Aberdeen
Aberdeen is a thriving, cosmopolitan and connected port in the North-east of Scotland – with people working and studying here from across the world. There is an abundance of museums, galleries, restaurants, pubs and shops to explore. We strongly recommend taking the time to explore while you’re in the area.
With its own beach, the city is right on the sea - ships can dock right in the heart of the city and it’s not unusual to see dolphins in the harbour.
Described as “one of the most architecturally distinctive cities in Europe”, with its granite buildings and 15th Century fortified cathedral, Aberdeen is certainly a place you won’t forget.
Great centres of learning grew in Aberdeen with an educational tradition that persists in ground-breaking scientific endeavours today. It’s therefore the ideal place to convene for Wildfire2024.
The scholars of the city became Nobel Prize winners. And today, energy innovation, breakthrough treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, globally-recognised food and drink brands and high-end scientific research mean Aberdeen’s dynamism and pioneering spirit continues.
Aberdeen has a history of academic excellence, innovation and scientific advances, thanks to its leading research centres and world class Universities. Past inventions include the life-saving drug insulin, the development of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and the discovery of partition chromatography. The region boasts the highest concentration of health and life scientists anywhere in Europe and through collaboration with local industry and business leaders, Aberdeen continues to be a pioneering centre and driving force for education, research and discovery.
Things to do in Aberdeen
Museums
The city is home to a plethora of fascinating museums, covering some of Aberdeen’s rich history and important discoveries.
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The Tolbooth Museum is one of Aberdeen's oldest buildings and one of the best-preserved 17th century gaols in Scotland. Find out more
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Offering visitors a spectacular viewpoint over the busy harbour, Aberdeen Maritime Museum tells the story of the city's long relationship with the Sea. This award-winning museum is located on the historic Shiprow and incorporates Provost Ross's House, which was built in 1593. Find out more
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Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to one of the finest collections in the country. The collection spans 700 years and includes a staggering range of works by local, national and international artists, designers and makers. For over 130 years the Gallery has been acquiring the best and most interesting contemporary artworks.
Highlights of the displays include works by Joan Eardley, the Scottish Colourists, Francis Bacon, Tracey Emin, Claude Monet and Barbara Hepworth. Find out more
Heritage buildings
Aberdeen has been a settlement for at least 8,000 years, and as such, is brimming with history and heritage. Here are some of the attractions that connect us to traditions of times gone by.
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Perched atop a 160 foot rock and surrounded on three sides by the North Sea, these dramatic and evocative cliff-top ruins were once an impregnable fortress of the Earls Marischal, once one of the most powerful families in Scotland.
Steeped in history, this romantic and haunting ruin is a photographer’s paradise, a history lover’s dream and an iconic tourist destination for visitors the world over. Find out more
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Dating from 1545, Provost Skene’s House is the oldest surviving townhouse in Aberdeen. It has been added to and altered many times during its life and since 2019, the house has undergone major refurbishment.
The building is named after one of its owners, Sir George Skene (1619-1708), a wealthy merchant and Provost of Aberdeen from 1676 to 1685. The house was used by Hanoverian troops as a billet during the Jacobite rebellion and the Duke of Cumberland stayed here on his way to Culloden.
During the 1800s, the Guestrow area of Aberdeen was very run down. The once grand home became Victoria Lodging House, a hostel for the homeless.
Provost Skene’s house was threatened with demolition in 1940, but a long-running public campaign saved it and it began its life as a museum in 1953. Find out more
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The Gordon Highlanders Museum is one of Aberdeen’s 5-star tourist attractions.
When you visit, the museum guides will help you explore the 200 year history of the men who made one of the most famous regiments the British army has ever seen – The Gordon Highlanders.
Forming these ranks were farmers and fishermen, ghillies and labourers, aristocrats and university students. Ordinary men with an extraordinary sense of duty, all with a story to tell.
There is an extensive collection of historical artefacts, memorabilia and regimental silverware to bring to life the story of “The Finest Regiment in the World.” Find out more
Restaurants & nightlife
Aberdeen may be ancient, but the nightlife is cutting edge. Explore a new part of the city with a drink, discover Aberdeen’s gastronomic scene and then let your hair down with some first-class entertainment.
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Enjoy an extensive Scottish gin and whisky menu at Grape & Grain, a luxurious wine bar located in Aberdeen's west end.
Warm and welcoming, Grape & Grain also has an award-winning wine list to suit all palates. Find out more
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The Silver Darling restaurant is situated in the old Customs House at the mouth of Aberdeen harbour. The harbour is said to be the UK’s oldest business, first established in 1136 by King David 1st of Scotland, and has a history spanning almost 900 years.
Enjoy a meal brimming with local produce, accompanied by fabulous views. Find out more
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Rated the 10th best restaurant in Aberdeen by Tripadvisor reviewers, Tarragon By Graham Mitchell garners acclaim for its exceptional food and presentation, with many guests applauding the restaurant's use of locally sourced ingredients to create delicious dishes.
Tarragon features some traditional Scottish fare; you'll be sure to find langoustines and haggis on the menu when you visit. Find out more
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This is one of Aberdeen's cosy pubs, which is now a burgeoning live music and comedy venue, hosting Scottish and international acts in an intimate, candle-lit space.
Adventures
Feeling adventurous? Take a look at some of the more intrepid activities you could indulge in while in Aberdeen…
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It may be November, but Aberdeen Beach is a well-loved and extremely popular recreational area of the city, visited by locals all year round.
Only a short distance from the city centre, it received the Resort Seaside Award in 2013, and provides a great place for some wild swimming, bodyboarding, or perhaps just a stroll along the shore.
The area is also equipped with sporting and recreational facilities, including the Beach Leisure Centre and the Linx Ice Arena, cafes, restaurants, multiplex cinema and Codona's fun fair. Find out more
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Like most cities, Aberdeen has an infamous history of real life crimes. The theme of blood splattered granite goes beyond isolated incidents of murder and delves into Aberdeen’s rich history of battles, bodysnatching, and official punishments such as drawings, torturing, witch-burning and beheading. Find out more
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Whether you're looking for a relaxing walk through stunning scenery or for the adrenaline rush of kayaking on white water, Granite Adventures will not disappoint.
Based in Aberdeen, they host a range of activities for every style and budget. Be sure to book in advance to take advantage. Find out more
Get the most out of your visit
Northern Highlights Pass
A Northern HighLights Pass is a sightseeing card which gives visitors excellent discounted entry to some of the best selected attractions, museums and activities in various locations in North East Scotland.
DayRider Bus Ticket
Hop on and off as many times as you like each day with a DayRider ticket from bus operator, Stagecoach. Explore all over the city without the tired feet.
Taxis
Getting around Aberdeen by bus is easy, but if you’re looking for a car service, there are several companies available, including Uber. Click below to see your options.
Travel discounts
Travel discounts are available when booking your Conference ticket. For more information, go to our Location page.
Want some more suggestions?
The city is packed full of things to see and do. Above is just a small selection of days out, attractions and unique venues that will be sure to pique your curiosity. However, if you’re looking for something not listed here, try the websites below. Both contain a plethora of information to help make your visit unforgettable.
Visit Aberdeenshire
VisitAberdeenshire is the lead tourism agency for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. It promotes fantastic visitor experiences in North-east Scotland.
Visit Scotland
VisitScotland is Scotland’s national tourist board. They provide advice, information and inspiration to visitors who are planning a trip to Scotland.