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The Gordon Highlanders Museum, Aberdeen

Explore 200 years of heroic history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum, featuring immersive WWI trenches, rare medals, and serene Victorian gardens in Aberdeen.

4.8

Located in Aberdeen’s West End, The Gordon Highlanders Museum celebrates over 200 years of the storied history of one of Scotland’s most famous regiments. Housed in the former home of artist Sir George Reid, the museum offers immersive exhibits including a full-size WWI trench replica, historic uniforms, medals, and a D-Day exhibition. Visitors can also enjoy the Victorian walled gardens and the on-site café, making it a rich cultural and historical experience.

A brief summary to The Gordon Highlanders Museum

  • St. Luke’s, Viewfield Rd, Aberdeen, AB15 7XH, GB
  • +441224311200
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Mixed
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy fewer crowds and more personal interaction with knowledgeable volunteers.
  • Don’t miss the full-size WWI trench replica outside for a vivid, immersive experience of soldier life.
  • Take advantage of the multilingual audio guides available in nine languages, including a family-friendly version.
  • Relax in the beautiful Victorian walled gardens and enjoy refreshments at the on-site café with indoor and outdoor seating.
  • Book a guided tour at the Welcome Desk to gain deeper insights into the museum’s nationally significant collection.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Several city buses, including routes 4, 5, 6, and 11, serve the junction of Viewfield Road and Queen’s Road near the museum. From there, it is a short 4-minute walk downhill. Bus journeys from Aberdeen city center typically take 15 to 25 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2–£4 one way.

  • Car

    Driving to the museum is straightforward with free on-site parking available. Travel times from Aberdeen city center are around 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic. Parking is limited during peak times, so early arrival is advisable.

  • Walking

    For those staying in Aberdeen’s West End, the museum is accessible by foot via a gentle downhill walk on Viewfield Road. Walking times vary from 15 to 30 minutes depending on starting point and mobility.

The Gordon Highlanders Museum location weather suitability

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Discover more about The Gordon Highlanders Museum

A Legacy of Courage and Gallantry

The Gordon Highlanders Museum is dedicated to preserving the extraordinary 200-year history of the Gordon Highlanders regiment, renowned as "The Finest Regiment in the World" by Sir Winston Churchill in 1900. The museum traces the regiment’s journey from the Napoleonic Wars through to modern conflicts, showcasing their bravery and sacrifice. The collection includes eleven Victoria Crosses awarded to regiment members, a testament to their gallantry.

Immersive and Interactive Exhibits

Visitors are drawn into history through a variety of engaging displays. The museum features a full-size replica of a World War I trench, complete with duckboards and foxholes, offering a powerful, hands-on experience of the harsh realities faced by soldiers. Historic uniforms, weaponry, medals, and regimental colours are displayed alongside interactive touchscreens and original film footage narrated by Scottish actor Dougray Scott.

The Museum’s Historic Setting and Gardens

The museum is housed in the elegant former home of Sir George Reid, a celebrated Scottish artist and past President of the Royal Scottish Academy of Art. The Grade II listed building provides a fitting backdrop for the museum’s treasures. Outside, visitors can explore beautifully maintained Victorian walled gardens and a garden of remembrance, providing tranquil spaces for reflection amidst the historical narrative.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

The Gordon Highlanders Museum offers a range of visitor amenities including a welcoming café, ‘Cognito at the Museum,’ serving hot and cold refreshments with indoor and outdoor seating. The museum is family-friendly, with resources and activities for children, including a mini-figure hunt. Guided tours by knowledgeable volunteers are available, as well as audio guides in nine languages, including Doric and a family-friendly version.

Community and Cultural Significance

The museum serves as a cultural hub in Aberdeen, supported by dedicated volunteers and patrons, including King Charles, the last Colonel-in-Chief of the regiment. It also functions as a venue for private events, conferences, and fine dining, blending history with hospitality. The museum’s commitment to education and remembrance makes it a vital institution for the local community and visitors alike.

Accessibility and Practical Information

Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 16:30, the museum is accessible by public transport and offers free parking on site. Facilities include accessible toilets, hearing loops, and ramps, ensuring a welcoming environment for visitors with limited mobility. The museum also provides free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and is pet-free to maintain the integrity of the exhibits and gardens.

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