Aberdeen City Guide - overview

The bustling seaport of Aberdeen is Scotland's third biggest city, and has been dubbed the Oil Capital of Europe. This alone is not likely to entice visitors to the city, other than those on business trips, but the fact that Aberdeen boasts a fascinating and bloody history, historic granite buildings, beautiful churches, attractive green spaces and plenty of Scotch Whiskey, just might.

Once a site of brutal conflict with the English during the Scottish Wars of Independence, the city was razed to the ground by King Edward III in 1336, but was quickly rebuilt, and expanded rapidly over the centuries as it grew in prominence as a port. The 18th and 19th centuries saw an increase in elegance and style in the city, predominantly in the architecture of Old Aberdeen, an area of buildings made from the glittering local granite. Here, architectural gems include the 15th century Kings College, the Town House, and Marischal College, one of the best examples of Edwardian architecture in Britain.

Modern Aberdeen is friendly and fun, although foreigners may struggle to understand the thick local accent. Belmont Street and surrounds are packed with restaurants, clubs, bars and live music venues; there are plenty of top-class museums and galleries including the Maritime Museum and the Aberdeen Art Gallery; and the city boasts a host of lush parks, including the Duthie Park that opened in 1883. The vibrant waterfront district also merits exploration, as well as some of the lovely sandy beaches close by.

Aberdeen also acts as a perfect hub from which to explore the beauty and majesty of the Grampian Highlands, enjoy a tipple on the Malt Whisky trail or ramble around ancient Scottish castles.

Getting around: The centre of Aberdeen is compact and easily explored on foot; most sites are within walking distance of each other. The local bus service (there are two different operators) is reliable, with many routes departing from Union Street to destination all around the city. The all-day ticket for around £3 is good value. Taxis are readily available and are best booked in advance, especially at night as they can be hard to come by after dark. Rail service is limited within the city, but there are excellent routes connecting Aberdeen to other cities.