The Best Things To Do With Kids In Aberdeen

Although Scotland’s third largest city, Aberdeen still manages to feel welcoming and accessible for those visiting with families. No matter the age of your children, there is something to do here, with many of the options being free to access. Here we share six of the best.

1. Aberdeen Beach

Aberdeen is rare among UK cities in having a beach, and this area is well used by locals and visitors alike. The promenade is easily reached, whether by walking, public transport or driving, and no matter the weather, there will be something here to keep even the most distracted of attentions occupied. If it is a sunny day, then playing on the sand and having an ice cream may be best. If the weather changes, head to Codona’s amusement park.

Aberdeen Beach, Beach Esplanade, Aberdeen, AB24 5NS

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2. Linx Ice Arena

Also located on the city’s beach promenade, Linx Ice Arena is a full-sized ice rink. Not only are there classes held here, in figure skating and synchronised skating, but there are also regular public skating sessions. Just turn up, hire your skates and hit the ice. This is also the home of three different ice hockey clubs, and the arena has 1,000 seats for people to watch the matches.

Linx Ice Arena, Beach Esplanade, Aberdeen, AB24 5NR +44 1224 507762

3. Aberdeen Maritime Museum

Museum

This excellent — and free to enter — museum tells the remarkable story of Aberdeen’s long association with the sea. Aberdeen is well served with museums, and this is definitely a highlight. The exhibits and displays are well designed for both adults and children, with hands-on exhibits, touch-screens and even a specialist education room. There is a café and a gift shop on site too.

Aberdeen is wonderfully served with open and colourful outdoor spaces, from more formal gardens to huge expanses of grass perfectly suited to playing games or picnicking. Many of these places have fantastic children’s play areas, such as Duthie Park, with its wooden play area, the playground at Seaton Park or the huge park at Hazlehead, with its miniature zoo and play areas. Best of all, these spots provide hours of free fun for all.

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4. Little Treasures Toy Museum

Museum, Shop

Perfect for children of all ages, Little Treasures is both a museum and a very tempting shop situated a short drive west of the city. This is mostly a private collection, featuring over 350 doll’s houses (the largest such collection in Scotland), antique toys, dolls and miniatures. Fortunately, there are toys available to play with too! The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, and interesting events are also held here.

Little Treasures, Kemnay, Inverurie, Aberdeen AB51 5PR +44 1467 641696

5. Doonies Farm

Specialising in conserving rare farm breeds, Doonies is spread across a 134-acre site just to the south of Aberdeen. Being able to get close to farm animals will be an experience children do not forget, and, if you visit in the Spring and early summer, there are many small and often fluffy baby animals to both “ooh” and “ahh” at. With focus on education through engagement and fun, Doonies Rare Breeds Farm is a must-visit for those with kids. Parents and carers will also be pleased to know there is a footwear cleaning area too!

Doonies Farm, Coast Road, Aberdeen, AB12 3LT +44 1224 875879

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