The Green, Aberdeen: Historic Heart and Vibrant Social Hub
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
The Green in Aberdeen is one of the city’s oldest and most historically significant areas, renowned for its distinctive grey granite architecture and rich medieval heritage. Once a medieval market and craft center, it now thrives as a lively square filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants, blending history with modern social life. Visitors can enjoy its cobbled streets, artistic murals, and a unique atmosphere that captures Aberdeen’s evolving character.
A brief summary to The Grn
- Aberdeen, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Embrace the unique grey granite architecture for distinctive photos.
- Visit cafes and bars in the square for authentic local flavors and people-watching.
- Check local listings for special events like 'Secret Suppers' hosted in the area.
- Explore the Back Wynd steps from Union Street for a scenic and historic route.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Multiple city bus routes serve stops near The Green, with travel times from central Aberdeen around 10 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day, with a single fare costing approximately £1.80 to £2.50. Note that some evening services may be less frequent.
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Walking
From Aberdeen city center, The Green is a 10 to 15-minute walk over mostly paved, urban terrain with some cobbled sections. The route includes the notable Back Wynd steps, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
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Taxi
Local taxis provide direct access to The Green from anywhere in Aberdeen, typically within 5 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5 to £10.
The Grn location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Grn
A Living Link to Aberdeen’s Medieval Origins
The Green is widely regarded as the oldest part of Aberdeen, believed to have been the nucleus of the medieval burgh. Archaeological finds, including Mesolithic flint tools dating back some 8,000 years, reveal the area’s ancient roots. Historically, it served as a bustling market and craft district, with records from the 16th century showing a thriving community of brewers and artisans. The Green was also home to two friaries and played a role in the city’s defense, despite lying outside the formal town gates.Architectural Identity in Granite Grey
The Green’s distinctive character is defined by its striking grey granite buildings, a hallmark of Aberdeen’s architectural identity. Narrow, tall structures line the cobbled streets, creating a romantic and somewhat gothic atmosphere. This unique aesthetic is complemented by vibrant murals and street art that adorn many buildings and doors, offering a colorful contrast to the granite and a popular subject for photography enthusiasts.From Market Square to Modern Social Scene
While its medieval past is palpable, The Green has evolved into a dynamic social and culinary destination. The square is now lined with an eclectic mix of cafes, bars, and restaurants, including venues hosting special events like 'Secret Suppers'. This blend of old and new makes The Green a focal point for locals and visitors seeking authentic Aberdeen experiences, whether for coffee, dining, or people-watching.Notable Features and Local Stories
The steep Back Wynd steps connecting Union Street to The Green are a charming feature, offering both a physical and visual link between parts of the city. The area also carries intriguing historical anecdotes, such as its association with child kidnapping in the 18th century and its role in the Reformation turmoil of 1560. Plans for redevelopment, including a new continental market, signal ongoing investment in preserving and enhancing The Green’s role in Aberdeen’s urban fabric.Engaging with The Green Today
Visitors can explore The Green at any time, as it is an open public space without entry fees or set hours. Surrounding businesses operate mostly from morning until late evening, providing ample opportunity to soak in the atmosphere. The Green’s location in central Aberdeen makes it easily accessible and a natural stop on city tours or cultural explorations.Capturing Aberdeen’s Spirit
The Green encapsulates the spirit of Aberdeen, where history, architecture, and contemporary life converge. Its enduring charm lies in the seamless coexistence of the ancient and the modern, offering a sensory-rich experience through its textures, colors, and social vibrancy. Whether appreciating its heritage or enjoying its lively cafes, The Green remains a quintessential part of Aberdeen’s identity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Aedie's House site
0.0 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.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.1 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Edward VII Statue
0.2 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
0.3 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Castlegate
0.3 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Greyfriars Church
0.4 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Marischal College
0.4 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.4 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Rosemount Palace
1.1 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Rosemount Market
1.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Gallows Hill
1.4 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Edward VIII Post Box
1.4 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.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.5 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Queen Victoria Statue
1.7 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
Slains
0.1 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 Tunnels
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
Huntfun Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s city center through an exciting, interactive treasure hunt along Union Street that blends fun, learning, and adventure.
The Stairs Leading to Bridge Street
0.2 km
Explore the stunning Stairs Leading to Bridge Street in Aberdeen, a gateway to culture, history, and vibrant city life.
St Nicholas Bandstand
0.2 km
An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
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.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.3 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
Provost Ross's House
0.3 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.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.3 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
Provost Skene's House
0.3 km
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
Aberdeen Sign
0.3 km
A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
Cowdray Hall
0.3 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Marischal Square
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Essential places to dine
Bistro Verde
0.0 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Cafe 52
0.0 km
Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Ninety-Nine
0.1 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
The Tippling House
0.1 km
A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Wild Boar
0.1 km
Historic Aberdeen pub offering classic British fare, real ales, live entertainment, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the city center.
Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
0.2 km
Experience authentic, health-conscious Indian cuisine in the heart of Aberdeen with fresh flavors and warm hospitality at Monsoona.
Moonfish Cafe
0.2 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Chaophraya
0.2 km
Experience authentic and innovative Thai cuisine in Aberdeen’s historic and elegant dining landmark.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Zizzi - Aberdeen
0.2 km
Modern Italian dining with vibrant local flair, welcoming all tastes in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square.
Namaste Delhi
0.2 km
Experience authentic Indian cuisine with vibrant flavors and tapas-style dining in the heart of Aberdeen at Namaste Delhi.
Goulash
0.2 km
Discover authentic Hungarian cuisine in Aberdeen’s cozy, family-run Goulash restaurant, famed for its hearty dishes and warm atmosphere.
Café Bohème
0.2 km
Experience authentic French cuisine and cozy brasserie charm in the heart of Aberdeen at Café Bohème.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.1 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Itskitsch Ltd
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
The Vintage Market
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
Beyond Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
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.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.2 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
EDIT
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
Menkind
0.3 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, nestled in Aberdeen’s bustling Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
0.3 km
Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Hobbycraft Aberdeen
0.4 km
Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ma Cameron's
0.1 km
Aberdeen's cozy Victorian pub pouring creamy pints and hearty pies amid lively banter on historic Little Belmont Street.
Prince Of Wales
0.2 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
Revolution Aberdeen
0.2 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
Spirit Level
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
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.
The GasLamp Bar
0.2 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
0.2 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
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.
The Stag
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.
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.
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.4 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
0.4 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
0.4 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Bartenders Lounge
0.4 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
Under the Hammer
0.4 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Lively
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
