variety of creative dishes, from mackerel and grilled seabass to smoke salmon and market fish bisque.

One of the highlights is their ever-changing menu that takes advantage of seasonal ingredients, ensuring every dish is fresh and flavorful. They’re also known for their amazing wine list, which pairs wonderfully with the seafood dishes.

Don’t sleep on their non-seafood options either; they offer some fantastic meat dishes like chicken schnitzel, beef, and pork ragu bianco.

Pro tip: 

Make sure to book your table in advance, especially on weekends, as this place tends to fill up quickly. 

Moonfish Café also offers gift cards, making it a perfect gift for food enthusiasts!

Play a round of minigolf at Codona’s Amusement Park

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Website: https://www.codonas.com/ 
Address: Beach Blvd.
Contact details: +44 122 459 5910
Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Thursday – 10 AM to 11 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 10 AM to 12 AM

Cost: ££ (For complete prices, click here)

If you’re in Aberdeen and looking for a fun way to spend the evening, definitely consider hitting up Codona’s Amusement Park for a round of mini-golf. Their course is super quirky and has all kinds of fun obstacles that keep things interesting.

Plus, if you want to make a whole night of it, there’s more to explore, like their arcade games, bumper cars, and even a haunted house. So, it’s not just mini-golf; it’s a whole adventure waiting for you.

Snack bars are also available if you get hungry, offering a range of quick bites to keep you fueled up. By the way, Codona’s is located right near the beach, so after your round of mini-golf, you’re just a short walk away from the sand and sea.

Pro tip: 

Codona’s offers different packages that cover multiple activities, which can save you a bit of money if you’re planning to do more than just mini-golf.

Savour Italian cuisine at Da Vinci Italian Restaurant

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Website: https://davincirestaurant.co.uk/ 
Address: 1 Alford Ln.
Contact details: +44 122 459 1810
Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday to Friday – 5 PM to 10:30 PM
  • Saturday – 12 PM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 10:30 PM
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 3 PM, 5 PM to 10 PM

Cost: £££

Da Vinci Italian Restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and risotto, among other dishes. The menu is extensive, so you’re bound to find something that hits the spot whether you’re a meat eater or a vegetarian.

Their wine list is quite impressive too, and it’s always a good idea to ask the staff for a pairing suggestion. They know their stuff and are more than happy to help make your meal even better.

Moreover, the portions are generous, so you might not have room for dessert, but if you do, their tiramisu is outstanding.

Pro tip: 

If you’re planning to go on a weekend, it might be smart to make a reservation as this place can get busy, especially during peak dining hours.

Don’t miss the specials on the menu; they’re usually seasonal and offer something a bit different from the regular.

Have a beach walk at night along the Aberdeen Beachfront

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Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/aberdeen-beach-p1430651 
Address: Esplanade
Contact details: +44 122 428 8828
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: Free

If you want to wind down after a busy day or a night out, taking a beach walk along the Aberdeen Beachfront is as good as it gets. You’ll find that it’s quite a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, making it a great place to people-watch too, if that’s your thing.

You can start your walk from either end of the beach and take in different sights along the way. There are various points of interest, like the historic Footdee village with its quirky cottages, and plenty of benches along the path if you want to take a break.

The beachfront also has some restaurants and cafes if you need to grab a bite or a warm drink during your walk. Streetlights ensure that the path is well lit, so it’s safe for evening strolls.

Pro tip: 

If you’re into photography, don’t forget your camera because the beachfront offers some stunning photo ops, especially around dusk or dawn.

You might want to grab a hot drink from one of the beachfront cafes before your walk; it’ll keep your hands warm and make the stroll even more enjoyable.

Enjoy cocktails and arcade games at 3MadHatters

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Website: http://www.3madhatters.co.uk/ 
Address: 56 Justice Mill Ln.
Contact details: +44 122 459 6391
Operating hours: 

  • Friday – 6 PM to 3 AM
  • Saturday – 4 PM to 3 AM

Cost: ££

For a more lively evening, you can’t go wrong with 3MadHatters. This spot is a fantastic blend of a bar and arcade, offering a fun, nostalgic throwback while serving up some great cocktails.

Think neon lights, vintage games, and a menu that features classic drinks alongside modern creations. Whether you’re a pinball wizard or just love a good game of Pac-Man, you’ll find plenty of ways to entertain yourself here.

The drink menu is varied, featuring everything from craft beers to intricate cocktails. It’s also a good idea to try their themed cocktails, which are often inspired by popular arcade games.

Pro tip: 

They often host game tournaments and special nights, so keep an eye out for those events. They can turn an ordinary night into something pretty memorable.

Also, make sure to bring some cash or coins. While many of the games take cards, some of the older machines don’t, and you don’t want to miss out.

Sing your heart out at McNasty’s lively karaoke nights

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Website: http://www.mcnastys.co.uk/ 
Address: 37 Summer St.
Contact details: +44 122 462 5599
Operating hours: 

  • Sunday to Thursday – 12 PM to 12 AM
  • Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 2 AM

Cost: £

If belting out your favourite tunes in front of an audience sounds like fun, you’ve got to check out McNasty’s. Known for its lively karaoke nights, this place is a hit with both locals and visitors.

The song list is extensive, featuring everything from old classics to current hits, so you’ll always find something you want to sing. The crowd here is typically very supportive, making it a great place for both seasoned karaoke veterans and nervous first-timers.

And if you’re just there to watch, it’s equally entertaining. Just grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the show, because there are some seriously talented people that take the stage.

Pro tip: 

You’ll want to arrive a bit early to get your name on the list because the place fills up fast. It’s a popular spot, and you wouldn’t want to miss your chance to shine.

McNasty’s also hosts live music every Friday and Saturday, so don’t forget to check that out, too.

Taste Scottish whiskies at CASC Bar

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Website: https://www.cascnation.com/ 
Address: 7 Stirling St.
Contact details: +44 122 421 2373
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 1 AM
Cost: ££

CASC Bar is your go-to if you’re a fan of Scottish whiskies. They basically have an entire library of whiskies from all over Scotland, like single malts, blends, and exclusive limited editions you might not even have heard of.

Plus, they’ve got staff who know their stuff, so don’t be shy to ask for recommendations. If you’re into cigars, they’ve got a humidor packed with choices.

Besides the whiskies, you should know they also have a wide range of craft beers and other spirits. While they focus on drinks, they do have some nibbles to keep you going, so you’re not drinking on an empty stomach.

Pro tip: 

If you plan to try several whiskies, go for their whisky flights. It’s a fun way to sample different styles without going overboard.

Also, make sure to explore their on-site shop. It’s not just stocked with an impressive selection of whiskies, but also offers a variety of merchandise, cigars, beer, and other spirits .

Enjoy and take a photo of Aberdeen Harbour after dark

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Website: http://www.aberdeen-harbour.co.uk/ 
Address: N. Pier
Contact details: +44 122 459 7000
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Cost: Free entry

Aberdeen Harbour got this whole other vibe at night. There’s plenty to see and do, whether you’re a solo traveller, on a romantic date, or just hanging out with friends.

You can start by taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront since you’ll find some great spots to just relax and soak it all in. For photography, of course, you can snag that perfect shot here anytime, especially if you’re into long-exposure photography.

There’s also a selection of cosy cafes and pubs nearby. So if you’re feeling peckish or just want to grab a drink, you’ve got some great options without having to wander too far. 

Pro tip: 

The harbour can get a bit chilly at night, so bring a warm jacket. Also, some pubs by the harbour host local live music, so keep your ears open for that!

Visit the Crathes Castle for spooky ghost tales

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Website: http://www.nts.org.uk/property/crathes-castle-garden-and-estate/ 
Address: Crathes, Banchory
Contact details: +44 133 084 4525
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Cost: 

  • Adult – £16
  • Family – £36.50
  • One Adult Family – £31.50
  • Concession – £12.50
  • Young Scot – £1
  • Garden Token (Adult) – £7
  • Wild Wood Adventure Play (Child) – £4
  • Ages under 4 – Free

For something a bit different, head out to Crathes Castle for some ghostly fun. This place is packed with history and, let’s be real, a few creepy ghost stories.

You can take a guided tour where they’ll fill you in on the castle’s past, the royal connections, and some of the spooky legends. From the Green Lady to mysterious sounds, it’s the perfect blend of history and hair-raising tales.

During the night tours, guides often share stories you won’t hear during the daytime visits. Besides the ghost stories, there’s also the chance to learn about the artefacts and the fascinating lives of the people who lived there.

Pro tip: 

Remember to dress warmly, especially if you’re going in the colder months, as the castle can get pretty chilly at night. Also, it’s worth booking your tour in advance since they can fill up quickly, especially around Halloween.

Try your luck with casino games at Merkur Casino – Aberdeen

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Website: https://merkurcasinoaberdeen.com/ 
Address: 61-63 Summer St.
Contact details: +44 122 464 5273
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 6 PM to 5 AM
  • Friday to Sunday – 12 AM to 6 AM, 2 PM to 12 AM

Cost: £££

Merkur Casino in Aberdeen offers a variety of casino games, from slot machines to table games like blackjack and roulette. They’ve got options for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned player or a complete beginner.

Plus, they offer training sessions for newcomers to help you get the hang of things. Beyond the games, they also provide a great selection of drinks and snacks to keep you fueled while you play.

And hey, even if you don’t win big, you’re guaranteed a good time with friends and fellow gamers.

Pro tip: 

Remember to set yourself a budget before you go in and stick to it. Casinos can be super fun, but it’s easy to get carried away.

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