Duthie Park, Aberdeen's Victorian Green Oasis

A Victorian-era urban park in Aberdeen featuring the stunning David Welch Winter Gardens, family-friendly play areas, boating ponds, and lush green spaces.

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Duthie Park is a beloved Victorian-era urban park in Aberdeen, featuring beautifully restored historic elements, expansive lawns, family-friendly playgrounds, and the renowned David Welch Winter Gardens, one of Europe's largest indoor gardens. Open year-round, it offers a peaceful retreat with diverse plant collections, boating ponds, and community activities, making it a vibrant hub for locals and visitors alike.

A brief summary to Duthie Park

Polmuir Road, Aberdeen, GB
+441224585310
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes to explore the expansive park and gardens fully.
Visit the David Welch Winter Gardens year-round for a warm, tropical experience indoors.
Check volunteer schedules to see the historic Victorian railway turntable in action.
Bring peas or corn if you wish to feed the ducks, avoiding bread which can harm them.
Stop by the Park Café for coffee and cakes during your visit.

Getting There

Public Bus

Several local bus routes connect Aberdeen city center to Duthie Park, with journey times ranging from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, but service frequency may reduce in evenings and weekends. A single adult fare costs approximately £1.80 to £2.50.
Taxi or Rideshare

A taxi or rideshare from Aberdeen city center to Duthie Park takes about 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but is more costly, typically costing £8 to £12.
Walking

For those staying near the city center, walking to Duthie Park is feasible and pleasant, taking around 30 to 40 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is accessible and passes through urban streets with sidewalks.
Car

Driving to Duthie Park is straightforward, with parking available nearby. Travel times vary from 10 to 20 minutes depending on starting point and traffic. Note that parking may be limited during peak times, and some areas may require payment.

Duthie Park location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Duthie Park

A Gifted Victorian Legacy

Duthie Park was gifted to the city of Aberdeen in 1880 by Miss Elizabeth Crombie Duthie and opened to the public in 1883. This 44-acre green space was designed to provide wellbeing and recreation for the city's inhabitants. The park retains much of its Victorian charm, with restored features such as a bandstand, ornamental fountains, boating ponds, and statues that evoke the elegance of the era. Its layout and design reflect the Victorian passion for public parks as places of beauty and social gathering.

The David Welch Winter Gardens: A Year-Round Botanical Haven

Central to Duthie Park’s appeal is the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe and Scotland’s third most visited garden. Originally established in the early 1900s, the Winter Gardens were rebuilt after severe storm damage in 1969. Today, it houses 12 climate-specific glasshouses featuring tropical, arid, Japanese, Mediterranean, and temperate plants. Visitors can explore exotic collections including the largest cacti collection in Britain and enjoy unique features such as a giant frog sculpture and a “talking” cactus with a local Doric accent. The Winter Gardens provide a warm, tranquil oasis regardless of weather, with seating areas, an indoor pond with goldfish and terrapins, and a popular café.

Family-Friendly Recreation and Community Spirit

Duthie Park is a favorite destination for families, offering multiple playgrounds including a well-regarded adventurous play area voted Scotland’s best. Expansive lawns invite picnics, casual sports, and relaxation, while the boating pond allows pedalos for hire. The park also supports active lifestyles with flat terrain ideal for runners and park runs. The Duthie Park Ranger Service organizes nature-themed activities and workshops for children and adults, fostering community engagement and environmental education. The Pavilion, the old bowling club building, serves as the ranger base.

Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights

Throughout the year, the park’s flower beds and landscaped gardens bloom vibrantly, showcasing seasonal colors and plant varieties. The park’s ponds and lakes attract local wildlife, including ducks and other bird species, enhancing its tranquil atmosphere. Visitors are encouraged to respect wildlife by feeding ducks appropriate food such as peas or corn. The park’s green spaces and tree-lined paths offer peaceful spots for mindfulness and quiet reflection amid the urban environment.

Recognition and Accessibility

Duthie Park has earned Aberdeen’s first Green Flag Award in 2013 and has maintained it consistently, recognizing its quality as a green space. It is accessible 24 hours daily, with public toilets available (some chargeable), and amenities including a café and picnic areas. Dogs are welcome, with assistance dogs allowed in the Winter Gardens. The park’s proximity to Aberdeen city center and ferry terminal makes it an accessible urban retreat for locals and visitors.

Historic Charm Meets Modern Enjoyment

The park combines its historic Victorian roots with modern recreational facilities, including astro turf sports areas and well-maintained paths. The Victorian railway turntable near Ferryhill Depot offers a glimpse into local industrial heritage, occasionally demonstrated by volunteers. This blend of history, nature, and community activities makes Duthie Park a unique and cherished landmark in Aberdeen’s urban landscape.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

0.2 km

A polished pink granite obelisk in Duthie Park honoring Sir James McGrigor, father of modern military medicine and a key figure in Aberdeen’s history.

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

1.6 km

Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Edward VII Statue

1.7 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

1.7 km

A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.

Aedie's House site

1.7 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.

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

1.8 km

An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.

Castlegate

1.9 km

Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.

Queen Victoria Statue

2.0 km

Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.

Balnagask Motte

2.0 km

Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.

Gordon Highlanders Statue

2.0 km

A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.

Greyfriars Church

2.0 km

Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen

Edward VIII Post Box

2.1 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.

Marischal College

2.1 km

Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.

Rosemount Market

2.3 km

Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.

Rosemount Palace

2.5 km

A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.

Unmissable attractions to see

David Welch Winter Gardens

0.1 km

Explore one of Europe’s largest indoor botanical gardens nestled in Aberdeen’s historic Duthie Park, a year-round tropical oasis with free entry.

Flagpole Hill

0.2 km

A historic Victorian park in Aberdeen with stunning gardens, family-friendly play areas, and scenic riverside tranquility.

Wellington Suspension Bridge

0.7 km

Historic 19th-century suspension bridge over the River Dee, blending engineering heritage with scenic riverside charm in Aberdeen.

City of Aberdeen Distillery

1.0 km

Discover Aberdeen’s first distillery in nearly 80 years, crafting small-batch Scottish gins with immersive tours, tastings, and a hands-on Gin School.

Bridge of Dee

1.3 km

Discover the Bridge of Dee, a historical marvel in Aberdeen that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich architectural heritage.

Union Square

1.4 km

Union Square Aberdeen offers a dynamic blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a spacious, modern city-centre setting.

Sainsbury's Local

1.5 km

Your convenient city centre supermarket on Aberdeen’s Union Street, open daily with fresh essentials and quick shopping solutions.

union square shopping centre

1.5 km

Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping and leisure destination with over 80 stores, 30 eateries, and the city’s largest cinema all under one roof.

The Stairs Leading to Bridge Street

1.5 km

Explore the stunning Stairs Leading to Bridge Street in Aberdeen, a gateway to culture, history, and vibrant city life.

Huntfun Aberdeen

1.6 km

Discover Aberdeen’s city center through an exciting, interactive treasure hunt along Union Street that blends fun, learning, and adventure.

The Grn

1.7 km

Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.

Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve

1.7 km

Explore diverse habitats and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Aberdeen at Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve.

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

1.7 km

Scotland's maritime gateway to Orkney and Shetland, offering overnight ferry journeys with modern comfort and island hospitality.

Slains

1.8 km

Discover Slains in Aberdeen, a unique pub that offers a gothic atmosphere, delicious food, and a vibrant drink selection for locals and tourists alike.

Union Terrace Gardens

1.8 km

Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.

Elegant Italian dining with vibrant atmosphere and attentive service in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Street.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Country Ways Aberdeen

1.2 km

Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.

Fernweh UK

1.3 km

Wanderlust-infused accessories from Aberdeen's harbourfront artist studios—discover handcrafted jewelry and scarves amid makers' workshops.

Frantiques

1.3 km

Waterfront antique shop brimming with maritime treasures and eclectic vintage finds.

Menkind

1.5 km

Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, the fun-filled store in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.

1.7 km

Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.

A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.

Spirit Level

1.7 km

A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

491 Union Street

1.4 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

1.4 km

Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.

The Mask Club

1.5 km

Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.

AURA Nightclub Aberdeen

1.5 km

Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.

Private Eyes

1.5 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

1.5 km

Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.

The Underground Klub

1.6 km

A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.

Club Tropicana & Venga

1.7 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

1.7 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.

CHEERZ

1.7 km

Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.

Exodus

1.9 km

Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.

Utopia Nightclub Montrose

51.9 km

Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.

Deejays Nightclub

63.0 km

Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.

Market Arms

64.5 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

64.5 km

Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Duthie Park, Aberdeen's Victorian Green Oasis

A brief summary to Duthie Park

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Public Bus

Taxi or Rideshare

Walking

Car

Duthie Park location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Duthie Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Duthie Park

A Gifted Victorian Legacy

The David Welch Winter Gardens: A Year-Round Botanical Haven

Family-Friendly Recreation and Community Spirit

Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights

Recognition and Accessibility

Historic Charm Meets Modern Enjoyment

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Edward VII Statue

Duke Of Gordon Monument

Aedie's House site

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

Castlegate

Queen Victoria Statue

Balnagask Motte

Gordon Highlanders Statue

Greyfriars Church

Edward VIII Post Box

Marischal College

Rosemount Market

Rosemount Palace

Unmissable attractions to see

David Welch Winter Gardens

Flagpole Hill

Wellington Suspension Bridge

City of Aberdeen Distillery

Bridge of Dee

Union Square

Sainsbury's Local

union square shopping centre

The Stairs Leading to Bridge Street

Huntfun Aberdeen

The Grn

Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

Slains

Union Terrace Gardens

Essential places to dine

The Jewel in the Crown Aberdeen Indian Restaurant

Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen

Cafe Harmony

Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen

Da Vinci Italian Restaurant

210 Bistro

Aperitivo Italian Restaurant Aberdeen

Namaste Delhi

Wild Ginger Restaurant

Cafe Andaluz

The Albyn

8848 Restaurant

Vovem Meat & Liquor

Madame Mew's

Amarone

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Country Ways Aberdeen

Fernweh UK

Frantiques

Menkind

Next

Sirene Boutique Aberdeen

Kafka Mercantile

Tiger Lily Boutique

Copper & Grey

Colin Wood Antiques