Ten Stories and Sights Tour of Aberdeen

To celebrate 10 years of Grampian Escapes & Tours, we've created a tour around some of the stories that have surprised, fascinated and entertained us during a decade of exploring Aberdeen. This isn't simply a tour of ten famous landmarks. We'll travel through very different parts of the city to discover the people who lived here and the events that shaped their lives. We'll explore grand buildings, cobbled streets, a hidden fishing village, the North Sea shoreline and the heart of the modern city. There will be history, humour, some darker stories, a little Doric and a few surprises. Ten places. Ten stories. One city you probably weren't expecting.

1. 1

   Old Aberdeen

   1 hour

   Legends and St Machar Cathedral Step inside atmospheric St Machar's and look upwards to discover one of the cathedral's greatest treasures, a reminder that medieval Aberdeen was far more connected to Europe than its northern location might suggest. University of Aberdeen- Student Life but not as we know it A short journey brings us into the world of one of Scotland's ancient universities, founded in 1495. King's College Chapel- A crown in the heart of Old Aberdeen. Walk into the historic heart of King's College and one feature immediately draws your eye – the extraordinary Crown Tower rising above the chapel. Walk the cobbles of Old Aberdeen Cobbled streets, mature trees, old houses and university buildings make Old Aberdeen feel almost like a village within the city. Discover how Old and New Aberdeen developed with their own identities and meet some of the people who lived and worked around this ancient burgh.

2. 2

   Aberdeen beach

   30 min

   The golden sands of Aberdeen Beach For generations, Aberdeen families depended upon this water for their livelihoods. Fishing, whaling, shipbuilding, global trade and eventually offshore energy all transformed the fortunes of the city. Standing near today's busy harbour, we'll share the story of an Aberdeen shipwreck witnessed from the shore by families who could do little more than watch. It's a powerful reminder that behind Aberdeen's maritime industries were husbands, wives, children and communities who lived with the uncertainty of whether everyone would come home. And keep watching the water. Aberdeen's other residents occasionally make an appearance here too.

3. 3

   Aberdeen Harbour

   30 min

   Aberdeen Harbour has been at the heart of the city for centuries, shaping Aberdeen’s story from a busy fishing and trading port to a major centre for the North Sea energy industry. Today, the harbour remains a fascinating mix of old and new, with fishing boats, supply vessels, ferries and visiting ships all sharing the water. Stretching out towards the North Sea, the North Pier offers a different perspective of the city and its relationship with the sea. First developed in the 18th century and extended over the years, it helped create a safer entrance into the harbour. From here, you can watch vessels navigating the harbour mouth, look across towards the historic fishing village of Footdee – known locally as Fittie – and appreciate just how important the sea has always been to Aberdeen’s fortunes.

4. 4

   Footdee (Fittie)

   30 min

   Life by the sea in the village of Fittie Step through the entrances to its little squares and you'll discover a historic fishing community of cottages, quirky sheds, tiny gardens and narrow lanes that feels wonderfully removed from the city around it. But Fittie isn't here simply because it's photogenic. This is where some of our favourite human stories live. Hear about the fisherwomen who kept businesses and households running while the men went to sea. Discover the extraordinary loads they carried, the distances they travelled to sell their catch and the superstitions woven into everyday fishing life. There are mischievous children here too, a story involving stolen bait and angry fisherwomen, and a remarkable act of gratitude that went on helping fishing families for generations. Fittie is funny, touching and occasionally surprising.

5. 5

   Aberdeen

   1 hour

   Marischal College & the story of Granite Stand in front of magnificent Marischal College and it's easy to understand how Aberdeen acquired its famous nickname. But rather than simply admiring the architecture, we'll introduce you to the people behind it. If streets could talk the Catlegate & Mercat Cross The Castlegate once buzzed with traders, gossip, proclamations and public gatherings. But public spaces were also where authority was exercised – and where punishment could be seen. Provost Skene's House and our great Aberdonians Now we meet some Aberdonians whose achievements reached much farther than their home city. Sportspeople, scientists, entrepreneurs, musicians, artists and innovators all appear in the story. Union Terrace Gardens and life in the City Today these gardens sit beautifully in the centre of the city. Then take a look around at theatre, library, granite architecture, gardens, street art and the modern city all occupy the same small landscape.

• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.