Duthie Park and David Welch Winter Gardens, Aberdeen

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

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Aberdeen
Flagpole Hill

Duthie Park is a cherished 44-acre Victorian park in Aberdeen, featuring lush lawns, ornate fountains, and the renowned David Welch Winter Gardens—one of Europe's largest indoor gardens. Visitors enjoy diverse play areas, a boating pond, and scenic riverside walks along the River Dee. The park blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it a year-round green oasis for families, nature lovers, and garden enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Flagpole Hill

59 Murray Terrace, Aberdeen, AB11 7SB, GB
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

Visit the David Welch Winter Gardens to experience diverse climates and exotic plants year-round.
Bring comfortable shoes to explore the extensive park grounds and riverside paths.
Enjoy family time at the adventure playground, voted Scotland’s best play space.
Stop by the Park Café for refreshments and light snacks during your visit.
Check the schedule for ranger-led activities and seasonal events to enrich your experience.

Getting There

Bus

Several bus routes serve Duthie Park, including First Bus routes 17 and 18, and Stagecoach routes X6, X7, X8, and 204. Travel times from Aberdeen city center range from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single fare typically costs around £2.50.
Car

Driving to Duthie Park from Aberdeen city center takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. On-site parking is limited; nearby street parking and public car parks are available but may fill quickly during peak times. Parking fees vary, so plan accordingly.
Cycling

Cyclists can access Duthie Park via dedicated bike lanes and paths along Polmuir Road. Bike racks are located near the David Welch Winter Gardens and Riverside Drive car park. Cycling from the city center typically takes 15 to 20 minutes on mostly flat terrain.
Walking

For those staying nearby, walking to Duthie Park is pleasant and scenic, taking around 30 to 40 minutes from Aberdeen city center. Paths are well-maintained and accessible, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair users.

Flagpole Hill location weather suitability

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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Flagpole Hill

A Legacy of Victorian Elegance and Community Gift

Duthie Park, gifted to the city of Aberdeen in 1880 by Elizabeth Crombie Duthie, opened in 1883 as a public space dedicated to the wellbeing and recreation of local residents. Spanning 44 acres along the banks of the River Dee, the park preserves its Victorian heritage through restored features such as ornamental fountains, a bandstand, and boating ponds. This historic foundation creates a timeless atmosphere where visitors can experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural legacy.

The David Welch Winter Gardens: A Botanical Treasure

At the heart of Duthie Park lies the David Welch Winter Gardens, one of the largest indoor gardens in Europe. Spanning multiple climatic zones—including tropical, arid, Japanese, and Mediterranean—the Winter Gardens offer a warm refuge from Scotland’s often cool and wet weather. Visitors can wander among exotic plants, marvel at seasonal blooms, and encounter unique features like the famous giant frog sculpture. The gardens are open daily with seasonal hours and provide a serene environment for horticultural appreciation and quiet contemplation.

Family-Friendly Recreation and Play Spaces

Duthie Park is renowned for its exceptional play areas, including an adventure playground voted the best play space in Scotland. There are distinct zones catering to different age groups, ensuring children of all ages can enjoy safe and imaginative play. The park also features a renovated boating pond where pedalos can be hired for leisurely rides, and an astro turf area for ball games. These facilities make the park a vibrant hub for family outings and active recreation.

Natural Beauty and Riverside Serenity

Beyond its gardens and play areas, Duthie Park offers expansive lawns, flowerbeds, and riverside paths along the scenic River Dee. The park’s layout invites visitors to stroll, picnic, or simply relax amid lush greenery and seasonal floral displays. Benches and picnic spots are plentiful, encouraging visitors to linger and soak in the tranquil ambiance. The park also serves as the starting point for the Deeside Way, a long-distance trail following the historic railway line.

Visitor Amenities and Community Engagement

Amenities at Duthie Park include accessible pathways, restrooms, a popular Park Café offering refreshments, and bike racks near key entrances. The park is wheelchair-friendly and dog-friendly, with leashed dogs welcome. The Duthie Park Ranger Service actively engages the community through events, workshops, and nature-themed activities for children during school holidays. This vibrant community involvement enhances the park’s role as a cultural and recreational centerpiece in Aberdeen.

Seasonal Atmosphere and Year-Round Appeal

Open daily from dawn until dusk, Duthie Park adapts to the seasons with varied experiences. The Winter Gardens provide a warm retreat in colder months, while spring and summer bring blooming flowerbeds and lively outdoor activities. The park hosts annual events such as carol concerts in December, enriching the visitor experience. Whether seeking relaxation, play, or botanical wonders, Duthie Park offers a versatile and welcoming environment throughout the year.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

0.3 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

1.5 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

Duke Of Gordon Monument

1.6 km

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

Edward VII Statue

1.6 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.

Aedie's House site

1.6 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

1.7 km

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

Queen Victoria Statue

1.8 km

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

Edward VIII Post Box

1.9 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.

Castlegate

1.9 km

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

Greyfriars Church

2.0 km

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

Gordon Highlanders Statue

2.0 km

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

Marischal College

2.0 km

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

Rosemount Market

2.1 km

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

Balnagask Motte

2.1 km

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

Rosemount Palace

2.4 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.

Duthie Park

0.2 km

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

Wellington Suspension Bridge

0.8 km

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

City of Aberdeen Distillery

0.9 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.

Sainsbury's Local

1.3 km

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

Union Square

1.3 km

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

The Stairs Leading to Bridge Street

1.4 km

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

union square shopping centre

1.4 km

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

Huntfun Aberdeen

1.5 km

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

The Grn

1.6 km

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

Slains

1.7 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

1.7 km

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

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

1.7 km

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

Aberdeen Sign

1.7 km

A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.

Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy 1950s trattoria charm in the heart of Aberdeen at Rustico.

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

1.4 km

Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.

The Edinburgh Woollen Mill

1.5 km

Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.

Hobbycraft Aberdeen

1.5 km

Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

1.5 km

Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.

Surreal Journey

1.6 km

Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.

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

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Babylon

1.3 km

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

491 Union Street

1.3 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.

The Mask Club

1.4 km

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

AURA Nightclub Aberdeen

1.4 km

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

1.4 km

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

Private Eyes

1.4 km

Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.

The Underground Klub

1.5 km

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

Club Tropicana & Venga

1.5 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

1.6 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.

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

1.8 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

62.8 km

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

Market Arms

64.3 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

64.3 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 and David Welch Winter Gardens, Aberdeen

A brief summary to Flagpole Hill

Local tips

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

Getting There

Bus

Car

Cycling

Walking

Flagpole Hill location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Flagpole Hill

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Flagpole Hill

A Legacy of Victorian Elegance and Community Gift

The David Welch Winter Gardens: A Botanical Treasure

Family-Friendly Recreation and Play Spaces

Natural Beauty and Riverside Serenity

Visitor Amenities and Community Engagement

Seasonal Atmosphere and Year-Round Appeal

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Duke Of Gordon Monument

Edward VII Statue

Aedie's House site

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

Queen Victoria Statue

Edward VIII Post Box

Castlegate

Greyfriars Church

Gordon Highlanders Statue

Marischal College

Rosemount Market

Balnagask Motte

Rosemount Palace

Unmissable attractions to see

David Welch Winter Gardens

Duthie Park

Wellington Suspension Bridge

City of Aberdeen Distillery

Bridge of Dee

Sainsbury's Local

Union Square

The Stairs Leading to Bridge Street

union square shopping centre

Huntfun Aberdeen

The Grn

Slains

Union Terrace Gardens

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

Aberdeen Sign

Essential places to dine

The Jewel in the Crown Aberdeen Indian Restaurant

Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen

Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen

Cafe Harmony

Da Vinci Italian Restaurant

The Albyn

Aperitivo Italian Restaurant Aberdeen

Wild Ginger Restaurant

8848 Restaurant

Cafe Andaluz

Madame Mew's

Vovem Meat & Liquor

Namaste Delhi

Amarone

Rustico

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Country Ways Aberdeen

Kafka Mercantile

Sirene Boutique Aberdeen

Fernweh UK

Tiger Lily Boutique

Colin Wood Antiques

Copper & Grey

No 18 Gifts & Cards

Frantiques

Menkind