Bars and pubs in Aberdeen, Scotland, offer a vibrant and diverse experience, making the city’s nightlife truly unique. For international students and newcomers, navigating various bars and pubs in Aberdeen is a rite of passage. Whether you’re looking for a “wee skite” or a sophisticated evening of mixology, Aberdeen’s compact city centre punches well above its weight.
Aberdeen is a “Purple Flag” city, an award recognising its safety and vibrancy after dark. From 300-year-old coaching inns to secret speakeasies hidden behind false walls, the variety here is staggering. In this guide, we’ll explore the best bars and pubs in Aberdeen that you shouldn’t miss and the hidden gems you need to know about.
20 Best Bars & Pubs in Aberdeen You Need to Visit
With so many fantastic options for bars and pubs in Aberdeen, Scotland, it can be hard to choose where to go. Don’t worry—we’ve done the hard work for you! Here’s our curated list of the top 20 bars and pubs in Aberdeen, ranging from lively cocktail bars to classic, cosy pubs offering hearty pub grub. These recommendations are based on an aggregate of Google and TripAdvisor ratings, ensuring you’ll experience the best of Aberdeen’s nightlife.
1. The Brig O'Don Pub
Located just a short walk from the University of Aberdeen, The Brig O’Don is a classic local pub beloved by AU students. With its relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with a quiet pint after lectures. The spacious interior means there’s always a seat available, and its dog-friendly policy makes it a favourite for pet owners and animal lovers alike. Patrons rave about the “friendly staff” and great value for money, making it a top choice for an affordable pub in Aberdeen, especially for students looking to stick to a budget.
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Price: £
- Location: 739 King Street (Old Aberdeen)
- Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 – 23:00
- Menu Highlights: Sizzling skillets, Fish & Chips, Sunday Roast.
2. Prince Of Wales
Hidden down a lane off Union Street, Prince of Wales is one of the best pubs in Aberdeen for traditionalists. With one of the longest bar counters in the city, the pub offers a lively, authentic atmosphere—no thumping house music, just great conversation and the sound of clinking glasses. A CAMRA favourite, it serves up excellent pub grub and a wide selection of real ales, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a classic pub experience in Aberdeen.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: ££
- Location: 7 St Nicholas Lane
- Opening Hours: 10:00 – 00:00 (Fri/Sat until 01:00)
- Menu Highlights: Steak & Ale Pie, Haggis Fritters, Cask Ales.
3. The Tippling House
For a sophisticated night, head underground. The Tippling House is a “subway-style” bar in Aberdeen city centre that feels exclusive yet welcoming. Please note, the pub follows a strict table service policy, so there’s no need to jostle at the bar. It’s perfect for date nights or a special treat. The late-night dining is a huge plus, and their whisky flights are legendary among different bars in Aberdeen.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: £££
- Location: 4 Belmont Street (Basement)
- Opening Hours: Tue-Thu 16:00 – 01:00; Fri-Sat until 03:00
- Menu Highlights: 5-course Tasting Menu (£29), “Amuse-Booze”, Monkfish Cheeks.
4. The Spiritualist
If you want your drink to come with a show, The Spiritualist is the place. Famous for its “playful” mixology, you can expect cocktails presented in ice spheres that you’ll need to break open. The venue itself is stylish, contemporary, and perfect for Instagram photos. It’s one of the best cocktail bars in Aberdeen, particularly popular for its “Boozy Brunch,” a favourite among students celebrating the end of term.
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Price: £££
- Location: 67 Langstane Place
- Opening Hours: Daily 12:00 – Late
- Menu Highlights: Boozy Brunch, Ice Sphere Cocktails, Sharing Boards.
5. Dusk Cocktail Bar
Located in the vibrant West End, Dusk is an intimate and stylish lounge that specialises in high-end mixology. It’s the ideal spot for those who miss the now-closed Orchid. With its soft lighting and refined atmosphere, it’s frequently described as the go-to venue for more “mature” drinking. The bartenders are highly skilled, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking the best cocktail bars in Aberdeen.
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Price: £££
- Location: 45 Langstane Place
- Opening Hours: Mon-Thu 18:00 – 02:00; Fri-Sat until 03:00
- Menu Highlights: Classic Martinis, Seasonal Creations, Premium Spirits.
6. Krakatoa
A self-proclaimed “Tiki Dive Bar”, Krakatoa is the antidote to polished chains. This Aberdeen pub is the heart of the alternative scene, featuring neon graffiti, heavy metal DJs, and live music. It’s loud, unpretentious, and serves potent drinks that come with a fire warning. Essential for anyone who loves rock, metal, or just a wild atmosphere.
- Rating: 4.6/5
- Price: £
- Location: 2 Trinity Quay
- Opening Hours: Tue-Sun until 03:00 on weekends
- Menu Highlights: Absinthe, Tiki Cocktails, Rhubarb Cider.
7. The Albyn Bar & Restaurant
Located in the affluent West End, The Albyn is one of the best bars in Aberdeen where you go to dress up. It’s popular with young professionals and students on a fancy night out. The recent renovation has introduced a beautiful terrace, making it a top destination for wine bar enthusiasts in Aberdeen. The atmosphere is “business casual” and lively, especially on Friday nights.
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Price: £££
- Location: 11 Albyn Place
- Opening Hours: Daily until late
- Menu Highlights: Haggis Bon Bons, Cullen Skink, Champagne.
8. All Bar One Aberdeen
Set against the stunning backdrop of Marischal College, All Bar One Aberdeen is a stylish, glass-fronted cocktail bar in Aberdeen. It’s spacious with plenty of seating, making it great for groups. Their “Tapas Tuesday” deal is a student favourite for an affordable yet chic dinner.
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Price: ££
- Location: Marischal Square
- Opening Hours: Daily until 00:00 (Fri/Sat)
- Menu Highlights: Tapas Tuesday, Dragon Fruit Cooler, Pad Thai.
9. The Holburn Bar
The Holburn Bar is a solid, reliable community pub in Aberdeen, Scotland. If you’re looking for a sports bar in Aberdeen with a relatively quiet atmosphere, this is it. It has plenty of screens for football and a very relaxed, local feel. In addition, The Holburn is also perfect for a pub lunch in Aberdeen that won’t break the bank.
- Rating: 4.1/5
- Price: £
- Location: 225 Holburn Street
- Opening Hours: Daily 11:00 – 00:00
- Menu Highlights: Burgers, Mac & Cheese, Pints of Lager.
10. Legends Sports Bar
Legends Sports Bar is the ultimate sports bar in Aberdeen. With 10 top-quality pool tables and the new “Bar One-Eighty” featuring interactive darts, it’s an activity-led venue. Unlike some sports bars, it’s clean, modern, and welcoming, which is a fantastic spot to watch the football with mates.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: £
- Location: 23 Crown Terrace
- Opening Hours: Daily until late
- Menu Highlights: Chicken Wings, Burgers, Pitchers of Beer.
11. The Justice Mill (Wetherspoon)
No student guide is complete without “Spoons”. The Justice Mill is a large venue set in a converted mill, and it’s probably the most affordable pub in Aberdeen city centre. While it may not offer the cosiness of a smaller pub, it’s hard to beat for budget-friendly drinks and a dependable Wi-Fi connection for finishing up an essay.
- Rating: 3.5/5
- Price: £
- Location: 423 Union Street
- Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 01:00
- Menu Highlights: £3.50 Pints, Curry Club, Breakfast.
12. Ninety-Nine Bar & Kitchen
Great news for 2025: Ninety-Nine has just been saved and reopened! This venue oozes “retro-chic” with mismatched furniture and a cosy, vintage vibe. It’s famous for its soundtrack (Funk/Soul) and incredible tacos. A definitive “cool” spot for good pubs in Aberdeen.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: ££
- Location: 1 Back Wynd
- Opening Hours: Wed-Sun until late
- Menu Highlights: Beef Brisket Burger, Tacos, Craft Cocktails.
13. Fierce Beer
Fierce Beer is the flagship bar for Aberdeen’s local brewing heroes. If you like craft beer, this is Mecca. Notably, almost all their beers are Gluten-Free and Vegan, making them inclusive for everyone. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, and it’s also one of the best dog-friendly pubs in Aberdeen, so you can bring your beloved pet along!
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Price: ££
- Location: 4-6 Exchequer Row
- Opening Hours: Daily
- Menu Highlights: Fancy Juice (GF), Moose Mousse (Stout), Vegan Beers.
14. Revolution
Revolution is the headquarters of “Skite Wednesday”. It has a split personality: chill dining by day, party central by night. Their heated outdoor deck is a rare find for a rooftop bar in Aberdeen experience (technically a terrace, but with great views). Essential for society socials.
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Price: ££
- Location: 25 Belmont Street
- Opening Hours: Daily until late
- Menu Highlights: Vodka Pizza, Flavoured Vodka Shots, 2-4-1 Cocktails.
15. 21 Crimes
21 Crimes is a true speakeasy, and you even need a password to enter. As one of the most unique bars in Aberdeen, 21 Crimes features jail cells and velvet seating. It’s moody, dark, and sexy, which is perfect for impressing a date.
- Rating: 4.5/5
- Price: £££
- Location: Basement of Vovem, Union Street
- Opening Hours: Thu-Sat Late
- Menu Highlights: Themed cocktails based on historical crimes.
16. Ma Cameron’s
Ma Cameron’s is a labyrinth of rooms. The front “snug” is historic and cosy, while the back opens up into a modern roof terrace. It is Famous for its ghost stories and excellent pub food in Aberdeen like Steak & Ale Pie.
- Rating: 4.3/5
- Price: ££
- Location: Little Belmont Street
- Highlights: The oldest pub in Aberdeen (1746), haunted snug, rooftop terrace.
17. Cheerz Bar
Cheerz Bar is the beating heart of Aberdeen’s LGBTQ+ community. Open 7 days a week, it’s inclusive, safe, and always a party. Whether you’re enjoying cabaret or just having a pint, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming to everyone.
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: £
- Location: Exchange Street
- Highlights: Gay bar in Aberdeen, Drag shows, Karaoke.
18. Siberia Bar & Hotel
Siberia Bar & Hotel is an industrial-chic style bar in Aberdeen, Scotland. With its terrace, it’s a popular spot on sunny days. Located on the main nightlife strip, it’s a favourite among students in Aberdeen.
- Rating: 4.2/5
- Price: ££
- Location: 9 Belmont Street
- Highlights: Outdoor terrace overlooking Union Terrace Gardens, Vodka selection.
19. O'Neill's
O’Neill’s is a reliable and wallet-friendly chain Irish bar in Aberdeen. If you want to watch the Six Nations or Premier League with a Guinness, this is your spot. You can always enjoy live music here.
- Rating: 3.8/5
- Price: £
- Location: 9-10 Back Wynd
- Highlights: Irish bar in Aberdeen, Live Sport, Student Discounts.
20. The Bobbin
The Bobbin is an unofficial student union bar in Aberdeen, Scotland. Situated just next to the King’s College campus, it’s a daily hangout for students. Take advantage of the MiXR app for affordable burgers and pints. It’s the perfect spot to kick off your night before heading into the city.
- Rating: 4.0/5
- Price: £
- Location: 500 King Street
- Highlights: Best pubs in Aberdeen for students, pool tables, cheap wings.
How uhomes.com Can Help You?
Exploring the best bars in Aberdeen is much easier when your bed is just a short walk away. At uhomes.com, we specialise in helping international students find safe, comfortable, and strategically located accommodation in Aberdeen. For nightlife lovers, location is key. Here is how our properties connect you to the action:
- Spring Gardens: Spring Gardens is just a 5-minute walk from Belmont Street, which is home to Revolution, Siberia, and The Tippling House. Living here means no expensive taxis home after a night out.
- Justice Mill Studios: Justice Mill Studios is located literally next door to The Justice Mill and a 2-minute walk from 21 Crimes and The Albyn. You are in the heart of the premium nightlife district.
- Powis Place: Powis Place is perfectly positioned for students who want to be close to the University of Aberdeen and The Bobbin. Only with a 10-minute walk can you get these places. It is easy to walk to the city centre for weekend “Skites”.
Why book with uhomes.com?
At uhomes.com, we pride ourselves on exceptional service and trust, with a Trustpilot rating of 4.9/5 from nearly 2,000 international students and a recommendation rate exceeding 99%. We ensure the highest standards with deposit protection, where rent is paid directly into the provider’s official account, and deposits are secured within 30 days through government-recognised schemes like UK DPS and TDS. Our 24/7 property manager is always available to handle emergencies and move-in issues. Trusted by top universities such as Imperial College London and UCL, we offer exclusive partnerships and verified listings for peace of mind. With our Lowest Price Guarantee, we’ll match or beat any competitor’s price, ensuring you always get the best deal. All properties are 100% verified by our team, ensuring accurate listings and high-quality accommodations.
Ready to secure your home in the Granite City? Visit uhomes.com today!
Conclusion about Best Bars & Pubs in Aberdeen
Aberdeen’s bars and pubs offer an unbeatable mix of tradition and modern flair, perfectly suited to the city’s vibrant student life. With its Purple Flag status ensuring safety and an unforgettable “Skite” culture, you can dive into the nightlife with confidence. Whether you’re enjoying a pint at Ma Cameron’s or sipping cocktails at Dusk, Aberdeen offers an experience like no other.
Choose your home with uhomes.com, and you’re not just securing a place to stay—you’re stepping into the heart of one of the UK’s most dynamic and safe student cities. Book your central Aberdeen home today and make the most of your student life in this unforgettable city.
FAQs about Bars & Pubs in Aberdeen, Scotland
What is a "Skite"?
In Aberdeen slang, a “Skite” refers to a night out, typically involving drinking and socializing while moving between several bars. It’s not just about having a pint; it’s about the journey, the fun of hopping from one venue to the next, and the energy of a vibrant night out with friends. Whether you’re planning a casual pub crawl or diving into the heart of the city’s nightlife, going for a “Skite” is all about embracing Aberdeen’s social scene.
Are bars in Aberdeen safe?
Yes. Aberdeen has held Purple Flag status for an unprecedented 12 consecutive years, recognising its commitment to safe and vibrant night-time experiences. However, always carry your ID. Scotland enforces “Challenge 25″—if you look under 25, you will be asked for ID.
Where can I find live music?
For live music Aberdeen pubs, check out Krakatoa, Malones, and The Blue Lamp. Head to Krakatoa for rock and metal performances, or drop by Malones for a lively Irish folk and pop experience. If you’re in the mood for something more intimate and soulful, The Blue Lamp is perfect for jazz and folk lovers. These venues offer live music almost every night, making them fantastic spots for both students and locals who want to enjoy great performances in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Are there nightclubs in Aberdeen Scotland?
Absolutely! When the bars close, Aberdeen’s nightclubs come alive. The Tunnels offers underground rave vibes with a mix of electronic music and club anthems, perfect for those who want to dance until the early hours. Aura, formerly known as ATIK, is one of the largest mainstream clubs in the city, playing everything from chart-toppers to classic hits. For a more indie vibe, Exodus is the go-to place, with a mix of retro anthems and indie tunes that keep the energy high. No matter your style, Aberdeen’s nightclubs offer a range of experiences to end your night in true city fashion.
Is Aberdeen good for nightlife?
Yes, Aberdeen is excellent for nightlife! Despite its reputation as a smaller city, it offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife that caters to all tastes. With a mix of traditional pubs, trendy cocktail bars, live music venues, and lively nightclubs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed “Skite” (local slang for a night out), listen to live music, or dance into the early hours, Aberdeen delivers. The city is also recognised for its safety, with 12 consecutive years of Purple Flag status, ensuring a secure and enjoyable night out. Whether you’re a student or a local, Aberdeen’s nightlife won’t disappoint.
