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- Destinations
- Europe
- United Kingdom
- Aberdeen
Aberdeen
The bustling seaport of Aberdeen is Scotland's third biggest
city, and has been dubbed the Oil Capital of Europe. This alone is
not likely to entice visitors to the city, other than those on
business trips, but the fact that Aberdeen boasts a fascinating and
bloody history, historic granite buildings, beautiful churches,
attractive green spaces and plenty of Scotch whisky, just
might.
Once a site of brutal conflict with the English during the
Scottish Wars of Independence, the city was razed to the ground by
King Edward III in 1336, but was quickly rebuilt and expanded
rapidly over the centuries as it grew in prominence as a port. The
18th and 19th centuries saw an increase in elegance and style in
the city, predominantly in the architecture of Old Aberdeen, an
area of buildings made from the glittering local granite. Here,
architectural gems include the 15th-century Kings College, the Town
House, and Marischal College, one of the best examples of Edwardian
architecture in Britain.
Modern Aberdeen is friendly and fun, although foreigners may
struggle to understand the thick local accent. Belmont Street and
surrounds are packed with restaurants, clubs, bars and live music
venues; there are plenty of top-class museums and galleries
including the Maritime Museum and the Aberdeen Art Gallery; and the
city boasts a host of lush parks, including Duthie Park, which
opened in 1883. The vibrant waterfront district also merits
exploration, as well as some of the lovely sandy beaches close
by.
Aberdeen also acts as a perfect hub from which to explore the
beauty and majesty of the Grampian Highlands, enjoy a tipple on the
Malt Whisky trail or ramble around ancient Scottish castles.
Information & Facts
Climate
Aberdeen's climate is highly changeable, like most of the United
Kingdom, although temperatures are moderated by its close proximity
to the sea. The average temperature is around 47°F (8°C), with
average lows of approximately 37°F (3°C) in winter and highs of
61°F (16°C) in summer.
Getting Around
The centre of Aberdeen is compact and easily explored on foot;
most sites are within walking distance of each other. The local bus
service (there are two different operators) is reliable, with many
routes departing from Union Street to destination all around the
city. The all-day ticket for around £3 is good value. Taxis are
readily available and are best booked in advance, especially at
night as they can be hard to come by after dark. Rail service is
limited within the city, but there are excellent routes connecting
Aberdeen to other cities.
Language
English is the official language, though visitors will be
astonished by the variety of regional accents.
Money
The currency is the pound (GBP), which is divided into 100
pence. ATMs are available in all towns and Visa, MasterCard and
American Express are widely accepted; visitors with other cards
should check with their credit card companies in advance. Foreign
currency can be exchanged at bureaux de change and large hotels,
however better exchange rates are likely to be found at banks.
Travellers cheques are accepted in all areas frequented by
tourists; they are best taken in Pounds Sterling to avoid
additional charges.
Sightseeing
Aberdeen has a few worthy attractions to draw tourists into its
Highland embrace. The Maritime Museum and Aberdeen Art Gallery are
worth a visit to get the flavour of the local culture, while
picturesque Brig o' Balgownie and lovely Duthie Park are at their
best in the summer months, May to August. A little further afield
is the malt whisky trail of the Grampian Highlands, and Balmoral
Castle, one of the most magnificent castles in the British Isles.
Dress warmly while sightseeing in Aberdeen as the weather is
changeable throughout the year.
Time
Local time in the United Kingdom is GMT (GMT +1 from last
Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).