Interested in learning more about Aberdeen? In this tour you will see the highlights of Aberdeen city centre, while you find out about Aberdeen's social history, its quirky inhabitants and how it got to where it is today. Reserve your place or see availability here.

Tour Description

Sure, we all know about the oil and the granite and the weather. But there is more to this city than that. There are stories that you will never have heard. Stories about death, pirates, wizards, infra-red telescopes, and Lord Byron. And more death.

Explore the city centre and learn about Aberdeen’s colourful characters on our free walking tour.

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Itinerary

Unicorn on top of circular Mercat Cross with turreted granite building in the background
Marischal College, a decorative granite building is in the foreground with fountains and grass in the foreground
16th century stone townhouse with modern buildings behind and grass and a garden in front
Steel statue of a leopard sitting on top of a pole with glass buildings surrounding it
Green stained gravestones and trees in the foreground with the stone church of St Nicholas in the background
 

Castlegate

The historic heart of Aberdeen - the centre for bustling trade, grisly executions and local news.

 

Marischal College

This striking building is the second largest granite building in the world. According to urban myth, it was Hitler’s favourite building in the UK.

 

Provost Skene’s House

Tucked away behind shiny new glass-fronted buildings is one of Aberdeen’s oldest houses, dating back to 1545.

 

Leopard Sculpture

Kelpies sculptor Andy Scott brought to life Aberdeen’s favourite animal in this stunning two-tonne artwork.

 

St Nicholas Kirkyard

There has been a church on this site since at least the 12th century - so you can bet that this atmospheric graveyard can tell a story or two.

 

William Wallace Statue

This striking statue of Scotland’s “Braveheart” looks out over the unique Union Terrace Gardens.

Tour cost

The tour is free. Donations are welcome.

Tour length

Two to two and a half hours

Tour times

See our tour times here.

Language

English

Meeting point

Castle St, Aberdeen, AB11 5HP

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Walk-ups are welcome but to guarantee your place book a space

 
If you’re looking for a free walking tour at the city center of Aberdeen I can really recommend Scot Free Tours!

Our tour guide Susan told us a lot about the history of Silver City and brought us to the most interesting spots at the city center.

She could also give us many recommendations for restaurants, museums and other points of interest.

If I ever come back to Aberdeen, I will definitely book another tour with Scot Free Tours
— Fabien G on TripAdvisor, August 2025
The tour was excellent and filled with all sorts of very very interesting facts and historical titbits that many if not most in Aberdeen likely don’t know.

Rick’s relaxed style and personable nature made the tour an absolute pleasure.

10/10 would recommend to anyone who has an afternoon free in the town.
— Jac Balden on Google, June 2025
Although a native of Aberdeen I went on the tour to see the city from a tourist perspective and I’m so glad I did. Stewart was my guide and he taught me so many things about my city that I was unaware off. Pirates, Wizards and macabre stories of Aberdeen’s past. Great fun and I would highly recommend this for tourists and locals alike.
— C11UKM on TripAdvisor, August 2025
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