Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
Explore centuries of North East Scotland’s heritage through the UNESCO-recognized archives housed in historic Old Aberdeen.
The Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives, located on Dunbar Street in Old Aberdeen, safeguard an extensive collection of historical records from the 12th century to the present day. These archives preserve invaluable documents related to Aberdeen City and the ancient counties of Aberdeen, Banff, and Kincardine, including Scotland’s oldest and most complete burgh records, recognized by UNESCO for their historic significance.
A brief summary to Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
- Dunbar St, Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen, AB24 3UJ, GB
- +441224481775
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9:30 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Book an appointment in advance to access specific archival materials and ensure staff assistance.
- Visit on Monday to Wednesday mornings or afternoons when the searchroom is open for public research.
- Use the online catalogue before your visit to identify collections relevant to your research interests.
- Take advantage of wheelchair access and contact the archives for any special access needs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take local bus services from Aberdeen city center to Old Aberdeen, which typically take 15-25 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for off-peak times. A single fare costs around £1.80–£2.50 GBP.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from central Aberdeen to the archives on Dunbar Street usually takes 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Expect to pay approximately £7–£12 GBP. Taxis offer direct and convenient access.
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Walking
From Aberdeen city center, walking to Old Aberdeen Archives takes about 35-45 minutes along paved city streets. The route is accessible but involves some uphill sections. Suitable for those comfortable with moderate urban walking.
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
A Treasury of North East Scotland's History
The Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives hold a remarkable collection of documents, maps, photographs, and records that chronicle the rich heritage of North East Scotland. Spanning from the 12th century through to modern times, the archives encompass materials from Aberdeen City Council, Aberdeenshire Council, and other significant regional bodies. Among these treasures are minutes, registers, accounts, letters, logbooks, plans, and photographs that provide a vivid window into the region’s past.UNESCO-Recognized Burgh Records
One of the archives’ most notable assets is the oldest and most complete set of Scottish burgh records, dating back to 1398. These records were designated by UNESCO as being of outstanding historical importance to the United Kingdom, underscoring the archives’ global cultural significance. They offer unparalleled insight into the governance, society, and daily life of medieval and early modern Aberdeen.Preservation and Access Facilities
The archives are housed in secure, environmentally controlled facilities designed to protect fragile historical materials. Conservation specialists work to maintain and restore documents as needed, ensuring their longevity. The public can access many collections through the searchroom services, with detailed catalogues available online to aid research. The archives also engage in outreach activities to promote local history and heritage.A Hub for Researchers and Heritage Enthusiasts
Visitors to the archives include family historians, academics, students, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the region. The searchroom provides a quiet, focused environment for research, with staff support and resources to facilitate exploration of the collections. The archives also maintain connections with Scottish archival networks, enhancing accessibility and collaboration.Location and Operational Details
Situated in Old Aberdeen on Dunbar Street, the archives are part of the city’s historic fabric. They operate Monday to Wednesday from 9:30 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 4:30 pm, offering ample opportunity for visits. Wheelchair access is available, and appointments are recommended to ensure access to specific materials. The archives play a vital role in supporting the ongoing business of local councils while preserving the region’s past.Community and Cultural Impact
Beyond preservation, the Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives contribute to the cultural identity and economy of North East Scotland. They support education, community projects, and cultural events, fostering a deeper appreciation of the area’s history. Through their collections, the archives connect present and future generations with the stories and legacies that have shaped their communities.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Powis Gates
0.5 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
1.2 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.8 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
1.8 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
2.1 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
2.1 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
2.2 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
2.3 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
2.4 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Rosemount Market
2.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Aedie's House site
2.4 km
Step into Aberdeen’s past at the site of Aedie’s House, a 16th‑century townhouse whose memory lives on in stone, street names, and local history.
Edward VII Statue
2.5 km
Aberdeen’s grand Edward VII Statue stands in full ceremonial robes, a striking granite and bronze tribute to the British monarch at the heart of the city.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
2.5 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.6 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Edward VIII Post Box
2.9 km
Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Unmissable attractions to see
King's Museum
0.2 km
Explore the University of Aberdeen’s rare collections in a historic 17th-century town house, with changing exhibitions and regular events in the heart of Old Aberdeen.
St. Machar's Cathedral
0.3 km
A granite fortress-church in Old Aberdeen, famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling and centuries of layered history along the River Don.
High St
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s vibrant High Street, a lively shopping hub blending historic charm with modern retail and dining experiences.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
0.4 km
A free 11-acre botanical sanctuary in Old Aberdeen with over 2,500 plant species and year-round seasonal beauty.
Roots
0.4 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining at Roots, a fresh and welcoming café in the heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
King's College Chapel
0.5 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic late Gothic chapel with its stunning crown tower, vibrant stained glass, and rich university heritage.
Cathedral Walk
0.5 km
A picturesque floral pathway beside historic St Machar's Cathedral, blending nature, heritage, and family-friendly recreation in Old Aberdeen.
Seaton Park
0.5 km
Historic riverside park in Old Aberdeen with gardens, playgrounds, scenic walks, and rich heritage beside the River Don.
Wallace Tower
0.7 km
A rare 16th-century Scottish tower house preserved through relocation, embodying Aberdeen’s noble heritage and architectural history.
The Walled Garden
0.7 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
Kittybrewster Retail Park
1.1 km
A dynamic retail hub in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, convenient parking, and dining options for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Aberdeen beach
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant charm and scenic beauty of Aberdeen Beach, a lively coastal retreat blending natural splendor with rich maritime heritage.
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
1.3 km
A peaceful estuarine retreat in Aberdeen where river meets sea, rich in wildlife and scenic coastal views.
Archimedes Screw
1.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Windows to the Sea
1.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic granite frames framing stunning North Sea views on the vibrant Beach Esplanade.
Essential places to dine
Chicago Town
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
0.4 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
0.4 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
0.8 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Chop Grill & Bar
2.0 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
2.0 km
Slow-smoked BBQ soul food ignites Aberdeen's craft beer scene at Six°North, blending hearty meats, loaded comforts, and artisanal brews in a minimalist city hideaway.
Maggie's Grill
2.2 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Siam Cottage
2.2 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Heavenly Pizzas
2.2 km
Savor gourmet pizzas crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district.
Koi Thai Restaurant
2.2 km
Authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Rosemount district.
The Terrace Bar and Café
2.2 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
2.3 km
Experience authentic Turkish grills and delightful desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Aberdeen’s scenic Esplanade.
The City Bar and Diner
2.3 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
Miller & Carter Aberdeen
2.3 km
Savor expertly cooked steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, perfect for special occasions and casual dining alike.
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
2.3 km
Stylish Scottish dining with innovative tapas and hearty mains in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Malthurst Retail Ltd
0.3 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.3 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
ShopHub
0.4 km
Everyday essentials at the pulse of Aberdeen Uni campus – ShopHub fuels student life with groceries, snacks, and supplies in Old Aberdeen's historic heart.
The Bear Essentials
0.4 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
Country Images
0.9 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Àdùké Fashion House
1.4 km
Discover African vibrancy on Aberdeen's George Street: native wears, handmade bags, and cultural fusion fashion for all ages at affordable prices.
House of Gifts
1.4 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
1.7 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
The Closet
1.8 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
1.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Brunswick Stores
2.0 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
2.1 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Castle Gate
2.2 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
EDIT
2.2 km
Discover handcrafted gems from Aberdeen's Deemouth Artist Studios at this city-center gift shop—unique jewelry, textiles, and art by 50 local makers.
Wool For Ewe Ltd
2.2 km
Scotland's award-winning wool haven: endless yarns, expert advice, and crafting community on Aberdeen's Rosemount Place.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rowan Tree Bar
0.2 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
St. Machar Bar
0.3 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
The Bobbin
0.6 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
Black Dog
1.5 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
Northern Bar
1.8 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Kings Bar
2.0 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
2.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
All Bar One Aberdeen
2.1 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
The Castle Bar
2.2 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
The Triplekirks
2.3 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
2.3 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Masada Bar
2.3 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
2.3 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
2.3 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
2.3 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
2.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
2.4 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
The Underground Klub
2.5 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Venga
2.6 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at Venga, where retro beats, themed nights, and cocktails fuel unforgettable dances until dawn on vibrant Chapel Street.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.6 km
Compact retro nightclub on Chapel Street with neon kitsch, themed nights and a late‑night dancefloor for nostalgic hits and loud, energetic DJ sets.
Private Eyes
2.6 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
Number 7 Club
2.6 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
2.6 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
The Mask Club
2.6 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
491 Union Street
2.9 km
Dive into Aberdeen's electric nightlife at this top-of-Union-Street hotspot, where killer beats, craft drinks, and epic events light up weekends until dawn.
Babylon
2.9 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
55.7 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
58.8 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
60.8 km
Experience the warmth and vibrancy of Market Arms in Banff, offering local brews, hearty meals, and a friendly atmosphere for every traveler.
Banff Town & County Club
60.9 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Cultural Heritage
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
