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Top 12 Hidden Gems in Aberdeen We’re Sure You’ll Love!
You know that feeling when you accidentally stumble upon an incredible spot and think, “Why haven’t I found this place before?!” Well, it happened to me just last month in Aberdeen.
A wrong turn on my way to meet a friend landed me in a very charming garden, where I just sat and relaxed (of course, we had a change of plans and had a picnic instead). It just goes to show that some of the best parts of Aberdeen are hidden in plain sight!
So, let me take you on a fun little journey through Aberdeen’s hidden gems that you absolutely need to visit. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover your city or a visitor eager for something off the beaten path, you better follow along!
Footdee
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Footdee, or “Fittie,” as locals call it, is Aberdeen’s hidden fishing village that’s tucked away at the east end of the harbour. What’s amazing is how the place has managed to keep its old-world charm despite being so close to the modern city.
You’ll find colourful, well-kept gardens filled with quirky ornaments and little sheds that give you a real taste of traditional Scottish life. Art enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the murals and pieces of community art peppered around the village.
And guess what? The village is also home to one of the oldest Fisher Squares in Aberdeen, where you can see unique, historic storage buildings used by fishermen in the past.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the quirky photo opportunities every corner of this village offers—those classic wooden houses with their ship-inspired decor are totally Instagram-worthy.
Grab a picnic from a local deli and enjoy it on the nearby beach. It’s such a serene spot, and you might even catch some local fishermen going about their day.
Seaton Park
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Website: https://aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/environment/parks/seaton-park
Address: Don St, Old Aberdeen
Contact details: +44 300 020 0292
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Seaton Park in Aberdeen is a massive green space that offers a great range of activities for all ages. It’s tucked along the famous River Don, making it an ideal spot for a day out with the family or a relaxing solo trip.
Kids will absolutely love the large playground, which is one of the best in the area. For the more adventurous, there are trails leading through wooded areas and open fields alike, perfect for jogging, cycling, or even a gentle hike.
The Walled Garden in Seaton Park is a particularly stunning feature, filled with vibrant flowers and serene spots to sit and reflect. There’s also a rose garden that smells absolutely divine in the summer months.
Pro tip:
The park gets lively in the afternoon, especially on weekends, so if you’re looking for a more serene experience, go earlier in the day. There’s also ample parking, but it can fill up quickly, so plan accordingly.
Girdleness Lighthouse
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If you’re into striking views and a bit of history, you must visit Girdleness Lighthouse. Built in the 1830s by renowned engineer Robert Stevenson, it’s not only significant for its historical value but also offers impressive coastal views.
The walk up to the lighthouse is serene and scenic, with expansive ocean views that are perfect for a relaxed stroll or a bit of reflective time. The lighthouse is automated now, but you can still feel the echoes of the past as you stand near it.
For those who enjoy a bit of local lore, Girdleness is said to be haunted by a ghostly figure, making it that much more intriguing. Moreover, the area around Girdleness is dotted with fascinating sights to check out.
Pro tip:
One important thing to note is that there’s no visitor centre here, so read up a bit on the history before you go.
Also, bring some binoculars since the surrounding area is great for spotting marine life, from dolphins to various seabirds.
Nuart Aberdeen
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Website: https://2024.nuartaberdeen.co.uk/
Address: Various location
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- N/A
Nuart Aberdeen is your go-to spot if you’re a fan of street art. This annual mural festival transforms the city into one giant open-air gallery.
Artists from all over the world come to create murals that are all about making bold statements. You could easily spend hours wandering through the city centre, spotting enormous murals on the sides of buildings, under bridges, and in alleyways.
The great thing is that these murals are regularly updated, so there’s always something new to see. Some notable spots to keep an eye out for include Union Row, Palmerston Road, and the Green, where the largest concentrations of art can be found.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the guided tours available during the festival; they provide insightful backgrounds and stories behind each artwork.
Remember to bring a map of the mural locations (available online) so you don’t miss any of the hidden gems scattered around the city. And wear comfortable shoes—you’re in for quite the walking tour!
Brig o’Balgownie
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Brig o’Balgownie is an ancient, stunning mediaeval bridge dating back to the 13th century and steeped in history. Spanning the River Don, its single gothic arch and robust construction make it a rudimentary but elegant piece of history you can’t miss.
Walking across it feels like a portal back to those times when tradesmen and travellers relied on such bridges. If you’re into nooks and crannies and ancient vibes, you’ll dig the Brig o’Balgownie.
You’ll want to enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank while you’re there. It’s especially mesmerising in autumn, when the trees are ablaze with colour.
Pro tip:
The spot is also perfect for a quiet afternoon picnic. Additionally, there are paths leading through serene wooded areas, so don’t forget your walking shoes.
Early morning visits are the best if you want to avoid crowds and get some fantastic photos with natural light. Plus, it’s a great way to start your day with a bit of tranquillity.
Torry Battery
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Website: https://www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk/aberdeen/torrybattery/index.html
Address: Greyhope Road.
Contact details: +44 122 462 4824
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Originally built in 1860 to defend the city from seaborne attacks, Torry Battery now offers a different kind of enjoyment. Wandering around the ruins is a fascinating experience where you’ll get killer views over Aberdeen Harbour.
You can stroll along the cliff paths, which offer sublime coastal views and are prime spots for watching ships coming in and out of the harbour.
Additionally, you can explore the remnants of the military installation, where you might even spot some unique bird species along the way.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to take a pair of good walking shoes since the terrain can be a little uneven. Don’t forget to bring a jacket—it gets pretty windy up there by the cliffs!
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
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Website: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/botanic-garden/
Address: St Machar Dr.
Contact details: +44 122 427 2704
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Sunday – 11 AM to 4 PM
For something a bit more tranquil, the Cruickshank Botanic Garden is a must-see. You’ll find it on the grounds of the University of Aberdeen, and it’s brimming with over 2,500 different plant species.
This place is perfect if you want to escape the hubbub of the city for a while. The glasshouses here are a highlight, showcasing exotic plants that you wouldn’t normally see in the UK.
Meandering through the various themed sections, you’ll come across everything from rock gardens to beautiful herbaceous borders. If you’re a plant enthusiast or just someone who loves chilling in peaceful, green spaces, this place is a slice of paradise.
Pro tip:
Make sure you bring your camera because at every corner you turn, there’s some unique, colourful flora that’s begging for a photo-op.
Don’t forget to check the University of Aberdeen’s event calendar. Sometimes they hold garden tours and workshops, which can add a whole new layer to your visit.
Johnston Gardens
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Address: Viewfield Rd.
Contact details: +44 122 434 6421
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8am until 1 hour before dusk
Johnston Gardens is a compact yet gorgeous retreat from city life, right in the heart of Aberdeen. With its charming waterfalls, rustic bridges, and vibrant flowers, it’s a haven for anyone needing a bit of peace and quiet.
Plus, there’s a duck pond that’s a hit with kids and adults alike. Just walking through the well-maintained paths, you’ll find a myriad of plant species, each perfectly labelled for curious minds.
Moreover, the garden’s layout is perfect for leisurely strolls, and its tranquil ambiance makes it a popular spot for wedding photos. During spring and summer, the blooms are at their best, making it an ideal time for a visit.
Pro tip:
Make sure you bring a small picnic or a thermos of coffee. There are plenty of benches where you can sit, relax, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
St. Machar’s Cathedral
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Website: http://www.stmachar.com/memorial.htm
Address: The Chanonry, Old Aberdeen
Contact details: +44 122 448 5988
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
St. Machar’s, with origins dating back to the 12th century, boasts stunning mediaeval architecture. You can wander around its majestic stone structure and check out the unique heraldic ceiling with its intricate wooden carvings—seriously, don’t miss that.
The stained glass windows are also a hit; they’re not just eye-catching but tell pieces of the city’s history through richly coloured scenes. Inside, you’ll find a serene and contemplative vibe, great for anyone wanting a peaceful moment or two.
While outside, its graveyard is fascinating too, containing tombstones and monuments that date back centuries. Combined with its riverside location, it’s a place where you can spend a good chunk of your day soaking up history.
Pro tip:
Time your visit around a service or an organ recital; these add an extra layer of experience to your visit. Check their schedule online before you go.
Old Aberdeen
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Home to the University of Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen is full of beautiful, historic buildings like King’s College Chapel with its iconic crown tower. The cobbled streets and ancient architecture give the whole place a unique charm that’s hard to find elsewhere.
Wandering around, you’ll stumble upon hidden gems like the Powis Gates and the Chanonry. You can also find the quaint little Mercat Cross and Old Town House, where you’ll get a real sense of Aberdeen’s ancient past.
Moreover, St. Machar’s Cathedral, as mentioned before, is just around the corner, making Old Aberdeen a compact but substance-filled place to explore.
Pro tip:
Make sure you swing by King’s Museum; it usually has some pretty cool rotating exhibitions and adds to the whole cultural experience of Old Aberdeen.
Bullers of Buchan
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Website: https://www.visitabdn.com/listing/bullers-of-buchan
Address: A975, Peterhead
Contact details: N/A
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Bullers of Buchan offers some seriously jaw-dropping coastal scenery. Located about 25 miles north of Aberdeen, this sea cave and collapsed sea arch are quite a spectacle.
The rock formations here are jaw-dropping, and you’ll often see a variety of seabirds, including puffins, during the breeding season. A visit here involves a bit of hiking, so it’s perfect for those who love outdoor activities mixed with a little thrill.
Just make sure you bring a good pair of walking shoes and perhaps a windbreaker, as it can get quite breezy. And watch your step and stay on the established paths, as the cliffs can be quite steep.
Pro tip:
Make sure you wear sturdy walking boots and be extra cautious if you’re visiting with kids—there’s no safety rails near the edges, so keep a close eye on them.
Cove Bay Harbour
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Website: https://cove-bay.com/cove-bay/
Address: 12 Colsea Rd, Cove Bay
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Cove Bay Harbour is a gem hiding just on the outskirts of Aberdeen. This tiny, sheltered harbour is perfect for a peaceful escape and has a rich history as a traditional fishing village.
When you visit, you’ll find charming old cottages, and the sight of small boats bobbing on the water is just idyllic. If you’re into history, there are old anti-submarine defences from World War II that you can still see.
Cove Bay Harbor is also a popular spot for kayak enthusiasts and amateur anglers, so bring along your fishing gear if that’s your thing.
Pro tip:
There’s a hidden sea cave you can explore at low tide. Make sure you check tide times before venturing in—getting trapped by the rising tide would be quite an adventure, but probably not the one you’re looking for.
