Walker Park and South Harbour Visitor Centre, Aberdeen

Explore Aberdeen’s maritime heritage and port expansion at Walker Park’s South Harbour Visitor Centre, a scenic gateway to the city’s harbour life.

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Walker Park, located at 113 Pennan Road in Aberdeen, is a scenic park that hosts the South Harbour Visitor Centre. This centre offers insights into the ongoing £400 million expansion of the Port of Aberdeen. Open to the public on Saturdays, it provides a unique opportunity to explore Aberdeen’s maritime heritage and witness the port’s transformation up close.

A brief summary to Walker Park

113 Pennan Road, Aberdeen, AB24 2UA, GB
+447448494303
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
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 the South Harbour Visitor Centre on Saturdays between 10am and 4pm to learn about the Port of Aberdeen’s expansion.
Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the harbour and passing ships from Walker Park.
Combine your visit with a trip to the historic North Pier, open seasonally for ship-spotting and dolphin watching.
Check the weather forecast before visiting to enjoy the park’s outdoor spaces at their best.

Getting There

Bus

Take First Aberdeen bus routes 15 or 16 from the city centre to Pennan Road; the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with fares around £2.50-£3.50 one way.
Car

Driving from Aberdeen city centre to Walker Park takes about 15 minutes via main roads. Limited on-street parking is available near Pennan Road; some restrictions apply. Parking is free but can be busy on weekends.
Taxi

A taxi ride from the city centre to Walker Park typically takes 10-15 minutes and costs approximately £8-£12, depending on traffic.
Walking

For the adventurous, walking from the city centre is possible in around 50-60 minutes along mostly flat terrain, suitable for most fitness levels.

Walker Park location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Windy Conditions
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Walker Park

A Gateway to Aberdeen's Maritime Legacy

Walker Park is nestled in a vibrant part of Aberdeen, serving as both a tranquil green space and a key site for maritime education. The park itself offers a peaceful environment with open spaces ideal for leisurely strolls or quiet reflection, set against the backdrop of the bustling port activity nearby. It acts as a natural vantage point for observing the dynamic life of the harbour and the North Sea beyond.

The South Harbour Visitor Centre Experience

At the heart of Walker Park lies the South Harbour Visitor Centre, a focal point for visitors interested in the Port of Aberdeen’s significant expansion project. The centre provides interactive displays and detailed information about the £400 million development aimed at enhancing the port’s capacity and sustainability. Open every Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the centre invites visitors to engage with the port’s future and its role in regional economic growth.

Port Expansion and Community Engagement

The Port of Aberdeen is undergoing a transformative expansion to secure its position as a critical hub for shipping and offshore industries. The visitor centre at Walker Park plays a vital role in community engagement, offering educational opportunities for families, schools, and maritime enthusiasts. It showcases the engineering feats and environmental considerations involved in the port’s development, emphasizing the balance between industrial progress and ecological stewardship.

Surrounding Attractions and Natural Beauty

Walker Park’s location provides easy access to other maritime landmarks, including the historic North Pier, which offers seasonal access for ship-spotting and dolphin watching. The park’s green spaces and waterfront views create a scenic setting that complements the industrial heritage of the area. Visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the harbour, making it a favored spot for photography and nature appreciation.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Though primarily an outdoor space, Walker Park and the South Harbour Visitor Centre are equipped with essential amenities such as seating areas and information boards. The centre itself offers sheltered spaces for learning and exploration. Accessibility is prioritized, with the park and centre reachable by public transport and suitable for families and individuals of varying mobility levels.

Seasonal and Event Highlights

The visitor centre’s weekend opening hours align with special events and community activities related to Aberdeen’s maritime culture. Throughout the year, the park and port area host events that celebrate the city’s nautical traditions, including educational tours and festivals. These initiatives enhance the visitor experience by connecting people with Aberdeen’s rich seafaring history and vibrant present.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Balnagask Motte

1.3 km

Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.

Gordon Highlanders Statue

2.8 km

A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.

Castlegate

2.9 km

Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.

Greyfriars Church

3.0 km

Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen

Marischal College

3.1 km

Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

3.1 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

3.1 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

3.2 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.

Gallows Hill

3.2 km

Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

3.4 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

3.4 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

3.5 km

Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Rosemount Palace

4.1 km

A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.

The Powis Gates

4.2 km

Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.

Rosemount Market

4.3 km

Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.

