NON-TRIVIAL ATTRACTIONS AND UNIQUE COLOUR

One hundred and twenty miles north of Edinburgh, on the east coast of the North Sea, lies Scotland’s third largest grey granite city founded in 1175. This is Aberdeen, nicknamed “silver” combining the amazing ambience of hoary antiquity and the brilliance of a modern metropolis, the rapid development of which was heralded by the rich oil fields of the North Sea.

Getting to know Aberdeen – what you remember first

As soon as Aberdeen comes within a tourist’s eyes’ view, attention is drawn to the picturesque sea docks and the abundance of greenery and granite. These are the three “calling cards” of this industrial city port! The beauty of the three hundred year old architecture created from the middle of the 18th century from 100% natural granite, opens up to the eyes of the visitor to Aberdeen a little later and includes monuments, statues and buildings.

By the way, it was in Aberdeen that the oldest medical college of England, the Royal College, was built. It, and the Edwardian-style Marischal’s College built in 1906, are a real Mecca for tourists eager to learn more stories about the “silver city” and both educational institutions organise interesting thematic excursions.

When the initial impression dulls a little, then, with a leisurely walk and contemplation, the granite city begins to “reveal” surprises and enchantment.

The contrast between old and new Aberdeen 

The Aberdeen of today and the one of one hundred years ago are two radically different cities! Before the discovery of large oil deposits Aberdeen consisted of just two small developments concentrated at the headwaters of the Dee and Don rivers. But the city flourished in the 19th century, was redeveloped and “absorbed” old Aberdeen with its powerful urbanisation combined very organically with the ancient “core” of the atmospheric port city and it became the commercial centre of the coast.

Walking around Aberdeen and surrounding areas – architecture worth seeing

Of course, monuments of the past are concentrated in the “old” part of the city – along the banks of the Don and Dee rivers. The Episcopal Cathedral of St Andrew is especially beautiful and interesting in architectural terms – it was erected in 1817 in the Gothic style of that era. Over time numerous restorations introduced touches of other styles into the Gothic appearance – Baroque and Classicism.

Another religious object of architecture with a centuries-old past is the Church of St Nicholas. According to written sources the church was built no later than 1157 and by the 15th century it was radically transformed. To this day the architectural monument is conventionally divided into two epoch-making parts which include:

• the western one in Italian style which was built in the mid-18th century; and 
• the eastern one in the neo-Gothic style which was built in 1838.

There is also a landmark in the city which is considered to be iconic – Provost Skene’s House which was built in 1545. It has been restored and turned into a museum of local history with an abundance of old rare things which include:

• coins;
• porcelain products;
• dishes; and
• paintings on religious themes.

Parks and art objects

The centre of Aberdeen is ideal for lovers of walking – in Duthie Park you will be amazed by the beauty of ponds, flower beds, fountains and statues which decorate alleys.

For children and adults craving a thrill, but safe place, Codona’s Amusement Park in Aberdeen is the place to be. This park, located right on the coast, is replete with:

• gaming simulators;
• attractions; and
• carousels.

There are also bowling and karting centres, golf courses and a tall Ferris wheel.

Another theme park ideal for couples with little ones who prefer to go out even in the rain is Storybook Glen. Its design is extremely picturesque and among the dense thickets there are:

• fairy-tale buildings;
• a mini-zoo with pets;
• sculptures;
• coffee;
• an indoor pavilion with trampolines and attractions; and
• playgrounds.

The well-kept Seaton Park will appeal to those who like to retire in silence, in couples or with a family group or have a small picnic. Comfortable paths have been made for cyclists and pedestrians and for romantics the ancient bridge has been preserved and restored.

Art lovers will have a wonderful time at the Aberdeen Art Gallery viewing stunning exhibitions of famous painters and collections of silverware and Scottish household items.

Additionally, Crathes Castle is a huge complex structure from the distant past located just 15 kilometres from the city and is surrounded by an authentic park.

Where to go and what to see for art lovers

Not all Aberdeen attractions are silent witnesses of bygone days. Some objects continue to function as before. For example, the current His Majesty’s Theatre. In Scotland it would be difficult to find such a large second and aesthetically pleasing theatre which seats 1,400 spectators! Wonderful performances and many entertainment events have been staged here since 1906.

Where to go to see the scientific life of the city

Aberdeen is famous not just for its architecture and picturesque landscapes. There are even more serious objects in the city, for example, the Satrosphere! This scientific centre located inside a historical building hosts a museum where interactive experiments are staged and thematic excursions and exhibitions are held that are interesting to people of all ages and all world views!

For lovers of active family holidays

Aberdeen has a lot of entertainment centres, for example the hospitable Breakout Games which offer photos as souvenirs. There is a huge selection of guest rooms here for adults and for people with children.

The Transition Extreme Climbing Wall awaits both professional and amateur athletes. Well-equipped with safety-conscious trainers it is also suitable for pre-school children.

It is highly recommended for children and their parents to visit the University of Aberdeen Zoology Museum. This city zoological museum is located on the territory of the university. There are incredibly spectacular exhibitions and excursions here which explore a rich collection of prehistoric exhibits including:

• models of prehistoric animals;
• dinosaur skeletons; and
• natural shells of mollusks which lived millions of years ago.

Some exhibits can be touched.

What foodies can enjoy in Aberdeen

Everything here is imbued with the spirit of the national cuisine of the Scots who prefer simple and affordable food.

Firstly, restaurants will serve meat cooked in the ancestral way – over an open fire.

Secondly, the menu contains what is traditionally found in the British diet:

• porridge (oatmeal); and
• puddings.

Thirdly, you can’t go anywhere without local colourful delicacies which include:

• beef stewed in beer; and
• chicken baked in a pot.

Fourthly, the taverns and restaurants of the silver city serve countless original first courses prepared according to ancient recipes such as:

• rich meat and vegetable soups;
• thick stews with pearl barley and vegetables; and
• fragrant goulash.

Aberdeeners also respect game, offering their guests treats in the form of pheasant with raspberry sauce and fried partridges and also steamed venison traditionally served with berries as a side dish.

Among the traditional Aberdeen pastries it is worth trying a piece of “rowie” – a pie with a fantastic unique taste reminiscent of several desserts at once which include:

• buttered pancake; and
• fragrant croissant.

According to gastronomic tradition, rowie is served with jam or butter. According to legend the pie was invented by the wives of local fishermen who were waiting for them.

And finally, Aberdeen wouldn’t be a seaside city if it weren’t for freshly caught and expertly prepared seafood!

National cuisine of Aberdeen for the holidays

If you visit the granite city at Christmas you can try the original baked stuffed goose and “cranachan”, a popular dessert made from toasted oatmeal flavoured with honey, liqueurs, berry syrups and fresh fruit/whipped cream.

What restaurants to visit in Aberdeen first

To properly appreciate the taste of the real authentic cuisine of the Silver City you cannot ignore its iconic restaurants, for example the Foyer Restaurant and Gallery!

A large group will have a great time at Musa Art & Music Cafe which treats its guests to dishes of national cuisine.

For those who cannot do without Chinese dishes the Zen Oriental is open and for lovers of real Indian curry, Echt Tandoori is suitable.

The Italian menu is offered at Mi Amore, seasoning very budget salads, soups, risotto and pastries with colourful music and dance shows.

For gourmets who prefer haute cuisine there is the Silver Darling in Aberdeen surrounded by historical architectural sites – a restaurant that knows how to surprise even those who believe that they have already tasted the most delicious seafood and delicacies from them! They serve the freshest mussels and many variations of delicious meat dishes served with the most famous vintage wines…

Well, guests of Aberdeen looking forward to culinary extremes will look forward to the Soul Bar. This bar serves local beers and snacks and is housed in an architecturally preserved old Catholic church with beautiful stained glass windows and wall and ceiling paintings. Food and drink are decorated in national style and are complemented by entertainment shows.

Meet the locals

Aberdeeners are very hospitable, punctual, thorough and modest and therefore tourists who are too intrusive and talkative may be considered simply… ill-mannered!

The best way to observe the locals and their customs is during the city’s traditional festivals, for example during the spring meeting “May Day”, celebrated on 7th May. The squares and streets of Aberdeen are filled with musicians and acrobats whom joyful citizens come out to watch and hear.