While Glasgow and Edinburgh stand ahead in the population and publicity departments, Scotland has a wonderful number three in Aberdeen. Over 200,000 people live in this city of granite, oil and sandy shores between the River Don and the River Dee.
For those who like to garden, Aberdeen is a notable destination. The city has won the Britain in Bloom horticultural competition more than any other in the United Kingdom. Whether or not that means a lick to you, the result is one pretty city, which most tourists generally appreciate. A flood of crude oil from the North Sea is the source of the city’s relatively new label of “Oil Capital of Europe”. A foremost university town and seaport, Aberdeen has a long and rich history, with traces of human occupation that date back over 8,000 years.
Scotland is a phenomenal country, with more than enough to keep you busy for weeks on end. With spectacular countryside and cosmopolitan urban centers, it can be difficult to narrow your focus. So why not let us help you, at least where Aberdeen is concerned. Here are 15 awesome attractions in the city.
Built in 1789, the Old Town House is one of many landmarks in Old Aberdeen. The former government house has a beautiful mercat cross and cupola and is now part of King’s College.
14. Hazlehead Park
A small green paradise of 1.8 square kilometers, Hazlehead Park was once part of the vast estate of a notable Aberdeen tycoon. Now the park hosts outdoor concerts, football, golf, memorials and general recreation.
13. Cruickshank Botanic Gardens
The massive 45 square kilometer Cruickshank Botanic Gardens is a fabulous case for Aberdeen as a premier destination. The North Sea attraction is not only great for tourists and city residents, but for botany students at the University of Aberdeen, who use Cruickshank as a practical classroom.
12. Seaton Park
Come to Seaton Park in the middle of football season and you may just stumble upon an Aberdeen F.C. practice session. The huge park on the River Don is a paramount recreation and respite spot for city denizens.
11. Belmont Street
Belmont Street is ground zero for first-class bars, pubs and clubs in Aberdeen. Of note, the street has a superb farmer’s market on the first and last Saturday of every month.
10. Westburn Park
With trees, ponds and grassy bits, Westburn Park is a terrific picnic and recreation area for the entire family. Proof yet again that Aberdeen is green.
9. The Coast
A sand beach between the Dee and Don is one of the more remarkable features of Aberdeen. Inlets, cliffs, high dunes and craggy rock formations provide outdoor lovers with prime photo ops.
With a curious Near East design influence, the Powis Gates archway is one of the more noticeable landmarks in Old Aberdeen. Built in 1834, the Gates lead those who enter to a section of King’s College.
7. Union Street
For retail shops and general city action, Union Street is the place to be in Aberdeen. The principal thoroughfare is particularly beautiful as seen from the Castlegate area of the city.
A stroll on Union Street will take you to Aberdeen’s Music Hall. Built in 1822, the wonderful facility is a regular host to the BBC Scottish Symphony, Scottish Chamber Orchestra, Royal Scottish National Orchestra and the famous Aberdeen International Youth Festival.
Once an independent university, Marischal College is a rather impressive mid-19th century palace-like structure that now belongs to the University of Aberdeen. The historic landmark is set to undergo a round of upgrades as of 2011.
4. Cathedral Church of St. Machar
The most notable feature of the Cathedral Church of St. Machar in Aberdeen? A piece of William Wallace’s leg was left in the walls after his execution in 1305. Other more official burials of major figures have taken place at the cathedral over the centuries, which, along with dazzling interior details, makes it perhaps the most important and historic attraction in Aberdeen.
The oldest part of the University of Aberdeen, found in Old Aberdeen, has been around since the late 15th century. Very old school indeed. The grounds and buildings of King’s College are absolutely brilliant, without peer and truly, take you back to the very dawn of higher education in the United Kingdom and indeed, Europe.
The central park of Aberdeen is just off Union Street and thus, quite convenient to locate. The natural amphitheater hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.
Diminutive in size, Johnston Gardens is nonetheless one of the most achingly gorgeous areas of Aberdeen. A de facto choice for bridal party photos, the park is perhaps the chief reason why the city won the top Britain in Bloom prize so many years in a row.
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Nice article, Aberdeen needs more love!
http://www.thekiosque.com/ is a good what’s on guide to the city for anyone thinking of visiting, or indeed, anyone that lives there!