Unmissable attractions to see

Greyhope Beach

0.3 km

Discover Aberdeen’s scenic Greyhope Bay with its iconic Girdle Ness Lighthouse, top dolphin-watching spot, and sustainable coastal café.

Torry Battery

0.6 km

Discover the historic Torry Battery in Aberdeen, where maritime history meets breathtaking views of the North Sea.

Port of Aberdeen - South Harbour

0.8 km

Scotland’s largest deepwater port expansion, South Harbour at Aberdeen delivers world-class berthing, heavy-lift capacity, and a gateway to the energy future.

Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan

1.1 km

Historic stone jetty with iconic cast-iron light tower marking Aberdeen Harbour’s entrance and rich maritime heritage.

Footdee

1.3 km

Discover Footdee, Aberdeen’s charming historic fishing village with colorful cottages, maritime heritage, and a close-knit community spirit.

Fittie

1.4 km

Discover Footdee, Aberdeen’s quaint historic fishing village with charming 19th-century cottages, rich maritime heritage, and a vibrant community spirit.

Footdee Mission Hall

1.4 km

Historic Gothic-style church and community hub at the heart of Footdee, Aberdeen’s charming fishing village.

Footdee beach

2.0 km

Discover Footdee Beach and its charming historic fishing village, a colorful and tranquil coastal gem steeped in Aberdeen’s maritime heritage.

Aberdeen beach front

2.2 km

Experience Aberdeen’s golden sands, vibrant promenade, and refreshing North Sea air just minutes from the city centre.

Codona's

2.2 km

A lively indoor seaside amusement park in Aberdeen offering bowling, laser tag, mini golf, and family fun all year round.

Beach Boulevard Retail Park

2.2 km

A vibrant coastal retail park in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, budget-friendly shopping, and a refreshing seaside atmosphere.

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

2.6 km

Scotland's maritime gateway to Orkney and Shetland, offering overnight ferry journeys with modern comfort and island hospitality.

Aberdeen Science Centre

2.6 km

Explore hands-on science, immersive exhibits, and cutting-edge STEM experiences at Aberdeen Science Centre, a family favourite in the heart of Aberdeen.

Aberdeen Ghost Walks

2.7 km

Uncover Aberdeen's gruesome past through guided ghost walks revealing tales of witches, murderers, and dark secrets.

Port of Aberdeen

2.7 km

Scotland's largest cruise port and gateway to the Granite City, Highlands, and northeast coast.

An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.

Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, the fun-filled store in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.

2.8 km

Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.

The Vintage Market

2.9 km

Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.

Annie Mo's

2.9 km

Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.

Beyond Vintage

3.0 km

Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.

Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop

3.0 km

Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

3.1 km

Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.

EDIT

3.1 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.

Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Walker Park and South Harbour Visitor Centre, Aberdeen

A brief summary to Walker Park

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Taxi

Walking

Walker Park location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Walker Park

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Walker Park

A Gateway to Aberdeen's Maritime Legacy

The South Harbour Visitor Centre Experience

Port Expansion and Community Engagement

Surrounding Attractions and Natural Beauty

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Seasonal and Event Highlights

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Balnagask Motte

Gordon Highlanders Statue

Castlegate

Greyfriars Church

Marischal College

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

Aedie's House site

Edward VII Statue

Gallows Hill

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

Duke Of Gordon Monument

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Rosemount Palace

The Powis Gates

Rosemount Market

Unmissable attractions to see

Greyhope Beach

Torry Battery

Port of Aberdeen - South Harbour

Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan

Footdee

Fittie

Footdee Mission Hall

Footdee beach

Aberdeen beach front

Codona's

Beach Boulevard Retail Park

Aberdeen Ferry Terminal

Aberdeen Science Centre

Aberdeen Ghost Walks

Port of Aberdeen

Essential places to dine

The Silver Darling

The Hungry Beast

Croque Toasties

Burning Hands and Plates

Cartoos Grill House & Desserts

210 Bistro

Siam Cottage

Goulash

Taste of Hong Kong

Miller & Carter Aberdeen

Zizzi - Aberdeen

The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant

The City Bar and Diner

Maggie's Grill

Bistro Verde

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Range, Aberdeen

Frantiques

Fernweh UK

Brunswick Stores

Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop

Hobbycraft Aberdeen

Castle Gate

Menkind

Next

The Vintage Market