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Westburn Park and Historic Fountain, Aberdeen

Historic urban park in Aberdeen with sports facilities, a serene stream, and a Victorian mansion at its heart.

Westburn Park in Aberdeen is a spacious and lively public park established in 1901, featuring open grass areas, sports facilities including tennis courts and bowling greens, a skatepark, and a charming stream called Gilcomston Burn. Central to the park is Westburn House, a Victorian mansion designed by Archibald Simpson. The park offers a family-friendly environment with playgrounds, picnic spots, and a blend of leisure and sport activities amid tranquil natural scenery.

A brief summary to Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen

  • Aberdeen, AB25 3DE, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon 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 weekdays or mornings to enjoy a quieter atmosphere and ample space for picnics and sports.
  • Explore the Gilcomston Burn stream area, especially in summer when children race sticks and play along its banks.
  • Check out the skatepark, which was refurbished recently and offers facilities for skateboarders and BMX riders.
  • Take time to admire Westburn House’s Victorian architecture, a key historic feature of the park.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Take First Bus or Stagecoach services (routes 10, 35, 37A) to Westburn Park; buses run frequently with a journey time of approximately 15-25 minutes from Aberdeen city centre. Note that bus schedules may vary on weekends and holidays.

  • Car

    Driving to Westburn Park typically takes 10-20 minutes from central Aberdeen. Parking is available nearby but can be limited during peak times, so plan accordingly. Some streets around the park have parking restrictions.

  • Walking

    From Aberdeen city centre, walking to Westburn Park takes about 40-50 minutes via mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible and suitable for most fitness levels, offering an opportunity to explore the city’s west end.

Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen location weather suitability

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  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
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Discover more about Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen

A Green Heart in Aberdeen's West End

Westburn Park, located northwest of Aberdeen's city centre, is a historic urban green space spanning approximately 10 hectares. Established in 1901, it was part of a broader Victorian-era initiative to bring countryside calm and recreation to the industrial city. The park's landscape is predominantly open grassland dotted with mature trees, two large ponds, and the picturesque Gilcomston Burn stream that meanders through its southern edge. This natural water feature adds a serene ambiance and is a favorite spot for children to play during warmer months.

Sporting Facilities and Family Fun

The park is well-equipped for a variety of sports and active pursuits. It houses indoor and outdoor tennis courts, including all-weather and grass courts, a bowling green of championship standard, football pitches, and a skatepark originally built in the 1970s and refurbished in 2018. A dedicated children's cycling proficiency track and playground with climbing frames provide safe spaces for young visitors to enjoy physical activity. These diverse facilities make Westburn Park a hub for families, sports enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike.

Westburn House: Architectural Gem and Community Symbol

At the heart of the park stands Westburn House, a Category A listed Victorian mansion designed by renowned architect Archibald Simpson in 1839. Originally the home of the Chalmers family, founders of the Aberdeen Journal, the house has served various community purposes including refreshment rooms and craft groups. Although currently derelict, local efforts continue to preserve this historic building as a treasured landmark within the park.

Community and Cultural Connections

Westburn Park is more than a recreational space; it acts as a cultural venue hosting events such as the Mela festival, celebrating Asian culture and community. The park's open spaces and facilities foster social interaction and community engagement, reflecting its longstanding role in Aberdeen’s urban life. Its proximity to Victoria Park further enhances the area's appeal as a green corridor for relaxation and leisure.

Natural Beauty with Urban Convenience

Despite its city location, Westburn Park offers a peaceful retreat with its blend of natural elements and recreational infrastructure. Visitors can enjoy picnics on expansive lawns, watch local wildlife near the ponds, or simply relax by the burn. The park’s design encourages both active enjoyment and quiet contemplation, embodying the Victorian ideal of parks as places for physical and moral uplift.

Ongoing Legacy and Visitor Experience

Westburn Park continues to evolve while maintaining its historic charm. The skatepark refurbishment and community-led initiatives to restore Westburn House demonstrate a commitment to preserving the park’s heritage and enhancing visitor experience. Whether for sport, family outings, or cultural events, Westburn Park remains a cherished green space in Aberdeen’s urban fabric.

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