Aberdeen Nightlife That Locals Love: Best Live Music, Pubs, Late-Night Eats & More

Wandering our World is reader supported! If you purchase anything through a link on our site, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Last updated on October 1, 2022 by Wandering our World

Aberdeen is a scenic and lively city that’s rich in history and culture, and is also known for its beautiful coastline, stunning architecture, and often chilly North Sea breeze!

Yet whilst ‘The Granite City’ is home to a number of museums, galleries and parks, it also comes alive at night! From live music and pub crawls to late-night eats, Aberdeen has something for everyone.

With a record number of whiskey distilleries and a growing craft beer scene, Aberdeen has no shortage of places to enjoy a drink and have some fun. And for those looking for a more lively night out, Aberdeen’s live music scene is thriving and there’s several fun nightclubs.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint or a night out on the town, this city has it all.

And luckily we know the best Aberdeen nightlife spots so you can have the best evening possible. Enjoy!

CONTENTS:

  1. The Ten Best Places To See Live Music
  2. The Twelve Best Bars and Party Spots
  3. Five Late Night Food Options
  4. Four Other Attractions To Check Out
iStock.com/AlbertPego

The Ten Best Places To See Live Music in Aberdeen

Aberdeen is becoming known around Scotland for its vibrant live music scene, and local bands and musicians can be found performing in pubs and bars across the city every night of the week.

From intimate gigs in basement bars to large-scale concerts in Aberdeen’s theatres, there’s plenty going on gig-wise in the Granite City. everyone.

With that said, here are some of Aberdeen’s best live music venues:

1. The Tunnels

Watching live music is one thing, but Aberdeen takes it to the next level with The Tunnels. This unique venue is located in two actual tunnels under Union Street and is one of Aberdeen’s most popular live music venues.

With a capacity of up to 300 people, The Tunnels hosts a variety of live music and DJ nights throughout the week. Expect anything from up-and-coming local bands to established touring acts.

Address: Carnegie’s Brae, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Pro2sound

2. The Lemon Tree

The Lemon Tree is one of Aberdeen’s most well-known live music venues. Located in the west end of the city, this popular venue has hosted thousands of bands over the years including Scottish music royalty like Biffy Clyro and Mogwai.

So if you’re a fan of electric guitars and loud drums, The Lemon Tree may just be the place for you. This 550-capacity venue also hosts a variety of club nights, comedy shows and other events.

Address: 5 W N St, Aberdeen

3. Cellar 35 at The Noose Monkey

Cellar 35 is located in the heart of Rosemount and is one of Aberdeen’s best basement bars. While the floor upstairs is a bar and restaurant, the cellar is where the real action happens.

This intimate venue has a capacity of just 80 people, making it the perfect place to see up-and-coming local bands. Local music legend DJ Homealone also hosts a regular club night here, so you can expect to hear a mix of genres.

Address: 31-35 Rosemount Viaduct, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/David-Prado

4. Krakatoa

Rock ‘n’ roll fans will feel right at home at Krakatoa. This Aberdeen institution and dive bar has been hosting live music since 1965 and shows no signs of slowing down.

Located in the city centre, Krakatoa is one of Aberdeen’s most popular live music venues. With a capacity of 200 people, this venue has hosted everyone from The Libertines to Preacher over the years.

However, note that Fridays and Saturdays are the only nights that Krakatoa hosts live music. The rest of the week, it’s a bar and restaurant.

Address: 2 Trinity Quay, Aberdeen

5. The Blue Lamp

A grassroots music venue located in Gallowgate, The Blue Lamp is one of Aberdeen’s best-kept secrets. The intimate, candle-lit basement hosts regular live music, jazz evenings, and DJ nights, with a focus on up-and-coming local talent.

Being Aberdeen’s home of live music for more than 70 years, The Blue Lamp is a must-visit. You can expect a wide range of musical styles here in a candle-lit setting, from classical and jazz to pop and rock.

Address: 121 Gallowgate, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/sarra22

6. O’Neill’s

If you’re looking for a relaxed vibe, O’Neill’s is the place for you. This Irish bar in the city centre hosts regular live music, with everything from folk to country on the bill.

O’Neill’s Aberdeen also has a great selection of drinks, including a wide range of Irish whiskeys. So whether you’re looking to tap your feet or drown your sorrows, this is the place for you.

Address: 9-10 Back Wynd, Aberdeen

7. The Glentanar Bar

For a cosy Saturday night, head to The Glentanar Bar. This local favourite is located in the west end of Aberdeen and hosts regular Saturday live music.

The Glentanar Bar also has a great selection of whiskies and beers, so you can enjoy a dram or two while you listen to some tunes. If you get peckish, the bar also serves food until late.

Address: 35 – 39 Holburn St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Deagreez

8. Ma Cameron’s

As the oldest pub in Aberdeen, Ma Cameron’s is a true institution. Located in the Little Belmont Street area, this pub has been serving up drinks since 1746 and is said to be haunted!

These days, Ma Cameron’s is best known for its live music though. With a focus on traditional Scottish music, this is the place to go if you want to tap your toes to some Scottish-trad tunes.

Address: Little Belmont St, Aberdeen

9. The Globe Inn

You’ll also love The Globe Inn if you’re a fan of traditional Scottish music. Located just off Union Street, this pub frequently celebrates local talent.

The Globe Inn also has a great range of Aberdeen-brewed beers and whiskies, so you can enjoy a true taste of the city here. They have a great sun-trap beer garden too.

Address: Little Belmont St, Aberdeen

10. Old Blackfriars

This classic, yet unique, Aberdeen pub is the place to go if you love folk music. Here you can enjoy a variety of traditional Scottish music as well as live music from Aberdeen-based and touring bands. The pub also has a great selection of local beers, ciders, and whiskies.

Whether you’re looking for a pub to enjoy a quiet pint, or a lively place to dance the night away, Old Blackfriars is the perfect Aberdeen nightspot.

Address: 52 Castle St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/DisobeyArt

Aberdeen Nightlife: The Twelve Best Bars and Party Spots

If there’s one thing Aberdeen bars and clubs know how to do, it’s party! With a wide range of bars and clubs catering to all tastes, there’s much fun to be had on the Aberdeen nightlife scene.

So whether you’re looking for a cosy pub to enjoy some Scottish music in or a lively club to dance the night away, Aberdeen has you covered. Here are some of the best bars and party spots in Aberdeen:

1. The Tippling House

If you’re looking for a great Aberdeen nightlife experience, The Tippling House is definitely worth checking out. This unique bar features a hand-crafted approach to drinking and is perfect for cocktail lovers. The dĂ©cor is Italo-style, with cosy booths and an extensive cocktail menu.

The knowledgeable and friendly staff are always on hand to help you choose the perfect drink, and there’s a great selection of beers, wines and spirits available too. Overall, the Tippling House is a great place to relax and enjoy a few drinks with friends, and is open till 3am on Friday and Saturday nights!

Address: 4 Belmont St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/iMaximFesenko

2. CASC Bar

CASC Bar is one of Aberdeen’s most popular party spots. This energetic bar is located in the heart of Merchant Quarter and is perfect for those who want to let their hair down and have a great time. The bar is decked out with plenty of seating, a dance floor and a large selection of drinks.

CASC’s selection of over 200 bottled beers from all over the world is sure to please even the most discerning of drinkers, and their ever-changing selection of draught beers means there’s always something new to try. If you’re looking for a place to drink the best beer in Aberdeen, CASC Bar is a perfect choice. They also have a fantastic array of whisky and cigars.

Address: 7 Stirling St, Aberdeen

3. Club Tropicana & Venga

Aberdeen’s premier retro nightclub is one of the funnest party spots in the city. Expect 80s and 90s tunes, energetic dancing, cheesy music, neon lights and more!

Just open on Friday and Saturdays, from 10pm to 3am, Tropicana is a popular student hangout and we’ve found drinks to be very reasonably priced considering it’s an Aberdeen nightlife hot spot.

Address: 70 Chapel St, Aberdeen AB10 1SN

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/bernardbodo

4. Dusk Cocktail Bar

For classic cocktails with a twist, Dusk Cocktail Bar is the perfect Aberdeen nightlife spot. This stylish bar offers a wide range of creative cocktails, as well as mixology lessons if you want to learn how to make your own.

The intimate setting and attentive staff makes Dusk the perfect place to have fun and enjoy a few drinks, and the bar also has an excellent selection of wines and spirits. Dusk is popular with the student crowd too and can get energetic at the weekends.

Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or a beginner, you’ll find something to suit your taste at Dusk Cocktail Bar.

Address: 45 Langstane Pl, Aberdeen

5. Six°North

Scottish craft beer lovers will feel right at home at Six°North. This Aberdeen bar is dedicated to Scottish craft beer and offers a wide selection of both bottled and draught beers. Their microbrewery also produces a range of seasonal and limited-edition beers, so there’s always something new to try.

