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Scotland’s ‘Granite City’, Aberdeen is famous for its silvery-grey stone buildings. Look closely and you’ll see a kaleidoscope of tiny sparkles! It’s also famed for its important role in Scotland’s offshore petroleum industry, which has created a unique, international vibe. It’s set in the rolling green hills of Aberdeenshire, with a sandy beach and the Cairngorms National Park within easy reach. This helps make Aberdeen a top draw for outdoorsy types as well as those in search of a bit of cosmopolitan culture. Tour whisky distilleries, museums and castles in this sophisticated coastal city.
The Port of Aberdeen is located in the city’s main Harbour. It’s Britain’s Oldest Registered Business, with a history dating back to at least 1136 AD! Ships have been sailing in and out from this harbour for hundreds of years, and today the cruise terminal is both passenger-friendly and in a central location. You just may see porpoises and seals frolicking in the harbour as you pull into port. You won’t have to travel far to get to the city’s main sights: the Maritime Museum is right along the harbour, and Aberdeen’s central rail station is also a few steps away.
If there’s one thing that there’s certainly no shortage of in Aberdeen, it’s museums. The Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look at the inner workings of its historic port, but you also won’t want to miss the Zoology Museum and the Gordon Highlanders Museum in the city centre. Stroll through the Old Town to see many of the city’s top attractions, including Gothic churches and medieval architecture. Brig O’ Balgownie is a medieval bridge that stems from the 13 th century, making it one of Scotland’s oldest crossings. Enjoy the greenery of Johnston Gardens and Seaton Park, or watch for dolphins in the harbour.
You’ll find excellent seafood in Aberdeen, particularly around the harbour and historic Footdee neighbourhood – the Silver Darling restaurant is a top choice for fish dishes with a view of the North Sea. Chow down on Cullen skink, a hearty soup made from haddock, potatoes and onions, and enjoy a prime cut of famous Aberdeen Angus Beef or estate-raised venison steak. Sip on a locally made craft beer from BrewDog or strong cup of Scottish tea. Speaking of tea, the afternoon tea here is legendary with freshly baked scones and caramel-topped shortbread. And an Aberdeen specialty is the ‘rowie’, a Scottish twist on the croissant.
Aberdeen may not be the first place you think of for a day out at the seaside, but its quaint beachfront offers oodles of charm. The beach is broad and sandy, with plenty of space to relax on a summer’s day. Its esplanade features an old-fashioned ballroom, ice cream parlours, and fish and chip restaurants. The city sits at the fringe of Scotland’s Castle Country, dotted with over 300 castles to explore! Most can be easily accessed from the city centre, including the clifftop ruins of Dunnottar or fairy-tale spires of Craigievarr. The Queen’s summer home, Balmoral Castle, is also close at hand on the Royal Deeside. If you’d rather spend your time in Aberdeenshire in hunt of the perfect whisky, you’re in luck here. Smoky peat, crystal-clear stream water and fresh air combine to create the perfect bottle of Scotch. Explore distilleries like Balvenie, Cardhu, Glenlivet and Macallan on an excursion from Aberdeen. Scotland is the home of golf, and Aberdeenshire’s sand dunes create an exciting landscape for playing a round or two on the links. One of the most famous is the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, which was founded in 1780 and still draws top golfers from around the world today.