From fairy tale castles to world-famous quality food, Aberdeen is home to thousands of international students every year. Located in Northeast Scotland, the city offers a unique blend of bustling city lifestyle and breath-taking landscapes.
Places to visit
Immerse yourself in Scottish history and pay a visit to William Wallace’s statue. Learn about one of the periods that shaped the history of a nation and visit His Majesty’s Theatre and the Union Terrace Gardens while you are around.
If you were looking for the Old Town, you might be pleased to know that Aberdeen has not just one, but two of these! In Old Aberdeen, you will find yourself at the same place where Aberdeen’s first University was founded in 1495. At Footdee (also known as Fittie) you will discover the beauty of this old fishing village and its harbour.
You may know it already from seeing it in many films and TV shows, and even if you don’t, Balmoral Castle is a landmark that you can’t miss. Owned by Queen Elizabeth II, this castle in Aberdeenshire has belonged to the Royal Family since 1852 and you can visit this anytime or even rent one of the cottages available for a short holiday!
Things to do
Burns Night brings people together every 25 January to celebrate the life and poetry of acclaimed Scottish poet Robert Burns. Join your friends for a hearty meal and perhaps some local drinks whilst you read many of the author’s poems out loud – this will be a great opportunity to practise your Scottish accent!
P&J Live is one of the most popular venues in Scotland which hosts events, concerts and exhibitions of all sorts. From listening to your favourite artists to joining sports events, P&J Live is a state-of-the-art multipurpose facility that welcomes anyone wanting to have a great time.
Peacock Visual Arts is an art gallery which mainly displays international and national contemporary artworks. The gallery welcomes visitors to walk through its interesting exhibitions as well as to participate in the many events and workshops available throughout the year.
Independently owned venue Belmont Filmhouse is the ideal place if you are a cinema fan. Located in the heart of Aberdeen, Belmont Filmhouse focuses on providing viewers with diverse, varied and thoughtful international cinema.
Shopping
If you are looking to enhance your international study experience, you can’t miss the Belmont Street Market which takes place the last Saturday of each month. Here you will be able to taste local food and buy unique items that will always remind you of the time you spent in Scotland. For high street lovers, visit Union Square shopping centre, which includes many shops, restaurants and even a cinema.
There are also plenty of souvenir and gift shops around which will be a great stop before you visit your friends and family back home!
Transport
There are many options to move around Aberdeen. You can simply walk and admire the city, or take public transport on a rainy day. There are also plenty of passes available such as the Grasshoper ticket scheme, which allows you to explore the city even if you are on a budget – simply hop on and off any bus with this ticket as much as you want!
Have you considered renting or buying a second-hand bike? This greener and cheaper alternative will take you everywhere you need at no cost and once you have made the most of it you can always sell it to someone else.
Did you know…
You can progress from an NCUK qualification to study a degree in Aberdeen? Robert Gordon University accepts students who have studied an NCUK qualification, so start your journey with NCUK today!
Click the button below to apply with NCUK now!