In addition to their impressive selection of beers, Six°North also has a menu of delicious Scottish-inspired food, which is the perfect accompaniment to a few drinks.

If you’re looking for a relaxed Aberdeen nightlife spot where you can enjoy some great beer, Six°North is a fantastic choice.

Address: 6 Littlejohn St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/DisobeyArt

6. Ninety-Nine Bar and Kitchen

Leaning towards a more alternative Aberdeen nightlife scene is the Ninety-Nine Bar and Kitchen. This small bar is located on Back Wynd and is popular with students and young professionals. Offering craft ales, cocktails, and gastropub-style food, it has lots on offer.

With a focus on local and Scottish produce, the Ninety-Nine Bar and Kitchen is the perfect place to enjoy some delicious food and drinks.

Address: 1 Back Wynd, Aberdeen

7. Revolution Aberdeen

Partygoers will feel right at home at Revolution Aberdeen. This large bar is snuggled in Aberdeen’s Belmont Street and offers a wide range of drinks in an energetic party atmosphere.

Their extensive cocktail menu is sure to satisfy even the most demanding of drinkers, and the nightly happy hours make it the perfect place to start your night out. With a great selection of drinks and a party atmosphere, Revolution Aberdeen is always a fun place to drop by for a night out on the town.

Address: 25 Belmont St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/santypan

8. Soul Bar

While Soul isn’t the first Aberdeen bar that used to be a former church, it’s definitely one of the most popular. This trendy bar is located on Union Street and offers a wide range of drinks in a relaxed atmosphere.

The bar has a stylish interior, with stained glass windows and striking lampshades. The extensive cocktail menu is sure to satisfy even the most demanding of drinkers, and the selection of tapas and small plates is the perfect accompaniment to a few drinks. If you’re looking for a stylish Aberdeen nightlife spot, Soul Bar is a fantastic choice.

Address: 333 Union St, Aberdeen

9. Paramount Bar

For a more contemporary Aberdeen nightlife experience, head to the Paramount Bar. This sleek and stylish bar is located on Bon-Accord Street and offers a great selection of Thai-themed cocktails and a weekend party atmosphere.

The cocktails are expertly mixed, and the bar also has a dance floor, making it a great place to cut loose and dance the night away with friends.

Address: 23-25 Bon-Accord St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/dias46

10. RevoluciĂłn de Cuba Aberdeen

Located in the Academy Centre Courtyard, RevoluciĂłn de Cuba is the perfect Aberdeen nightlife spot for those who want to enjoy a taste of Latin America. This large bar and restaurant offers a wide range of Cuban-inspired drinks, as well as a menu of delicious Cuban food and tapas.

With its fiesta atmosphere, resident DJs, and salsa dancing, RevoluciĂłn de Cuba Aberdeen is the perfect place to enjoy a night out with a difference. If you’re looking for a fun and festive Aberdeen nightlife spot, this is definitely the place for you.

Address: Academy Centre, Belmont St, Aberdeen

11. Drummonds

This laid back bar and nightclub is part of Aberdeen’s alternative music scene, where you’ll find fantastic live bands, a big dance floor, friendly staff, and well-priced drinks.

With Drummonds open till at east 2am every night of the week, this is an Aberdeen nightlife venue which always has a party going on.

Address: 1 Belmont St, Aberdeen, AB10 1JR

12. Grape & Grain

A luxurious wine bar located in the west end of Aberdeen, Grape & Grain is a fantastic spot for those who want to enjoy a sophisticated night out. This stylish bar offers a wide range of wines, as well as a selection of charcuterie, cheeses, and other small plates.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a romantic evening or a classy night out with friends, Grape & Grain is the perfect Aberdeen nightlife spot for you.

Address: 31 Thistle St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/AV-Photo

Aberdeen Nightlife: Five Late Night Food Options

While bars and clubs offer a great selection of drinks, sometimes you need a little something to soak up the alcohol! Thankfully Aberdeen has many late-night food options that will help you do just that.

Here are some of the best late night food options in Aberdeen:

1. Brig O’Don – Pub & Grill

Grill food lovers will love Brig O’Don. This Aberdeen pub serves a range of grilled meats and seafood, as well as a selection of sides. The pub also has an extensive drinks menu, making it the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks and a late-night meal.

Even at 9 pm on a Saturday night, the Brig O’Don will offer you a delicious and filling meal. This Aberdeen pub is open until 10 pm, making it a fantastic spot for a hearty late-night bite, though not too late that you’ll miss last orders.

Address: 739 King St, Aberdeen

2. Monsoona Healthy Indian Cuisine

There’s nothing quite like a late-night curry to cater to your post-night out cravings. Monsoona Healthy Indian Cuisine is Aberdeen’s best late night curry spot and offers a range of healthy and delicious Indian dishes that are sure to hit the spot.

This curry house is open until 11:30 pm, making it a great spot to stop by for a late-night bite. The menu features a range of vegan, vegetarian and meat-based dishes, so there’s something to suit every diet.

Address: 20 Bridge St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only (iStock.com/LunaMarina).

3. Rendezvous at Nargile

Mediterranean cuisine lovers will love Aberdeen’s Rendezvous at Nargile. This late-night Aberdeen restaurant serves a range of delicious Mediterranean, Turkish, and European dishes.

The restaurant is open until 11 pm, making it a great place to enjoy a late-night meal. The menu features a variety of meat and vegetarian dishes, as well as a selection of desserts.

Address: 106-108 Forest Ave, Aberdeen

4. Cafe Harmony

Cafe Harmony is an Italian trattoria that is open until midnight all week long. This Aberdeen restaurant serves up a range of delicious Italian dishes, as well as a selection of desserts.

The menu features a range of pasta dishes, pizzas, and meat-based dishes. The restaurant also features some Asian fusion dishes, making it a great place to eat late at night.

Address: 21 Bon-Accord Terrace, Aberdeen

5. Mi Amore

Located on Huntly Street, Mi Amore is Aberdeen’s best late night Italian restaurant. This restaurant is open until midnight and serves a range of authentic Italian dishes.

If you’re looking for a late night Aberdeen dining option that won’t break the bank, Mi Amore is a fantastic option as it offers a range of affordable dishes, as well as a selection of drinks.

Address: 80-82 Huntly St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only (iStock.com/VeselovaElena).

Aberdeen Nightlife: Four Other Attractions To Check Out

In addition to Aberdeen’s many bars and clubs, there are also a number of other attractions that are worth checking out. Here are some of the best:

1. Codona’s Amusement Park

Codona’s Amusement Park is a popular attraction in Aberdeen that is often overlooked by visitors to this city. While the amusement park may not be as big as some of the other parks in the UK, it offers a fun selection of rides and attractions for all ages.

The amusement park is open from 10am until 11pm and has a wide range of rides, including roller coasters, bumper cars, and spinners. That may not sound like much, but they’re sure to provide you with a night of fun.

All in all, Codona’s Amusement Park is a great option for a day out in Aberdeen. The amusement park is affordable and offers a fun selection of rides for all ages. In addition to the rides, the park also has a number of food and drink options, and shops available.

Address: Beach Blvd, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/RushayBooysen

2. The Locked Door Escape Games

Escape rooms never seem to go out of style, and Aberdeen’s The Locked Door Escape Games is one of the best in the business. This escape room company offers a number of different rooms to choose from, each with its own unique theme.

The Locked Door Escape Games is Aberdeen’s highest-rated escape room, and it’s easy to see why. The escape room offers a unique and challenging experience that is sure to test your problem-solving skills. Since it’s open until 8pm, it’s a unique place to go before a night out with friends.

Address: 171 Hardgate, Aberdeen

3. Breakneck Comedy

Aberdeen’s Breakneck Comedy is a fun option for a night out too. This comedy club offers a variety of different shows, all of which are sure to have you in stitches by the end!

The comedy club is open from 7pm until 11 pm and features a number of different comedians. In addition to the comedy, the club also has a variety of different drinks, making it the perfect place to grab a pint or two before moving on to one of Aberdeen’s bars.

Address: 2-8 King St, Aberdeen

Photo for illustrative purposes only: iStock.com/Boris_Kuznets

4. Lane7 Aberdeen

Bowling, Aberdeen-style. Lane7 is a fun place to go with friends for some good old-fashioned bowling and arcade games.

Lane7 Aberdeen is not your average bowling alley. This chic and modern bowling venue also has an arcade area, ping pong tables, and a bar and lounge area for you to relax in between games.

Whether you’re looking to have a few games or just want to drink and socialise, Lane7 Aberdeen is well worth visiting. The bowling alley is open until 11 pm.

Address: 1 Shiprow, Aberdeen

Author

  • Wandering our World

    Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.