College Bar – Aberdeen’s Premier Sports and Cocktail Venue
Aberdeen’s iconic sports and cocktail bar blending historic charm with modern entertainment and fresh local brews.
Located at 9 Alford Place in Aberdeen, College Bar is a vibrant sports and cocktail bar housed in a distinctive 19th-century granite building. Renowned for its state-of-the-art sports viewing system and a lively atmosphere, it offers a broad selection of drinks including fresh Tank Tennent’s lager and signature cocktails. Open since 1994 and refurbished in 2018, this metropolitan venue blends historic charm with modern amenities, making it a popular spot for both sports fans and nightlife seekers.
A brief summary to College Bar
- 9 Alford Pl, Aberdeen, AB10 1YD, GB
- +441224595550
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 4 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 4 pm-12 am
- Thursday 4 pm-12 am
- Friday 4 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during College Club nights from Wednesday to Friday for special drink offers and a lively atmosphere.
- Book a table in advance for popular sports events to secure the best viewing spots around the central cube screen.
- Try the exclusive Tank Tennent’s Lager, served fresh from specially engineered tanks for a unique taste experience.
- Consider private hire options for group celebrations or festive parties in the versatile event spaces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
College Bar location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about College Bar
A Historic Venue with Modern Flair
College Bar is set within a striking 19th-century gothic granite building that stands prominently on Alford Place, one of Aberdeen’s main thoroughfares. Established in 1994, the bar has become an institution in the city, combining the heritage of its architecture with a comprehensive refurbishment completed in 2018. This update brought a fresh, metropolitan vibe to the venue, enhancing its appeal with modern interiors and a welcoming atmosphere that caters to a diverse crowd.Unmatched Sports Viewing Experience
A key highlight of College Bar is its custom-built sports viewing system, designed to offer an immersive experience for sports enthusiasts. The centerpiece is a large cube screen suspended in the middle of the bar, providing clear sightlines from virtually any seat. Additional large screens and individual monitors within booth seating and at select tables ensure that every guest can catch live games and events, making it one of the best sports bars in Aberdeen.A Wide Range of Drinks and Signature Cocktails
College Bar prides itself on its extensive drinks menu, featuring an array of lagers and ales on draught, including the exclusive Tank Tennent’s Lager served fresh from specially engineered tanks. The cocktail menu offers both classic and unique creations crafted to suit all tastes. This combination of quality beverages and expert bartending contributes to the bar’s reputation as a top destination for both casual drinks and special nights out.Atmosphere and Events
The bar maintains a lively yet relaxed atmosphere that appeals to a broad demographic, from students and young professionals to sports fans and cocktail lovers. Regular events such as the College Club nights from Wednesday to Friday offer drink specials and a social buzz that energizes the venue midweek and on weekends. The bar also hosts private hire and festive celebrations, providing versatile spaces for group gatherings and parties.Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of Aberdeen city centre, College Bar is easily accessible and benefits from its central location to attract both locals and visitors. The venue’s historic exterior contrasts with its contemporary interior, creating a unique setting that reflects Aberdeen’s blend of tradition and modernity. Its opening hours accommodate a variety of schedules, with weekend late-night service extending the experience well into the early hours.Community and Inclusivity
College Bar is known for its inclusive and metropolitan environment, welcoming a diverse clientele. It strives to be a friendly and engaging space where all guests feel comfortable. Its long-standing presence in Aberdeen’s nightlife scene underscores its role as a community hub where people come together to enjoy sport, music, and quality drinks in a vibrant setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.5 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
0.6 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
0.7 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.
Edward VIII Post Box
0.7 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.
Rosemount Market
0.8 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Aedie's House site
0.9 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.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.9 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.9 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Rosemount Palace
1.2 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
1.2 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Castlegate
1.2 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Greyfriars Church
1.2 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
1.3 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.4 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
1.6 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Huntfun Aberdeen
0.7 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
0.7 km
Explore the stunning Stairs Leading to Bridge Street in Aberdeen, a gateway to culture, history, and vibrant city life.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.7 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
William Wallace Statue
0.7 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
Aberdeen Sign
0.7 km
A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.7 km
Historic Edwardian theatre in Aberdeen offering diverse performing arts in a beautifully preserved setting.
Fish N Hook
0.8 km
Fresh, family-run fish and chips in Aberdeen with crispy batter, generous portions, and gluten-free options for a classic takeaway experience.
Cowdray Hall
0.8 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Slains
0.8 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.
Ice House
0.8 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Ice House, a unique dessert spot offering innovative ice cream flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.8 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
The Grn
0.9 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
General Gordon Statue
0.9 km
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.9 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
Union Square
1.0 km
Union Square Aberdeen offers a dynamic blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment in a spacious, modern city-centre setting.
Essential places to dine
Da Vinci Italian Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with fresh, vibrant flavors in a cozy family-run restaurant in the heart of Aberdeen.
Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen
0.1 km
Experience authentic Kerala-inspired South Indian cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen.
The Albyn
0.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant hospitality at The Albyn, blending lively bar culture with hearty dining in a historic family-run setting.
Madame Mew's
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors and vibrant atmosphere with generous portions and great value in the heart of Aberdeen.
Cafe Harmony
0.3 km
Experience authentic Mediterranean warmth and vibrant flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Cafe Harmony in Aberdeen.
Rustico
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy 1950s trattoria charm in the heart of Aberdeen at Rustico.
Wild Ginger Restaurant
0.3 km
Contemporary Indian dining with rich flavors and generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Street.
Vovem Meat & Liquor
0.3 km
Aberdeen’s refined steakhouse and bar offering expertly aged beef, masterful cocktails, and a stylish, inviting atmosphere.
The Braided Fig
0.3 km
A cozy Aberdeen restaurant with a unique tree interior, Scottish-inspired dishes, and warm, attentive service in a charming setting.
8848 Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian cuisine with modern flair in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Street.
Cafe Andaluz
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Spanish tapas and lively Mediterranean atmosphere in Aberdeen’s city centre at Cafe Andaluz.
Mi Amore
0.4 km
Cozy Italian trattoria in Aberdeen serving authentic pasta, pizza, and seafood with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Aperitivo Italian Restaurant Aberdeen
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish
0.4 km
Modern Scottish cuisine with French flair, served in a warm, elegant setting at the heart of Aberdeen.
Amarone
0.4 km
Elegant Italian dining with vibrant atmosphere and attentive service in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Kafka Mercantile
0.0 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
Colin Wood Antiques
0.1 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Tiger Lily Boutique
0.2 km
Elegant women's boutique on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, curating versatile dresses and chic separates for effortless day-to-night style in a historic setting.
Copper & Grey
0.2 km
Bright independent gift shop on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, brimming with unique cards, jewellery, stationery, and local maker treasures for every occasion.
No 18 Gifts & Cards
0.2 km
Discover unique greeting cards, stylish accessories, and thoughtful gifts at No 18 Gifts & Cards, a charming boutique in Aberdeen’s Chapel Street.
Country Ways Aberdeen
0.3 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
Surreal Journey
0.6 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.6 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Treehouse Home Store
0.7 km
Discover whimsical homewares, stylish furnishings, and cozy cafe vibes at Aberdeen's Treehouse Home Store—a creative haven for design lovers and casual browsers alike.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
Cloudyblue
0.8 km
Explore Cloudyblue in Aberdeen for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Scotland's culture and charm.
Juniper
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
Wool For Ewe Ltd
0.8 km
Scotland's award-winning wool haven: endless yarns, expert advice, and crafting community on Aberdeen's Rosemount Place.
Itskitsch Ltd
0.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
College Bar
0.0 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
The Glentanar Bar
0.1 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Foundry aberdeen
0.1 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
Grape & Grain
0.1 km
Luxurious wine bar in Aberdeen's west end, where curated wines, craft drinks, and gourmet nibbles create intimate evenings of flavor and finesse.
The Spiritualist Aberdeen
0.3 km
Discover vibrant cocktails and stylish dining in the heart of Aberdeen at The Spiritualist, where creativity meets chic atmosphere.
Orchid Cocktails
0.3 km
Aberdeen’s stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, immersive tastings, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Dusk Cocktail Bar
0.3 km
Intimate and stylish cocktail lounge in Aberdeen’s West End, renowned for expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Motif
0.3 km
A lively Union Street bar blending historic stained glass and organ echoes with neon, cocktails, games and live events for a sociable night out.
Prohibition
0.4 km
Energetic late-night bar and nightclub in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for vibrant music, lively crowds, and affordable drinks.
Soul
0.4 km
A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Aberdeen’s city center, blending contemporary dining with a lively social atmosphere.
Holburn Bar
0.6 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
The Stag
0.6 km
A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.
Under the Hammer
0.6 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
Bartenders Lounge
0.6 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
Vulture Lounge
0.6 km
Cozy viaduct bar in Rosemount pouring craft drinks, bites, and live tunes amid Aberdeen's gritty urban charm.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
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
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
