Categories > Guides and Tips

things-to-do-with-friends-aberdeen-banner

Top 15 Wacky & Wonderful Things to Do with Friends in Aberdeen

So, there was this one time my friends got bored, so we went all out—I’m talking about Googling “fun stuff to do in Aberdeen”. We ended up having a memorable weekend, since some activities turned into a “kind-of-chaos” situation!

Honestly, we had so much fun with all the arcade stuff and the cocktail-making class (this is where the chaos comes in, so drink moderately!). And now that you’re looking for something to do with your pals, you’re in luck!

I’ve made a list of the—no-fail—best things to do with your friends in Aberdeen that’ll surely be so much fun (but, please, have someone to drive you home after the alcohol stuff!). So read on!

Ride thrilling attractions at Codona’s Amusement Park

Media credit: codonas_aberdeen

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 and your friends are adrenaline junkies, Codona’s Amusement Park is your go-to spot in Aberdeen. You’ve got everything from roller coasters to bumper cars, making it impossible not to have a blast.

Let’s not forget the adventure golf—it’s competitive, fun, and trust me, someone’s bound to end up in the bushes trying to find their golf ball! Now, if you guys feel a bit peckish, there’s a bunch of food stalls to satisfy your cravings.

You can grab some classic amusement park treats like hot dogs, candy floss, and ice cream. Then, you can end your day with a bit of arcade madness, challenging your mates to air hockey or racing games.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you go for the wristband option; it’s way more cost-effective if you’re planning to hit multiple rides. Also, keep an eye on their website for any special offers or discounts!

Solve puzzles at The Locked Door Escape Games

Media credit: thelockeddooruk

Website: http://thelockeddoor.co.uk/ 
Address: 171 Hardgate
Contact details: +44 749 866 0834
Operating hours: 

  • Monday, Thursday to Saturday – 10 AM to 8 PM
  • Wednesday – 4 PM to 8 PM
  • Sunday – 11:30 AM to 6 PM

Cost: 

  • 2 players – £22 each
  • 3 players – £18 each
  • 4 players – £16 each
  • 5 players – £14 each
  • 6 players – £13 each

If your gang loves playing detective, you’ve got to check out The Locked Door Escape Games. So, the gist is, you and your friends get locked in a themed room and have an hour to solve puzzles and clues to break out.

It’s like being in a real-life detective movie, and it’s a serious brain teaser. They’ve got different themed rooms, each with its own unique storyline and puzzles, ranging from detective missions to supernatural mysteries.

The whole experience is a rollercoaster of emotions—you’ll go from feeling like Sherlock Holmes to pure panic in seconds. No spoilers, but some puzzles are tricky as heck, so make sure to bring your A-game.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to book in advance, especially on weekends, as this place can get pretty popular. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for hints if you’re stuck; it’s better to move forward than be completely baffled.

Show your singing skills with karaoke at 3MadHatters

Media credit: 3madhatters

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: 
Karaoke:

  • 1 hour – £20
  • 2 hours – £40
  • 3 hours – £60
  • 4 hours – £80

3MadHatters is the place to be. This quirky spot is perfect for anyone who loves karaoke; they’ve got an extensive song list that pretty much covers every genre you can think of.

You and your buddies can reserve a private room if you want to avoid singing in front of total strangers. Aside from karaoke, you and your friends can also try your hands at their selection of arcades and even a massive ball pit!

As for food, they serve everything from hearty café classics to some unique, mouth-watering dishes. For drinks, they offer a fantastic selection of cocktails, mocktails, and some of the finest brews Aberdeen has to offer.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you book your karaoke room ahead of time, as this place fills up fast, and you don’t want to miss out on the fun! Plus, they sometimes offer discounts for early bookings or for larger groups.

Enjoy axe-throwing fun at Hatchet Harry’s Axe Throwing Aberdeen

Media credit: hatchet_harrys_aberdeen

Website: https://aberdeen.hatchetharrys.co.uk/ 
Address: Arch 22 S College St.
Operating hours: 

  • Monday – 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM
  • Tuesday to Friday – 4:30 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Saturday – 11 AM to 9 PM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM

Cost: 60-minute throw – £26.50

Hatchet Harry’s Axe Throwing is where you and your friends get to channel your inner lumberjack and hurl axes at wooden targets. It’s surprisingly therapeutic and admittedly quite the workout.

The staff here is great at teaching you the basics and making sure no one loses a toe in the process. You’ll be hitting bullseyes (or at least trying to) in no time.

They even do competitions and leagues if you really want to take your axe-throwing game to the next level. The vibe is relaxed, and it’s a fantastic way to blow off some steam.

Pro tip: 

Make sure to wear closed-toe shoes for safety reasons. Oh, and maybe skip the pre-axe-throwing pints, yeah?

Laugh out loud at Breakneck Comedy shows

Media credit: breakneckcomedy

Website: https://www.breakneckcomedy.co.uk/ 
Address: 28 King St.
Contact details: +44 770 230 5532
Operating hours: Friday and Saturday – 7 PM to 10 PM
Cost: ££

Honestly, who doesn’t love a good comedy show? Breakneck Comedy is known for bringing in top-notch comedians, so you’re in for a treat.

Whether it’s local talent or well-known acts passing through, the lineup is always guaranteed to make you laugh till your sides hurt.

You and your friends can grab a few drinks, sit back, and enjoy some hilarious stand-up. It’s an excellent way to unwind and end the night on a high note.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to get your tickets early, especially for the bigger names where the place can fill up fast. Also, sit toward the front if you’re up for some interactive fun—just be prepared; you might end up part of the show!

Create cocktails at Orchid Cocktail’s mixing class

Media credit: orchidcocktails

Website: https://orchidcocktails.com/ 
Address: 51 Langstane Pl.
Operating hours: 

  • Wednesday to Friday, Sunday – 6 PM to 2 AM
  • Saturday – 6 PM to 3 AM

Cost: £££

If you and your friends are looking to shake things up, the Orchid Cocktail mixing class is a must-try. You get hands-on with mixing and shaking up your own cocktails under the guidance of expert mixologists.

They cover everything from the basics of mixology to making some of the fanciest cocktails you’ve ever seen. They even let you in on some secret recipes and popular drinks that you can whip up at home.

It’s just a fun and interactive way to spend a couple of hours with friends, and, of course, you get to taste everything you make. Orchid also boasts an impressive menu for tasting as well as gin tasting, which both are worth trying.

Pro tip: 

Be on the lookout for their seasonal classes, which feature special themes and unique ingredients you won’t find anywhere else.

Also, be sure to book your class in advance, as spots can fill up fast, especially on weekends and during holidays.

Tee off at the historic Royal Aberdeen Golf Club

Media credit: linksgolfer_de

Website: http://www.royalaberdeengolf.com/ 
Address: Links Rd., Bridge of Don
Contact details: +44 122 470 2571
Operating hours: 

  • Monday and Tuesday, Friday – 8:30 AM to 8 PM
  • Wednesday and Thursday – 8 AM to 7:30 PM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 8 AM to 6 PM

Cost: (Green fees are available here)

If golf is your game, you can’t miss the chance to tee off at the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, which has been around since 1780. Each course’s natural links layout incorporates the rugged coastal terrain, which makes for an exhilarating experience.

Even though it’s steeped in tradition, the club is accessible and welcoming, so it’s a great place to spend an afternoon. The clubhouse is well-appointed too, with plenty of amenities and a lovely place to relax after your round.

One cool feature to keep an eye out for is their new practice facilities, which are state-of-the-art. They’ve really thought about everything a golfer might need, from a challenging course to areas where you can polish up your skills.

Pro tip: 

Make your tee time reservations early, particularly if you’re planning a weekend visit, as this world-renowned club can get busy.

Watch the latest films at Vue Cinema Aberdeen

Media credit: lady_lisa17

Website: https://www.myvue.com/cinema/aberdeen/whats-on 
Address: Lighthouse Cinema
Contact details: +44 345 308 4620
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 12 AM
  • Saturday and Sunday – 9 AM to 12 AM

Cost: ££

Vue Cinema’s high-tech screening rooms come equipped with the latest digital projection and sound system. Of course, this means top-notch picture and sound quality for an immersive viewing experience.

They offer a wide range of films, from the latest Hollywood hits to indie flicks and special screenings of classic films. Plus, they have comfy recliner seats that make watching a movie feel like an absolute treat.

It’s also worth noting that they often have special events like movie marathons, themed nights, and even some live-streamed concerts or sports events. Whatever your taste in entertainment, you’ll likely find something interesting happening here.

Pro tip: 

Don’t forget to check out their website or app for discounts and special ticket packages, like their “all-you-can-watch” deals during certain months.

Relax with drinks and games at Holburn Bar pub

Media credit: holburnbar_aberdeen

Website: https://www.belhaven.co.uk/pubs/aberdeenshire/holburn-bar 
Address: 225 Holburn St.
Contact details: +44 122 421 1941
Operating hours: 

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

Cost: £££

Holburn Bar is the perfect spot to unwind with friends over a few drinks and some games. They have a great selection of beers, ciders, and spirits that’ll cater to everyone’s preferences.

The food menu is also on point, offering delicious pub grub that goes perfectly with your drinks. Think burgers, nachos, wings, tacos, fish and chips—you know, all the good stuff.

There’s also a selection of games and activities that you and your friends can enjoy. From pool and darts to quiz nights, there’s always something happening that adds an extra layer of fun to the evening.

Pro tip: 

Keep an eye out for their themed nights and special events, which can vary from music nights to sporting events shown on big screens.

Also, you’ll want to try to get there early on quiz nights or during big sports events, as it can get packed quickly.

Shop till you drop at Union Square Shopping Centre

Media credit: unionsquareaberdeen

Website: https://www.unionsquareaberdeen.com/ 
Address: Guild St.
Contact details: +44 122 425 4300
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM

Cost: ££

Union Square Shopping Centre is the ultimate destination in Aberdeen for a full day of shopping and more. It’s packed with major high-street retailers, unique boutiques, and department stores, so you can find everything you need in one place.

Add to that the range of dining options, from fast food to sit-down restaurants, and it becomes easy to spend the whole day there. Besides shopping and dining, they also have other fun spots like a cinema and various events throughout the year.

It’s also one of the best places to pick up gifts and souvenirs if you’re visiting Aberdeen. Plus, the centre has some fantastic facilities to make your visit more comfortable, like plentiful parking and family-friendly restrooms.

Pro tip: 

Make sure you download the Union Square app to keep up with the latest deals and events and to get alerts on parking availability. It really makes planning your visit a breeze.

Media credit: abdnartmuseums

Website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/aberdeen-art-gallery 
Address: Art Gallery, Schoolhill
Contact details: +44 300 020 0293
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Saturday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM

Cost: Free entry

Aberdeen Art Gallery is one of those places where you could easily spend a whole day without getting bored. There’s a killer range of collections here, from historic to contemporary.

Sculptures, paintings, ceramics—you name it, they have it. And the best part is that it’s all within walking distance from most of the city’s hotspots.

One of the must-sees includes works by famed artists like Monet and Damien Hirst. One more thing: they’ve got a café, which is a perfect spot to sit, chat, and enjoy the creative vibe.

Pro tip: 

Admission is free, but check their website for any special exhibitions or events that might require a ticket. Also, weekdays are less crowded, so you can enjoy the art without bumping into too many people.

Play bowling at Lane7 Aberdeen

Media credit: lane7_

Website: https://lane7.com/venue/aberdeen/ 
Address: 1 Shiprow
Contact details: +44 122 459 6999
Operating hours: 

  • Monday to Thursday – 4 PM to 11 PM
  • Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM

Cost: ££

Lane7 in Aberdeen offers state-of-the-art bowling lanes, a fantastic bar, and even options for food that go beyond the usual drab bowling alley fare. What makes Lane7 super cool are the extra activities you can do.

Besides bowling, they have ping pong, pool tables, and even mini-golf. So if you’re someone who gets easily bored with just one activity, this place has got you covered.

They also host special nights, such as karaoke and themed parties, which are always a hit. And for those who are competitive, the scoring system is quite high-tech, making it all the more fun.

Pro tip: 

If you’re planning a big night out, make sure to check out their package deals. You can often get a combination of activities, food, and drinks for a pretty sweet price.

Take a whisky tour at City of Aberdeen Distillery

Media credit: cityofaberdeendistillery

Website: https://cityofaberdeendistillery.co.uk/ 
Address: Arch 10 Palmerston Rd.
Contact details: +44 122 458 9645
Operating hours: 

  • Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday – 12 PM to 5:30 PM
  • Thursday – 12 PM to 6:30 PM
  • Friday – 12 PM to 5 PM

Cost: ££ (Prices are available upon booking)

Alright, if you and your pals are into whisky, the City of Aberdeen Distillery is an absolute must-visit. Here, you’ll get to see the entire distillation process from start to finish and even get to sample some top-quality whiskies.

One of the coolest things you can do here is the ‘Blend Your Own Whisky’ experience. You’re given different single malts, grain whiskies, and a bunch of other ingredients to create something uniquely yours.

Trust me, it’s a fantastic experience to team up with friends and see who can come up with the best blend. The onsite bar also serves a range of local gins and other spirits if whisky isn’t everyone’s thing.

Pro tip: 

Remember to book your tour in advance, especially during peak times like weekends. They have a limited number of spots, and it can fill up quickly.

Also, they offer designated driver discounts, so everyone can enjoy responsibly.

Savour delicious meals at the Café Bohème

Media credit: cafe_boheme_aberdeen

Website: http://cafebohemerestaurant.co.uk/ 
Address: 23 Windmill Brae
Contact details: +44 122 421 0677
Operating hours: 

  • Tuesday – 5 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Wednesday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM

Cost: £££

Café Bohème is a French bistro that brings a little slice of Paris to Aberdeen with its top-notch cuisine and exceptional service. Seriously, the food here is beyond delicious.

Whether you’re into seafood, steak, or vegetarian dishes, they’ve got you covered. Café Bohème specialises in classics like sea bass, salads, Shetland mussels, sea trout, and some of the best crème brûlée you’ll ever taste.

They also have a carefully curated wine list, so you can find the perfect pairing for your meal. Plus, they do an incredible three-course set menu, which makes it a lot more affordable than you’d think for such high-quality food.

Pro tip: 

Reservations are a good idea, especially for dinner on weekends. If you’re celebrating something special, let them know in advance—they sometimes throw in a little extra treat.

Go camping at Templars’ Park Scout Campsite

Media credit: inveruriewildcatesu

Website: http://www.templarspark.org.uk/ 
Address: Kirkton of Maryculter
Contact details: [email protected] 
Cost: 

  • Overnight – £3.50 per person
  • Day visit (until 5 PM) – £1 per person
  • Evening visit (5 PM to 10 PM) – £6 per person

Templars’ Park Scout Campsite is the perfect escape spot in Aberdeen for you and your crew. It’s got expansive grounds ideal for setting up tents, plenty of activities to keep you busy, and all the natural beauty you could ask for.

Plus, it’s just a short drive from the city, so you don’t have to travel far. There are a ton of activities you can do here: hiking, fishing, and even archery.

The campsite is well-maintained, and they have facilities for both traditional and modern campers, including shower blocks and BBQ pits. What’s more, there are some fantastic cycling paths if you’re more of a bike enthusiast.

Pro tip: 

It’s a popular site, so book your spot well in advance. If you’re new to camping, they also offer guided campouts, which are great for beginners.

Related topics