The Dark Side of Aberdeen: A Self-guided Audio Walk

Aberdeen, GB
82% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (17 reviews)

Highlights

  • Self-guided audio tour exploring Aberdeen's darker history
  • Discover stories of piracy, slavery, and insurrection
  • Engaging experience suitable for all ages
  • Key landmarks include Mercat Cross and Marischal College
  • Opportunities for coffee, ice cream, and photography along the way

Meeting Point

Start at the Mercat Cross at the Eastern end of Union Street, a short walk from the Visit Scotland centre. Before arrival, install the VoiceMap app and use the code provided on your ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart any time and complete at your own pace.

Meeting point

Mercat Cross, Castle St, Aberdeen AB11 5HP , United Kingdom

End point

What to expect

1

Marischal College

The tour takes you on a wandering walk beginning at the Mercat Cross, near the Tourist Office, and ending with a dramatic view of the city's crown jewel - Marischall College. Start the tour in the app, put your phone in your pocket, and let your guide direct you through the streets. The total walking distance is approximately 1.5km and takes about an hour without stopping, but you can pause anytime! Most people will opt to stop for a coffee or ice-cream snack or for photography opportunities along the way. The narration is crisply mastered by a professional audio engineering staff, and the tour creates an engaging experience that is suitable for all ages that can wear ear buds. Key landmarks include: • Mercat Cross (Market Cross) • Aberdeen Harbour • Aberdeen Maritime Museum and Provost Ross House • Marischal Square and Marischal College • Provost Skene's House The exact route can be seen upon downloading or viewing the tour. Audio from the tour can also be previewed at this site.

Duration 40 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
2

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

The Aberdeen Maritime Museum charts the close relationship between Aberdeen, its harbour and the sea. Inside there are fascinating exhibits from the fishing, ship building and oil industries.

3

Provost Ross House

Provost Ross' House was built in 1593 and is the second oldest building in Aberdeen. Provost John Ross was the Mayor of Aberdeen from 1710 to 1712. Ross made his money as a ship owner. You can see the harbour from the windows of his house.

4

The Green

The Green was once a flourishing market area and is still used as such on Fridays. It’s now surrounded by bars, restaurants and small businesses.

5

Provost Skene's House

Sir George Skene was Provost of the city from 1676 for 9 years and is most notable for his old house. The rooms are furnished in the styles of the 17th, 18th and early 19th centuries. Inside there are collections of coins and local history.

6

Marischal Square

Marischal Square is a £107 million pound development that blends the old with the new. It houses a hotel, shops and offices right in the heart of Aberdeen. You'll find the famous Mackie's ice cream parlour here.

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by VoiceMap Audio Tours

What our experts say

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    Start early to avoid crowds.
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    Bring earbuds for better audio quality.
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    Don't miss Marischal College at the end.
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    Consider a coffee stop at nearby cafes.
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    Download the app before arriving.

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