King's College Chapel, Aberdeen
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic late Gothic chapel with its stunning crown tower, vibrant stained glass, and rich university heritage.
King's College Chapel is a stunning late Gothic church located at the heart of the University of Aberdeen's Old Aberdeen campus. Built beginning in 1498 and dedicated in 1509, it is renowned for its iconic crown tower, intricate stained glass windows, and impressive fan vaulting. The chapel remains an active place of worship and a venue for concerts and special events, embodying centuries of academic and spiritual heritage in a serene, historic setting.
A brief summary to King's College Chapel
- College Bounds, Aberdeen, AB24 3FX, GB
- +441224272137
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during off-peak hours to enjoy the chapel’s grandeur with fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Attend a choir service to experience the chapel’s excellent acoustics and beautiful music.
- Take time to explore the surrounding Old Aberdeen campus to appreciate the historical context of the chapel.
- Contact the University Chaplaincy in advance if you have mobility concerns or plan to attend a special event.
- Photograph the crown tower from multiple angles to capture its distinctive architectural beauty.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Aberdeen bus service 1 or 2 from the city center to Old Aberdeen; the journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes and costs around £2.50. Buses run frequently during the day but check schedules for evenings and weekends.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Aberdeen city center to King's College Chapel takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, with fares typically between £7 and £12. Taxis are readily available and provide a convenient option for visitors with limited time or mobility.
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Walking
For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, walking from Aberdeen city center to the chapel takes approximately 30-40 minutes along mostly flat terrain. The route passes through historic parts of the city and is suitable for most fitness levels.
King's College Chapel 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 King's College Chapel
A Historic Jewel of Aberdeen University
King's College Chapel stands as a magnificent symbol of the University of Aberdeen, founded in 1495. Construction of the chapel began in 1498 under the vision of Bishop William Elphinstone, whose tomb lies within the chapel, marking his pivotal role in the university's origins. The chapel was dedicated in 1509 and has since been a central fixture of the university's Old Aberdeen campus, reflecting the enduring legacy of Scotland's ancient academic traditions.Architectural Masterpiece of Late Gothic Design
The chapel is a breathtaking example of late Gothic architecture, distinguished by its unique crown tower which crowns the building with a striking silhouette visible across Aberdeen's skyline. Inside, visitors are awed by the exquisite fan vaulting, an architectural pinnacle of the period, and the richly detailed stained glass windows that bathe the interior in vibrant, colored light. These windows depict biblical scenes and historical figures, offering both spiritual and artistic inspiration.A Living Place of Worship and Cultural Venue
More than a historic monument, King's College Chapel remains a vibrant place of worship with daily services during term time and special annual ceremonies such as Founders' Day and Remembrance Service. The chapel also hosts concerts and events, benefiting from its remarkable acoustics and grand organ. Quiet contemplation is encouraged during designated times, preserving the chapel’s tranquil atmosphere.The Chapel’s Role in University Life and Community
Situated within the university’s Old Aberdeen campus, the chapel is surrounded by historic buildings that together create a scholarly and contemplative environment. Visitors often explore the grounds to appreciate the broader heritage context. The chapel’s use is carefully managed by the University Chaplaincy to respect its sacred nature, with bookings required for events and strict guidelines to protect its fabric and atmosphere.Iconic Features and Visitor Experience
The crown tower is the chapel’s most recognizable feature, often photographed from various angles to capture its grandeur. Inside, the detailed woodwork, including the choir stalls where students historically carved their names, adds a personal historical touch. The chapel’s serene ambiance, enhanced by the stained glass and organ music, offers visitors a peaceful retreat amidst Aberdeen’s urban setting.Preserving a Scottish Heritage Landmark
King's College Chapel is not only a functional religious space but also a protected heritage site, representing centuries of Scottish history, education, and faith. Its preservation and continued use demonstrate a commitment to maintaining cultural heritage while serving contemporary community and university needs. Visitors are invited to appreciate both its historical significance and its ongoing role in Aberdeen’s cultural life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Powis Gates
0.1 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
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Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.3 km
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Rosemount Palace
1.4 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
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Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
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Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
1.8 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
1.9 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Rosemount Market
2.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
2.0 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Aedie's House site
2.0 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.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
2.0 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
2.0 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.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.1 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
2.4 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
High St
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s vibrant High Street, a lively shopping hub blending historic charm with modern retail and dining experiences.
Roots
0.3 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 Museum
0.3 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.
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
0.5 km
Explore centuries of North East Scotland’s heritage through the UNESCO-recognized archives housed in historic Old Aberdeen.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
0.5 km
A free 11-acre botanical sanctuary in Old Aberdeen with over 2,500 plant species and year-round seasonal beauty.
St. Machar's Cathedral
0.6 km
A granite fortress-church in Old Aberdeen, famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling and centuries of layered history along the River Don.
Kittybrewster Retail Park
0.7 km
A dynamic retail hub in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, convenient parking, and dining options for a comprehensive shopping experience.
Cathedral Walk
0.8 km
A picturesque floral pathway beside historic St Machar's Cathedral, blending nature, heritage, and family-friendly recreation in Old Aberdeen.
Wallace Tower
0.9 km
A rare 16th-century Scottish tower house preserved through relocation, embodying Aberdeen’s noble heritage and architectural history.
Seaton Park
0.9 km
Historic riverside park in Old Aberdeen with gardens, playgrounds, scenic walks, and rich heritage beside the River Don.
The Walled Garden
1.1 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
Aberdeen Beach
1.4 km
Golden sands meet vibrant entertainment on Scotland's celebrated North Sea shoreline.
Rosemount Place
1.5 km
A central bus stop in Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district, connecting local and regional routes for seamless urban travel.
Archimedes Screw
1.5 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Aberdeen Science Centre
1.6 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive exhibits, and cutting-edge STEM experiences at Aberdeen Science Centre, a family favourite in the heart of Aberdeen.
Essential places to dine
Chicago Town
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
0.3 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
0.3 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
1.2 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
1.6 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
1.6 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.
Heavenly Pizzas
1.8 km
Savor gourmet pizzas crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district.
Koi Thai Restaurant
1.8 km
Authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Rosemount district.
Maggie's Grill
1.8 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
The Terrace Bar and Café
1.8 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
Siam Cottage
1.8 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Pasta Plus
1.8 km
Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.
BioCafe
1.9 km
A vibrant vegan café in Aberdeen offering fresh, sugar-free, allergen-friendly delights in a cozy, eco-conscious setting.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
1.9 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Noose & Monkey
1.9 km
Aberdeen's iconic gastropub on Rosemount Viaduct: locally sourced eats, killer cocktails, live tunes, and theatre vibes just steps from His Majesty's.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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
0.3 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
0.3 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
Country Images
0.6 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Malthurst Retail Ltd
0.7 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Àdùké Fashion House
0.9 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
1.0 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
The Closet
1.4 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
1.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Brunswick Stores
1.7 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
Wool For Ewe Ltd
1.7 km
Scotland's award-winning wool haven: endless yarns, expert advice, and crafting community on Aberdeen's Rosemount Place.
EDIT
1.8 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.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
1.8 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
1.8 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Oliver Bonas
1.8 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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
0.4 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
Rowan Tree Bar
0.6 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
Northern Bar
1.3 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Kings Bar
1.6 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
1.6 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
All Bar One Aberdeen
1.7 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
The Castle Bar
1.8 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
Masada Bar
1.8 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
1.8 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
The Triplekirks
1.8 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Queen Vic
1.8 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Vulture Lounge
1.8 km
Cozy viaduct bar in Rosemount pouring craft drinks, bites, and live tunes amid Aberdeen's gritty urban charm.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
1.9 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
1.9 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
1.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
2.0 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
2.1 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Venga
2.1 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
2.1 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
2.2 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Private Eyes
2.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
2.2 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
2.2 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
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.
Babylon
2.5 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
55.3 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
59.3 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
61.1 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
61.2 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
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
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
