Johnston Gardens
A serene, romantic garden in Aberdeen’s West End, with streams, waterfalls, a rustic bridge, and seasonal blooms – a peaceful escape in the city.
Tucked away in Aberdeen’s West End, Johnston Gardens is a beautifully landscaped public park that feels like a secret garden. Streams, waterfalls, ponds, and a charming rustic bridge wind through rockeries and lush planting, creating a peaceful escape. Seasonal displays of rhododendrons, heathers, spring bulbs, and alpines make it a favourite for photographers and families. A children’s play area and a memorial to North Sea helicopter crew add quiet layers of meaning. Free to enter and open daily, it’s a serene green heart in the city.
A brief summary to Johnston Gardens
- Johnston Gardens, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB15 7XE, GB
- +441224346421
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 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 in spring or early summer to see the rhododendrons and heathers in full bloom, when the gardens are at their most colourful and lush.
- Bring a camera or phone – the rustic bridge, streams, and ponds are incredibly photogenic, especially in soft morning or late afternoon light.
- The park is small and flat, making it ideal for a short, relaxing walk; combine it with a stroll through the surrounding West End streets for a pleasant half-day outing.
- Toilets are available but only during limited hours; plan accordingly, especially if visiting with children or on a longer walk.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from city centre
From Aberdeen city centre, it takes about 25–30 minutes to walk to Johnston Gardens through residential streets. The route is mostly flat and well signposted, suitable for most walkers, but can be damp underfoot after rain.
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By bus
First Bus and Stagecoach services (routes 5, X17, 200/210) serve the West End area; alight near Viewfield Road and walk a few minutes to the gardens. Services run regularly during the day, with reduced frequency in the evening and on Sundays.
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By car
A small free car park is located directly opposite the main entrance on Viewfield Road. Parking is usually available during the day, but spaces can fill up on sunny weekends; access is straightforward with no steep gradients.
Johnston Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Johnston Gardens
A Hidden Garden in the City
Nestled in the residential streets of Aberdeen’s West End, Johnston Gardens is a small but perfectly formed public park that feels like a secret world. Originally part of the Johnston House estate, the gardens were gifted to the city in 1936 and transformed into a formal, romantic landscape. Today, it’s a place where city life fades away, replaced by the sound of running water, birdsong, and the rustle of leaves. The park is compact but rich in detail: streams tumble over rocks, ponds reflect the sky, and a rustic wooden bridge has become an iconic spot for wedding photos and quiet contemplation.Design and Natural Beauty
The gardens are a masterclass in Scottish municipal landscaping, blending formal structure with naturalistic planting. Rockeries frame winding paths, and seasonal displays are carefully curated to ensure colour throughout the year. In spring, the park bursts with bulbs and early blooms; summer brings lush greenery and flowering rhododendrons and heathers; autumn softens the palette with warm foliage. The water features are central to the experience – a small waterfall feeds into a pond that attracts mallards and moorhens, while irises and other aquatic plants thrive at the water’s edge. The overall effect is one of gentle, timeless beauty, a place that rewards slow, attentive walking.A Place for People and Memory
Johnston Gardens is more than just a pretty park; it’s a living part of Aberdeen’s community. A children’s play area makes it a popular destination for families, while the well-maintained paths and benches invite older visitors and those seeking a quiet moment. At the heart of the gardens stands a memorial to the 16 men lost in the 2009 Super Puma helicopter crash in the North Sea, a sobering reminder of the city’s deep connection to the offshore industry. This blend of everyday recreation and quiet remembrance gives the gardens a unique emotional depth, making it a place that feels both joyful and respectful.Photography and Seasonal Charm
The park’s photogenic qualities have earned it a reputation as a favourite among local photographers and visitors alike. The blue-tinted bridge over the stream, framed by greenery and water, is perhaps the most iconic view, but every corner offers something new: a close-up of alpine plants on a rockery, reflections in the pond, or the play of light through trees. The gardens change dramatically with the seasons, each visit offering a different mood and palette. Whether you’re drawn by the spring rhododendrons, the summer greenery, or the autumn colours, there’s always a reason to return and see the park in a new light.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
1.5 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
1.9 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
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.
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.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.8 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
2.8 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.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
2.9 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Rosemount Palace
2.9 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
2.9 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VII Statue
3.0 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
3.2 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
3.2 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Marischal College
3.4 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
3.5 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
3.5 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Gordon Highlanders Museum
0.2 km
Explore 200 years of heroic history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, featuring immersive WWI trenches, rare medals, and serene Victorian gardens in Aberdeen.
Hazlehead Park
1.8 km
Explore Aberdeen’s largest historic park with gardens, trails, golf, a petting zoo, and family-friendly fun in a sprawling 180-hectare green oasis.
Piper Alpha Memorial
1.9 km
A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.
Den of Maidencraig
2.2 km
A serene nature reserve on Aberdeen’s edge, rich in wildlife and diverse habitats, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Bridge of Dee
2.3 km
Discover the Bridge of Dee, a historical marvel in Aberdeen that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
Ice House
2.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Ice House, a unique dessert spot offering innovative ice cream flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Sainsbury's Local
2.4 km
Your convenient city centre supermarket on Aberdeen’s Union Street, open daily with fresh essentials and quick shopping solutions.
Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen
2.5 km
Historic urban park in Aberdeen with sports facilities, a serene stream, and a Victorian mansion at its heart.
Fish N Hook
2.6 km
Fresh, family-run fish and chips in Aberdeen with crispy batter, generous portions, and gluten-free options for a classic takeaway experience.
Westburn Park
2.6 km
A vibrant urban park in Aberdeen blending sports, nature, and history with family-friendly charm and peaceful green spaces.
Flagpole Hill
2.6 km
A historic Victorian park in Aberdeen with stunning gardens, family-friendly play areas, and scenic riverside tranquility.
David Welch Winter Gardens
2.7 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
2.8 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.
Rosemount Place
2.9 km
A central bus stop in Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district, connecting local and regional routes for seamless urban travel.
William Wallace Statue
2.9 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
Essential places to dine
The Bothy Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish dining with traditional flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Palm Court Hotel.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Aberdeen
1.0 km
Sophisticated British-French fusion dining with prime grills and stylish cocktails in the heart of Aberdeen.
Rendezvous | Nargile
1.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, family-friendly setting with contemporary charm in Aberdeen.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
1.5 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
1.5 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
No.10 Bar and Restaurant
1.9 km
A sophisticated subterranean venue in Aberdeen offering modern British cuisine, an extensive whiskey bar, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere.
Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish
1.9 km
Modern Scottish cuisine with French flair, served in a warm, elegant setting at the heart of Aberdeen.
Milton on the Corner
2.1 km
An intimate and stylish Aberdeen restaurant offering quality food, crafted cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s vibrant west end.
The Albyn
2.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant hospitality at The Albyn, blending lively bar culture with hearty dining in a historic family-run setting.
Tucán Rosemount
2.3 km
Colourful, casual South American deli in Rosemount serving empanadas, arepas and sharing plates in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Da Vinci Italian Restaurant
2.3 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with fresh, vibrant flavors in a cozy family-run restaurant in the heart of Aberdeen.
Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen
2.3 km
Experience authentic Kerala-inspired South Indian cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen.
Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen
2.4 km
Family-friendly British bar and grill with unlimited salad, riverside views, and a welcoming atmosphere near Aberdeen’s Bridge of Dee.
Tarragon by Graham Mitchell
2.4 km
A stylish Aberdeen bistro blending fresh Scottish flavors with cozy, contemporary charm in the vibrant Rosemount district.
Pasta Plus
2.5 km
Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joli Gifts
0.3 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Gifted
0.4 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Made by Mums with Love
1.7 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
Surreal Journey
1.9 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
Treehouse Home Store
1.9 km
Discover whimsical homewares, stylish furnishings, and cozy cafe vibes at Aberdeen's Treehouse Home Store—a creative haven for design lovers and casual browsers alike.
The Owl at Number Two
2.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
2.2 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Country Ways Aberdeen
2.2 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
Kafka Mercantile
2.3 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
Cloudyblue
2.4 km
Explore Cloudyblue in Aberdeen for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Scotland's culture and charm.
Colin Wood Antiques
2.4 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
2.5 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Tiger Lily Boutique
2.5 km
Elegant women's boutique on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, curating versatile dresses and chic separates for effortless day-to-night style in a historic setting.
Copper & Grey
2.5 km
Bright independent gift shop on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, brimming with unique cards, jewellery, stationery, and local maker treasures for every occasion.
No 18 Gifts & Cards
2.5 km
Discover unique greeting cards, stylish accessories, and thoughtful gifts at No 18 Gifts & Cards, a charming boutique in Aberdeen’s Chapel Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Abergeldie Bar
2.0 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
2.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Brig O Dee Bar
2.1 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Foundry aberdeen
2.3 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
College Bar
2.3 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
Croft & Cairns
2.3 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
The Glentanar Bar
2.3 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Grape & Grain
2.4 km
Luxurious wine bar in Aberdeen's west end, where curated wines, craft drinks, and gourmet nibbles create intimate evenings of flavor and finesse.
The Queen Vic
2.5 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
The Spiritualist Aberdeen
2.6 km
Discover vibrant cocktails and stylish dining in the heart of Aberdeen at The Spiritualist, where creativity meets chic atmosphere.
Orchid Cocktails
2.6 km
Aberdeen’s stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, immersive tastings, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Dusk Cocktail Bar
2.6 km
Intimate and stylish cocktail lounge in Aberdeen’s West End, renowned for expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Motif
2.6 km
A lively Union Street bar blending historic stained glass and organ echoes with neon, cocktails, games and live events for a sociable night out.
Murdos Bar
2.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Prohibition
2.7 km
Energetic late-night bar and nightclub in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for vibrant music, lively crowds, and affordable drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
2.3 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
2.4 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.
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.
Number 7 Club
2.9 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
3.0 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 Underground Klub
3.0 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
3.0 km
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
3.0 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Exodus
3.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
3.3 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
51.3 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
62.7 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
62.9 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
63.0 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly