The Den & The Glen: A Family-Friendly Playground Haven
Experience the magical charm of The Den & The Glen, an enchanting playground in Maryculter, perfect for family adventures and outdoor fun.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Maryculter near Aberdeen, The Den & The Glen is a whimsical playground that offers a perfect escape for families and tourists alike. With its enchanting woodland surroundings and a variety of play areas, it invites children to explore, learn, and engage in outdoor activities. The charm of this location lies not only in its creative play structures but also in its serene environment that promotes relaxation and family bonding, making it an ideal spot for a memorable day out.
A brief summary to The Den & The Glen
- S Deeside Rd, Aberdeen, Maryculter, AB12 5FT, GB
- +441224732941
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to secure a good picnic spot, especially on weekends when it tends to get busy.
- Bring along a camera to capture the picturesque surroundings and your children's joyful moments.
- Check for any special events or themed days that may be happening during your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the playground features various trails and natural terrain.
- Consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience with fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head towards Maryculter from your location in Kincardineshire. The Den & The Glen is located at South Deeside Road, Maryculter, Aberdeen AB12 5FT. Use the A90 road and take the exit toward the A956. Follow signs for Maryculter. Once you reach the village, look for South Deeside Road. The attraction will be on your left. Parking is available on-site, and there are no additional costs for parking.
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Public Transport
For public transport, you can take a bus from various locations in Kincardineshire to Aberdeen city center. From Aberdeen, take the Stagecoach bus number 7 or 8 towards Banchory and get off at the Maryculter stop. The Den & The Glen is about a 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Head south on South Deeside Road, and you will find the attraction on your left. Make sure to check the bus schedules in advance, as they may vary, and fares typically cost around £2-£5 depending on your starting point.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi from your location in Kincardineshire. Taxis can be booked via local services or rideshare apps. The journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic, and the fare will typically range from £15 to £25. Ensure to confirm the fare estimate with the driver before starting your trip.
Discover more about The Den & The Glen
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blairs Museum
2.7 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
6.3 km
Discover Keith's Tower near Banchory, a striking 19th-century castellated landmark steeped in Scottish heritage and scenic charm.
Piper Alpha Memorial Garden
6.7 km
A solemn bronze memorial honoring 167 lives lost in the world's deadliest offshore oil disaster.
Queen Victoria Statue
9.0 km
Bronze tribute to a beloved monarch, marking Aberdeen's elegant West End and the city's royal heritage.
McGrigor Memorial Obelisk
9.2 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
9.4 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.
Rosemount Market
9.9 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
10.1 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
10.2 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
10.3 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Edward VII Statue
10.3 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.
Rosemount Palace
10.4 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
10.5 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Aedie's House site
10.5 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
Barney Sculpture
0.2 km
Discover the quirky Barney Sculpture, a playful icon within The Den and The Glen’s imaginative fairy-tale park near Aberdeen.
Peterculter Golf Club
2.1 km
Experience the scenic beauty and challenging play of Peterculter Golf Club nestled along the River Dee with panoramic mountain views.
Foggieton
4.6 km
A serene woodland retreat near Aberdeen with historic beech trees, native forests, and family-friendly trails through nature’s quiet beauty.
Countesswells
5.2 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
5.4 km
A family-run garden centre and award-winning restaurant offering stunning landscaped grounds, local produce, and expert gardening advice in Royal Deeside.
Drum Castle - Garden & Estate
6.4 km
Explore 700 years of Scottish history, stunning gardens, and ancient oak woodlands at Drum Castle, a timeless estate near Banchory.
Piper Alpha Memorial
6.7 km
A poignant memorial garden in Aberdeen honoring the lives lost in the world’s deadliest offshore oil rig disaster.
Hazlehead Park
6.8 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
7.4 km
A serene nature reserve on Aberdeen’s edge, rich in wildlife and diverse habitats, perfect for nature lovers and peaceful walks.
Johnston Gardens
7.6 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
7.8 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
8.0 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
8.5 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
3.7 km
A contemporary English pub and restaurant in Aberdeen offering quality food, warm hospitality, and inviting spaces for every occasion.
Blairs Restaurant
4.2 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
6.2 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
6.3 km
Elegant British dining in a historic Aberdeen mansion with refined cuisine, live music, and warm hospitality.
The Bothy Restaurant
7.5 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
8.1 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
8.5 km
Sophisticated British-French fusion dining with prime grills and stylish cocktails in the heart of Aberdeen.
Rendezvous | Nargile
8.5 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
5.0 km
Discover stylish gifts, rustic furniture, and fashion accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique nestled in Cults’ charming Courtyard.
Gifted
7.4 km
Discover unique and locally inspired gifts at Gifted, Aberdeen’s boutique treasure trove on Countesswells Road.
Joli Gifts
7.9 km
A cozy independent gift shop in Aberdeen filled with handmade treasures, local art, and thoughtful Scottish souvenirs.
LUXE
8.7 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
9.2 km
Discover heartfelt handmade gifts crafted by mums, supporting families through creativity and community in Aberdeen.
Surreal Journey
9.4 km
Discover Surreal Journey, Aberdeen’s boutique clothing shop where fashion meets imaginative artistry in a truly unique retail experience.
Treehouse Home Store
9.4 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
9.4 km
Northeast Scotland's premier destination for country, lifestyle, and equestrian wear since 1978.
The Stock Shop Ltd.
9.6 km
Discover stylish clothing at The Stock Shop Ltd. in Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, where fashion meets convenience.
Kafka Mercantile
9.6 km
Independent Aberdeen retailer since 1990, curating artisanal clothing and footwear from distinctive international brands.
The Owl at Number Two
9.7 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and local artistry in a warm, inviting boutique shop on Mid Stocket Road, Aberdeen.
Colin Wood Antiques
9.8 km
Discover rare Scottish maps, vintage furniture, and timeless collectibles in the heart of Aberdeen’s antique scene.
Sirene Boutique Aberdeen
9.8 km
Discover timeless style and vibrant prints at Sirene Boutique Aberdeen, a unique ladies’ fashion destination on Union Street.
Tiger Lily Boutique
9.9 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
9.9 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
2.5 km
A charming former bank turned cozy bar and cafe, blending historic character with friendly service and hearty meals in Peterculter.
Black's Bar
2.6 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
7.8 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
8.0 km
Traditional Aberdeen pub with cozy charm, local craft beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere on Holburn Street.
Abergeldie Bar
8.5 km
Abergeldie Bar blends cozy charm and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen’s city centre with quality drinks and welcoming vibes.
Holburn Bar
9.2 km
A lively and welcoming pub in Aberdeen offering great food, drinks, and entertainment for locals and visitors alike.
Croft & Cairns
9.5 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
9.6 km
Lively Aberdeen pub blending live sports, great food, and vibrant entertainment in a warm, modern setting.
The Glentanar Bar
9.6 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
9.6 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
9.8 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
9.9 km
Discover vibrant cocktails and stylish dining in the heart of Aberdeen at The Spiritualist, where creativity meets chic atmosphere.
Murdos Bar
9.9 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
9.9 km
Aberdeen’s stylish cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks, immersive tastings, and a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Babylon
9.6 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
9.7 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
10.0 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
10.0 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
10.2 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
10.2 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
10.3 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
Private Eyes
10.3 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
10.3 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Exodus
10.5 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
10.6 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
44.3 km
Experience Montrose’s vibrant weekend nightlife at Utopia Nightclub, where music, dancing, and community spirit come alive after dark.
De Vitos Nightclub
62.4 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Royal Night Club
63.2 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
65.6 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Kirriemuir at The Attic Club, where cozy ambiance meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
