Aberdeen used to be two separate areas — Aberdeen and Old Aberdeen. In 1891 the two joined, and luckily for visitors they are only about 35 minutes’ walk apart, or a 20-minute drive or bus journey. Old Aberdeen keeps its own cobbled, university-town character, and it’s the quietest, prettiest corner of the city.
Powis Gate
Powis Gate looks like something out of a fairytale — you could be forgiven for wondering whether Walt Disney had a hand in it. The limited records that survive state it was built in 1834 by Alexander Fraser for John Leslie of Powis. Its twin minaret-topped towers make a magnificent, slightly surreal entry point to Old Aberdeen.
King’s College
King’s College on University Road is especially glorious in autumn, when red climbers take over the ends of the building. Built in 1495, the University of Aberdeen still teaches here, and the crown-topped chapel tower is one of the most photographed sights in the city. The surrounding quad and old college buildings are free to wander.
Sir Duncan Rice Library
For a complete contrast, the Sir Duncan Rice Library on Bedford Road sets the old against the new. The distinctive modern building — a striped glass-and-white cube with a soaring internal atrium — stands out sharply against historic Old Aberdeen. It’s worth stepping inside during opening hours to see the spiralling white central void.
Getting There from the Centre
Old Aberdeen sits north of the city centre. It’s a walkable 35 minutes up from Union Street, or a quick bus ride if you’d rather save your legs for the cobbles. Combine it with the West End cathedrals for a half-day of the city’s older architecture — see our West End guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Old Aberdeen from the city centre?
It’s about a 35-minute walk north from Union Street, or a 20-minute bus journey. The area is compact once you arrive, so you can see the main sights on foot.
When is King’s College at its best?
Autumn, when red climbing plants cover the ends of the 1495 building. The crown-topped chapel tower is photogenic year-round.
Can I go inside the university buildings?
You can wander the King’s College quad freely, and the Sir Duncan Rice Library is open to visitors during its opening hours.
