Footdee: Aberdeen’s Historic Fishing Village by the Harbour
Step into Footdee, Aberdeen’s charming historic fishing village with colorful cottages, cobbled squares, and a vibrant maritime heritage by the harbour.
Footdee, locally known as Fittie, is a charming historic fishing village located at the mouth of Aberdeen Harbour in Scotland. Established in the early 19th century by architect John Smith to rehouse fishermen, it features distinctive uniform cottages arranged in quaint squares with colorful gardens. Now a conservation area, Footdee offers a unique glimpse into Aberdeen’s maritime heritage with its peaceful streets, quirky outhouses, and a strong sense of community rooted in centuries of fishing tradition.
A brief summary to Footdee
- Pocra Quay, Aberdeen, AB11 5DQ, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring a camera to capture the colorful cottages, quirky outhouses, and peaceful cobbled squares that define Footdee’s unique charm.
- Visit during mild weather to fully enjoy wandering the narrow streets and gardens without the harsh coastal winds.
- Explore nearby Pocra Quay and the historic Roundhouse to deepen your understanding of Aberdeen’s maritime history.
- Take time to appreciate the village’s conservation status and respect the privacy of this close-knit residential community.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
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Bus
Take the First Aberdeen bus services 15 or 16 from Aberdeen city centre to the Beach Esplanade stop, about 15-20 minutes travel time. From there, Footdee is a 5-10 minute walk along the seafront. Buses run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. Single fares cost around £2.50 GBP.
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Taxi
A taxi from Aberdeen city centre to Footdee takes approximately 10 minutes depending on traffic. This is a convenient option if you prefer direct access. Typical fares range from £8 to £12 GBP.
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Walking
Footdee is about 1.5 km east of Aberdeen city centre along the Beach Esplanade. Walking takes roughly 20-25 minutes on mostly flat terrain with paved paths, suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.
Footdee location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Footdee
Origins and Architectural Heritage of Footdee
Footdee’s roots stretch back to medieval times, originally known as Futty and centered around St Clement’s Church founded in 1498. The present village layout dates from 1809 when John Smith, Aberdeen’s Superintendent of Public Works and a key local architect, designed a planned community to rehouse fishermen living in poor conditions near the harbour. The initial development, known as Fish Town, consisted of 28 single-storey thatched cottages arranged in neat rows. Subsequent expansions in 1837 and 1855 added more housing, including two-storey homes for ship pilots. The cottages were built uniformly in width, height, and window placement, creating a distinctive architectural harmony that has largely been preserved despite later modifications by owners after the 1870s.The Village’s Unique Layout and Community Spirit
Footdee is organized into small squares with cobbled streets, where the cottages face inward towards communal gardens, while their backs turn to the sea to shield them from harsh coastal storms. This layout fosters a strong neighborhood atmosphere, with shared green spaces and quirky, colorful outhouses and sheds that add to the village’s charm. The intimate scale and close-knit community reflect its origins as a working fishing village where multiple families often shared the modest two-room homes. Today, Footdee retains this sense of community, attracting residents and visitors who appreciate its peaceful, almost timeless character within the modern city.Maritime Legacy and Cultural Significance
Footdee’s identity is deeply tied to Aberdeen’s maritime history. The village was part of a thriving fishing industry and close to shipyards, including the famous Hood’s yard, which built sailing ships for the Aberdeen Line. Nearby Pocra Quay, home to the Navigation Control Centre known as the Roundhouse, played a crucial role in harbour operations. The village’s name derives from St Fittick, the patron saint of gardeners, believed to have landed nearby in the 7th century, rather than from its location at the river’s foot. Footdee stands as a living testament to Aberdeen’s fishing heritage, contrasting with the demolished Old Torry fishing village across the harbour.Conservation and Modern-Day Footdee
Classified as a conservation area, Footdee’s cottages are individually listed for their architectural and historical importance. The village’s traditional granite-built homes, colorful fountains, and cobbled lanes offer a striking contrast to Aberdeen’s predominantly grey granite cityscape. While modern amenities have been introduced, the village preserves its historic character, making it a sought-after residential area and a captivating destination for visitors. The community celebrates its maritime past through events and memorials, including tributes to North Sea oil rig divers, reflecting Footdee’s ongoing connection to the sea.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Exploring Footdee feels like stepping back in time, with surprises around every corner—from the quaint cottages and their gardens to the peaceful squares and unusual outbuildings. The village is remarkably quiet despite its proximity to the bustling harbour, offering a tranquil retreat with a scenic waterfront backdrop. Its colorful, eccentric charm makes it an excellent spot for photography, cultural walks, and appreciating Aberdeen’s unique coastal heritage. Footdee’s blend of history, community spirit, and seaside ambiance ensures a memorable visit for those seeking an authentic Scottish fishing village experience.Footdee’s Place in Aberdeen’s Urban Fabric
Situated just half a mile east of Aberdeen’s city centre, Footdee provides a distinctive contrast to the urban environment. It acts as a historical enclave preserving the lifestyle and architecture of early 19th-century fishermen amidst the city’s development. The village’s proximity to the harbour and its role in Aberdeen’s maritime economy highlight its importance in the city’s growth. Footdee remains a vibrant, living community that honors its past while offering a peaceful haven within a modern urban setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Balnagask Motte
0.7 km
Medieval earthen mound marking an early wooden castle, shrouded in mystery and local legend.
Gordon Highlanders Statue
1.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
1.5 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Greyfriars Church
1.6 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Marischal College
1.7 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
1.7 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
1.8 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
1.9 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.
Gallows Hill
2.1 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Duke Of Gordon Monument
2.1 km
A monumental granite statue in Aberdeen honoring the 5th Duke of Gordon’s military and civic legacy in a historic city square.
St Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Aberdeen
2.1 km
Aberdeen’s Roman Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem with daily worship, Polish and Spanish Masses, and a peaceful Lady Chapel.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
2.5 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.
Rosemount Palace
2.7 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
The Powis Gates
3.0 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Rosemount Market
3.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Fittie
0.1 km
Discover Footdee, Aberdeen’s quaint historic fishing village with charming 19th-century cottages, rich maritime heritage, and a vibrant community spirit.
Footdee Mission Hall
0.1 km
Historic Gothic-style church and community hub at the heart of Footdee, Aberdeen’s charming fishing village.
Skate's Nose Jetty & Capstan
0.3 km
Historic stone jetty with iconic cast-iron light tower marking Aberdeen Harbour’s entrance and rich maritime heritage.
Torry Battery
0.7 km
Discover the historic Torry Battery in Aberdeen, where maritime history meets breathtaking views of the North Sea.
Footdee beach
0.8 km
Discover Footdee Beach and its charming historic fishing village, a colorful and tranquil coastal gem steeped in Aberdeen’s maritime heritage.
Beach Boulevard Retail Park
1.0 km
A vibrant coastal retail park in Aberdeen offering diverse stores, budget-friendly shopping, and a refreshing seaside atmosphere.
Aberdeen beach front
1.0 km
Experience Aberdeen’s golden sands, vibrant promenade, and refreshing North Sea air just minutes from the city centre.
Codona's
1.0 km
A lively indoor seaside amusement park in Aberdeen offering bowling, laser tag, mini golf, and family fun all year round.
Port of Aberdeen - South Harbour
1.2 km
Scotland’s largest deepwater port expansion, South Harbour at Aberdeen delivers world-class berthing, heavy-lift capacity, and a gateway to the energy future.
Aberdeen Ferry Terminal
1.2 km
Scotland's maritime gateway to Orkney and Shetland, offering overnight ferry journeys with modern comfort and island hospitality.
Walker Park
1.3 km
Explore Aberdeen’s maritime heritage and port expansion at Walker Park’s South Harbour Visitor Centre, a scenic gateway to the city’s harbour life.
Port of Aberdeen
1.4 km
Scotland's largest cruise port and gateway to the Granite City, Highlands, and northeast coast.
Aberdeen Ghost Walks
1.4 km
Uncover Aberdeen's gruesome past through guided ghost walks revealing tales of witches, murderers, and dark secrets.
Aberdeen Science Centre
1.4 km
Explore hands-on science, immersive exhibits, and cutting-edge STEM experiences at Aberdeen Science Centre, a family favourite in the heart of Aberdeen.
Greyhope Beach
1.5 km
Discover Aberdeen’s scenic Greyhope Bay with its iconic Girdle Ness Lighthouse, top dolphin-watching spot, and sustainable coastal café.
Essential places to dine
The Silver Darling
0.1 km
Experience fresh Scottish seafood with breathtaking Aberdeen Harbour views in a historic waterfront setting.
The Hungry Beast
0.3 km
Savor delicious fast food delights at The Hungry Beast in Aberdeen's Esplanade - perfect for tourists seeking quick and tasty meals.
Croque Toasties
0.4 km
Cozy beachfront spot in Aberdeen serving specialty toasted sandwiches with a French twist, perfect for a relaxed seaside meal.
Burning Hands and Plates
0.5 km
A vibrant fusion restaurant on Aberdeen’s Esplanade offering bold American-inspired flavors in a casual beachside setting.
Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
1.0 km
Experience authentic Turkish grills and delightful desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Aberdeen’s scenic Esplanade.
210 Bistro
1.3 km
Contemporary bistro dining with creative Scottish dishes and stunning views over Aberdeen Harbour.
Siam Cottage
1.5 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Goulash
1.5 km
Discover authentic Hungarian cuisine in Aberdeen’s cozy, family-run Goulash restaurant, famed for its hearty dishes and warm atmosphere.
Taste of Hong Kong
1.6 km
A cozy, family-run Chinese gem in Aberdeen serving authentic Hong Kong street food with generous portions and warm, welcoming service.
Miller & Carter Aberdeen
1.6 km
Savor expertly cooked steaks in a stylish, welcoming setting at Miller & Carter Aberdeen, perfect for special occasions and casual dining alike.
The Esslemont Bar & Restaurant
1.6 km
Stylish Scottish dining with innovative tapas and hearty mains in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Street.
Zizzi - Aberdeen
1.6 km
Modern Italian dining with vibrant local flair, welcoming all tastes in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square.
The City Bar and Diner
1.6 km
Contemporary dining and drinks in Aberdeen's city centre with exceptional vegetarian options and genuine hospitality.
Maggie's Grill
1.7 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Bistro Verde
1.7 km
An intimate Aberdeen bistro delivering fresh, beautifully presented seafood with attentive service in a cozy, elegant setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Aberdeen
0.8 km
A vast homewares and lifestyle emporium nestled in Aberdeen’s vibrant beachfront leisure park, offering everything for your home and garden.
Frantiques
1.1 km
Waterfront antique shop brimming with maritime treasures and eclectic vintage finds.
Fernweh UK
1.1 km
Wanderlust-infused accessories from Aberdeen's harbourfront artist studios—discover handcrafted jewelry and scarves amid makers' workshops.
Brunswick Stores
1.4 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
1.4 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Hobbycraft Aberdeen
1.4 km
Discover a creative sanctuary in the heart of Aberdeen’s Union Square, offering expert-led workshops and a vast range of craft supplies.
Castle Gate
1.4 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
Menkind
1.5 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, the fun-filled store in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
Next
1.5 km
Discover stylish family fashion and homeware at Next, located in Aberdeen’s vibrant Union Square Shopping Centre.
The Vintage Market
1.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Aberdeen’s cosy Vintage Market on Market Street.
Annie Mo's
1.6 km
Discover authentic rustic furniture and unique home accessories at Annie Mo's, Aberdeen's independent shop with over 30 years of heritage.
Beyond Vintage
1.7 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures and classic Levi's in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant shopping scene.
Aberdeen Gift and Tourist Shop
1.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and local crafts on Aberdeen's iconic Union Street, where handmade treasures meet Granite City charm.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.8 km
Discover quirky Danish design and playful everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Aberdeen’s Trinity Centre.
EDIT
1.8 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Fittie Bar
0.6 km
Historic 1821 pub in Aberdeen's Footdee fishing village, famed for giant fish suppers, rugby walls, and authentic Scottish pub soul amid harbor scents.
The Castle Bar
1.4 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
Krakatoa
1.5 km
A vibrant tiki-themed dive bar in Aberdeen offering eclectic drinks, live music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from afternoon till late night.
Fierce Bar Aberdeen
1.5 km
City-centre taproom from Fierce Beer offering rotating house brews, guest taps, cocktails and whisky in a relaxed, dog-friendly space.
BrewDog Aberdeen Castlegate
1.5 km
Craft beer haven on Aberdeen's Union Street with 28 taps, juicy burgers, dog-friendly vibes, and upstairs Kennels for the ultimate stay.
The GasLamp Bar
1.6 km
Lively grill and sports bar in Aberdeen’s city centre, known for friendly service and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Spirit Level
1.6 km
A vibrant and welcoming pub in Aberdeen’s city center, known for great beer, lively music, and a friendly atmosphere.
ENVY Aberdeen
1.6 km
A compact Market Street bar blending daytime coffee culture with casual evening drinks and small-plate dining in central Aberdeen.
The Kings Bar
1.6 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
Ye Olde Frigate Bar
1.7 km
Aberdeen's oldest pourhouse: 28 beers, generous drams, burgers, wings, sports, and jukebox vibes in a maritime nook.
Prince Of Wales
1.7 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
1.7 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
1.8 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
Ma Cameron's
1.8 km
Aberdeen’s oldest pub offering historic charm, cosy snugs, and a hidden rooftop garden sanctuary in the city center.
Revolution Aberdeen
1.9 km
Vibrant Belmont Street cocktail bar with epic garden views, killer drinks, comfort food, and non-stop party vibes until late.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Conservation Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
