Provost Skene's House: Aberdeen's Oldest Townhouse and Museum of Local Heritage
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
Provost Skene's House, dating from 1545, is Aberdeen’s oldest surviving townhouse, located in the city centre on Guestrow. Named after Sir George Skene, a 17th-century Provost of Aberdeen, the house has a rich history including use by Hanoverian troops and the Duke of Cumberland during the Jacobite rebellion. Now a museum, it celebrates over 100 notable figures from Aberdeen and the North-East through interactive displays and preserves unique features like the Painted Gallery with Renaissance religious paintings.
A brief summary to Provost Skene's House
- Marischal Square, Guestrow, Aberdeen, AB10 1AS, GB
- +443000200293
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 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 Painted Gallery to see rare 17th-century religious ceiling paintings uncovered after centuries hidden.
- Allow at least an hour to explore the interactive exhibits celebrating over 100 notable figures from Aberdeen and the North-East.
- Check opening times before visiting, as the museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays outside April to October.
- Nearby Marischal Square offers food and drink options for a refreshment break after your visit.
- Look out for the glass floor in the cellar, a unique feature that showcases historic artifacts beneath your feet.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Several frequent bus routes serve Union Street, a short 5-10 minute walk from Provost Skene's House. Tickets cost around £1.80-£3.50 depending on distance, with services running every 10-20 minutes during the day.
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Walking
If staying in Aberdeen city centre, Provost Skene's House is easily walkable within 10-15 minutes from key landmarks like Marischal College or the train station, on mostly flat, paved streets suitable for all abilities.
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Car
Several public car parks are within a 5-10 minute walk, including Harriet Street and Loch Street Car Parks. Parking fees typically range from £1.50 to £3.00 per hour. Note that city centre parking can be limited during peak hours.
Provost Skene's House 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 Provost Skene's House
A Living Testament to Aberdeen's Medieval Past
Provost Skene's House stands as a rare survivor of Aberdeen’s medieval burgh architecture, with its origins dating back to 1545. Originally built by the Knollis family and later owned by Sir George Skene, a wealthy merchant and Provost of Aberdeen from 1676 to 1685, the building has been expanded and altered over centuries while retaining much of its historic fabric. Its substantial stone walls, narrow windows, and distinctive plaster ceilings reflect the architectural styles of the 16th and 17th centuries, offering a tangible connection to Aberdeen’s past.From Private Residence to Military Quarters
Throughout its history, Provost Skene’s House has served varied roles. During the Jacobite rebellion of 1745, it was requisitioned by Hanoverian troops, with the Duke of Cumberland residing here on his march to the Battle of Culloden. This military association adds a layer of historical significance, linking the building to pivotal national events. In the 19th century, as the surrounding Guestrow area declined, the once-grand townhouse became the Victoria Lodging House, a hostel for the homeless, reflecting changing social conditions in Aberdeen.The Painted Gallery and Artistic Heritage
One of the house’s most remarkable features is the Painted Gallery, a rare Renaissance-era room adorned with religious scenes and strapwork decoration. Commissioned by the Lumsden family in the early 17th century, the gallery’s ceiling paintings depict episodes from the life of Christ and hint at the complex religious history of the region, possibly serving as a post-Reformation Catholic chapel. These artworks were hidden behind boarding for around 300 years before their rediscovery in the 1950s, making the gallery a unique artistic treasure within the city.A Museum Celebrating Local Heroes and Innovations
Since opening as a museum in 1953, Provost Skene’s House has evolved to showcase the achievements of more than 100 notable individuals from Aberdeen and the North-East of Scotland. The modern exhibitions highlight innovators, scientists, lifesavers, writers, sporting champions, and entertainers who have shaped both local and global history. Figures such as Nobel laureate Lord Boyd Orr, operatic soprano Mary Garden, and football legend Denis Law are celebrated in interactive displays, making the museum a vibrant tribute to regional heritage.Preservation and Renewal in the 21st Century
Threatened with demolition in the 1940s, the building was saved by public campaigners and has undergone significant refurbishment, most recently reopening in 2021. The restoration has balanced preserving historic elements like the Painted Gallery and the cellar’s glass floor with integrating modern interpretive technology. This careful stewardship ensures that Provost Skene’s House remains both a cherished historic monument and an engaging cultural destination for visitors.Experiencing Aberdeen’s Past Today
Located centrally on Guestrow, near Marischal College and the Kirk of St Nicholas, the house offers visitors a journey through centuries of Aberdeen’s domestic life, art, and civic history. The museum’s free admission encourages exploration by families, history enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike. Though the house no longer features its former period room furnishings, the focus on local personalities and the preserved architectural features provide a compelling and immersive experience of Scotland’s northeast heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Marischal College
0.1 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
0.1 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
0.2 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.2 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.3 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Aedie's House site
0.3 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.
