Spotlight on Aberdeen
Published on February 10th, 2009.
Inspire me!
With its sparkling granite buildings, Aberdeen is Scotland’s third largest city, home to the famous Granite Mile with over 800 shops, restaurants and bars. Where else can you follow a castle trail, whisky trail and coastal golf trail all in the same city?
Taking the train
Trains depart from London’s King’s Cross to Aberdeen, with some services stopping over in Edinburgh. To travel overnight and save the cost of a night’s hotel, we recommend taking the Caledonian Sleeper from London. www.BritRail.com
Travelers can also travel by rail from other cities in Scotland, including Glasgow (2¾ hours), Edinburgh (2½ hours), Dundee (1¼ hours) and Inverness (2¼ hours).
What’s on
SPIRIT OF SPEYSIDE WHISKY FESTIVAL
May 1st – May 10th
Visitors will enjoy a mix of exciting events that have a whisky theme. Visit distilleries that are seldom open to the public, go to tasting classes and follow the Malt Whiskey Trail. For details on the upcoming festival visit http://www.spiritofspeyside.com/ To learn more about the distilleries on The Malt Whisky Trail, such as the famous Glenfiddich Distillery visit www.maltwhiskytrail.com
Attractions & Sites
COASTAL GOLF
Scotland is renowned for its golf courses, especially as golf can be played all year round. There are several golf courses to choose from, many featuring cliff top views and lush fairways. Popular coastal encounters of the North East include the following golf courses: Stonehaven Golf Course, Murcar Golf Course, Royal Aberdeen Golf Course, Cruden Bay Golf Course, and Moray New and Old Courses. http://golf.visitscotland.com
THE CASTLE TRAIL
Castle lovers can follow Scotland’s only castle trail where they can view thirteen unique castles. The Northeast is often referred to as Castle Country as it’s home to nearly one thousand castles and castle ruins. Each castle can tell its story, while visitors stroll through beautiful walled gardens and follow the clearly marked trail. With the National Trust for Scotland Pass visitors will benefit from entry to over 120 stately homes, castles, battlefields, monuments and gardens, including many on The Castle Trail www.BritRail.com
DUTHIE PARK – ROSE MOUNTAIN
Aberdeen is the 13 times winner of Britain in Bloom and is sometimes referred to as the City of Roses. The stunning mountain of roses showcases more than 120,000 roses and is open every day.
Featured Lodging
CITY WHARF APARTMENTS
Select from 22 serviced apartments, in three locations, right in Aberdeen city centre. Rates include breakfast, a welcome hamper with a bottle of wine, free Wi-Fi and much more. Visitors will also receive complimentary entrance to the Warehouse Health Club.
Address: 19-21 Regent Quay, 52 Regent Quay,
31-32 Springbank Terrace
Tel: +44 (0) 8450 94 24 24
www.citywharfapartments.co.uk
Featured Restaurant
THE ASHVALE
A multi award-winning resto, The Ashvale has a unique approach to a coastal favorite. Regularly filled with local families, this restaurant boasts authentic fish and chips.
Address: 42 Great Western Rd
Aberdeen, AB10 6PY, United Kingdom
Tel: +44 1224 575842
www.theashvale.co.uk
Filled under Attractions, Scotland.