Slains: Gothic Pub in a Converted Church
A gothic pub in a converted church, blending Aberdeen’s history with spooky charm and lively nightlife on Belmont Street.
Slains in Aberdeen is a striking gothic-themed pub housed in a converted 19th-century church on Belmont Street. Spread over three levels, it blends original church features with spooky decor inspired by Slains Castle and Dracula lore. Expect themed interiors with skeletons, suits of armor, and alchemist tools, plus a beer garden in the former churchyard. The pub serves classic pub food and drinks daily until late, hosts live sports on big screens, and offers student deals and quiz nights, making it a lively hub for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Slains
- 14-18 Belmont St, Aberdeen, AB10 1JH, GB
- +441224631877
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 12 pm-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit before 8pm if you’re with children or a family, as the pub is child-friendly only until then.
- Check the pub’s social media or website for current student deals and drink offers, especially on weekdays.
- Come on a Wednesday evening if you enjoy pub quizzes – Slains hosts a regular quiz with a bar tab prize.
- Be prepared for steps and uneven levels; the historic church layout means it’s not fully accessible for wheelchairs or those with limited mobility.
- Bring your dog if you like – the pub is dog-friendly, but keep an eye on local rules and busy periods.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
Slains location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Slains
A Church Transformed into a Gothic Haven
Slains occupies a distinctive former church building on Aberdeen’s bustling Belmont Street, once known as South Church and later West St. Nicholas Kirk House. The conversion into a pub has preserved many original architectural details – high ceilings, arched windows, and a sense of grandeur – while layering on a dramatic gothic theme. The result is a multi-level space that feels both historic and theatrical, with dim lighting, dark wood, and atmospheric touches that nod to its namesake, the ruined Slains Castle near Cruden Bay, said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.Spooky Style and Themed Interiors
The interior leans into its gothic identity with flair: skeletons, suits of armor, alchemist’s tools, and even a horse in armor add a playful, slightly macabre charm. Clever design elements like bookshelf doors and themed artwork enhance the immersive feel, while the original church structure remains clearly visible from the outside. The pub’s layout across three floors invites exploration, with different nooks and levels offering slightly different vibes – from intimate corners to larger social spaces around the bar and screens.Food, Drink and Nightlife Vibe
Slains serves fresh pub food daily until 9pm, focusing on familiar favourites that suit a range of tastes. The drinks menu includes a selection of lagers, ciders and cocktails, with sports fans well catered for via HD screens showing major live events. The atmosphere shifts from relaxed daytime drinking to a more energetic, social scene in the evenings, especially on weekends and during quiz nights, making it a popular choice for groups, students and anyone after a lively night out in the city centre.Practical Details and Atmosphere
The pub is dog-friendly and welcomes families until 8pm, after which the focus turns more to adult socialising. The beer garden, set in the former churchyard, adds an extra dimension, particularly in good weather. Accessibility is limited by steps throughout the building, so it may not suit those with significant mobility issues. With its unique setting, strong theme and central location, Slains stands out as one of Aberdeen’s most characterful and atmospheric pubs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
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An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Aedie's House site
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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
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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
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A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Marischal College
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Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Castlegate
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Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
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Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Greyfriars Church
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Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
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A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Rosemount Palace
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Rosemount Market
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Gallows Hill
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Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
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A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
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.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.6 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.
The Grn
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Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
General Gordon Statue
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A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.2 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.2 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
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.
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.
Cowdray Hall
0.2 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Aberdeen Sign
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A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
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.
William Wallace Statue
0.3 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
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.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian theatre in Aberdeen offering diverse performing arts in a beautifully preserved setting.
Marischal Square
0.3 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
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Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
Essential places to dine
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
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Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
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Wild Boar
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The Tippling House
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Ninety-Nine
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Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
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Cafe 52
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Moonfish Cafe
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Bistro Verde
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Chaophraya
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THE BISTRO
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Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
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The Terrace Bar and Café
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Café Bohème
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The City Bar and Diner
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Itskitsch Ltd
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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
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White Stuff Aberdeen
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Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
Oliver Bonas
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Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
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Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.1 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
EDIT
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Discover handcrafted gems from Aberdeen's Deemouth Artist Studios at this city-center gift shop—unique jewelry, textiles, and art by 50 local makers.
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.
Beyond Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
The Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
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
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Discover quirky, unique gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, nestled in Aberdeen’s bustling Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
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Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Hobbycraft Aberdeen
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Revolution Aberdeen
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Ma Cameron's
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The Triplekirks
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Prince Of Wales
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Ye Olde Frigate Bar
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ENVY Aberdeen
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Spirit Level
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The Stag
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Bartenders Lounge
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The GasLamp Bar
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Under the Hammer
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All Bar One Aberdeen
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BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
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Krakatoa
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Fierce Bar Aberdeen
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City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
