The Cock & Bull: A Quintessential Scottish Gastropub in Balmedie
A beloved Scottish gastropub in Balmedie offering award-winning food, cozy accommodation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Cock & Bull is a celebrated gastropub and inn located on Ellon Road in Balmedie, near Aberdeen. Known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and award-winning cuisine, it offers a menu rich in Scottish produce, including hearty steaks, fresh seafood, and creative vegetarian options. The venue also features a cozy bar and comfortable accommodation, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to The Cock & Bull
- Ellon Rd, Aberdeen, Balmedie, AB23 8XY, GB
- +441358743249
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Try the signature 'Bull' burger, made with 100% Scottish beef and served with triple-cooked chips.
- Enjoy afternoon tea with homemade cakes and sandwiches, available Monday to Saturday by reservation.
- Bring your dog to the lounge area where a special dog’s dinner menu is offered, supporting local animal charities.
- Book ahead for weekend dining or special events, as the gastropub can get busy during peak times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Cock & Bull location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about The Cock & Bull
A Historic and Award-Winning Gastropub
Nestled in the scenic village of Balmedie, The Cock & Bull has established itself as a cornerstone of Scottish hospitality. Having earned an AA Rosette since 2005 and multiple awards including Scottish Gastropub of the Year, it combines traditional charm with culinary excellence. The inn’s reputation is built on its dedication to quality, showcasing local ingredients with skill and care, and creating an inviting setting where guests feel genuinely welcomed.Distinctive Culinary Offerings
The menu at The Cock & Bull is a celebration of Scottish flavors and gastropub classics. Diners can enjoy a variety of dishes such as the famous 'Bull' burger made with 100% Scottish beef, fresh seafood like Peterhead monkfish scampi, and inventive vegetarian options including sweet potato gnocchi and sweetcorn fritters. The kitchen balances hearty comfort food with refined touches, offering everything from braised Scotch beef to delicate smoked salmon pâté. Accompaniments like triple-cooked chips and homemade sauces enhance the experience.A Welcoming Atmosphere and Social Hub
Beyond its food, The Cock & Bull is prized for its warm, lively ambiance. The interior blends rustic and modern elements, creating a cozy yet stylish environment. The bar serves an excellent selection of real ales, lagers, wines, and seasonal drinks, including champagne and prosecco. The venue welcomes families and even dogs in designated lounge areas, reflecting its inclusive and community-oriented spirit. Special touches like a children’s menu and a dog-friendly dinner menu add to its charm.Comfortable Accommodation and Additional Services
The Cock & Bull also offers comfortable lodging with well-appointed rooms featuring modern amenities such as heating, private bathrooms, and entertainment facilities. Guests appreciate the quiet setting of rooms separate from the main building, ideal for restful stays. Additional services include afternoon tea with homemade cakes and sandwiches, gift vouchers, and hosting for special occasions such as funeral teas, underscoring its role as a versatile community venue.Location and Surroundings
Situated on Ellon Road, The Cock & Bull benefits from proximity to Aberdeen while being set in a tranquil coastal village environment. Balmedie itself offers natural beauty and outdoor opportunities, making the gastropub a perfect stop for those exploring the region. The venue’s garden and nearby nature reserve enhance its appeal for visitors seeking a blend of good food and scenic relaxation.Commitment to Community and Sustainability
The Cock & Bull supports local initiatives such as the New Arc animal foundation through its dog menu donations, reflecting a commitment to community welfare. While not explicitly labeled as an eco-certified venue, its focus on local produce and community engagement highlights a sustainable approach to hospitality in the region.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Workers' Memorial
11.3 km
A solemn granite obelisk in peaceful Persley Walled Garden, honoring Aberdeen’s industrial workers who lost their lives.
The Powis Gates
11.5 km
Twin towers of Turkish-inspired design, built with slavery compensation in 1834.
Gallows Hill
12.1 km
Gallows Hill in Aberdeen stands as a haunting reminder of centuries-old public executions and grim justice.
Dyce Standing Stones
12.3 km
Mysterious Pictish stones bridging pagan and Christian worlds, carved over 1,400 years ago.
Stone 45
12.4 km
A historical landmark preserving Aberdeen's heritage in the heart of Bucksburn.
Forbes of Newe Obelisk
12.6 km
A noble stone memorial honouring a philanthropist's gift to Scottish mental health care
Rosemount Palace
12.8 km
A unique, budget-friendly B&B in a converted church offering practical comfort and central access in Aberdeen.
Marischal College
13.0 km
Scotland's second-largest granite building and an architectural masterpiece blending Victorian Gothic grandeur with civic purpose.
Greyfriars Church
13.1 km
Five centuries of faith and architecture in the heart of historic Aberdeen
Gordon Highlanders Statue
13.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Aberdeen honoring the valor and legacy of the historic Gordon Highlanders regiment.
Castlegate
13.2 km
Medieval square where castle gates once stood, now home to Aberdeen's oldest building and iconic Mannie fountain.
Rosemount Market
13.3 km
Discover Aberdeen’s Rosemount Market, a vibrant hub for sustainable shopping, local produce, and artisan crafts in a welcoming community setting.
The Kirk of St. Nicholas Colonnade
13.4 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
13.4 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
13.5 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scotstown Moor
8.2 km
A tranquil heathland and bog reserve near Aberdeen offering rich natural habitats, historic roots, and scenic coastal views.
Hackley Bay
9.8 km
Discover tranquil coastal beauty and historic charm at Hackley Bay, a serene retreat near Collieston in Aberdeenshire.
Dyce Symbol Stones
9.9 km
Explore the enigmatic Dyce Symbol Stones—ancient Pictish carvings nestled in the ruins of St Fergus's Chapel, revealing Scotland’s early medieval mysteries.
South Donmouth Beach
10.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s peaceful South Donmouth Beach, where river, sea, and wildlife create a serene coastal haven.
Donmouth Sands
10.1 km
A tranquil beach and nature reserve where Aberdeen’s River Don meets the sea, offering golden sands, scenic dunes, and rich wildlife in a peaceful coastal setting.
Donmouth Local Nature Reserve
10.1 km
A peaceful estuarine retreat in Aberdeen where river meets sea, rich in wildlife and scenic coastal views.
Archimedes Screw
10.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s pioneering Archimedes Screw turbine, where ancient engineering powers modern sustainable energy in a vibrant riverside setting.
Windows to the Sea
10.4 km
Discover Aberdeen’s iconic granite frames framing stunning North Sea views on the vibrant Beach Esplanade.
The Walled Garden
10.4 km
A tranquil, historic garden sanctuary in Aberdeen offering vibrant seasonal blooms and peaceful shelter within Seaton Park’s embrace.
Seaton Park
10.6 km
Historic riverside park in Old Aberdeen with gardens, playgrounds, scenic walks, and rich heritage beside the River Don.
Cathedral Walk
10.7 km
A picturesque floral pathway beside historic St Machar's Cathedral, blending nature, heritage, and family-friendly recreation in Old Aberdeen.
Wallace Tower
10.8 km
A rare 16th-century Scottish tower house preserved through relocation, embodying Aberdeen’s noble heritage and architectural history.
St. Machar's Cathedral
10.9 km
A granite fortress-church in Old Aberdeen, famed for its 16th-century heraldic ceiling and centuries of layered history along the River Don.
Aberdeen beach
10.9 km
Experience the vibrant charm and scenic beauty of Aberdeen Beach, a lively coastal retreat blending natural splendor with rich maritime heritage.
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire Archives
11.0 km
Explore centuries of North East Scotland’s heritage through the UNESCO-recognized archives housed in historic Old Aberdeen.
Essential places to dine
The Cock & Bull
0.0 km
A beloved Scottish gastropub in Balmedie offering award-winning food, cozy accommodation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Mill Of Mundurno Table Table
7.1 km
Family-friendly pub dining in scenic Aberdeen farmland with hearty British classics and warm hospitality.
