For a true Scottish getaway, head to the historical city of Aberdeen and it’s surrounding shire. Located on the northeast coast of Scotland, Aberdeen is a chief seaport, bordered by two rivers and a pleasant city beach along with a dramatic coastline; gifting it a distinct identity to Scotland’s two larger cities, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Aberdeen is commonly referred to as the ‘Silver City’, because of its historical granite silvery buildings, and the ‘flower of Scotland’, thanks to its beautiful parks and floral displays. Despite significant growth in the past several decades, Aberdeen has managed to hold on to its village charm.
There is plenty to see and do in Aberdeen and being a small city it is easy, and most enjoyable, to discover on foot.
Those interested in Scottish history are spoilt for choice. The Maritime museum is a must-see, just for the building in itself. Dedicated to Aberdeen’s rich maritime history, spanning the last 500 years, it includes exhibits on the people who have worked offshore in the North Sea and Aberdeen’s famed crude oil industry.
The Marischal Museum is a hidden gem housing 8000 years of local and world history, it is well worth the visit. Their exhibit The Encyclopaedia of the North East provides intriguing insight into the history of Scotland’s northeast, plus the museum boasts a diverse range of international exhibits from as far afield as Tibet and the Balkans.
The Gordon Highlanders Museum will impress those interested in Scottish Military history, with interactive displays helping you re-live the compelling story of one of the British Army’s most famous regiments.
The Aberdeen Art Gallery is set in an exquisite Victorian building and houses hundreds of paintings and sculptures, including Impressionist pieces and beautiful modern works by the Scottish Colourists. A wander through its marble halls could easily take up an afternoon.
Head down to the foot of the River Dee and you will discover a small cluster of quaint houses and traditional outhouses that once made up the small fishing village of Footdee. The city of Aberdeen absorbed the village but it still has a quirky laidback vibe and is well worth a visit.
Another relaxing, interesting thing to do is simply wandering through Old Aberdeen, the oldest part of the city and taking in the grand University Kings College Campus and St Machar Cathedral as well as the old sights along High Street and the Channory.
Your hotel Aberdeen would also make a great base to enjoy the spoils of the stunning surrounding countryside with its typically Scottish offerings. Within 30 miles of the city, you can discover Crathes, Drum and Dunottar Castle, romantic monuments harking back to a bygone era. For whiskey lovers, a distillery trail is a must-do. The Malt Whisky Trail route is approximately 30 miles north of Aberdeen and takes in a number of distilleries including the famous Glenfiddich and Glen Grant tours. Or enjoy a round of golf at the world’s sixth oldest golf course, the Royal Aberdeen or the just as excellent Royal Deeside in the River Dee’s valley.
Whatever your pleasure, Aberdeen is a platter of the best of Scotland, served with legendary Scottish hospitality and is guaranteed to leave you warm, full and very satisfied.
Fiona Roy writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.
