Aberdeen City Food Tour

Overview

Available languages

English

4 hours

Mobile ticket

Food tells the real story of Aberdeen. On this guided walking tour, you’ll discover how the city was shaped by fishing, brewing, baking and trade — and by the people who worked in these industries every day.

Starting near the harbour, you’ll hear about herring fishing, salmon rivers and overnight fish trains to London. Walk through historic streets where women once dominated brewing and alehouses, and learn why oats, rowies and smoked fish became staples of local life.

Along the way, your guide will point out historic wells, markets, food streets and buildings that reveal how Aberdeen fed itself for centuries.

Additional Info

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Walking Distance: Around 3.5 km (just over 2 miles) at a relaxed pace

Terrain: The route includes some cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, and moderate inclines

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Aberdeen Maritime Museum

We kick things off where the city meets the sea — at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum overlooking the bustling harbour. Here, we delve into the city’s deep fishing heritage, shipbuilding past, and maritime trade. It’s a chance to imagine Aberdeen’s historic shoreline lined with smokehouses, fish markets, and granaries. Enjoy a classic Aberdonian “rowie” — or buttery — with a smear of marmalade. These salty, flaky treats are part of the region’s coastal identity, once a staple for fishermen needing a hardy bite at sea.

45 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

The Green

Once the heart of medieval Aberdeen, The Green tells stories of bustling trade, women brewsters, and brewing traditions that stretch back centuries. Before industrialisation, brewing was a domestic skill, and many women earned a living crafting small-batch ales. We explore the area’s transformation, from the old market to today's creative corner, featuring bold NuArt murals. While we don’t taste beer just yet, you’ll start to see how deeply rooted brewing is in the city’s culture.

35 minutes • Admission Not Applicable

What‘s Included

Seven tasting stops showcasing local flavours and food heritage.

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