Beekie's Neuk
8.0 km
A beloved Newmachar pub serving hearty homemade Scottish classics in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with generous portions and good value.
Brig O'Don Pub & Grill
10.3 km
A modern Aberdeen pub serving expertly flame-grilled dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting with welcoming service and family-friendly vibes.
Eat On The Green
11.1 km
Experience refined Scottish dining with fresh local ingredients and impeccable service in the heart of Udny Green.
Chicago Town
11.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Chicago Town in Old Aberdeen – where every pizza tells a story.
Old El Paso
11.2 km
Authentic Mexican flavors served fresh in the vibrant heart of University of Aberdeen’s Old Aberdeen campus.
Traditional Grub
11.2 km
Traditional Scottish dining in the heart of Old Aberdeen’s university campus, blending heritage flavors with a vibrant community atmosphere.
Cartoos Grill House & Desserts
12.7 km
Experience authentic Turkish grills and delightful desserts in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on Aberdeen’s scenic Esplanade.
Six°North / Smoke & Soul
13.0 km
Slow-smoked BBQ soul food ignites Aberdeen's craft beer scene at Six°North, blending hearty meats, loaded comforts, and artisanal brews in a minimalist city hideaway.
Chop Grill & Bar
13.0 km
Vibrant steakhouse in Aberdeen blending Canadian hospitality with fresh British ingredients and lively city centre atmosphere.
Siam Cottage
13.1 km
Discover authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting at Siam Cottage, Aberdeen’s beloved casual dining spot.
Burning Hands and Plates
13.1 km
A vibrant fusion restaurant on Aberdeen’s Esplanade offering bold American-inspired flavors in a casual beachside setting.
Maggie's Grill
13.1 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and Cajun soul food with generous portions in the heart of Aberdeen’s Marischal Square.
Heavenly Pizzas
13.2 km
Savor gourmet pizzas crafted with fresh local ingredients in the heart of Aberdeen’s vibrant Rosemount district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
EARTHSTORE.CO.UK
10.2 km
A small, curated gem and wellness emporium within Aberdeen’s Urban Wellness Hub, where crystals, lapidary work and calming gifts meet holistic therapies.
Malthurst Retail Ltd
10.8 km
A compact King Street convenience outlet serving Old Aberdeen’s students and residents with practical everyday essentials.
Blackwell's Bookshop
11.2 km
Discover timeless tales and local lore amid the ancient stones of Old Aberdeen at this beloved independent bookshop haven.
The Bear Essentials
11.2 km
University pride in every stitch: Discover Aberdeen's Bear Essentials for branded gear and gifts in the historic Students' Union Hub.
ShopHub
11.2 km
Everyday essentials at the pulse of Aberdeen Uni campus – ShopHub fuels student life with groceries, snacks, and supplies in Old Aberdeen's historic heart.
Quirky Gifts Emporium
11.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish treasures and unique gifts in this independent Ellon shop.
Country Images
11.9 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and souvenirs at Country Images, a charming shop in the heart of Aberdeen offering local artisan treasures.
Àdùké Fashion House
12.3 km
Discover African vibrancy on Aberdeen's George Street: native wears, handmade bags, and cultural fusion fashion for all ages at affordable prices.
House of Gifts
12.5 km
Discover the charm of Aberdeen at the House of Gifts, where unique treasures and local artistry come together for unforgettable shopping.
The Closet
12.8 km
Discover timeless style and curated vintage treasures at The Closet, Aberdeen’s boutique for authentic vintage clothing and accessories.
Brunswick Stores
12.8 km
Discover convenience and local flavors at Brunswick Stores, your essential stop in Aberdeen for snacks, drinks, and delightful Scottish treats.
Scotland's Bothy
12.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts, souvenirs, and custom T-shirts at Scotland's Bothy in Aberdeen, where tradition meets quality craftsmanship.
The Range, Aberdeen
12.9 km
A vast homewares and lifestyle emporium nestled in Aberdeen’s vibrant beachfront leisure park, offering everything for your home and garden.
Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop
13.0 km
Discover timeless elegance and expert craftsmanship at Aberdeen’s Gallery Antiques & Jewellery Workshop, a haven for antique jewellery lovers.
Castle Gate
13.0 km
Explore Castle Gate in Aberdeen, a collectibles shop filled with vintage treasures and unique finds that tell a story of the past.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Mains of Scotstown
9.3 km
A welcoming British pub in Aberdeen offering classic dishes, craft drinks, live music, and a lively beer garden atmosphere.
Black Dog
9.5 km
A friendly, lively pub in Aberdeen’s Bridge of Don serving hearty British classics with great entertainment and welcoming vibes.
Spider's Web
10.4 km
A cozy and friendly pub in Dyce offering hearty meals, quality drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere near Dyce railway station.
Rowan Tree Bar
10.9 km
Cozy Old Aberdeen pub pouring local ales, serving hearty Scottish dishes, and hosting lively events in a historic neighborhood gem.
The Craft - off-licence and Bar
10.9 km
A cozy village wine bar and off-licence in Pitmedden offering craft drinks, community spirit, and award-winning hospitality.
St. Machar Bar
11.2 km
Authentic Old Aberdeen pub with award-winning whiskies, local cask ales, historic brewery mirrors, and hearty pub grub in a student-favored historic spot.
The Distilling House
11.3 km
A welcoming airport pub celebrating Scottish whisky heritage with classic food, craft beers, and expert spirit knowledge.
The Bobbin
11.6 km
A lively, student-leaning King Street pub offering hearty pub grub, sports screens and good-value drinks from breakfast through late night.
The Staging Post
11.8 km
A friendly and lively local pub in Bucksburn with great drinks, sports, and a family-friendly beer garden.
Murdos Bar
12.7 km
A vibrant community pub in Aberdeen offering great food, live sports on multiple screens, a welcoming atmosphere, and a spacious beer garden.
Northern Bar
12.8 km
A vibrant Aberdeen pub blending heritage, live sports, hearty food, and community spirit in a welcoming setting.
The Kings Bar
12.9 km
A warm, traditional pub on Aberdeen’s King Street, offering friendly service, lively atmosphere, and affordable drinks in the city center.
BrewDog Aberdeen Gallowgate
13.0 km
Discover Aberdeen’s craft beer pioneer with 29 taps, artisanal pizzas, and a lively atmosphere at BrewDog Gallowgate.
The Castle Bar
13.1 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Aberdeen with extended hours catering to early birds and night owls alike.
All Bar One Aberdeen
13.1 km
Stylish wine bar in Marischal Square serving global wines, craft cocktails, and shareable plates amid Aberdeen's urban buzz.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Exodus
13.3 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife and boozy brunches in a unique historic church setting at Exodus, The Triplekirks.
CHEERZ
13.4 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
13.5 km
A compact, bass-forward late-night club in central Aberdeen with booth seating, layered sound and an intimate underground vibe.
Venga
13.6 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.
Private Eyes
13.6 km
Experience Aberdeen’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, a stylish nightclub offering lively music, adult entertainment, and a welcoming city-center atmosphere.
Club Tropicana & Venga
13.6 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.
Number 7 Club
13.6 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
13.6 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
13.6 km
Aberdeen’s vibrant adult entertainment hotspot with professional dancers, lively music, and a dynamic late-night atmosphere.
491 Union Street
13.9 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
13.9 km
Discover the pulse of Aberdeen's nightlife at Babylon, a premier nightclub and bar offering unforgettable nights filled with music and fun.
Deejays Nightclub
47.9 km
Fraserburgh’s revitalized nightlife hotspot offering vibrant music, dancing, and late-night fun on Denmark Street.
Market Arms
52.5 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
52.6 km
Discover the heart of Banff at the historic Town & County Club, a social hub that celebrates local culture and community spirit.
Castle Bar
52.8 km
Experience the warmth and hospitality of Castle Bar, a charming pub in Banff, where locals and tourists come together over great food and drinks.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Day Trip
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly