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Top 10 Picnic Spots in Aberdeen So Fantastic, You’ll Want to Stay Longer than Planned
But, in typical fashion, I ended up sitting on a soggy patch of grass, surrounded by curious onlookers wondering why on earth I chose that spot (honestly, I didn’t know either!). That got me thinking—there have to be better picnic spots around Aberdeen.
So, I went on a little adventure and found the absolute best places to lay out a blanket. You better check them out!
Duthie Park
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Website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/leisure-culture-and-parks/parks/duthie-park
Address: Polmuir Road
Contact details: +44 122 458 5310
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Duthie Park covers a huge area, with tons of green spaces to find a spot to spread out your blanket. One of its best features is the David Welch Winter Gardens, which is basically a big greenhouse filled with exotic plants that you can check out.
If you’re coming with kids, they’ll love the place too, thanks to the great playgrounds and duck ponds where they can feed those adorable quackers. What’s super cool about Duthie Park is the boating pond, where you can actually rent pedals and boats!
The park also hosts various events throughout the year, whether it’s outdoor concerts or markets, so there’s always something happening. Moreover, they have easy access to restrooms.
Pro tip:
Watch out for the seagulls—they’re cheeky little thieves. It’s a good idea to keep your food covered when you’re not eating.
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 bit of a hidden gem, so it’s usually quieter than other spots, which is perfect if you want to avoid the crowd. This spot is like stepping into a mini-paradise with its beautiful flowers, streams, and little bridges.
It’s super cozy and a bit smaller compared to other parks, but that’s what makes it feel so intimate. The gardens are so well maintained, you’re bound to find a comfy patch of grass for your picnic.
There are plenty of benches scattered around if you prefer sitting up, and the ponds add a nice touch. Just a heads up though, the garden is popular for wedding photos, so you might stumble upon a happy couple and their entourage.
Pro tip:
The garden is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friend, but just remember to keep the leash on.
Try to go in spring or early summer when the flowers are in full bloom; it’s absolutely stunning!
Hazlehead Park
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Website: https://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/services/environment/parks/hazlehead-park
Address: Hazlehead Ave.
Contact details: +44 122 434 6421
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 10 AM to 5:30 PM
Hazlehead Park is sprawling, with acres of room to find the ideal spot for your picnic. They have these dedicated picnic areas with tables and benches, which is super convenient if you don’t want to sit on the ground.
Plus, there’s a pitch-and-putt golf course if you fancy a game before or after your snacks. One of the standout features here is the petting zoo and animal corner—they get to feed and say hello to some cute animals.
Additionally, they’ve got public restrooms and a couple of cafés if you want to grab an extra treat or two. For those who love a good barbecue, there are dedicated BBQ areas where you can grill up something tasty.
Pro tip:
Remember to get there early on sunny weekends; it’s a popular spot and fills up fast. Plus, keep an eye on those small hills—they’re great for kite flying if it’s a breezy day!
Balmedie Beach
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Balmedie Beach is an absolute winner if you’re looking for a picnic spot with epic views. The dunes here are massive and add a dramatic backdrop to your day out.
One of the best parts of Balmedie Beach is the extensive boardwalk that makes it easy to get around with all your picnic gear. The boardwalk leads directly to the beach, and there are several picnic tables along the way.
Also, the beach is quite clean with a good amount of parking, so you won’t have to wrestle for a spot. There are also nature trails and a playground area for the little ones, making it a very family-friendly location.
Pro tip:
Just keep an eye out for high tide times so you can plan your picnic accordingly. Rain or shine, this beach can be a lovely escape for the day.
By the way, if you’re bringing a dog, Balmedie Beach is dog-friendly too, so your pup can join in the fun.
Pitmedden Garden
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Website: https://www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/pitmedden-garden
Address: Pitmedden, Ellon
Contact details: +44 165 184 2352
Operating hours:
- Dawn till dusk
If you’re up for a bit of a drive out of the city, Pitmedden Garden is totally worth it. The walled garden areas here are stunning, giving you a luxurious backdrop for your picnic.
Just find a nice shady spot under one of the big trees or set up by the fountain; it’s all about relaxation here. The garden also has an informative museum dedicated to local history if you fancy a bit of learning with your lunch.
