Forbes Gallery & Gifts
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
A charming independent gift shop in Aberdeen's Bon Accord Centre, Forbes Gallery & Gifts showcases high-quality local photography and unique Scottish souvenirs. Founded by photographer Johnny Forbes, this family-run business offers carefully curated gifts, artisan products, and photographic art that capture the essence of Scotland. With knowledgeable staff and a welcoming atmosphere, it's an ideal stop for travelers seeking authentic mementos and locally crafted items.
A brief summary to Forbes Gallery & Gifts
- Unit 1, Bon Accord Centre, George St, Aberdeen, AB25 1HZ, GB
- +447534252074
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more personalized shopping experience with better access to staff recommendations.
- Ask staff about locally made artisan products and limited-edition photographic prints—these items often make the most meaningful souvenirs.
- Check for seasonal sales around holidays and special occasions, when discounts on gift items are most generous.
- Explore the photographic art collection featuring local landscapes—these pieces capture Aberdeen's character and make excellent wall art or gifts.
- Allow time to browse thoroughly; the curated selection rewards careful exploration and often reveals unexpected treasures.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Forbes Gallery & Gifts location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Forbes Gallery & Gifts
A Family Legacy of Photography and Gifts
Forbes Gallery & Gifts stands as a testament to independent retail in Aberdeen, founded by photographer Johnny Forbes who transformed his passion for capturing Scotland's landscapes into a thriving gift destination. This family-run business occupies Unit 1 in the Bon Accord Centre, a prime location in the heart of the city. The shop's foundation rests on authenticity—every item reflects a commitment to quality and local character, making it far more than a typical tourist shop.Curated Collections and Local Artistry
The gallery specializes in high-quality gifts that blend photography, local craftsmanship, and Scottish heritage. Visitors discover stunning photographic art featuring Aberdeen and the surrounding landscapes, alongside carefully selected artisan products that represent the region's creative community. The inventory emphasizes locally made items and unique souvenirs that tell stories of Scotland, from traditional crafts to contemporary designs. This thoughtful curation ensures that every purchase carries genuine cultural significance rather than mass-produced anonymity.The Shopping Experience
The shop's strength lies in its knowledgeable and attentive staff who provide genuine insights into products and local culture. Rather than rushing customers through transactions, the team takes time to understand what visitors seek and offer personalized recommendations. The atmosphere remains relaxed and inviting, encouraging browsers to linger and explore. Weekday visits tend to be quieter, offering a more intimate shopping experience for those preferring a slower pace. The staff's enthusiasm for their inventory and connection to the local community create an experience that feels personal and authentic.Practical Considerations for Visitors
Located within the Bon Accord Centre, the shop benefits from excellent accessibility and proximity to other retail options. The location makes it convenient for visitors already exploring Aberdeen's shopping district. Seasonal sales, particularly around holidays, offer opportunities for bargain hunters. The shop's position in a modern shopping centre means comfortable browsing conditions regardless of Aberdeen's weather, which can be unpredictable throughout the year.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.2 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Marischal College
0.2 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Aedie's House site
0.2 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.
Edward VII Statue
0.3 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.
Greyfriars Church
0.3 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Castlegate
0.3 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
0.4 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.4 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.5 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Rosemount Palace
0.9 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Rosemount Market
1.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Gallows Hill
1.2 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
1.3 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Edward VIII Post Box
1.4 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.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.7 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
General Gordon Statue
0.1 km
A dignified bronze tribute to General Charles Gordon, reflecting his military valor and humanitarian legacy in the heart of Aberdeen.
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.1 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
0.1 km
Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
Slains
0.1 km
Discover Slains in Aberdeen, a unique pub that offers a gothic atmosphere, delicious food, and a vibrant drink selection for locals and tourists alike.
Cowdray Hall
0.2 km
Historic concert hall in Aberdeen with superb acoustics, elegant design, and a vibrant cultural program nestled within Aberdeen Art Gallery.
Marischal Square
0.2 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Provost Skene's House
0.2 km
Explore Aberdeen’s oldest townhouse, a historic museum celebrating local heroes, with stunning Renaissance art and centuries of captivating history.
The Tunnels
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Aberdeen at The Tunnels, an underground nightclub known for electrifying live music and a unique atmosphere.
Union Terrace Gardens
0.2 km
Historic sunken gardens in Aberdeen’s heart, blending Victorian charm with modern design for a vibrant city green space.
Aberdeen Sign
0.2 km
A vibrant illuminated landmark in Aberdeen’s historic Union Terrace, celebrating local culture and offering a striking photo opportunity day and night.
Robert the Bruce Statue
0.2 km
A majestic bronze tribute to King Robert the Bruce, symbolizing Aberdeen’s historic roots and Scottish heritage.
The Grn
0.2 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
William Wallace Statue
0.3 km
A towering bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring William Wallace’s heroic fight for Scottish independence and liberty.
His Majesty's Theatre
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian theatre in Aberdeen offering diverse performing arts in a beautifully preserved setting.
Essential places to dine
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.1 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Moonfish Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Wild Boar
0.2 km
Historic Aberdeen pub offering classic British fare, real ales, live entertainment, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the city center.
Ninety-Nine
0.2 km
Experience expertly crafted cocktails and vibrant modern bar food in the heart of Aberdeen’s lively social scene at Ninety-Nine.
The Tippling House
0.2 km
A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Maggie's Grill
0.2 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Cafe 52
0.2 km
Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Bistro Verde
0.2 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
The Terrace Bar and Café
0.2 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
The City Bar and Diner
0.2 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
Stylish Scottish dining with innovative tapas and hearty mains in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
THE BISTRO
0.3 km
A contemporary and welcoming dining spot in Aberdeen’s city center, blending local flavors with relaxed style.
Chaophraya
0.3 km
Experience authentic and innovative Thai cuisine in Aberdeen’s historic and elegant dining landmark.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.0 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Oliver Bonas
0.0 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.0 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
EDIT
0.1 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.
Juniper
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish home furniture, and beautiful jewellery in a charming shop with a welcoming ambience in the heart of Aberdeen.
Itskitsch Ltd
0.1 km
Aberdeen's cozy Fair Trade café and second-hand book haven on Belmont Street—savor pancakes, soups, and literary treasures in one independent gem.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.2 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Beyond Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
Annie Mo's
0.3 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
The Vintage Market
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
The Closet
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Scotland's Bothy
0.4 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
Castle Gate
0.5 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ma Cameron's
0.1 km
Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
The Triplekirks
0.1 km
Aberdeen’s lively pub and sports bar offering boozy brunches, live games, pub quizzes, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Revolution Aberdeen
0.1 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
Prince Of Wales
0.2 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.2 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
0.2 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
ENVY Aberdeen
0.3 km
A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
Spirit Level
0.3 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
Bartenders Lounge
0.4 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
The GasLamp Bar
0.4 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
0.4 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
0.4 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
Under the Hammer
0.4 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
Krakatoa
0.4 km
A vibrant tiki-themed dive bar in Aberdeen offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from afternoon till late night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
0.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
0.3 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
The Underground Klub
0.3 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
0.4 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
Number 7 Club
0.4 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
0.4 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 Mask Club
0.4 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Club Tropicana & Venga
0.6 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.
Venga
0.6 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.
491 Union Street
0.9 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.
Babylon
0.9 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
53.7 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
61.0 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
62.8 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
62.8 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
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly