Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 12 Self-Guided Walks in Aberdeen That You Can Explore (Without Getting Lost!)
You know, I once tried to impress a friend with my “local knowledge” of Aberdeen. Long story short, we ended up getting hilariously lost and discovered an abandoned building instead (I swear, I know this was a music hall).
So, trust me when I say, knowing the best self-guided walks in Aberdeen can save you from both confusion and creative embarrassment. Lucky you, I’ll guide you through them!
These routes will not only help you avoid any unexpected closures but will also let you soak in the city’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture on your own schedule. Let’s get walking!
Old Aberdeen
Media credit: visitscotland
As you stroll through the cobbled streets of Old Aberdeen, you’ll instantly notice the ancient architectural gems that make this area so special. King’s College is a standout with its stunning spire and beautiful courtyard—definitely worth a few photos.
St. Machar’s Cathedral is another gem you’ll find on this walk. This impressive structure dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by a serene graveyard that’s perfect for a bit of peaceful reflection.
You’ll also pass by quaint university buildings and lovely green spaces, so take your time to really soak it all in. And here’s a cool little nugget: old streets like the Chanonry still retain a unique charm, with elegant houses and well-kept gardens.
Pro tip:
Keep your eyes open for a hidden garden or two—perfect spots to take a breather and just enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Old Aberdeen is also dotted with charming cafes, cosy bistros, and inviting pubs, so it’ll be easy for you to find a delightful spot to grab a bite.
Footdee Village
Media credit: thehikingscotch
Footdee, or “Fittie,” as the locals call it, feels like a little coastal fairy tale. These tiny, colourful cottages are something straight out of a postcard.
The sense of community here is palpable, with many homes featuring quirky decorations that tell personal stories. As you wander, be sure to check out the small fishermen’s huts and the beautifully maintained communal areas.
These spots give you a real sense of the village’s past as a tight-knit fishing community. Plus, the scenic views of the beachfront make it a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Pro tip:
The harbour area often has a few friendly seals popping up to say hello, so keep your eyes peeled for them.
Try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and get those picture-perfect shots of the cottages bathed in soft, natural light.
Union Street Aberdeen
Media credit: lisa.explores_scotland
Union Street is the beating heart of Aberdeen and is bustling with life and history. As you walk, you’ll pass by key landmarks like the Tolbooth Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the city’s past, including some spooky tales.
Keep walking and you’ll hit Marischal College, an architectural marvel that’s hard to miss. This grand granite building is a testament to Aberdeen’s nickname, the Granite City.
Don’t miss the variety of shops, cafes, and historic pubs lining the street, too. Each one offers a unique slice of Aberdeen life, so feel free to pop in and explore.
Pro tip:
Union Terrace Gardens, just off Union Street, is a lovely spot for a break. Grab a takeaway coffee and relax in this lush green space, especially if the weather is nice.
Seaton Park
Media credit: graceful_travel_blog
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
Cost: Free entry
Seaton Park is an oasis of tranquillity just a short distance from the city hustle. Start your walk through the park’s meticulously kept gardens and make your way toward the River Don.
The Riverside Path is a particular highlight, offering peaceful views and the chance to spot some local wildlife, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. One of the gems of this walk is the historic Brig o’ Balgownie.
This ancient bridge has been impressing folks for centuries with its elegant arc and picturesque setting. As you continue, you’ll find plenty of perfect picnic spots and benches where you can sit and watch the world go by.
Pro tip:
Try to visit during the spring or autumn months. The seasonal changes bring out the best in Seaton Park’s flora, creating stunning landscapes that are perfect for photography.
Cruickshank Botanic Gardens
Media credit: fcbgaberdeen
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
Cost: Free entry
Nestled within the University of Aberdeen campus, Cruickshank Botanic Gardens is perfect for a peaceful self-guided walk. The gardens boast an impressive collection of plants, trees, and shrubs, including some rare species you won’t easily find elsewhere.
It’s a fantastic mix of ornamental, woodland, and rock gardens, and it’s open year-round, so there’s always something in bloom no matter when you visit. Keep an eye out for the Herbaceous Border, which is particularly stunning in summer.
Another must-see is the Rock and Water Garden; it’s such a serene spot with small ponds and charming footbridges. And don’t miss the Arboretum, which is filled with mature trees and provides a cool, shaded walk, perfect for a hot day.
Pro tip:
Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, as there’s plenty to explore on foot!
Aberdeen Beach Promenade
Media credit: foodstoryscotland
Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/towns-villages/aberdeen-beach-p1430651
Contact details: +44 122 428 8828
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
For a refreshing coastal experience, Aberdeen’s Beach Promenade is a popular walking route. This self-guided walk lets you enjoy the seaside views and visit nearby attractions like Codona’s Amusement Park and Footdee Village.
The promenade stretches for miles alongside the North Sea, offering a mix of natural beauty and captivating man-made attractions. Further along the promenade, you’ll find cafes and ice cream stands, perfect for a snack break.
The wide, open spaces of the beach are ideal for walking or just sitting down to watch the waves roll in. Keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife too; dolphins are a common sight near the harbour.
Pro tip:
Make sure you visit early in the morning or around sunset for quieter paths and stunning views. And make sure to check out the nearby King’s Links Golf Course if you’re a golf enthusiast.
Old Deeside Railway Line
If you’re a fan of combining history with nature, the Old Deeside Railway Line is your go-to walking route. The path follows the course of an old railway line, starting at Duthie Park and stretching all the way to Peterculter.
It’s a pretty flat, well-maintained path, so it’s accessible for walkers of all abilities, whether you’re out for a stroll or a brisk power walk. You can kick off your walk at Duthie Park, where you can explore the David Welch Winter Gardens before hitting the trail.
The path itself is a delightful mix of rural and urban scenery. And if you’re up for a slightly longer walk, continue all the way to Peterculter, where the path ends near the historic Culter Railway Station.
Pro tip:
You can opt to take a detour to visit Allan Park or the banks of the River Dee for a more varied walking experience. Also, if you’re biking instead of walking, this trail is perfect and quite popular among cyclists.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Media credit: abdnartmuseums
Website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/AAGM/plan-your-visit/aberdeen-maritime-museum
Address: Shiprow
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 Maritime Museum is famous for diving deep into the city’s relationship with the North Sea, particularly with the oil and gas industry. Inside, you’ll find cool exhibits featuring intricate ship models, real-life oil rigs, and interactive displays.
From there, you can follow the Aberdeen Maritime Trail, a route that takes you through key maritime sites around the city. Begin at Shiprow, where the museum is located, then head towards Aberdeen Harbour.
The bustling harbour is still active and provides a firsthand look at the industry that has shaped Aberdeen for centuries. Then you can continue your walk to Torry Battery, which offers panoramic views of the city and the sea.
Pro tip:
The trail is peppered with numerous cafes where you can stop for a quick cup of coffee and some rest.
Also, wear comfortable shoes, as the walk includes a mix of paved and unpaved paths.
Johnston Gardens
Media credit: hiex_aberdeencity
Address: Viewfield Rd.
Contact details: +44 122 434 6421
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8am until 1 hour before dusk
Cost: Free entry
Johnston Gardens is one of those little hidden treasures you just have to see, and it’s a beautifully serene spot that’s perfect for a self-guided walk. The winding paths make it easy to explore at your own pace, and there’s always something new to catch your eye.
The gardens are peppered with vibrant flower beds, little bridges over charming streams, and all sorts of ducks and birds making their homes here. Don’t rush; take your time to soak it all in and maybe snap some photos of the stunning landscapes.
As you wander through, you’ll notice several small but significant features, like the quaint ponds and the rustic stone paths that guide you around. If you’re into photography, this place is a dream.
Pro tip:
It’s better to visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions if you’re into capturing photos. Plus, it’s less crowded then, giving you the space to explore at leisure.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
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 a delightful spot for those who love a good stroll through history and creativity. As you walk around, you’ll find a wide range of artwork, from classical pieces to contemporary designs.
Each artwork has its own story, and there’s always something intriguing to learn or ponder over. While going through, make sure to check out the impressive collections of paintings, sculptures, and decorative art.
They have some works from renowned artists and some local talents too, which gives you a true sense of the region’s artistic flair. The galleries are well organised, so even on a self-guided tour, you won’t feel lost or overwhelmed.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the top-floor gallery; the rooftop terrace offers a lovely view of the city.
Also, it’s better to check if there are any temporary exhibitions on. They often have some fascinating ones, and it’s a great way to see something new and exciting.
Marischal College
Media credit: ourscottishlife_
Website: http://www.abdn.ac.uk/about/campus/marischal-college-394.php
Address: Broad St.
Contact details: +44 300 020 0292
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Cost: Free to roam
Strolling past Marischal College, you can’t help but admire its imposing and grand facade. It’s a stunning piece of architecture and impossible to miss when you’re in Aberdeen.
While the building itself hosts the city council, the exterior is what draws visitors for a good walk around. Take a leisurely walk around, and you’ll soon appreciate why it’s one of the city’s iconic landmarks.
As you circle the college, take note of the intricate details and the sheer scale of it—it’s one of the largest granite buildings in the world, after all. There’s also a nearby statue of Robert the Bruce, which is worth checking out.
Pro tip:
Opt to visit during the weekdays to possibly catch some city council activities or events that might be happening in the vicinity. It adds an interesting element to your walk and gives a glimpse into the local civic atmosphere.
Aberdeen Science Museum
Media credit: abdnsciencecentre
Website: http://aberdeensciencecentre.org/
Address: 179 Constitution St.
Contact details: +44 122 464 0340
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Cost:
- Ages 0 to 2 – Free
- Adults – £11
- Children (ages 3 and above) – £7
- Concessions/Students – £8.50
- Family Ticket – £30
- Groups – £6
Aberdeen Science Centre (previously known as Satrosphere) is your go-to for a geeky yet fun walk through science and innovation. A self-guided walk here means you dive into interactive exhibits that pique your curiosity at every turn.
From space exploration to the depths of the oceans, the exhibits are hands-on, allowing you to engage with science in a way that makes learning feel natural and quite enjoyable.
As you meander through, you’ll come across demonstrations and interactive areas showcasing everything from physics to environmental science. By the way, all the exhibits are designed to engage visitors of all ages.
Pro tip:
Make sure you swing by the energy zone, where you can learn more about renewable energy and its importance in today’s world.
Remember to keep an eye on their schedule for any special themed events or temporary exhibits. These are often included at no extra charge and provide a unique twist to the already captivating displays.