For families, the orchard and woodland area double as a great spot for both play and picnic. Also, there’s often a little tea room where you can sample some lovely cakes if you need a dessert to cap off your picnic.
Pro tip:
Remember to walk around the garden maze; it’s tons of fun and a great way to work up an appetite.
Bring a blanket or folding chairs since seating can get limited during peak times. And pack some snacks to share with the squirrels; they’re quite the charming company!
Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve
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Website: https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/kincorth-hill-local-nature-reserve-p255291
Contact details: +44 122 432 6429
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
You know, Kincorth Hill is one of those places that always seems to fly under the radar, but it’s really a gem for a laid-back picnic. It’s this peaceful, sprawling hill with loads of trails, so there’s plenty of space to find your own little nook.
You can set up your picnic blanket pretty much anywhere and enjoy some stunning views over Aberdeen. The natural surroundings give you that feeling like you’ve escaped the city, even though you’re still pretty close to everything.
One cool thing about Kincorth Hill is the mix of forest and open heathland. If you’re into a bit of a nature walk before settling down with your sandwiches, there are some great trails that’ll take you through different types of terrain.
Pro tip:
It’s pretty much a birdwatcher’s paradise, so if you’ve got a pair of binoculars, bring them along.
There aren’t any bins around, so make sure to bring a bag to take your rubbish home. Also, some insect repellent could come in handy, especially during the summer months.
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 is like Aberdeen’s answer to Central Park—except smaller, of course. It’s one of the city’s largest and most beloved green spaces, perfect for a family picnic or just a chill afternoon out.
The park is massive, with long, open grassy areas where you can kick a ball around or just lay out and sunbathe. There’s plenty of room, so even on busy days, you can still snag a good spot.
And if you’re into a bit of exploring, the park’s got some beautiful landscaped areas complete with flower beds and small bridges—good for a post-picnic stroll. By the way, there are some facilities like toilets and occasional ice cream trucks, too.
Pro tip:
If you want to avoid the crowd, head over early in the morning or late afternoon. This way, you get the best spots and a bit more peace and quiet.
River Don
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The River Don area is ideal if you’re looking for a picnic spot that’s a bit more natural and less manicured. There are loads of beautiful spots along the river where you can plop down a picnic blanket and enjoy the flowing water.
There are footpaths that follow the river, so you can take a leisurely walk before or after your meal. It’s a prime spot for fishing too, so don’t be surprised if you see some locals casting their lines.
The only thing to keep in mind is that there aren’t really any facilities nearby—no toilets, no bins, nothing like that. So, it’s probably best for those who are a bit more prepared and don’t mind roughing it a little.
Pro tip:
Try to bring a portable grill if you’re planning to barbecue, but make sure to follow any local guidelines about open flames or fires. And bug spray—trust me on this one.
Forvie National Nature Reserve
Address: Forvie, Collieston, Ellon
Contact details: +44 135 875 1330
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 5 PM
Forvie National Nature Reserve has these jaw-dropping sand dunes that make you feel like you’re in a whole different world. The area is vast, so there’s plenty of room to find your own slice of paradise.
You can spread out your picnic blanket among the dunes or near the beach area, whichever suits your vibe. There are marked trails for those who love a good hike or a casual stroll.
It’s a bit off the beaten path, which means fewer crowds and more serenity. However, because it’s quite remote, you should pack everything you’ll need for the day—food, drinks, maybe a windbreaker because it can get breezy, and definitely rubbish bags.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to check the tide times before you go, especially if you plan to set up close to the beach. Nothing ruins a picnic faster than getting caught in a rising tide.
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
Nestled within the University of Aberdeen campus, Cruickshank Botanic Garden is a beautifully curated space with all sorts of plants and trees, making it a perfect picnic spot. The garden isn’t too big, but it’s packed with lovely spots to sit and enjoy a meal.
The variety in the garden is mind-blowing, where you’ve got everything from medicinal herbs to exotic plants. There’s a glasshouse too, packed with tropical plants if you fancy a wander before or after your picnic.
One big plus about Cruickshank is the sense of peace you get. It’s generally pretty quiet, with not a lot of foot traffic, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to unwind.
Pro tip:
Since the garden can be a bit tricky to find, especially for first-timers, check the map of the University of Aberdeen campus online before heading out. It’ll save you some wandering time.
