Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Aberdeen and want to get beneath the surface of this intriguing Scottish city, the Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t had the chance to do this tour ourselves, the details suggest it’s a well-rounded experience packed with stories that go beyond the usual guidebook fare.

What really stands out is the chance to explore the city with a knowledgeable guide, uncovering stories about witch trials, medieval punishments, and bodysnatchers—a fascinating mix that promises a vivid picture of Aberdeen’s darker past. Plus, the tour hits some iconic landmarks like St Machar’s Cathedral and Marischal College, giving a taste of both old and new Aberdeen.

One thing to consider is the price point—at around $120 per person, it’s a bit of an investment, but it might be worth it for those who appreciate personalized, in-depth storytelling. The tour’s duration of about 3 to 3.5 hours makes it a manageable way to spend a good chunk of a day without feeling rushed.

This tour would suit history buffs, first-time visitors, or anyone curious about the stories hidden within Aberdeen’s streets. But if you’re after a more casual or family-friendly experience, you might want to weigh whether the darker themes will appeal or resonate with young children.

Key Points

• Private Tour: Only your group participates, offering a more personalized experience.
• Historical Focus: Includes landmarks like St Machar’s Cathedral and Marischal College, with stories from over 500 years.
• Dark Stories: Delves into Aberdeen’s witch trials, medieval punishments, and bodysnatching history.
• Expert Guide: Malcolm, the guide highlighted in reviews, is praised for his knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Flexible Timing: Lasts roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, ideal for fitting into a day of sightseeing.
• Cost-Bremium Experience: While pricier than some tours, it offers an intimate, detailed look at Aberdeen’s past.

Walkthrough of the Itinerary: What to Expect

St Machar’s Cathedral: A Gothic Gem and Grave-Robbing Site

The tour kicks off at St Machar’s Cathedral, a striking 14th-century building with a grand heraldic ceiling. Visitors can expect a glimpse into medieval architecture, and for history enthusiasts, a story or two about William Braveheart Wallace’s remains being buried there. The guide will probably highlight the cathedral’s notorious reputation for grave robbing—an intriguing detail that adds a layer of gritty realism to the site.

Although the cathedral itself is free to enter, the real value here is in understanding its role in the city’s history and the stories it holds—both sacred and scandalous.

Seaton Park: A Colorful Escape

Next, you’ll stroll over to Seaton Park, a vast green space on the edge of Old Aberdeen. While just a quick stop, this park offers a breath of fresh air and a chance to appreciate Aberdeen’s natural beauty. Known for its vibrant summer flower beds, it’s a lovely contrast to the darker tales explored earlier.

Old Aberdeen: Medieval Streets and Hidden Secrets

The heart of the tour is the Old Aberdeen district, where cobbled streets and historic buildings create a sense of walking through history. The Powis Gates, The Town House, and The Mercat Cross stand out as symbols of the city’s medieval roots.

A highlight here is the 16th-century secret graveyard—a little-known spot that adds an air of mystery. The guide will likely share stories about the city’s darker episodes, including executions and bodysnatching in the 1800s, giving you an authentic feel for the turbulent past.

King’s College Chapel: Over 500 Years of History

The tour then moves to the King’s College Chapel, part of the university founded over 500 years ago. Expect to see the impressive tower topped with an imperial crown, which has its own story, and learn about the university’s role in shaping Aberdeen’s history.

Passing Through the Spital and Visiting Marischal College

A scenic walk takes you toward Aberdeen city center, passing historical buildings that tell tales of the city’s evolution. Marischal College deserves special mention—the building’s massive granite façade, built in 1593, makes it one of the largest of its kind.

Castlegate and Provost Skene’s House: From Mercat Cross to Oldest Building

At Castlegate, you’ll see the iconic Mercat Cross, which has witnessed protests and riots—including the notorious Military Riot of 1802. The nearby Tolbooth and Provost Skene’s House round out the journey, with the latter being the oldest city-center building dating back to 1545. The stories associated with these sites add depth to your understanding of Aberdeen’s social history.

St Nicholas Churchyard: Final Stop with Grave Stories

Ending at St Nicholas Churchyard, you’ll encounter graves of notable locals, with stories dating back to the 12th century. It’s a fitting conclusion to a tour that unearths the city’s more secretive and sometimes dark chapters.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The guided walking tour covers a broad range of historic sites in Old Aberdeen and beyond, providing a thorough overview of the city’s past. You won’t have to worry about entry fees at most stops—the tour is free to explore outside of the included guided commentary.

However, food, drinks, and snacks are not covered, so plan accordingly if you want to grab a bite or a drink after the tour.

Practical Details: What To Know Before You Book

The tour departs from St Machar’s Cathedral at 10:00 am and ends in the city center near Marischal College. It’s a private experience, meaning you can expect a more tailored, intimate walk rather than a large group—great for questions and personalized stories.

The approximate duration is between 3 to 3.5 hours, making it feasible for most travelers without overcommitting. Plus, it’s accessible for most people, and service animals are permitted.

The cost of around $120.58 per person might seem steep, but considering it’s a private tour led by an engaging guide, it offers a lot of value for those eager to learn about Aberdeen’s darker and more fascinating stories.

Authentic Voices: Feedback from Past Participants

From the single review, we see that Malcolm is appreciated for his storytelling prowess. The reviewer, Melissa, mentions that “Malcolm did a wonderful job showing us old & new Aberdeen,” and calls the tour “very educational.” This kind of praise suggests that the guide’s knowledge and presentation style really make a difference in the overall experience.

The fact that the tour is “well planned out” and “educational” makes it clear that it’s designed for travelers genuinely interested in understanding the city’s layers of history.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re a history enthusiast or a first-time visitor wanting a rundown of Aberdeen’s past, this tour is a solid choice. The private format means more personalized stories, and the stops cover a good mix of iconic landmarks and lesser-known secrets.

Keep in mind, the focus on dark stories and historical scandals might not be ideal for families with very young children or those seeking a light-hearted walk. But for curious travelers eager to hear about medieval punishments, witch trials, and bodysnatchers, it’s a compelling way to spend a few hours.

The price reflects the personalized nature and depth of information you’ll receive—if you value storytelling from knowledgeable guides and enjoy exploring historic streets, this tour offers genuine value.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since the tour covers dark and sometimes graphic stories about punishments, witch trials, and grave robbing, it might not be ideal for very young children. It’s best suited for older kids and teens interested in history.

Does the tour include admission to any sites?
Most sites such as St Machar’s Cathedral and Marischal College are free to enter, and the tour focuses on the storytelling rather than paid entry. There’s no mention of additional admission fees.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 to 3.5 hours long, making it a substantial but manageable experience for most travelers.

Can I join this tour on a different day?
The tour starts at 10:00 am, and it is a private experience, so you’d need to coordinate with the provider for different dates—booking in advance is recommended.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are a must since you’ll be exploring streets and alleyways. A jacket or umbrella might be wise depending on the weather, but no drinks or snacks are included.

Is this tour accessible for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for those with specific needs.

If you’re eager to uncover Aberdeen’s secrets and see a side of the city that most visitors miss, this private tour could be just the ticket. Its blend of historic landmarks, dark tales, and expert storytelling makes for an engaging, memorable experience that reveals more than just the surface of this northern Scottish city.