Happy TravellerWelcome to Aberdeen, the third most populous city in Scotland and the northernmost major city in the United Kingdom. With a population estimate of 198,590 for the city of Aberdeen and 227,560 for the local council area, Aberdeen is a bustling hub of activity and culture. The city is located in North East Scotland and is known for its long, sandy coastline and oceanic climate. Aberdeen has a rich history dating back at least 6,000 years, with prehistoric villages discovered around the mouths of the rivers Dee and Don. The city received royal burgh status from David I of Scotland, which transformed the city economically. Today, Aberdeen is known as the offshore oil capital of Europe, with the oil industry overtaking traditional industries such as fishing, paper-making, shipbuilding, and textiles. The city is also home to two universities: the University of Aberdeen, founded in 1495, and Robert Gordon University, which received university status in 1992. In 2012, HSBC named Aberdeen as a leading business hub and one of eight super cities spearheading the UK’s economy, marking it as the only city in Scotland so designated. In 2018, Aberdeen was found to be the best city in the UK to start a business in a study released by card payment firm Paymentsense.
Aberdeen has a lot to offer visitors, from its rich history to its modern amenities. The city is home to many historic buildings, including those made of locally quarried grey granite, which may sparkle like silver because of its high mica content. Visitors can explore the medieval council registers, which survive from 1398 onwards and are exceptional for their quantity and continuity among surviving Scottish burgh records. The city also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters. The Aberdeen Maritime Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the city’s seafaring history, while the Aberdeen Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts. The city is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the Aberdeen International Youth Festival, the Aberdeen Jazz Festival, and the Aberdeen Highland Games.
For those who love the outdoors, Aberdeen has plenty to offer as well. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with many parks and gardens to explore. Duthie Park is a popular destination, with its beautiful gardens, boating pond, and winter gardens. The city is also home to many golf courses, including the Royal Aberdeen Golf Club, which is one of the oldest golf clubs in the world. The coastline is also a popular destination, with many beaches and coastal walks to enjoy.
Finally, no visit to Aberdeen would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The city is known for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants serving up delicious dishes made with locally caught fish and shellfish. Aberdeen Angus beef is also a local specialty, with many restaurants serving up juicy steaks made from this famous breed of cattle. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Scottish dishes such as haggis, neeps, and tatties, as well as a wide range of international cuisine.
In conclusion, Aberdeen is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, the outdoors, or simply good food, Aberdeen has it all. So why not plan your visit today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer?
