Johnston Gardens, Aberdeen's Tranquil Urban Oasis
A picturesque, tranquil garden in Aberdeen featuring streams, waterfalls, and vibrant seasonal blooms, perfect for peaceful walks and photography.
Johnston Gardens is a charming, small public garden in Aberdeen, known for its picturesque streams, ponds, waterfalls, and a rustic bridge. This beautifully landscaped park features diverse plant species including rhododendrons, heathers, and spring bulbs, offering a peaceful retreat with accessible paths, a children’s play area, and memorials, all nestled within a serene suburban setting.
A brief summary to Johnston Gardens
- Johnston Gardens, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB15 7XE, GB
- +441224346421
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 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 spring and summer to enjoy the full bloom of rhododendrons, heathers, and aquatic plants.
- Use the small free car park located directly across Viewfield Road for convenient access.
- Bring a camera to capture the charming rustic bridge and seasonal colors, especially vibrant in autumn.
- The garden is wheelchair accessible with paved paths and benches for resting.
- Enjoy a picnic in one of the tranquil spots within the garden, but note there are no food vendors on site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Johnston Gardens is straightforward via Viewfield Road, with a small free car park located directly opposite the garden entrance. Travel time from Aberdeen city center is approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Parking spaces can be limited during peak times, and some bays offer electric vehicle charging.
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Bus
Stagecoach bus routes 5, X17, and 200/210 serve the West End area near Johnston Gardens. The journey from Aberdeen city center takes about 20-30 minutes. Bus stops are within walking distance of the garden, but check current timetables for service frequency and accessibility.
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Walking
For those staying nearby or in the West End, Johnston Gardens is accessible on foot via residential streets and core paths. The walk involves gentle inclines and paved paths, suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, typically taking 20-30 minutes from central Aberdeen.
Johnston Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Johnston Gardens
A Lush Sanctuary in the Heart of Aberdeen
Johnston Gardens is a compact yet enchanting garden situated on Viewfield Road in Aberdeen’s West End. Once part of the Johnston House estate, the gardens were gifted to the city in 1936, transforming into a beloved public green space. Despite its modest size of about one hectare, the garden captivates visitors with its carefully crafted landscape featuring streams, ponds, rockeries, and a charming rustic bridge that has become a popular backdrop for wedding photos. The garden’s design invites leisurely strolls along winding paths that weave through a variety of shrubs and flower beds, creating a peaceful urban sanctuary.Floral Diversity and Seasonal Highlights
The garden bursts into color with seasonal blooms that include vibrant rhododendrons, delicate spring bulbs, heathers, and alpine plants. In spring and summer, the ponds come alive with aquatic plants and visiting wildlife such as mallard ducks and moorhens, enhancing the garden’s tranquil atmosphere. The rockeries and waterfalls add to the sensory experience, offering soothing sounds and scenic views that delight photographers and nature lovers alike.Accessibility and Amenities for All Visitors
Johnston Gardens is thoughtfully designed to be accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities. The paths accommodate wheelchairs and pushchairs, with benches thoughtfully placed for rest and contemplation. A children’s play area provides a family-friendly touch, while clean restroom facilities are available nearby during the summer months. A small free car park directly across Viewfield Road offers convenient access, and the garden welcomes pets, making it a versatile spot for locals and tourists.Historical and Memorial Significance
Within the gardens stands a poignant memorial dedicated to the 16 men who lost their lives in the 2009 Super Puma helicopter crash in the North Sea. This solemn tribute adds a layer of historical depth to the garden, reminding visitors of the community’s resilience and respect for those connected to Aberdeen’s maritime heritage.A Photographer’s Delight and Seasonal Charm
Awarded Best Public Park by Britain in Bloom in 2002, Johnston Gardens is a favorite among photographers for its picturesque views and natural beauty. The garden’s appeal is especially striking in autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of gold and red, creating a perfect setting for capturing seasonal landscapes. Its intimate scale makes it ideal for a brief, refreshing escape or a contemplative walk.Community Connection and Urban Green Space
Johnston Gardens serves as a vital green lung within Aberdeen’s urban fabric, connecting via core paths to the wider city network. It offers residents and visitors a serene environment to unwind, reflect, and enjoy nature’s quiet pleasures amid the bustle of city life. The garden’s maintenance and preservation reflect the community’s commitment to sustaining accessible natural beauty for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
1.5 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
1.9 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Edward VIII Post Box
1.9 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
2.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.8 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
2.8 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
2.9 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Rosemount Palace
2.9 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
2.9 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
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.
Aedie's House site
3.2 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
3.2 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Marischal College
3.4 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
3.5 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
3.5 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Gordon Highlanders Museum
0.2 km
Explore 200 years of heroic history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, featuring immersive WWI trenches, rare medals, and serene Victorian gardens in Aberdeen.
Hazlehead Park
1.8 km
Explore Aberdeen’s largest historic park with gardens, trails, golf, a petting zoo, and family-friendly fun in a sprawling 180-hectare green oasis.
Piper Alpha Memorial
1.9 km
A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.
Den of Maidencraig
2.2 km
A serene nature reserve on Aberdeen’s edge, rich in wildlife and diverse habitats, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Bridge of Dee
2.3 km
Discover the Bridge of Dee, a historical marvel in Aberdeen that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
Ice House
2.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Ice House, a unique dessert spot offering innovative ice cream flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting.
Sainsbury's Local
2.4 km
Your convenient city centre supermarket on Aberdeen’s Union Street, open daily with fresh essentials and quick shopping solutions.
Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen
2.5 km
Historic urban park in Aberdeen with sports facilities, a serene stream, and a Victorian mansion at its heart.
Fish N Hook
2.6 km
Fresh, family-run fish and chips in Aberdeen with crispy batter, generous portions, and gluten-free options for a classic takeaway experience.
Westburn Park
2.6 km
A vibrant urban park in Aberdeen blending sports, nature, and history with family-friendly charm and peaceful green spaces.
Flagpole Hill
2.6 km
A historic Victorian park in Aberdeen with stunning gardens, family-friendly play areas, and scenic riverside tranquility.
David Welch Winter Gardens
2.7 km
Explore one of Europe’s largest indoor botanical gardens nestled in Aberdeen’s historic Duthie Park, a year-round tropical oasis with free entry.
Duthie Park
2.8 km
A Victorian-era urban park in Aberdeen featuring the stunning David Welch Winter Gardens, family-friendly play areas, boating ponds, and lush green spaces.
Rosemount Place
2.9 km
A central bus stop in Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district, connecting local and regional routes for seamless urban travel.
William Wallace Statue
2.9 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
Essential places to dine
The Bothy Restaurant
0.3 km
Authentic Scottish dining with traditional flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Palm Court Hotel.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Aberdeen
1.0 km
Sophisticated British-French fusion dining with prime grills and stylish cocktails in the heart of Aberdeen.
Rendezvous | Nargile
1.2 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, family-friendly setting with contemporary charm in Aberdeen.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
1.5 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
1.5 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
No.10 Bar and Restaurant
1.9 km
A sophisticated subterranean venue in Aberdeen offering modern British cuisine, an extensive whiskey bar, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere.
Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish
1.9 km
Modern Scottish cuisine with French flair, served in a warm, elegant setting at the heart of Aberdeen.
Milton on the Corner
2.1 km
An intimate and stylish Aberdeen restaurant offering quality food, crafted cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s vibrant west end.
The Albyn
2.2 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant hospitality at The Albyn, blending lively bar culture with hearty dining in a historic family-run setting.
Tucán Rosemount
2.3 km
Colourful, casual South American deli in Rosemount serving empanadas, arepas and sharing plates in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
Da Vinci Italian Restaurant
2.3 km
Experience authentic Italian dining with fresh, vibrant flavors in a cozy family-run restaurant in the heart of Aberdeen.
Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen
2.3 km
Experience authentic Kerala-inspired South Indian cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen.
Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen
2.4 km
Family-friendly British bar and grill with unlimited salad, riverside views, and a welcoming atmosphere near Aberdeen’s Bridge of Dee.
Tarragon by Graham Mitchell
2.4 km
A stylish Aberdeen bistro blending fresh Scottish flavors with cozy, contemporary charm in the vibrant Rosemount district.
Pasta Plus
2.5 km
Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Joli Gifts
0.3 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
Gifted
0.4 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Made by Mums with Love
1.7 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
Surreal Journey
1.9 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
Treehouse Home Store
1.9 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.
The Owl at Number Two
2.1 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
2.2 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Country Ways Aberdeen
2.2 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
Kafka Mercantile
2.3 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
Cloudyblue
2.4 km
Explore Cloudyblue in Aberdeen for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Scotland's culture and charm.
Colin Wood Antiques
2.4 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
2.5 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Tiger Lily Boutique
2.5 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
2.5 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
2.5 km
Discover unique greeting cards, stylish accessories, and thoughtful gifts at No 18 Gifts & Cards, a charming boutique in Aberdeen’s Chapel Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Abergeldie Bar
2.0 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
2.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Brig O Dee Bar
2.1 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Foundry aberdeen
2.3 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
College Bar
2.3 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.
Croft & Cairns
2.3 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
The Glentanar Bar
2.3 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Grape & Grain
2.4 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 Queen Vic
2.5 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
The Spiritualist Aberdeen
2.6 km
Discover vibrant cocktails and stylish dining in the heart of Aberdeen at The Spiritualist, where creativity meets chic atmosphere.
Orchid Cocktails
2.6 km
Aberdeen’s stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, immersive tastings, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Dusk Cocktail Bar
2.6 km
Intimate and stylish cocktail lounge in Aberdeen’s West End, renowned for expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Motif
2.6 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.
Murdos Bar
2.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Prohibition
2.7 km
Energetic late-night bar and nightclub in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for vibrant music, lively crowds, and affordable drinks.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
2.3 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
2.4 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.
Venga
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.9 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
3.0 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 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.
Private Eyes
3.0 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Mask Club
3.0 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Exodus
3.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
3.3 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
51.3 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
62.7 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
62.9 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
63.0 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- 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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly