Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Discover Aberdeen’s rich maritime heritage through historic ships, oil industry exhibits, and stunning harbour views in this free, family-friendly museum.
Located on historic Shiprow in Aberdeen, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum explores the city’s rich maritime heritage, from early fishing and shipbuilding to its pivotal role in the North Sea oil industry. Housed in a mix of historic and modern buildings, it features detailed ship models, interactive exhibits, and panoramic views over Aberdeen Harbour. Admission is free, and the museum is accessible and family-friendly, offering a fascinating journey through Aberdeen’s seafaring past and present.
A brief summary to Aberdeen Maritime Museum
- Shiprow, Aberdeen, AB11 5BY, GB
- +443000200293
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit the top floor for panoramic views over Aberdeen Harbour, a highlight that complements the museum’s maritime exhibits.
- Explore the detailed scale model of the Murchison oil platform suspended in the modern link building for a unique perspective.
- Use the available wheelchair and lift facilities for an accessible visit; staff are helpful and welcoming.
- Although there is no café onsite, nearby picnic areas and city centre eateries offer refreshment options.
- Plan your visit between 10am and 5pm on weekdays or Saturdays, or 11am to 4pm on Sundays; admission is free.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Numerous city buses serve stops near Shiprow in Aberdeen city centre, with frequent services running every 10-20 minutes from various parts of the city. Travel times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost around £1.80-£3.00. Note that bus stops are a short walk from the museum entrance.
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Car
Driving to the museum is convenient with nearby NCP multi-storey car parks on Shiprow and Virginia Street. Parking charges are approximately £3.50 per hour. Street parking is not available directly at the museum. Allow 10-20 minutes for parking and walking to the museum entrance.
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Train
Aberdeen Railway Station is about 1.5 km from the museum. A taxi or local bus ride from the station to Shiprow takes around 7-10 minutes, costing £5-£10 by taxi or £2-£3 by bus. Walking is possible in about 20-25 minutes over mostly flat terrain.
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Walking
If staying in Aberdeen city centre, walking to the museum from Union Street or nearby hotels takes approximately 10-15 minutes on paved, wheelchair-accessible paths. The route is straightforward and suitable for all fitness levels.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Aberdeen Maritime Museum
A Living Chronicle of Aberdeen’s Maritime Legacy
Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen on the historic Shiprow, the Aberdeen Maritime Museum stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s enduring bond with the sea. The museum occupies several buildings, including the 16th-century Provost Ross’s House, blending centuries-old architecture with modern design. This fusion reflects Aberdeen’s journey from a historic fishing and shipbuilding hub to a global energy leader.Exhibits That Navigate Through Time and Industry
The museum’s collections span four floors, thematically arranged to tell stories of Aberdeen’s maritime industries. Highlights include meticulously crafted ship models dating from the 17th century, such as the renowned tea clipper Thermopylae, and artifacts like a complete lighthouse lens and the figurehead from the Star of Tasmania. A striking centerpiece is the suspended scale model of the Murchison oil platform, offering visitors a rare perspective on offshore life.Aberdeen Harbour: A Window to the World
From the museum’s upper floors, visitors can gaze out over Aberdeen Harbour, one of Britain’s oldest businesses with nearly 900 years of history. Exhibits detail the harbour’s evolution and its role in global trade, enriched by archaeological finds unearthed nearby. The museum also preserves stories and memories, connecting visitors to the people who shaped Aberdeen’s maritime culture.Engaging Experiences for All Ages
While the museum offers a wealth of historical and industrial insights, it also caters to families with interactive elements like a remote-controlled submersible ROV model in the oil exploration section. Although the displays are more focused on education than entertainment, the museum’s accessible layout, including lifts and wheelchair availability, ensures a comfortable visit for everyone.Context and Surroundings
Outside, the Aberdeen Fishing Memorial commemorates the city’s fishing community with evocative bronze sculptures. Nearby amenities include restrooms and picnic areas, though the museum itself does not have a café or shop. Parking is available in a nearby NCP car park, though charges apply. The museum’s central location makes it an ideal cultural stop within Aberdeen’s vibrant cityscape.Practical Information for Visitors
The museum is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and Sundays from 11am to 4pm, with free admission. It is fully accessible and encourages visitors to take their time exploring the extensive collections and panoramic harbour views. The museum does not require advance booking but asks visitors to follow current health and safety guidelines.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Castlegate
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Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
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A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Greyfriars Church
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Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
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An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Aedie's House site
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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.
Marischal College
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Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Edward VII Statue
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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
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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
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Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Gallows Hill
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Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Rosemount Palace
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Rosemount Market
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Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
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A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VIII Post Box
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Discover a rare Edward VIII post box in Aberdeen, a unique relic from the brief 1936 reign of a king who changed British history.
Balnagask Motte
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Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.
Unmissable attractions to see
Provost Ross's House
0.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s second oldest house, a 16th-century maritime treasure now at the heart of the Aberdeen Maritime Museum.
Port of Aberdeen
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Scotland's largest cruise port and gateway to the Granite City, Highlands, and northeast coast.
VisitScotland Aberdeen iCentre
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Your essential starting point for exploring Aberdeen’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning surroundings.
The Tolbooth Museum
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Explore Aberdeen’s 17th-century former jail, the Tolbooth Museum, where history, crime, and legend converge in atmospheric granite walls.
The Tunnels
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
Provost Skene's House
0.3 km
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
Aberdeen Ferry Terminal
0.3 km
Scotland's maritime gateway to Orkney and Shetland, offering overnight ferry journeys with modern comfort and island hospitality.
Robert the Bruce Statue
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A majestic bronze tribute to King Robert the Bruce, symbolizing Aberdeen’s historic roots and Scottish heritage.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
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Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
The Grn
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Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
Marischal Square
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A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
St. Andrew Cathedral Church, Aberdeen
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Historic Scottish Episcopal cathedral in Aberdeen, renowned for its Gothic architecture and rich transatlantic heritage.
St Nicholas Bandstand
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An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
Aberdeen Ghost Walks
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Uncover Aberdeen's gruesome past through guided ghost walks revealing tales of witches, murderers, and dark secrets.
union square shopping centre
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Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping and leisure destination with over 80 stores, 30 eateries, and the city’s largest cinema all under one roof.
Essential places to dine
Goulash
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Taste of Hong Kong
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A cozy, family-run Chinese gem in Aberdeen serving authentic Hong Kong street food with generous portions and warm, welcoming service.
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
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Stylish Scottish dining with innovative tapas and hearty mains in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Miller & Carter Aberdeen
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Savor expertly cooked steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, perfect for special occasions and casual dining alike.
The City Bar and Diner
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Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
Maggie's Grill
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Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Siam Cottage
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Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Moonfish Cafe
0.3 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Bistro Verde
0.3 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Cafe 52
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Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Zizzi - Aberdeen
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Modern Italian dining with vibrant local flair, welcoming all tastes in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square.
Ninety-Nine
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Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
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Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
The Tippling House
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A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Annie Mo's
0.1 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
The Vintage Market
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
Beyond Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Hobbycraft Aberdeen
0.3 km
Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.
Castle Gate
0.3 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
EDIT
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Discover handcrafted gems from Aberdeen's Deemouth Artist Studios at this city-center gift shop—unique jewelry, textiles, and art by 50 local makers.
Menkind
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Discover quirky, unique gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, nestled in Aberdeen’s bustling Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
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Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
White Stuff Aberdeen
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Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
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Forbes Gallery & Gifts
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Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Itskitsch Ltd
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Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Oliver Bonas
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Krakatoa
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A vibrant tiki-themed dive bar in Aberdeen offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from afternoon till late night.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
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City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
The GasLamp Bar
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Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
ENVY Aberdeen
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A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
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Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Spirit Level
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A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
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Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
Prince Of Wales
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Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
The Castle Bar
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A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
All Bar One Aberdeen
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Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Ma Cameron's
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Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
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Revolution Aberdeen
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Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
The Kings Bar
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A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
The Triplekirks
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Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
CHEERZ
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Private Eyes
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Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
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Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
The Underground Klub
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A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Exodus
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Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
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Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Number 7 Club
0.6 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.9 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.
Venga
0.9 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.
491 Union Street
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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
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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
53.7 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
61.2 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
63.1 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
63.1 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
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
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
