Out & About in Aberdeen

Aberdeen, The Granite City, is famous for its sparkling architecture, two prestigious universities and North Sea oil. Scotland's third biggest city, Aberdeen is the perfect size to explore with a population of only around 190,000. The city plays an important role in Scotland's colourful history, including being occupied by the English during the Wars of Independence, causing Robert the Bruce to lay siege to Aberdeen Castle.

Nowadays visitors flock to the city for its wonderful combination of urban entertainment and outdoor adventure. Aberdeen is home to the largest national park in the country, the Cairngorms, making it the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding countryside and really get in touch with nature

Shopping

Aberdeen is undoubtedly north east Scotland's premiere shopping destination and locals travel here from the surrounding area to refresh their wardrobes with the latest fashions. The main street in the city centre is Union Street, lined with shops on both sides. Here you will find well known names alongside local, independent retailers. Aberdeen also benefits from a number of large shopping malls. The Bon Accord Centre, the largest in the city, houses big names such as Marks and Spencers, Boots and Primark.

Food and Drink

With a long history of farming, fishing and food production, Aberdeen is a paradise for food lovers with fresh produce available at every turn. Local specialities include smoked salmon, Aberdeen Angus beef, butteries, and, of course, malt whisky. Aberdeen has perfected the art of combining local flavours with international influence and you can be sure of diversity when eating out in Aberdeen. For a lunchtime bite, Union Street is a good place to start with a number of great eateries tucked away up the side streets. A great place for book lovers is the delightful Books and Beans on Belmont Street, which serves homemade soups, filling sandwiches and snacks alongside a wide range of second hand books to browse.

For an evening meal, Aberdeen really knows how to tempt your taste buds. A popular choice for a romantic evening is the French-style Café Boheme Restaurant, which serves exquisitely prepared and presented meals in a wonderful candle-lit ambience. Or for more family friendly dining, try the restaurant at the Maryculter House Hotel, with its inviting log fire warming the cosy atmosphere.

Thanks to its large population of students, Aberdeen enjoys an excellent nightlife, with Union Street again forming the focus. One of the nicest things about Aberdeen is the way the city has largely managed to resist the transformation of its traditional pubs into trendy wine bars so it is still easy to find plenty of old fashioned pubs packed with character and customers. Weekends are busiest but most weekday evenings will also see plenty of action so whenever you visit Aberdeen you can be sure of a great time. One of the most popular drinking spots is the Prince of Wales on St. Nicholas Lane, which dates back to 1850 and boasts the longest bar on Aberdeen. If you plan to dance the night away, follow the locals and head to Snafu on Union Street, which was crowned Scottish Nightclub of the Year 2007/08.

Arts and Entertainment

The Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museums operate a diverse range of buildings so there is plenty to keep you amused during the day too, including lots of indoor attractions for when the famous Scottish rain puts in an appearance. The Maritime Museum on Shiprow is open 7 days a week and offers an interesting insight into the city's close links with the sea. One of the city's most popular tourist attractions is the Art Gallery, housed in a stunning building and displaying collections of art by the Scottish Colourists, Impressionists and many examples of modern art. There are regular changing displays as well as temporary exhibits and events so it is well worth having a look at what is on during your visit.

Hotel and Travel

Aberdeen is easy to reach with its own international airport and rail and coach links with the rest of Scotland. The train from Edinburgh takes around 2 hours and passes some of the most beautiful coastal scenery in the UK. Driving is also straightforward with the city well signposted and connected to the main motorway network.

Accommodation options in Aberdeen range from clean hostel dorms to family run guest houses and city centre boutique hotels so there is sure to be something to suit your requirements. A little out of the city in greater Aberdeenshire, you will find a multitude of rural getaways in the most incredible mountain scenery that Scotland is famous for. Or right within the city is the Aberlee Guest House, one of many delightful and accessible options for a good value rest spot. Or try the Premier Inn Aberdeen City Centre for good quality and convenient family accommodation.

Whether you are coming to Aberdeen for shopping and culture or to take part in the hugely popular outdoor scene, there is so much going on within the city and its surrounds that you will never be bored. Even if the weather is less than kind, you will find no shortage of attractions to keep you occupied throughout your visit to the capital of the Grampians.