The Bear Essentials
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
Nestled in the Students' Union Building at the University of Aberdeen's Old Aberdeen campus, The Bear Essentials is a welcoming general store specializing in university-branded gifts, clothing, and essentials. Open weekdays from 9am to 4:30pm, it offers a curated selection of hoodies, scarves, mugs, and souvenirs emblazoned with the iconic Aberdeen bear emblem, perfect for students, alumni, and visitors seeking mementos of this historic institution. Located in the vibrant Hub on Elphinstone Road, the shop provides a convenient stop amid the campus's academic buzz, blending practicality with university pride in a compact, accessible space.
A brief summary to The Bear Essentials
- The Hub, Elphinstone Rd, Aberdeen, Old Aberdeen, AB24 3TU, GB
- +441224270000
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Opt for layered clothing like hoodies for Aberdeen's unpredictable coastal weather.
- Check for seasonal university event merch, especially around freshers' week or graduations.
- Pair your visit with a stop at the adjacent RockSalt Food Court for a quick campus bite.
- Bring cashless payment; the store supports quick transactions amid student rush.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
The Bear Essentials location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Bear Essentials
Gateway to Granite City Memorabilia
The Bear Essentials stands as a treasure trove of University of Aberdeen pride, housed on the ground floor of the Students' Union Building in the heart of Old Aberdeen. This general store specializes in branded apparel and gifts, from cozy hoodies and scarves to mugs and keychains featuring the university's distinctive bear symbol—a nod to the institution's ancient coat of arms. Surrounded by the historic King's College campus, the shop captures the essence of student life and academic heritage in a compact, inviting space.Visitors step into a realm where everyday essentials meet commemorative flair, ideal for picking up items that evoke the scholarly atmosphere of Aberdeen's oldest university, founded in 1495.
Branded Bounty for Students and Fans
Inside, shelves brim with clothing options in grey, black, and maroon—the university's signature colors—ranging from t-shirts and jumpers to hats and bags. Gifts extend to stationery, books, and novelty items, all adorned with motifs celebrating Aberdeen's academic legacy. The store's focus on quality university merchandise makes it a go-to for orientation week hauls, graduation gifts, or personal reminders of time spent amid the campus's spires and libraries.Practicality shines through with affordable accessories tailored to campus needs, blending functionality with a touch of institutional nostalgia.
Campus Hub Integration
Positioned within The Hub, the shop benefits from its lively location alongside campus cafés, food courts, and student services. The surrounding Students' Union buzzes with activity, from society meetings to casual meetups, creating a dynamic backdrop. Elphinstone Road's setting places it steps from the Sir Duncan Rice Library and academic buildings, immersing shoppers in the rhythm of university life.This integration fosters a sense of community, where grabbing a branded water bottle might coincide with a coffee break or event nearby.
Historic Old Aberdeen Setting
Old Aberdeen, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture, envelops the store in timeless charm. The King's College precinct, home to Europe's third-oldest surviving university building, provides a picturesque context of granite facades and green lawns. The Bear Essentials subtly weaves into this heritage by offering items that honor the university's 500-year story, from its royal founding charter to modern scholarly pursuits.The locale invites exploration of nearby landmarks like the Chapel or Botanic Gardens, enhancing the shopping experience with cultural depth.
Weekday Rhythm and Accessibility
Operating Monday to Friday from 9am to 4:30pm, the store aligns with the academic calendar, catering to lectures, seminars, and study sessions. Wheelchair-accessible via the Students' Union, it accommodates diverse visitors with ease. The ground-floor placement ensures straightforward entry, supported by nearby facilities like restrooms and seating.Closed weekends, it encourages weekday visits when campus energy peaks, allowing seamless incorporation into daily routines.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Powis Gates
0.4 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
1.3 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.5 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
1.6 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
2.0 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
2.1 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Rosemount Market
2.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
2.2 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
2.2 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
2.3 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
2.3 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Aedie's House site
2.3 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
2.3 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.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.4 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Edward VIII Post Box
2.6 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
King's Museum
0.1 km
Explore the University of Aberdeen’s rare collections in a historic 17th-century town house, with changing exhibitions and regular events in the heart of Old Aberdeen.
Cruickshank Botanic Garden
0.1 km
A free 11-acre botanical sanctuary in Old Aberdeen with over 2,500 plant species and year-round seasonal beauty.
High St
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s vibrant High Street, a lively shopping hub blending historic charm with modern retail and dining experiences.
King's College Chapel
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic late Gothic chapel with its stunning crown tower, vibrant stained glass, and rich university heritage.
St. Machar's Cathedral
0.3 km
A granite fortress-church in Old Aberdeen, famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling and centuries of layered history along the River Don.
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
0.4 km
Explore centuries of North East Scotland’s heritage through the UNESCO-recognized archives housed in historic Old Aberdeen.
Wallace Tower
0.5 km
A rare 16th-century Scottish tower house preserved through relocation, embodying Aberdeen’s noble heritage and architectural history.
Cathedral Walk
0.6 km
A picturesque floral pathway beside historic St Machar's Cathedral, blending nature, heritage, and family-friendly recreation in Old Aberdeen.
Seaton Park
0.7 km
Historic riverside park in Old Aberdeen with gardens, playgrounds, scenic walks, and rich heritage beside the River Don.
Kittybrewster Retail Park
0.8 km
A dynamic retail hub in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, convenient parking, and dining options for a comprehensive shopping experience.
The Walled Garden
0.9 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
Archimedes Screw
1.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Aberdeen beach
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant charm and scenic beauty of Aberdeen Beach, a lively coastal retreat blending natural splendor with rich maritime heritage.
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
1.6 km
A peaceful estuarine retreat in Aberdeen where river meets sea, rich in wildlife and scenic coastal views.
Windows to the Sea
1.7 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic granite frames framing stunning North Sea views on the vibrant Beach Esplanade.
Essential places to dine
Chicago Town
0.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
0.0 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
0.0 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
1.1 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Chop Grill & Bar
1.8 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
1.9 km
Slow-smoked BBQ soul food ignites Aberdeen's craft beer scene at Six°North, blending hearty meats, loaded comforts, and artisanal brews in a minimalist city hideaway.
Heavenly Pizzas
2.0 km
Savor gourmet pizzas crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district.
Koi Thai Restaurant
2.0 km
Authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Rosemount district.
Pasta Plus
2.0 km
Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.
Tarragon by Graham Mitchell
2.1 km
A stylish Aberdeen bistro blending fresh Scottish flavors with cozy, contemporary charm in the vibrant Rosemount district.
Maggie's Grill
2.1 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
The Terrace Bar and Café
2.1 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
BioCafe
2.1 km
A vibrant vegan café in Aberdeen offering fresh, sugar-free, allergen-friendly delights in a cozy, eco-conscious setting.
Noose & Monkey
2.1 km
Aberdeen's iconic gastropub on Rosemount Viaduct: locally sourced eats, killer cocktails, live tunes, and theatre vibes just steps from His Majesty's.
Siam Cottage
2.1 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Bear Essentials
0.0 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
ShopHub
0.0 km
Everyday essentials at the pulse of Aberdeen Uni campus – ShopHub fuels student life with groceries, snacks, and supplies in Old Aberdeen's historic heart.
Blackwell's Bookshop
0.1 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
Malthurst Retail Ltd
0.6 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Country Images
1.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Àdùké Fashion House
1.1 km
Discover African vibrancy on Aberdeen's George Street: native wears, handmade bags, and cultural fusion fashion for all ages at affordable prices.
House of Gifts
1.2 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
1.6 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
The Closet
1.7 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Wool For Ewe Ltd
2.0 km
Scotland's award-winning wool haven: endless yarns, expert advice, and crafting community on Aberdeen's Rosemount Place.
Brunswick Stores
2.0 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
Cloudyblue
2.1 km
Explore Cloudyblue in Aberdeen for unique gifts and local crafts that capture the essence of Scotland's culture and charm.
EDIT
2.1 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.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
2.1 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
St. Machar Bar
0.1 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
Rowan Tree Bar
0.6 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
The Bobbin
0.7 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
Northern Bar
1.6 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
Black Dog
1.7 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
The Kings Bar
1.9 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
2.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
All Bar One Aberdeen
2.0 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
The Queen Vic
2.0 km
Aberdeen's hometown pub since 1996: pints, sports, and community spirit in cozy Rosemount.
Masada Bar
2.1 km
A compact, old‑fashioned Rosemount pub with a local crowd, live music nights and a cosy, no‑frills atmosphere.
The Rusty Nail
2.1 km
Classic Aberdeen pub on Rosemount Viaduct: wood-paneled charm, local ales, hearty grub, and lively neighborhood vibes from noon to midnight.
Vulture Lounge
2.1 km
Cozy viaduct bar in Rosemount pouring craft drinks, bites, and live tunes amid Aberdeen's gritty urban charm.
The Triplekirks
2.1 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
The Castle Bar
2.1 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
2.2 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
