Thanks to centuries of thirsty workers from the fishing, oil and farming industries, Aberdeen has built up an impressive list of drinking holes. With centuries-old pubs and cool concept bars to choose from, there’s a watering hole with your name on it somewhere in the city. Here are just six of the best pubs in Aberdeen.
Pubs in Aberdeen
The Howff
With a prime location on Union Street, The Howff is one of the longest-standing pubs in Aberdeen, having been serving up pints since the 90s. With a strong pub food menu and a warm, welcoming bar stocked to the brim with ales, wines and spirits, it’s a perennial favourite and, thanks to a recent refurb, one that’s been brought up to date.
The Illicit Still
Prince of Wales
Aberdeen Pub
Illicit Still
A traditional pub with a modern edge, make sure you look up when you get to the Illicit Still to check out the skylight made out of beer bottles! It has an impressive drinks menu and a great entertainment line-up, including live bands, sport and several pool tables. Plus, alongside a sturdy selection of wine, beer and whisky, the pub is open for breakfast, lunch, coffee and dinner throughout the week.
Old Blackfriars
At the near end of Union Street and just a short walk from our City Centre hotel, Old Blackfriars is very much a classic-style pub. From the wooden pews and exposed beam ceilings to the cobblestone patio at the front, it’s a popular drinking spot for tourists and locals alike – and, according to legend, a few ghosts, as the pub is near to where public executions took place back in the 14th century.
The Stag
One of the newer pubs in Aberdeen, The Stag has quickly built up a following, thanks to its focus on the essentials – good beer, good food and a cracking atmosphere. For a real taste of the highlands, try their haggis balls with whisky sauce, washed down with a single malt.
Prince of Wales
If you fancy a drink back in time, head to the Prince of Wales. One of the oldest drinking dens in the city – dating back to 1850 – it’s also got one of the longest bars in Scotland, meaning you won’t have to wait long to take your pick from its huge selection of ales on tap. It’s in a great location just off Union Street, and a short walk from CASC and the Illicit Still, so it’s the perfect start or finish for a pub crawl.
Under The Hammer
If it’s a quiet drink with good conversation you’re after, Under The Hammer is the place. A mellow underground bar named after the auction house above, the bar keeps things simple with a decent range of guest ales, an impressive wine menu and a rotating array of local artworks adorning the walls. Quiet, cosy and intimate, it’s the perfect antidote to some of Aberdeen’s more raucous bars and pubs.