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Slains Castle Pub

4.2 (1866)

Aberdeen's gothic church-pub haunt: skeletons, secret doors, graveyard garden, and Dracula-inspired vibes for unforgettable nights out.

Nestled in Aberdeen's vibrant Belmont Street, Slains Castle Pub occupies a former Gothic church and graveyard, transformed into a multi-level gothic wonderland. Explore eerie decor with skeletons, suits of armor, and hidden bookcase doors across three floors. Enjoy traditional pub grub, famous cocktails, and draught beers until late. The beer garden in the old graveyard adds quirky charm, while sports screens and live music keep the energy high. Families welcome until 8pm; dog-friendly vibe prevails.

A brief summary to Slains Castle

  • 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 with family or kids, as the child-friendly policy ends then.
  • Seek out the hidden bookcase door for a fun surprise entrance to another room.
  • Arrive early for sports screenings to snag a prime spot near the HD TVs.
  • Opt for the beer garden in good weather, but note steps for access.
  • Check Monday-Thursday for student deals on food and drinks.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Aberdeen bus station, take the 1 or 1A city centre route alighting at Belmont Street, 5-8 minutes journey, services every 10 minutes daytime, £2 flat fare.

  • Walking

    From Union Street centre, stroll north along Belmont Street, 10-12 minutes on flat pavements, fully accessible but watch for evening crowds.

  • Taxi

    Hail a black cab from Aberdeen train station or city centre ranks, 3-5 minutes ride depending on traffic, £6-8 fare.

  • Cycling

    From Aberdeen harbour area, follow cycle paths via Market Street to Belmont, 8-10 minutes on designated lanes, secure bike racks nearby.

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

  • Restrooms
  • Drink Options
  • Food Options
  • Seating Areas
  • Sheltered Areas

Slains Castle location weather suitability

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Discover more about Slains Castle

Gothic Church Transformed

Slains Castle Pub stands as a striking conversion of a former Gothic church on Belmont Street in Aberdeen. The original stone structure retains its arched windows, vaulted ceilings, and weathered facade, evoking a sense of ancient mystery. Inside, the sacred space has been reimagined with playful horror elements, blending reverence for its ecclesiastical past with theatrical flair. Dim lighting casts dramatic shadows over the nooks and crannies, inviting patrons to discover the pub's layered personality.

Eerie Interiors Across Three Floors

Spread over three levels, the pub's interiors burst with gothic eccentricity. Skeletons dangle from rafters, suits of armor guard corners, and alchemist tools clutter tabletops, creating an immersive Addams Family-esque atmosphere. Hidden doors disguised as library bookshelves lead to secret rooms, while a massive photo of the original Slains Castle in Cruden Bay—rumored to inspire Bram Stoker's Dracula—hangs prominently. Each floor offers distinct vibes, from intimate lower lounges to bustling upper bars.

Graveyard Beer Garden and Exterior Charm

Step outside to the beer garden nestled in the site's former graveyard, where weathered tombstones mingle with picnic tables under open skies. The intact church exterior provides a hauntingly photogenic backdrop, especially at dusk when streetlights illuminate the stonework. This outdoor space captures Aberdeen's blend of history and hedonism, perfect for summer pints or cooler evenings with heaters.

Pub Fare and Signature Drinks

Food service runs daily from noon until 9pm, featuring hearty British classics like fish and chips, steaks, gammon, and loaded baked potatoes. Cocktails draw crowds with inventive mixes, alongside a solid lineup of lagers, ciders, and ales on draught. Student deals Monday to Thursday make it accessible, while pre-booked group menus add variety for gatherings.

Sports, Music, and Nightly Energy

Multiple HD screens broadcast live sports from Sky Sports, BT Sports, and Viaplay, turning match days into communal events. Background music evolves into DJ sets on weekends, fueling the lively crowd of locals, students, goths, and visitors. The pub pulses with energy until 1am on weekdays and later on weekends, offering reservations for peace of mind.

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