Ma Cameron's: Aberdeen's Historic Pub Sanctuary
Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
Ma Cameron's, established over 300 years ago on Little Belmont Street, is Aberdeen's oldest pub. Known for its cosy front snug and hidden rooftop garden, it offers a unique blend of historic charm and tranquil urban escape. Named after Amelia 'Ma' Cameron, this pub combines traditional Scottish pub culture with a welcoming atmosphere, serving a variety of drinks and meals in a setting rich with character and stories.
A brief summary to Ma Cameron's
- Little Belmont St, Aberdeen, AB10 1JG, GB
- +441224644487
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-12 am
- Tuesday 11 am-12 am
- Wednesday 11 am-12 am
- Thursday 11 am-12 am
- Friday 11 am-1 am
- Saturday 11 am-1 am
- Sunday 11 am-12 am
Local tips
- Try to visit the hidden rooftop garden for a peaceful retreat from the city buzz.
- Experience the cosy front snug, one of Aberdeen’s oldest pub interiors.
- Check out the pub quiz nights on Mondays for a fun local experience.
- Explore the menu’s vegetarian and vegan options for diverse Scottish pub fare.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ma Cameron's location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ma Cameron's
A Storied Past in the Heart of Aberdeen
Ma Cameron's stands as a testament to Aberdeen's rich social history, having been established around 1746. It holds the distinction of being the oldest pub in the city, a status that imbues it with an authentic historic atmosphere. The pub is named after Amelia 'Ma' Cameron, who took over the establishment in 1937, cementing her legacy in the local community. Its longevity reflects the enduring appeal of traditional Scottish pubs as social hubs.Architectural Character and Unique Features
The pub is renowned for its cosy front snug, one of the oldest in Aberdeen, offering an intimate setting that contrasts with the lively main bar area. In 2015, the snug underwent refurbishment, preserving its historic charm while enhancing comfort. A hidden rooftop garden provides a rare sanctuary in the urban environment, allowing patrons to enjoy a tranquil outdoor space above the bustling city streets. This blend of indoor warmth and outdoor calm creates a distinctive ambiance.Culinary and Beverage Offerings
Ma Cameron's serves a variety of traditional Scottish pub fare alongside a full bar selection, including local beers and whiskies. The menu caters to diverse dietary preferences, featuring vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Its family-friendly and dog-friendly policies make it accessible to a wide range of visitors. The pub also offers free Wi-Fi and table service, enhancing the overall guest experience.Cultural Significance and Local Lore
Beyond its function as a pub, Ma Cameron's is woven into Aberdeen's cultural fabric. It is mentioned in Stuart MacBride's novel "Cold Granite," highlighting its role as a local landmark. The pub's character and stories attract both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of Aberdeen's heritage. Its traditional Scottish pub atmosphere is complemented by modern amenities, balancing history with contemporary hospitality.Social Atmosphere and Events
The pub is known for its lively yet welcoming atmosphere, hosting regular events such as pub quizzes on Monday evenings. It features a full bar, sports broadcasts on television, and a setting that encourages socializing. The combination of historic surroundings and active social programming makes it a popular gathering spot for a diverse crowd.Location and Accessibility
Situated on Little Belmont Street, Ma Cameron's is centrally located within Aberdeen, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city. Its proximity to other attractions and amenities adds to its appeal as a convenient stop for both locals and tourists. The pub's opening hours extend late into the evening on weekends, accommodating night-time visitors.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
0.1 km
An elegant neoclassical gateway marking the historic Kirk of St. Nicholas kirkyard in the heart of Aberdeen’s city centre.
Aedie's House site
0.1 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
0.2 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.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
0.3 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Marischal College
0.3 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Castlegate
0.3 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Greyfriars Church
0.3 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
0.4 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Rosemount Palace
1.0 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
1.3 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
St. Nicholas Cemetery
0.1 km
Discover Aberdeen’s ancient spiritual heart where history, maritime heritage, and sacred grounds converge on Union Street.
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 Bandstand
0.1 km
An elegant historic bandstand in Aberdeen’s city center, blending architectural charm with vibrant community spirit and cultural events.
The Grn
0.1 km
Historic granite square in Aberdeen blending medieval heritage with vibrant cafes and artistic charm.
Aberdeen Art Gallery
0.2 km
Scotland's finest art collection in a stunning neo-classical building—free entry, world-class works, rooftop views.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Marischal Square
0.2 km
A vibrant city centre complex blending modern architecture, dining, and festive markets in the heart of Aberdeen.
Huntfun Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover Aberdeen’s city center through an exciting, interactive treasure hunt along Union Street that blends fun, learning, and adventure.
Bon Accord Aberdeen
0.2 km
Discover diverse shopping and vibrant city life at Bon Accord Aberdeen, the heart of retail on George Street.
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
Poldino's Restaurant & Pizzeria
0.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and cozy family-run charm in the heart of Aberdeen’s city center.
Tango Turtle- Caribbean Inspired Restaurant
0.0 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively culture in the heart of Aberdeen at Tango Turtle, where generous portions meet colorful ambiance.
Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen
0.0 km
Discover the essence of Cuba at Revolución de Cuba Aberdeen – where vibrant cuisine meets lively entertainment.
Ninety-Nine
0.1 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
0.1 km
A stylish Aberdeen cocktail bar and restaurant blending inventive drinks with fresh, flavorful small plates in a cozy speakeasy setting.
Wild Boar
0.1 km
Historic Aberdeen pub offering classic British fare, real ales, live entertainment, and a warm, inviting atmosphere in the city center.
Moonfish Cafe
0.1 km
A cozy Aberdeen bistro serving innovative seafood and modern British dishes in a historic medieval quarter setting.
Cafe 52
0.1 km
Cozy and creative Scottish dining on Aberdeen’s historic Green, blending home-style comfort with inventive flavors and warm hospitality.
Bistro Verde
0.1 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Chaophraya
0.2 km
Experience authentic and innovative Thai cuisine in Aberdeen’s historic and elegant dining landmark.
THE BISTRO
0.2 km
A contemporary and welcoming dining spot in Aberdeen’s city center, blending local flavors with relaxed style.
Monsoona Healthy Indian cuisine
0.2 km
Experience authentic, health-conscious Indian cuisine in the heart of Aberdeen with fresh flavors and warm hospitality at Monsoona.
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 Terrace Bar and Café
0.3 km
A stylish café-bar blending historic grandeur and modern dining within Aberdeen’s iconic His Majesty's Theatre.
Maggie's Grill
0.3 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
White Stuff Aberdeen
0.1 km
Discover British charm and sustainable style at White Stuff Aberdeen, your boutique for distinctive casual fashion and accessories.
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.
Oliver Bonas
0.1 km
Discover Oliver Bonas Aberdeen, a stylish boutique blending British design with unique fashion, homeware, and gifts in a historic city setting.
Forbes Gallery & Gifts
0.1 km
Independent gift gallery showcasing Scottish photography and artisan souvenirs in Aberdeen's heart.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
0.1 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
EDIT
0.2 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.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.2 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
Beyond Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.3 km
Discover authentic Scottish knitwear and unique gifts steeped in heritage at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
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.
The Vintage Market
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
Menkind
0.5 km
Discover quirky, unique gifts and gadgets for all ages at Menkind, nestled in Aberdeen’s bustling Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
0.5 km
Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Hobbycraft Aberdeen
0.5 km
Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ma Cameron's
0.0 km
Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
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
0.1 km
Historic Aberdeen pub with the city's longest bar, real ales, home-cooked food, and lively music sessions in a warm, traditional setting.
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.
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.
ENVY Aberdeen
0.2 km
A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
All Bar One Aberdeen
0.3 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
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.
The GasLamp Bar
0.3 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
0.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
Bartenders Lounge
0.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife with innovative cocktails, fresh music, and welcoming vibes at Bartenders Lounge on North Silver Street.
The Stag
0.3 km
A lively and welcoming city-centre pub in Aberdeen, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a friendly atmosphere every day from noon to midnight.
Under the Hammer
0.3 km
A cosy, characterful basement bar in Aberdeen offering well-made cocktails, a collected interior and an intimate, friendly evening atmosphere.
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.
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
0.2 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
0.2 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Private Eyes
0.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
AURA Nightclub Aberdeen
0.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and nostalgic disco vibes at Aura Nightclub, the city’s premier venue for dynamic music and festive parties.
Number 7 Club
0.3 km
Aberdeen's intimate adult club on Crown Street: full-nude dances, drinks, and late-night energy from 9pm to 3am weekends.
The Mask Club
0.3 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
0.8 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
53.6 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
Deejays Nightclub
61.1 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
62.9 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
62.9 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly