A tale of two towns.
Any seasoned traveller will tell you that there is always more to know about a place than what meets the eye. Aberdeen is no exception!
It developed as two individual towns back in the days. Old Aberdeen was located around the River Don and grew around the University and Cathedral, whereas New Aberdeen started as a fishing village and grew around the River Dee.
Aberdeen Scotland - the mother place of many other namesakes around the world!
Given Scotland’s history, you may not be surprised to hear that there are numerous places around the world that are called ABERDEEN. 30 to be exact! They are all spread across continents; in Australia, New Zealand, USA and Hong Kong.
The history of Aberdeen dates back thousands of years. First people settled around 6000 BC.
It took a further 4000 years before people from the German region of the Rhine lands settled in the area and are said to have built the stone circles you can still find today speckled around Aberdeenshire. In later times Celts arrived in the area before the Romans and when the left, Aberdeenshire converted into Christianity.
A link to Glasgow
St Machar, who was sent by no other than Glasgow’s patron saint Kentigern to Aberdeen, began to convert the Pictish settlers to Christianity.
St Machar’s Cathedral is named after him.
Within the walls of the cathedral lie some of the remains of William Wallace, Scotland’s freedom fighter and Guardian of Scotland of the 13th century.
Robert the Bruce's Great Charter
Robert the Bruce helped to transform Aberdeen in 1319 with his Great Charter. Through it, Aberdeen became wealthy and independent.
It was a reward for the city’s loyalty towards him in times of distress. His charter provided the basis for the ‘Common Good Fund’ which survives to this day.
A Perfect Day in Aberdeen: Must-See Attractions
If you only have one day to visit the city center of Aberdeen, here’s a condensed and logical itinerary to make the most of your time:
Aberdeen Art Gallery
- Start your day with a visit to this recently refurbished gallery featuring a wide range of art.
Marischal College
- Just a short walk away, admire the grand architecture of this impressive granite building.
Union Terrace Gardens
- Relax and enjoy a stroll through these centrally located gardens.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
- Explore the city’s maritime history with engaging exhibits, located near the harbor.
St. Machar’s Cathedral
- Head to this historic cathedral to appreciate its architecture and serene atmosphere. The quickest way is by private taxi, but there are also public buses. Take the bus from Castle Street (Stop J2) and get off at St Machar Drive. The cathedral is only a short walk away.
Footdee (Fittie) Village
- End your day with a walk through this charming fishing village, located close to the harbour. Footdee, commonly known as Fittie, is a historic fishing village located at the eastern end of Aberdeen’s harbour. Established in the mid-19th century, it was designed by renowned architect John Smith to provide housing for local fishermen and their families.
Additional Quick Stops (if time permits):
- His Majesty’s Theatre
- Catch a glimpse of this historic theater.
- Provost Skene’s House
- Briefly visit this historic house museum.
This itinerary focuses on key attractions within walking distance in the city center, offering a mix of art, history, and local charm.
Hidden Gems: Unique & cozy Cafés and Restaurants in Aberdeen
Like all the other Cities in this series, Aberdeen also has a handful of hidden gems that you won’t want to miss:
The Long Dog Café:
66 Claremont St, Aberdeen AB10 6QY
- Known for its cozy atmosphere and dog-friendly policy.
Offers a wide range of delicious cakes, coffee, and light bites.
Books and Beans: https://booksandbeans.co.uk/
22 Belmont St, Aberdeen AB10 1JH
- A charming café and second-hand bookshop combined.
- Perfect for enjoying a coffee and a good read in a relaxed setting.
The Coffee House: https://www.coffeehousehotelaberdeen.com/
1 Gaelic Lane, Aberdeen AB10 1JF
- Located in a historic building with a warm, welcoming interior.
- Serves excellent coffee, pastries, and sandwiches.
Almondine: https://www.almondine.co.uk/
39-43 Thistle St, Aberdeen AB10 1UY
- A delightful French patisserie offering a cozy ambiance.
- Specializes in macarons, cakes, and fine coffee.
Foodstory: https://foodstorycafe.co.uk/
13-15 Thistle St, Aberdeen AB10 1XZ
- An eco-friendly café with a laid-back vibe and rustic decor.
- Focuses on healthy, organic food options and great coffee.
The Cult of Coffee: https://www.instagram.com/the_cult_of_coffee/?hl=en
28 Esslemont Avenue, Aberdeen AB25 1SN
- Renowned for its specialty coffee and cozy atmosphere.
- Ideal for coffee aficionados looking for a relaxing spot to unwind.
These hidden gems offer not only delicious food and drinks but also unique experiences that reflect the charm and character of Aberdeen. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these spots are sure to provide memorable experiences.
Summary
Aberdeen, often referred to as the “Granite City” due to its distinctive grey stone architecture, is a city in Scotland that should not be missed for its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its stunning coastline, featuring long sandy beaches and rugged cliffs, offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities. The city boasts a rich maritime heritage, beautifully showcased at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, and a thriving arts scene highlighted by the recently refurbished Aberdeen Art Gallery. Historic sites like St. Machar’s Cathedral and the charming fishing village of Footdee provide a glimpse into Aberdeen’s past. Additionally, the city’s role as the “Oil Capital of Europe” brings a modern twist to its traditional character. With its array of cozy cafes, unique eateries, and lush green spaces like Duthie Park and the Cruickshank Botanic Garden, Aberdeen offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. This combination of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty makes Aberdeen a must-visit destination in Scotland.
