The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen

Discover 200 years of heroic military history and immersive exhibits at Aberdeen’s award-winning Gordon Highlanders Museum.

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The Gordon Highlanders Museum

Located in Aberdeen’s West End, The Gordon Highlanders Museum showcases 200 years of the storied history of the Gordon Highlanders regiment. Housed in the former home of artist Sir George Reid, the museum features immersive exhibits including a full-size WWI trench replica, historic uniforms, medals, and a silver trophy room. Visitors can enjoy guided or audio tours, explore peaceful Victorian walled gardens, and relax in the onsite café. It offers a rich cultural and military heritage experience suitable for all ages.

A brief summary to The Gordon Highlanders Museum

St. Luke’s, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen, AB15 7XH, GB
+441224311200
Visit website
Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Mixed
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a more personal experience with knowledgeable volunteers.
Don’t miss the full-size WWI trench replica outdoors for a powerful, immersive glimpse into soldier life.
Enjoy a break in the peaceful Victorian walled garden and try the café’s selection of cakes and sandwiches.
Ask for an audio guide available in nine languages, including a family-friendly version with a mini-figure hunt.

Getting There

Bus

Local buses 4, 5, 6, and 11 from Aberdeen city center stop near the junction of Viewfield Road and Queen’s Road, about a 4-minute walk downhill to the museum. Services run frequently with journey times around 15-25 minutes. Single fares cost approximately £2-£3.
Car

Driving from central Aberdeen takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Free parking is available onsite, but spaces can be limited during peak times. The museum is accessible via Viewfield Road in the West End.
Walking

For those staying nearby, a walk from Aberdeen city center to the museum takes approximately 40-50 minutes along paved urban routes. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about The Gordon Highlanders Museum

A Legacy of Valor and History

The Gordon Highlanders Museum preserves the extraordinary 200-year story of one of Scotland’s most distinguished regiments, the Gordon Highlanders. From its origins in the Napoleonic Wars through to modern conflicts, the museum chronicles the bravery and sacrifices of men drawn from the North East of Scotland’s farms, fishing villages, and universities. The museum’s collection is nationally significant, featuring medals including 11 Victoria Crosses, historic uniforms, weaponry, and regimental colors that bring to life the regiment’s gallant battles.

Immersive Exhibits and Historic Spaces

Visitors can experience a full-scale replica of a World War I trench in the museum grounds, complete with duckboards and foxholes, offering a visceral glimpse into soldiers’ harsh realities. Inside, the museum is arranged across two floors within the Grade II listed former residence of Sir George Reid, a renowned Scottish artist. Key areas include the Silver Room, Armoury, Medals Room, D-Day Exhibition, and the Regimental Dining Room, each telling different facets of the regiment’s history. Interactive displays, films narrated by actor Dougray Scott, and audio guides in multiple languages enhance the storytelling.

A Welcoming Atmosphere with Gardens and Café

The museum’s serene Victorian walled garden provides a tranquil space for reflection and relaxation, complementing the military exhibits with natural beauty. The onsite café, ‘Cognito at the Museum,’ offers a warm welcome with indoor and outdoor seating, serving cakes, sandwiches, and hot and cold drinks. The museum is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers who provide guided tours and personal insights, enriching the visitor experience with stories and historical context.

Facilities and Accessibility

The Gordon Highlanders Museum is fully equipped with modern amenities including free Wi-Fi, accessible toilets, hearing loops, lifts, and partial wheelchair access. Families are welcomed with child-friendly resources, highchairs, and baby changing facilities. The museum shop offers a range of souvenirs, and the venue also hosts corporate events, weddings, and fine dining experiences. Parking is available onsite, and the museum is well served by local buses.

Engaging for All Ages and Interests

Suitable for visitors aged 5 to 105, the museum offers a family-friendly mini-figure hunt and interactive exhibits that engage children and adults alike. The audio tours include a special children’s version to make learning fun. History enthusiasts will appreciate the depth of the collection and the opportunity to meet veterans during special exhibitions. The museum’s blend of cultural heritage, immersive storytelling, and peaceful surroundings makes it a standout attraction in Aberdeen.

Honoring a Proud Tradition

As the last Colonel-in-Chief was King Charles (formerly Duke of Rothesay), the museum maintains a strong royal connection and continues to celebrate the legacy of the Gordon Highlanders. It stands not only as a museum but as a living tribute to the courage, duty, and spirit of the men who served, ensuring their stories endure for future generations.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Queen Victoria Statue

1.3 km

Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.

Edward VIII Post Box

1.6 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.

Piper Alpha Memorial Garden

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A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.

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.

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

2.6 km

Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Duke Of Gordon Monument

2.7 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

2.7 km

A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.

Forbes of Newe Obelisk

2.7 km

A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

2.7 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.

Edward VII Statue

2.8 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

3.0 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

3.0 km

An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.

Marischal College

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Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.

Greyfriars Church

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Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen

Castlegate

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Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.

Unmissable attractions to see

Johnston Gardens

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A serene, romantic garden in Aberdeen’s West End, with streams, waterfalls, a rustic bridge, and seasonal blooms – a peaceful escape in the city.

Hazlehead Park

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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

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A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.

Ice House

2.2 km

Discover Aberdeen’s Ice House, a unique dessert spot offering innovative ice cream flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Sainsbury's Local

2.2 km

Your convenient city centre supermarket on Aberdeen’s Union Street, open daily with fresh essentials and quick shopping solutions.

Den of Maidencraig

2.3 km

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Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen

2.3 km

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

Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen

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.

Fish N Hook

2.4 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

2.4 km

A vibrant urban park in Aberdeen blending sports, nature, and history with family-friendly charm and peaceful green spaces.

Flagpole Hill

2.5 km

A historic Victorian park in Aberdeen with stunning gardens, family-friendly play areas, and scenic riverside tranquility.

David Welch Winter Gardens

2.6 km

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Duthie Park

2.7 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

2.7 km

A central bus stop in Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district, connecting local and regional routes for seamless urban travel.

William Wallace Statue

2.7 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

0.4 km

Authentic Scottish dining with traditional flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Palm Court Hotel.

Malmaison Bar & Grill Aberdeen

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Sophisticated British-French fusion dining with prime grills and stylish cocktails in the heart of Aberdeen.

Rendezvous | Nargile

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No.10 Bar and Restaurant

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A sophisticated subterranean venue in Aberdeen offering modern British cuisine, an extensive whiskey bar, and a cozy, stylish atmosphere.

The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe

1.7 km

Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.

The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe

The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa

1.7 km

Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.

Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish

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Modern Scottish cuisine with French flair, served in a warm, elegant setting at the heart of Aberdeen.

Milton on the Corner

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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

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Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant hospitality at The Albyn, blending lively bar culture with hearty dining in a historic family-run setting.

Tucán Rosemount

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Colourful, casual South American deli in Rosemount serving empanadas, arepas and sharing plates in a friendly neighbourhood setting.

Da Vinci Italian Restaurant

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Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen

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Tarragon by Graham Mitchell

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A stylish Aberdeen bistro blending fresh Scottish flavors with cozy, contemporary charm in the vibrant Rosemount district.

Pasta Plus

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Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy, welcoming setting on Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place.

Koi Thai Restaurant

2.3 km

Authentic Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Rosemount district.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Joli Gifts

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Gifted

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Made by Mums with Love

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Surreal Journey

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Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.

Treehouse Home Store

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The Owl at Number Two

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The Stock Shop Ltd.

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Country Ways Aberdeen

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Kafka Mercantile

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Colin Wood Antiques

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Sirene Boutique Aberdeen

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Tiger Lily Boutique

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Nightclubs & after hour spots

Babylon

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491 Union Street

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Venga

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Club Tropicana & Venga

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Number 7 Club

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Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.

AURA Nightclub Aberdeen

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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

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A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.

Private Eyes

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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

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Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.

Exodus

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CHEERZ

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Utopia Nightclub Montrose

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Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.

Deejays Nightclub

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Market Arms

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Banff Town & County Club

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Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.

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The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen

A brief summary to The Gordon Highlanders Museum

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Bus

Car

Walking

The Gordon Highlanders Museum location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of The Gordon Highlanders Museum

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about The Gordon Highlanders Museum

A Legacy of Valor and History

Immersive Exhibits and Historic Spaces

A Welcoming Atmosphere with Gardens and Café

Facilities and Accessibility

Engaging for All Ages and Interests

Honoring a Proud Tradition

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Queen Victoria Statue

Edward VIII Post Box

Piper Alpha Memorial Garden

Rosemount Market

St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen

Duke Of Gordon Monument

Rosemount Palace

Forbes of Newe Obelisk

McGrigor Memorial Obelisk

Edward VII Statue

Aedie's House site

The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade

Marischal College

Greyfriars Church

Castlegate

Unmissable attractions to see

Johnston Gardens

Hazlehead Park

Piper Alpha Memorial

Ice House

Sainsbury's Local

Den of Maidencraig

Old drinking fountain, Westburn Park, Aberdeen

Bridge of Dee

Fish N Hook

Westburn Park

Flagpole Hill

David Welch Winter Gardens

Duthie Park

Rosemount Place

William Wallace Statue

Essential places to dine

The Bothy Restaurant

Malmaison Bar & Grill Aberdeen

Rendezvous | Nargile

No.10 Bar and Restaurant

The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe

The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa

Amuse by Kevin Dalgleish

Milton on the Corner

The Albyn

Tucán Rosemount

Da Vinci Italian Restaurant

Travancore Restaurant Aberdeen

Tarragon by Graham Mitchell

Pasta Plus

Koi Thai Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Joli Gifts

Gifted

Made by Mums with Love

Surreal Journey

Treehouse Home Store

The Owl at Number Two

The Stock Shop Ltd.

Country Ways Aberdeen

Kafka Mercantile

Cloudyblue

Colin Wood Antiques