Seaton Park
Historic riverside park blending medieval architecture, ancient monuments, and family-friendly recreation beside St Machar's Cathedral.
Seaton Park is a sprawling riverside park in north Aberdeen, situated on the banks of the River Don adjacent to the historic St Machar's Cathedral. This 26-acre green space features formal gardens, woodland walks, children's play areas, and access to riverside paths. The park blends natural beauty with historical significance, offering visitors opportunities for leisurely strolls, family outings, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
A brief summary to Seaton Park
- Don St, Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen, GB
- +443000200292
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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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 during midsummer to experience the Cathedral Walk at peak bloom, when formal flower beds and rose gardens create their most spectacular display.
- Combine your park visit with exploration of St Machar's Cathedral and the historic streets of Old Aberdeen for a comprehensive cultural experience.
- If visiting April to September, enquire at the Aberdeen Kayak Club equipment store about beginner taster sessions on the River Don.
- Arrive early on weekends to secure free parking and avoid peak family activity times, particularly if seeking quieter riverside walks.
- Pack a picnic and allow time to explore the walled garden, archaeological features, and Mr Therm sculpture alongside traditional park activities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drinking Water
- Picnic Areas
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus Service
First Bus routes 20 and 25 serve Seaton Park with regular service throughout the day. Journey time from Aberdeen city centre is approximately 15–20 minutes depending on traffic and time of day. Buses stop near the park entrance on Don Street. Service frequency is typically every 15–30 minutes during daytime hours.
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Stagecoach Bus Routes
Stagecoach operates routes 9U, 60, 61, 62, 63, 67, and 68 (including the Buchan Link service) with stops accessible to the park. Travel time from central Aberdeen is 12–25 minutes depending on the specific route and starting point. These services run throughout the day with varying frequency.
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Private Vehicle
Free car parking is available within Seaton Park. From Aberdeen city centre, follow signs toward Old Aberdeen and the River Don. The journey takes approximately 10–15 minutes by car depending on traffic conditions and starting location. Parking is plentiful and accessible near the main entrance and play areas.
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Walking from Old Aberdeen
Seaton Park is accessible on foot from the historic Old Aberdeen district. The walk from the city centre takes approximately 25–35 minutes depending on your starting point. The route is relatively flat and passes through residential areas before reaching the park entrance on Don Street. This approach allows exploration of historic streets and St Machar's Cathedral en route.
Seaton Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Seaton Park
Historic Setting and Architectural Heritage
Seaton Park occupies the former grounds of Seaton House in north Aberdeen, positioned immediately beside the south gates of St Machar's Cathedral, one of Scotland's most significant ecclesiastical structures. The park's location creates a dramatic backdrop, with the Cathedral's fortified towers framing the formal Cathedral Walk—a magnificent arrangement of spring and summer flower beds, rose beds, and herbaceous borders that reaches peak splendour in midsummer. Beyond the immediate park boundaries lies the thirteenth-century Brig o' Balgownie, a gothic bridge of considerable historical importance that has withstood centuries of heavy use and military conflict. The Cottown of Balgownie, a collection of early seventeenth-century red-tiled cottages with small gardens, extends the historical narrative of the area.Archaeological Significance and Monuments
Seaton Park contains several important listed features that span millennia of human history. The Wallace Tower stands as a Bronze Age motte and bailey mound, representing prehistoric settlement patterns in the region. The park also preserves a Bronze Age mound within its boundaries, offering tangible connections to ancient civilisation. Among the park's more whimsical historical artifacts is Mr Therm, a former steam engine once used to transport coal from Aberdeen harbour, now repurposed as a beloved play sculpture that has entertained generations of children. These layered historical elements transform the park into an open-air museum where visitors encounter archaeology, industrial heritage, and natural landscape simultaneously.Gardens, Landscapes, and Natural Features
The park encompasses diverse horticultural and natural zones that appeal to different visitor interests. Vibrant flowerbeds and rose gardens provide seasonal colour, while the walled garden beside the old stables offers a more intimate, enclosed experience. Mature trees create woodland areas suitable for shaded walks, and extensive grassy expanses accommodate sports and recreation. The River Don forms the park's eastern boundary, with dedicated walking paths providing access to the waterway and extending toward the city boundary. During summer months from April to September, the river becomes a venue for kayaking activities, with the Aberdeen Kayak Club operating an equipment store on-site offering hire and beginner taster sessions.Recreation and Family Activities
Seaton Park serves as a comprehensive recreational destination for diverse visitor groups. The popular children's play area includes traditional playground equipment alongside Mr Therm, the historic steam engine sculpture. Large grassy expanses accommodate informal sports such as football and rugby, while dedicated bike paths cater to cyclists and runners seeking scenic routes. The park's extensive network of well-maintained pathways accommodates walkers of all fitness levels, from leisurely strolls to more challenging woodland hikes. Picnic sites throughout the park enable visitors to rest and refuel amidst natural surroundings. The park's accessibility features, including wheelchair-friendly paths and facilities, ensure that individuals with mobility considerations can fully participate in park activities.Seasonal Character and Climate Considerations
Aberdeen's temperate maritime climate renders Seaton Park accessible throughout the year, though each season offers distinct experiences. Spring and summer months bring peak floral displays, particularly the Cathedral Walk's midsummer resplendence, alongside optimal conditions for riverside walks and water activities. Autumn provides crisp air and changing foliage, while winter offers invigorating conditions for active pursuits. The park's open design and tree coverage provide natural shelter during variable weather, and the riverside location moderates temperature extremes. This year-round accessibility makes Seaton Park a reliable destination regardless of season.Community Recognition and Management
Seaton Park has received formal recognition for its quality and maintenance standards, proudly holding the Green Flag Award for 2021. The park benefits from dedicated community stewardship through the Friends of Seaton Park, a recently established group committed to protection and enhancement of the space. This combination of professional management and volunteer engagement ensures the park maintains its appeal and ecological value for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Powis Gates
1.0 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
1.7 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
2.1 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
2.3 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
2.6 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
2.6 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
2.7 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
2.8 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Rosemount Market
2.8 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
2.9 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
2.9 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
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.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
3.0 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Workers' Memorial
3.0 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
3.0 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Walk
0.2 km
A picturesque floral pathway beside historic St Machar's Cathedral, blending nature, heritage, and family-friendly recreation in Old Aberdeen.
The Walled Garden
0.2 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
St. Machar's Cathedral
0.3 km
A granite fortress-church in Old Aberdeen, famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling and centuries of layered history along the River Don.
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.
Wallace Tower
0.5 km
A rare 16th-century Scottish tower house preserved through relocation, embodying Aberdeen’s noble heritage and architectural history.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
0.6 km
A free 11-acre botanical sanctuary in Old Aberdeen with over 2,500 plant species and year-round seasonal beauty.
King's Museum
0.6 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.
Roots
0.7 km
Discover vibrant vegan dining at Roots, a fresh and welcoming café in the heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
High St
0.8 km
Discover Aberdeen’s vibrant High Street, a lively shopping hub blending historic charm with modern retail and dining experiences.
King's College Chapel
0.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic late Gothic chapel with its stunning crown tower, vibrant stained glass, and rich university heritage.
Archimedes Screw
0.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
1.1 km
A peaceful estuarine retreat in Aberdeen where river meets sea, rich in wildlife and scenic coastal views.
Windows to the Sea
1.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic granite frames framing stunning North Sea views on the vibrant Beach Esplanade.
Donmouth Sands
1.3 km
A tranquil beach and nature reserve where Aberdeen’s River Don meets the sea, offering golden sands, scenic dunes, and rich wildlife in a peaceful coastal setting.
South Donmouth Beach
1.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s peaceful South Donmouth Beach, where river, sea, and wildlife create a serene coastal haven.
Essential places to dine
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
0.5 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Chicago Town
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
0.7 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
0.7 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
Chop Grill & Bar
2.5 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
2.5 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
2.6 km
Savor gourmet pizzas crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district.
Koi Thai Restaurant
2.6 km
Authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Rosemount district.
Maggie's Grill
2.7 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Siam Cottage
2.7 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Pasta Plus
2.7 km
Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.
Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
2.7 km
Experience authentic Turkish grills and delightful desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Aberdeen’s scenic Esplanade.
Tarragon by Graham Mitchell
2.7 km
A stylish Aberdeen bistro blending fresh Scottish flavors with cozy, contemporary charm in the vibrant Rosemount district.
The Terrace Bar and Café
2.7 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
The City Bar and Diner
2.8 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Malthurst Retail Ltd
0.4 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.7 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
The Bear Essentials
0.7 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
ShopHub
0.7 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.
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
1.3 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
Country Images
1.4 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Àdùké Fashion House
1.8 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
1.9 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
The Closet
2.3 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
2.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Brunswick Stores
2.5 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
2.6 km
Scotland's award-winning wool haven: endless yarns, expert advice, and crafting community on Aberdeen's Rosemount Place.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
2.6 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Castle Gate
2.7 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
EDIT
2.7 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rowan Tree Bar
0.5 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
St. Machar Bar
0.7 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.
Black Dog
1.0 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
The Bobbin
1.1 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
Mains of Scotstown
2.1 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Northern Bar
2.2 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Kings Bar
2.5 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
2.6 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
All Bar One Aberdeen
2.6 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
The Castle Bar
2.7 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
The Queen Vic
2.7 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Masada Bar
2.7 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
2.7 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
The Triplekirks
2.8 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Vulture Lounge
2.8 km
Cozy viaduct bar in Rosemount pouring craft drinks, bites, and live tunes amid Aberdeen's gritty urban charm.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
2.8 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
2.9 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
3.0 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Venga
3.0 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
3.0 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
3.1 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
Private Eyes
3.1 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
3.1 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
3.1 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
491 Union Street
3.3 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.
Babylon
3.4 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
56.2 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
58.3 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
60.3 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
60.4 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Family Friendly
- Casual
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
