Barney Sculpture at The Den and The Glen, Aberdeen
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
The Barney Sculpture, located near Aberdeen in Maryculter, is a quirky and iconic statue within The Den and The Glen, a whimsical children's park known for its unusual and offbeat fairy-tale character models. This sculpture of Barney the Dinosaur has gained internet fame and is a memorable highlight amid the park's playful and imaginative environment.
A brief summary to Barney Sculpture
- Aberdeen, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays or early hours to enjoy a quieter experience and better photo opportunities.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby natural parks and historic sites in Aberdeenshire for a full day of exploration.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unique and quirky aesthetic of the Barney Sculpture and surrounding characters.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as much of the park including the sculpture is outdoors.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Aberdeen city center to The Den and The Glen takes approximately 15-20 minutes via the A93. Parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Local bus services from Aberdeen to Maryculter run regularly, with a journey time of around 30-40 minutes. Bus stops near South Deeside Road provide convenient access to the park. Check local timetables for service frequency.
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Taxi
Taxis from Aberdeen to the park take about 15-20 minutes. This is a convenient option for groups or families, with fares typically ranging from £15 to £25 depending on time of day.
Barney Sculpture location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Barney Sculpture
A Unique Landmark in Maryculter's Storybook Landscape
The Barney Sculpture is a standout feature of The Den and The Glen, a children's park nestled in the scenic area of Maryculter, just a few miles from Aberdeen. This park, originally opened in 1984 as Storybook Glen, is famed for its eclectic and somewhat surreal models of nursery rhyme and fairy-tale characters. Among these, the Barney Sculpture has become especially notable, both for its distinctive appearance and its viral internet presence.Origins and Cultural Significance
The Den and The Glen was created to offer a world of make-believe and fun for children and adults alike, set within 28 acres of natural beauty. The Barney Sculpture, depicting the beloved purple dinosaur, fits perfectly into this imaginative setting. While the park features a wide range of characters from traditional fairy tales to modern pop culture icons, Barney stands out as a symbol of playful nostalgia and internet meme culture, drawing visitors intrigued by its quirky charm.Artistic Style and Visitor Experience
The sculpture itself embodies the park’s characteristic offbeat aesthetic — intentionally deformed and whimsical, it invites curiosity and amusement. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the odd yet endearing design, which complements the surrounding statues and murals of other familiar characters. The park’s layout encourages exploration and discovery, making the Barney Sculpture a fun photo opportunity and a memorable stop within a broader day of family-friendly entertainment.Setting and Atmosphere
Located amidst the lush greenery of Maryculter, the sculpture benefits from a tranquil and scenic environment. The Den and The Glen combines indoor soft play areas with outdoor spaces, blending natural beauty with creative play structures. The Barney Sculpture adds a quirky visual highlight to this landscape, enhancing the park’s unique atmosphere where fantasy and reality merge.Community and Legacy
Over the years, The Den and The Glen has become a cherished local attraction, fostering community engagement through seasonal events and birthday parties. The Barney Sculpture contributes to this legacy by being a recognizable and beloved figure that connects visitors to the park’s playful spirit and cultural heritage. It also reflects the evolution of children’s entertainment and public art in the region.Visiting Insights and Surrounding Attractions
While exploring the Barney Sculpture, visitors can also enjoy nearby natural sites and historical landmarks in Aberdeenshire. The park’s proximity to Aberdeen makes it accessible for day trips, offering a blend of outdoor adventure and whimsical storytelling. This combination makes the Barney Sculpture not just a standalone attraction but part of a broader experience of cultural and natural exploration in northeast Scotland.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blairs Museum
2.6 km
Explore Scotland’s Catholic heritage through centuries-old artifacts at Blairs Museum near Aberdeen, a unique cultural and spiritual treasure.
Boswell's Monument
3.7 km
Historic hilltop monument offering panoramic Aberdeenshire views and local heritage significance.
Keith's Tower
6.5 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
6.5 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Queen Victoria Statue
8.9 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
9.0 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 VIII Post Box
9.2 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.
Rosemount Market
9.7 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
9.9 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
10.1 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
Stone 45
10.1 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Edward VII Statue
10.2 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.
Rosemount Palace
10.3 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
10.3 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Aedie's House site
10.3 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Den & The Glen
0.2 km
A nostalgic children’s playground in Maryculter where storybook characters come to life amidst scenic, family-friendly grounds.
Peterculter Golf Club
2.2 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Foggieton
4.5 km
A serene woodland retreat near Aberdeen with historic beech trees, native forests, and family-friendly trails through nature’s quiet beauty.
Countesswells
5.0 km
A peaceful woodland escape on the edge of Aberdeen, with wide trails, tall trees, and gentle views over farmland and the city skyline.
The Mains of Drum
5.5 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Piper Alpha Memorial
6.5 km
A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.
Drum Castle - Garden & Estate
6.5 km
Explore 700 years of Scottish history, stunning gardens, and ancient oak woodlands at Drum Castle, a timeless estate near Banchory.
Hazlehead Park
6.6 km
Explore Aberdeen’s largest historic park with gardens, trails, golf, a petting zoo, and family-friendly fun in a sprawling 180-hectare green oasis.
Den of Maidencraig
7.2 km
A serene nature reserve on Aberdeen’s edge, rich in wildlife and diverse habitats, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Johnston Gardens
7.4 km
A serene, romantic garden in Aberdeen’s West End, with streams, waterfalls, a rustic bridge, and seasonal blooms – a peaceful escape in the city.
The Gordon Highlanders Museum
7.6 km
Explore 200 years of heroic history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, featuring immersive WWI trenches, rare medals, and serene Victorian gardens in Aberdeen.
Bridge of Dee
7.9 km
Discover the Bridge of Dee, a historical marvel in Aberdeen that offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Scotland's rich architectural heritage.
Portlethen Shore/Harbour/Creek
8.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and rich maritime heritage of Portlethen Shore, a scenic coastal haven near Aberdeen.
Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve
8.3 km
Explore diverse habitats and enjoy sweeping panoramic views over Aberdeen at Kincorth Hill Local Nature Reserve.
Cullerlie Stone Circle
8.9 km
Explore the rare Bronze Age Cullerlie Stone Circle, a unique cremation site nestled in Aberdeenshire’s tranquil valley landscape.
Essential places to dine
The Ploughman
1.9 km
A traditional Scottish pub and restaurant in Peterculter serving hearty local dishes with warm hospitality and a rich drinks selection.
The Himalayas Restaurant
2.3 km
Authentic Nepalese and Indian flavors served with warm hospitality in the heart of Peterculter, Aberdeen.
Borsalino
2.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with a modern twist in the warm, inviting atmosphere of Borsalino, Peterculter’s culinary gem.
The Bieldside Inn
3.5 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
Blairs Restaurant
4.0 km
Refined Scottish dining in a historic country estate near Aberdeen, blending fresh local flavors with elegant ambiance.
Mains Of Balquharn Brewers Fayre
6.0 km
Family-friendly pub in Portlethen serving classic British dishes and hearty breakfasts in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Marcliffe Hotel and Spa
6.1 km
Luxurious Victorian country house hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and a tranquil spa set in peaceful gardens near Aberdeen.
The Conservatory Restaurant and Drawing Room Bar | The Marcliffe
6.1 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Bothy Restaurant
7.3 km
Authentic Scottish dining with traditional flavours and warm hospitality in the heart of Aberdeen’s Palm Court Hotel.
Shepherds Rest - Pub & Grill
7.6 km
A welcoming Westhill pub where rustic charm meets expert flame-grilled cooking in a family-friendly setting.
Luigi's
8.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and cozy bar vibes at Luigi's, Westhill’s beloved spot for traditional pasta, pizza, and desserts.
Harvester Ghillies Lair Aberdeen
8.0 km
Family-friendly British bar and grill with unlimited salad, riverside views, and a welcoming atmosphere near Aberdeen’s Bridge of Dee.
The Stack Restaurant and Bar
8.3 km
Innovative Scottish dining in a relaxed coastal village setting, blending fresh local ingredients with global flavors.
Malmaison Bar & Grill Aberdeen
8.3 km
Sophisticated British-French fusion dining with prime grills and stylish cocktails in the heart of Aberdeen.
Rendezvous | Nargile
8.4 km
Experience authentic Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in a warm, family-friendly setting with contemporary charm in Aberdeen.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sonya Angus: The Unique Boutique
4.9 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Gifted
7.3 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Joli Gifts
7.7 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
LUXE
8.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at LUXE, a charming gift shop in Cove Bay, Aberdeen, that captures the essence of Scotland.
Made by Mums with Love
9.1 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
Surreal Journey
9.2 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
Treehouse Home Store
9.2 km
Discover whimsical homewares, stylish furnishings, and cozy cafe vibes at Aberdeen's Treehouse Home Store—a creative haven for design lovers and casual browsers alike.
Country Ways Aberdeen
9.3 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
9.4 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Kafka Mercantile
9.5 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
The Owl at Number Two
9.5 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
Colin Wood Antiques
9.6 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
9.7 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Tiger Lily Boutique
9.7 km
Elegant women's boutique on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, curating versatile dresses and chic separates for effortless day-to-night style in a historic setting.
Copper & Grey
9.7 km
Bright independent gift shop on Aberdeen's Chapel Street, brimming with unique cards, jewellery, stationery, and local maker treasures for every occasion.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Old Bank Bar Ltd
2.6 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Black's Bar
2.7 km
Experience authentic Scottish hospitality and lively village pub charm at Black's Bar in Peterculter, Aberdeen.
The Paddock Bar
6.5 km
A family-friendly pub and lounge in Portlethen offering great homemade food, extensive drinks, live sports, and weekend entertainment.
Quoiters Cafe Bar
7.9 km
A friendly and lively bar in Newtonhill offering local ales, weekly bingo nights, and a cozy atmosphere for all to enjoy.
Brig O Dee Bar
7.9 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
8.4 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
9.1 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Croft & Cairns
9.3 km
A friendly and welcoming bar and restaurant in Aberdeen offering generous scratch-made meals and a versatile function room in a quiet, convenient setting.
Foundry aberdeen
9.4 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
The Glentanar Bar
9.5 km
A stylish, dog-friendly independent bar in Aberdeen’s West End, known for local food vendors, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
College Bar
9.5 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant sports and cocktail bar with live music, state-of-the-art viewing, and versatile event spaces in a historic granite building.
Grape & Grain
9.6 km
Luxurious wine bar in Aberdeen's west end, where curated wines, craft drinks, and gourmet nibbles create intimate evenings of flavor and finesse.
The Spiritualist Aberdeen
9.7 km
Discover vibrant cocktails and stylish dining in the heart of Aberdeen at The Spiritualist, where creativity meets chic atmosphere.
Murdos Bar
9.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Orchid Cocktails
9.7 km
Aberdeen’s stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, immersive tastings, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
9.5 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
491 Union Street
9.6 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.
Club Tropicana & Venga
9.8 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
9.8 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.
Number 7 Club
10.0 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
10.1 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
10.1 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Private Eyes
10.1 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
The Underground Klub
10.1 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Exodus
10.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
10.4 km
Aberdeen's iconic LGBT bar and nightclub: dance, drink, and connect in a welcoming Exchange Street haven open late into the night.
Utopia Nightclub Montrose
44.4 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
De Vitos Nightclub
62.6 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Royal Night Club
63.4 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
The Attic Club
65.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kirriemuir at The Attic Club, where cozy ambiance meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Fun-filled
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly