Aberdeen Art Gallery, Schoolhill, Aberdeen - Image 1
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Aberdeen Art Gallery

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

A stunning granite building housing diverse art collections, from Impressionists to Scottish masters, with a rooftop terrace offering city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Aberdeen Art Gallery, Schoolhill, Aberdeen - Image 1

Aberdeen Art Gallery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning granite building housing diverse art collections, from Impressionists to Scottish masters, with a rooftop terrace offering city views.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A jewel for the region and well beyond, offering a rich artistic experience with breathtaking views."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the gallery.

📸 Rooftop Views Galore

Don't miss the top floor for stunning city vistas and photo opportunities.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Rooftop Terrace Views

Rooftop Terrace Views

Top floor

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Aberdeen city from this elevated vantage point. A perfect spot for photos and a moment of reflection.

Instagram+1
Diverse Art Collections

Diverse Art Collections

Various galleries

From 18th-20th century paintings, including French Impressionists, to Scottish metalwork and contemporary pieces, there's art for every taste.

TikTokReddit
Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Entire building

The late 19th-century granite building itself is a masterpiece, offering a beautiful backdrop to the art within.

Reddit
Interactive History Exhibits

Interactive History Exhibits

Ground floor

Engage with interactive displays detailing Aberdeen's history and significant movements like the suffragettes.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

Aberdeen Art Gallery offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural gem. While donations are encouraged, you can explore its vast collections without an entry fee. Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate the diverse exhibits and stunning architecture. Instagram+1

Beyond the Canvas: Views & Cafes

Don't miss the rooftop terrace for panoramic city views, especially on a sunny day. The gallery also boasts two cafes, perfect for a break. Consider checking their schedule for special events or markets. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, events
Crowd
Medium
When
During special exhibitions
Why
Unique art experiences
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Do you have a favourite?! #aberdeen #artgallery #arttok #sketchbook 🤓
@abdnartmuseums
1.2K likes • 17.8K views

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the gallery. InstagramReddit+1

📸 Rooftop Views Galore

Don't miss the top floor for stunning city vistas and photo opportunities. Instagram+1

“I Love You Still” ©️Jordan Baseman (2002) #aberdeen #artgallery 🫡
@abdnartmuseums
1.2K likes • 25.7K views
OPEN CALL - 'Response' Into the Light ✨️ Here is a reminder of our latest Member Opportunity!📣 Aberdeen Artists Society will be working with @abdnartmuseums again, and this time, to invite our members to create new work. The exhibition will be in response to pieces already within Aberdeen Art Gallery and Museums’ collection 🖼👀 The chosen works will be on display in Aberdeen Art Gallery from 24t...
aberdeenartistssociety
27 likes • 1.1K views

☕ Cafe Breaks

Enjoy refreshments at one of the two cafes, with rooftop seating available. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours Available

Join free Saturday tours to discover the gallery's highlights. Instagram

📍Aberdeen Art Gallery 🩰 Home to Aberdeens prettiest tree? I think so🎄 Free entry to all 🎟️ respectfully with a suggested donation of your choice 🖼️ including tap to give for those who rarely carry cash, like me - so convenient 📲 It was really busy when i was there which was great to see, i just cropped everyone out of the shots 🎥 Works of art spanning 700 years by local, national and interna...
hospitalityinsiderhq
0 likes • 725 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission & Donations

Entry is free, but donations are welcomed to support the gallery. InstagramReddit+1

📸 Rooftop Views Galore

Don't miss the top floor for stunning city vistas and photo opportunities. Instagram+1

☕ Cafe Breaks

Enjoy refreshments at one of the two cafes, with rooftop seating available. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Guided Tours Available

Join free Saturday tours to discover the gallery's highlights. Instagram

🎨 Sketchbook Welcome

Bring your sketchbook and draw inspiration from the collections. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Aberdeen Art Gallery for its stunning architecture, diverse and fascinating art collections, and the added bonus of a rooftop terrace with city views. The free admission is a significant draw, and the interactive exhibits are a hit with families. While some note it's on the smaller side, the quality and variety of art make it a highly recommended gem. InstagramReddit+1

"Beautiful gallery with so many incredible features. The building itself is gorgeous, along with all the fascinating artwork 🖼️ exhibitions and the roof terrace is an added bonus.

The gallery is full of interesting exhibitions, some interactive - from Aberdeen history to suffragette movements.

It is absolutely worth a visit, it’s free and I definitely recommend the stunning views from the roof terrace too.

Fo not miss this place. Thanks to all the tinder staff for galleries like this ❤️"

Radiate Repeat

"Spent a couple of hours exploring this gallery and was most impressed. While the collection is naturally focused on Aberdeen and Scottish art, it does have a diversity of art, including sculptures, paintings, modern, eclectic, and also works by the French Impressionists (Renoir, Monet). The galleries are well laid out, and the artwork is well presented in a family-friendly way. This is a definite gem in Aberdeen’s cultural and heritage portfolio. Well worth visiting when in Aberdeen. Highly recommended."

John Yap

"Huge art gallery with interesting interactive display in the ground floor explaining the history.
Good mix of styles and eras.
Highlights:
Fascinating room on McBey
Interesting comparison of English/ French styles in impressionists.
The Aberdeen/ Doric room
Shocked to come across my young doppelganger, painted by Dorothy Johnstone.
Nice shop
Helpful staff.
A jewel for the region and well beyond
P.S. What happened to the bodies under Gallery 4?"

Felicity Graham

What People Like

Beautiful building and art
Free admission
Rooftop terrace views

What People Dislike

Can be on the smaller side

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Aberdeen Art Gallery is centrally located at AB10 1FQ. It's easily accessible by public transport, with many bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several car parks in the city centre. Instagram

Yes, several city centre car parks are within walking distance of the gallery, including the St Nicholas House car park and the Gallowgate car park. Instagram

Aberdeen train station is about a 15-20 minute walk from the Art Gallery. It's a pleasant walk through the city centre. Instagram

Numerous bus routes serve the city centre, with stops very close to the gallery on Union Street and nearby streets. Check local bus timetables for specific routes. Instagram

Yes, the gallery is generally accessible for wheelchairs, with lifts available to access different floors and exhibits. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The gallery is typically open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays. Instagram

Entry to Aberdeen Art Gallery is free! While donations are encouraged to support the gallery's operations and exhibitions, there is no mandatory admission fee. InstagramReddit+1

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for general admission as it is free. For special ticketed exhibitions or events, booking might be required, so check their website. Instagram

Aberdeen Art Gallery frequently hosts temporary exhibitions. It's best to visit their official website or social media channels for the latest information on current and upcoming exhibitions, such as 'Monsters of the Deep'. Instagram

Yes, groups are welcome. For larger groups or organized tours, it's advisable to contact the gallery in advance to make arrangements. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Highlights include the 18th-20th century paintings, Scottish metalwork, French Impressionist works, and interactive displays on local history. The rooftop terrace is also a major draw. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! The gallery is designed to be family-friendly with interactive exhibits and a welcoming atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most areas, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions on certain artworks or exhibitions. Instagram

Yes, free guided tours are offered on Saturdays at 11 am, lasting about 45 minutes, to showcase the gallery's highlights. Instagram

The gallery offers two cafes, gift shops, accessible restrooms, and seating areas throughout the exhibition spaces. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Aberdeen Art Gallery has two cafes where you can enjoy coffee, tea, light meals, and snacks. One offers rooftop seating with city views. Instagram

The cafes typically offer a selection of cakes, pastries, sandwiches, quiches, and hot beverages. Instagram

Generally, it's best to consume your own food and drinks in designated areas or outside the gallery to maintain the integrity of the exhibits. The cafes are available for purchases. Instagram

The gallery is in the city centre, surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and pubs offering a wide range of dining options. Instagram

While specific options may vary, cafes often have vegetarian choices. It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff about other dietary needs. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal, non-commercial use is generally permitted in most areas of the gallery. However, always look for signage indicating restricted areas or specific exhibitions where photography might not be allowed. Instagram

Tripods and flash photography are usually not permitted to protect the artworks from damage and to avoid disturbing other visitors. Check the gallery's specific policy upon arrival. Instagram

The grand architecture, the rooftop terrace with city views, and specific visually striking artworks are popular photo opportunities. The central sun column is also a notable feature. Instagram+1

While the gallery's primary focus is painting and sculpture, they may occasionally feature photography exhibitions. Check their schedule for current displays. Instagram

Yes, sharing your photos on social media is encouraged! Tagging the gallery (@abdnartmuseums) is a great way to show your appreciation. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Aberdeen Art Gallery is a fantastic free outing for families. The interactive exhibits on the ground floor are particularly engaging for children, making history and art accessible and fun. InstagramReddit The spacious galleries allow kids to move around comfortably, and the diverse range of art means there's something to capture every child's imagination. Reddit

Don't forget to explore the rooftop terrace for a unique city view that kids will love. Instagram+1 The gallery also has a nice shop with potential souvenirs. Consider visiting during a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for your family. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Aberdeen Art Gallery is a dream destination. Admission is completely free, making it an excellent way to experience culture without spending a penny. InstagramReddit+1 While donations are appreciated, they are not mandatory, allowing you to tailor your contribution. Reddit

Beyond the free entry, you can save money by bringing your own water bottle and enjoying the free city views from the rooftop terrace instead of paying for paid attractions. Instagram+1 The gallery's central location also means you can easily walk to it from the train station or other city centre points, saving on transport costs. Instagram

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

Aberdeen Art Gallery offers a rich experience for serious art lovers. The collection features significant works by French Impressionists and a strong representation of Scottish artists, providing ample material for study and appreciation. Reddit The well-laid-out galleries and informative displays enhance the viewing experience. Reddit

Pay close attention to the historical context provided in the interactive exhibits and the diverse range of styles, from classical to contemporary. Reddit The gallery's commitment to showcasing both traditional and modern art ensures a comprehensive artistic journey. Reddit Don't miss the opportunity to explore the building's architecture and the unique city views from the rooftop, adding another dimension to your visit. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Collections

Aberdeen Art Gallery boasts a rich and varied collection, spanning centuries of artistic creation. Visitors can expect to find significant works from the 18th and 19th centuries, including notable pieces by French Impressionists like Renoir and Monet, offering a glimpse into a pivotal period in art history. Reddit The gallery also proudly showcases Scottish art, with a particular emphasis on metalwork and paintings that reflect the nation's cultural heritage. Reddit

Beyond the classical and traditional, the gallery embraces contemporary art, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience for all visitors. Interactive displays on the ground floor delve into Aberdeen's own history, the suffragette movement, and local folklore, making the learning process both informative and fun. Reddit This blend of historical depth and modern relevance makes Aberdeen Art Gallery a truly comprehensive cultural destination. Reddit

Keep an eye out for special temporary exhibitions, such as the 'Monsters of the Deep' event, which combines legend, folklore, and science for a spectacular display. Instagram These rotating exhibits add an extra layer of excitement and ensure there's always something new to discover on repeat visits. Instagram

The Building and Its Views

The Aberdeen Art Gallery building itself is a significant attraction. Constructed in the late 19th century, this granite edifice is a testament to the architectural style of its era and provides a magnificent setting for the art it houses. Reddit The interior features a striking central sun column, which floods the space with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere conducive to appreciating the artwork. Reddit

A major highlight for many visitors is the rooftop terrace. Accessible from the top floor, this elevated space offers stunning panoramic views across Aberdeen. Instagram+1 It's an ideal spot to relax, take in the cityscape, and capture memorable photographs, especially on a clear, sunny day. Instagram+1 The presence of cafes on the top floor further enhances this experience, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments while soaking in the scenery. Instagram

Community and Events

Aberdeen Art Gallery is more than just a repository of art; it's a vibrant community hub. The gallery actively engages with local artists and societies, as seen in collaborations like the 'Response' exhibition with the Aberdeen Artists Society. Instagram This fosters a strong connection between the gallery and the creative pulse of the city. Instagram

Throughout the year, the gallery hosts various events, including guided tours that offer deeper insights into the collections and exhibitions. Instagram These tours are a fantastic way to learn more from knowledgeable staff and fellow art enthusiasts. Instagram Additionally, the gallery sometimes transforms into a venue for special markets, such as the winter market organized by Tea Green Events, showcasing over 50 independent Scottish creative businesses. Instagram These events bring a lively atmosphere and offer unique shopping opportunities. Instagram