Aberdeen

The Granite city (or the silver city with golden sands) of Aberdeen is the third largest city in Scotland. It’s known for its strong connections to the oil and gas industry as well as a large fishing industry. It has it’s own unique dialect of Doric, which is unlike any of the other dialects in Scotland.

You can’t go two steps in Aberdeen without the oil industry smacking you in the face. Whether its an oil companies head quarters or the view of an oil rig off in the distance. You really cannot escape this is what the city has made it’s money on. The Aberdeen Maritime Museum celebrates the relationship the city has with the sea and all things it’s done for the city. It’s also the only place in the UK where you can see displays of the oil and gas industry.

Aberdeen is lucky enough to have a golden sand beach right in its doorstep! This 3.5km beach attracts all kinds of visiters. From water sports enthusiasts, to people just wanting a relaxing stroll along the promenade. It also boost the family run Codona’s Amusement Park which houses outdoor rides. As well as an adventure play, ten pin bowling as well as bars and restaurants. A truly fun day out for all the family.

Dunnottar Castle is a ruined medieval fortress located upon a rocky headland on the north east coast of Scotland, about 2 miles south of Stonehaven. Steeped in local history, this castle is a photographers dream. *please note, this castle is only accessible via steep stairs built into the cliff. Unfortunately this means there is no wheelchair access.

Duthie Park is a superb city park located on the banks on the River Dee. It is Scotland’s third most visited gardens for its wide range of plants, family play areas, boating ponds and playing fields. The perfect place to go exploring or tire the little ones out.

Travelling to Aberdeen by Ferry

There is only one ferry port to Aberdeen and that is Cairnryan Ferry Terminal. This ferry terminal is approximately 225km away (361 miles) which would be a pleasant drive allowing you to explore the Scottish countryside, taking around 4 and a half hours. Where ever you live in the world, driving to Aberdeen should be easy with ferries arriving into Scotland from Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.