
Rubislaw Quarry
Aberdeen's historic granite quarry, once Europe's deepest, now a largely inaccessible but visually striking landmark.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for photos

Rubislaw Quarry
Best Time
Best light for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Aberdeen's historic granite quarry, once Europe's deepest, now a largely inaccessible but visually striking landmark.
"Impressive hole in the ground and worth checking out in my opinion."

🤫 Respect Private Property
Access is limited; avoid trespassing. Look for designated viewing areas or nearby public spaces.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Find elevated spots for unique perspectives of the quarry and its surroundings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Deep Granite Quarry
Central Aberdeen
Once Europe's deepest hole, this impressive granite quarry is a testament to Aberdeen's industrial past.
Hidden Photographic Gem
Overlooking the quarry
Discover secluded spots for stunning photos of the quarry's dramatic landscape and surrounding nature.

Johnston Gardens
Adjacent to Rubislaw Quarry
A picturesque landscaped garden with streams, ponds, and a charming bridge, perfect for a peaceful stroll.
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Planning Your Visit
Access & Viewing
Aberdeen's Granite Heritage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Respect Private Property
Access is limited; avoid trespassing. Look for designated viewing areas or nearby public spaces.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Find elevated spots for unique perspectives of the quarry and its surroundings.
🚶 Explore Nearby Gardens
Visit Johnston Gardens for a beautiful, accessible contrast to the quarry's ruggedness.
💡 Research Before You Go
Understand the quarry's history to fully appreciate its significance to Aberdeen.
Question about a quarry
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Respect Private Property
Access is limited; avoid trespassing. Look for designated viewing areas or nearby public spaces.
📸 Capture the Scenery
Find elevated spots for unique perspectives of the quarry and its surroundings.
🚶 Explore Nearby Gardens
Visit Johnston Gardens for a beautiful, accessible contrast to the quarry's ruggedness.
💡 Research Before You Go
Understand the quarry's history to fully appreciate its significance to Aberdeen.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rubislaw Quarry is a hidden gem in Aberdeen, appreciated for its impressive scale and historical significance as a source of the city's granite. However, its beauty is marred by extremely limited public access, frustrating many who wish to view or photograph it safely. Visitors often find themselves peeking from afar or relying on online images, with a desire for better viewing facilities.
"Beautiful little spot but inaccessible.
I did find a nice spot for some pictures."
Soumya Subhra Biswas
"Many wouldn't know this quarry was even here, in the middle of suburban Aberdeen. But take a look over the embankment as you're walking around nearby roads and you can squeeze through the broken wire fence to see this deep lake, left to stay hidden apart from the overlooking few flats. Impressive hole int he ground and worth checking out in my opinion."
Jeremy Barrowcliffe
"Tried to get a position to see actual quarry but alas going have to do with internet photos. Don't know why Aberdeen city council can't build a safe viewing area? Best kept secret in Aberdeen and will stay a secret hidden away unless you work in one of nearby offices."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rubislaw Quarry is located within suburban Aberdeen. While public transport can get you to the general area, direct access to the quarry itself is restricted. Many visitors find it best to explore the surrounding streets and look for any accessible vantage points.
Parking is generally available on the surrounding residential streets. However, be mindful of local parking restrictions and always prioritize safe and legal parking.
Direct access to the quarry site is largely prohibited due to safety and private property concerns. Visitors often find themselves looking over embankments or through fences for views.
Since direct access is limited, the best way to see Rubislaw Quarry is by finding elevated viewpoints from nearby public areas or roads. Some visitors have mentioned squeezing through broken fences, but this is not recommended.
While historically significant as part of Aberdeen's 'Granite City' identity, Rubislaw Quarry is not a developed tourist attraction with public access. Its appeal lies in its hidden nature and industrial past.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required for Rubislaw Quarry as it is not an officially managed tourist attraction with entry fees. Access is restricted and often involves viewing from public areas.
There are no official opening hours for Rubislaw Quarry since it is not an accessible site. Viewing is possible from surrounding areas during daylight hours.
Direct access to the quarry is considered unsafe due to steep drops and unstable edges. It's crucial to view from designated safe areas or public land and avoid any attempts to enter the quarry itself.
Swimming or diving in Rubislaw Quarry is strongly discouraged and dangerous due to its depth, cold water, and potential underwater hazards. There have been warnings about the dangers of quarry swimming.
Yes, Rubislaw Quarry is on private land, and access is restricted. Visitors should respect property boundaries and avoid trespassing.
📸 📸 Photography
Finding good photo spots can be challenging due to limited access. Some visitors have found success by looking over embankments or from nearby elevated public areas. The adjacent Johnston Gardens also offers beautiful photographic opportunities.
You can capture dramatic shots of the deep granite quarry, its surrounding natural elements, and the urban landscape of Aberdeen. The contrast between the industrial past and the present nature is a common theme.
Drone photography regulations in the UK must be followed. Always check local bylaws and airspace restrictions before flying a drone, especially in urban areas.
Daylight hours offer the best natural light for photographing the quarry. Early morning or late afternoon can provide interesting shadows and highlights, enhancing the dramatic landscape.
While there are no specific restrictions on photography from public vantage points, be mindful of private property and avoid intrusive photography.
🎫 🌳 Nature & Gardens
Johnston Gardens is a beautiful, landscaped park located next to Rubislaw Quarry. It features streams, ponds, waterfalls, rockeries, and a picturesque bridge, making it a tranquil escape.
Yes, Johnston Gardens is a publicly accessible park and is generally well-maintained, offering a pleasant walking experience for visitors.
The gardens are known for their diverse flora, including various shrubs, flowers, and trees, carefully arranged to create a visually appealing landscape throughout the seasons.
Picnics are generally welcome in public parks like Johnston Gardens. It's a lovely spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. Remember to clean up after yourself.
Johnston Gardens is situated adjacent to Rubislaw Quarry, offering a serene natural environment that contrasts with the quarry's industrial history. It's a popular spot for visitors to explore after viewing the quarry from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶 History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Granite City's Heartbeat
Today, while the quarry is no longer operational and access is restricted, its legacy is undeniable. The stone quarried here not only built Aberdeen but was also exported, contributing to construction projects far and wide. Understanding this history provides a deeper appreciation for the city's unique architectural character and the vital role Rubislaw Quarry played in its development.
Navigating Limited Access
This lack of official access has led to a sense of mystery and a 'hidden gem' status for the quarry. While some reviews express frustration with the inability to get closer, others appreciate its secluded nature. The advice from those who have visited is to be respectful of private property and to seek out any public vantage points that might exist in the surrounding suburban landscape.
A Photographer's Enigma
Many photographers find themselves looking for elevated positions or creative angles to frame the quarry. The adjacent Johnston Gardens, with its picturesque streams and bridges, provides a softer, more accessible photographic contrast, making it a popular addition for those visiting the area. The challenge of photographing Rubislaw Quarry adds to its allure for those seeking unique and less-obvious shots.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit