Ten must-visit museums in and around Aberdeen

Aberdeen and its surrounding shire have a rich culture and heritage, and what better way to learn about it than visiting some of its many museums. From local history and maritime, to transport and the people of the North-East, this guide explores some of the region’s best museums to visit.

Provost Skene’s House is the oldest surviving townhouse in Aberdeen, dating back to 1545, and has been beautifully restored into a museum that celebrates the pioneering people of Aberdeen and the North-East of Scotland.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Just a short walk from the NorthLink Ferries’ terminal on the aptly named Shiprow is the Aberdeen Maritime Museum. This free museum tells the story of the city’s long and often dramatic relationship with the North Sea, from the earliest days of fishing and shipbuilding through to Aberdeen’s place today as a leader in global energy transition.

Gordon Highlanders Museum

Comprised of ordinary men from the North-East of Scotland, the Gordon Highlanders were one of the finest regiments the British Army has ever seen. Their extraordinary 200-year-old story, from the Napoleonic Wars to modern day, is told at the eponymous five-star museum, with excellent displays including a full-sized replica WW1 trench and a D-Day exhibition.

Aberdeen Science Centre

The Aberdeen Science Centre is the perfect place to take the kids for a fun day out. They have exciting displays covering six topics including energy, space and life sciences. With over 60 interactive activities and a humanoid talking robot, there is plenty for everyone to get involved with.

Provost Skene’s House

Provost Skene’s House is the oldest surviving townhouse in Aberdeen, dating back to 1545. The house has been beautifully restored into a museum that celebrates the pioneering people of Aberdeen and the North-East of Scotland. Inside, there are interactive displays showcasing over 100 remarkable individuals from the region, including innovators, scientists, musicians and sporting champions.

Museum of Scottish Lighthouses

Immerse yourself in Scotland’s coastal heritage at the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh. Discover the history and evolution of lighthouses, marvel at artefacts from the past, and hear stories of the courageous lighthouse keepers. With a tour of the historic Kinnaird Head Lighthouse, this museum is a must-visit for maritime enthusiasts.

Grampian Transport Museum

Located just 25 miles from Aberdeen, the Grampian Transport Museum in Alford showcases an impressive range of exhibits, from 1800s travelling chariots to cutting-edge electric vehicles. With interactive displays, climb-aboard vehicles and seasonal exhibitions, this museum shares the evolution of transport and provides an engaging experience for all ages to enjoy.

Stonehaven Tolbooth Museum

Overlooking the scenic harbour of Stonehaven in the village’s oldest building, the Tolbooth Museum is a treasure trove of local history. The building used to serve as a prison and artefacts from this period can be seen today, alongside displays on the region’s maritime heritage and unique past.

Peterhead Prison Museum

Explore over a century of crime and punishment at Peterhead Prison Museum. Once home to the country’s most dangerous criminals, this former prison showcases the stories of infamous inmates, dramatic sieges and daily prison life. An audio tour and an immersive experience brings to life the challenging conditions faced by both inmates and officers.

Aberdeen Art Gallery

Found in the heart of the city, the Aberdeen Art Gallery is home to one of the finest art collections in the UK. Following a major redevelopment, the gallery offers contemporary spaces that showcase everything from historic Scottish paintings to modern sculpture and design. With cafes, regularly changing exhibitions, hands‑on activities plus a stunning top‑floor viewpoint, it’s an inspiring place to spend an afternoon.

Garioch Heritage Centre

The Garioch Heritage Centre is housed in the former locomotive works, which closed in 1969, and tells the story of Inverurie and the surrounding areas. With exhibits showcasing local life from early settlements to modern times, guided tours, and a welcoming café, this museum is a wonderful place to visit.

By Amy Leith
Born and raised in Aberdeen with an admiration for Orkney and Shetland, loves to travel and visit new places, enjoys cooking, always listening to music, spends a little too much time on TikTok.

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