Edward VII Statue
0.4 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
0.5 km
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
0.6 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Rosemount Palace
1.1 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Gallows Hill
1.1 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Rosemount Market
1.3 km
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
1.4 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VIII Post Box
1.6 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.
The Powis Gates
1.7 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Unmissable attractions to see
Marischal Square
0.0 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Robert the Bruce Statue
0.1 km
A majestic bronze tribute to King Robert the Bruce, symbolizing Aberdeen’s historic roots and Scottish heritage.
The Tunnels
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
St Nicholas Bandstand
0.1 km
An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
VisitScotland Aberdeen iCentre
0.2 km
Your essential starting point for exploring Aberdeen’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning surroundings.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
The Tolbooth Museum
0.2 km
Explore Aberdeen’s 17th-century former jail, the Tolbooth Museum, where history, crime, and legend converge in atmospheric granite walls.
Provost Ross's House
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s second oldest house, a 16th-century maritime treasure now at the heart of the Aberdeen Maritime Museum.
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s rich maritime heritage through historic ships, offshore oil industry exhibits, and stunning harbour views at this free, award-winning museum.
General Gordon Statue
0.3 km
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
St. Andrew Cathedral Church, Aberdeen
0.3 km
Historic Scottish Episcopal cathedral in Aberdeen, renowned for its Gothic architecture and rich transatlantic heritage.
Slains
0.3 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.
The Grn
0.3 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.3 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
Essential places to dine
Maggie's Grill
0.0 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
The City Bar and Diner
0.1 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
Stylish Scottish dining with innovative tapas and hearty mains in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Miller & Carter Aberdeen
0.1 km
Savor expertly cooked steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, perfect for special occasions and casual dining alike.
Moonfish Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Taste of Hong Kong
0.2 km
A cozy, family-run Chinese gem in Aberdeen serving authentic Hong Kong street food with generous portions and warm, welcoming service.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
0.2 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.
Goulash
0.2 km
Discover authentic Hungarian cuisine in Aberdeen’s cozy, family-run Goulash restaurant, famed for its hearty dishes and warm atmosphere.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Ninety-Nine
0.3 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Cafe 52
0.3 km
Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Bistro Verde
0.3 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Siam Cottage
0.3 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Beyond Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
EDIT
0.1 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.
Annie Mo's
0.2 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.2 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
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.
Oliver Bonas
0.2 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
Itskitsch Ltd
0.3 km
Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Juniper
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
The Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
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.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.4 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
0.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
The Closet
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
0.5 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.1 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
0.1 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
0.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
Prince Of Wales
0.1 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
ENVY Aberdeen
0.2 km
A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
0.2 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
0.2 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
Ma Cameron's
0.2 km
Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
The GasLamp Bar
0.3 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Revolution Aberdeen
0.3 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
The Kings Bar
0.3 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
Spirit Level
0.3 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
The Castle Bar
0.3 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
Krakatoa
0.3 km
A vibrant tiki-themed dive bar in Aberdeen offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from afternoon till late night.
The Triplekirks
0.3 km
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
0.2 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Exodus
0.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
The Underground Klub
0.4 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
0.5 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
0.5 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
0.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Number 7 Club
0.5 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
0.8 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
0.8 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
1.0 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
1.1 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
53.8 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
61.0 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
62.8 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
62.9 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
