• Aberdeen Maritime Museum - Begin the journey where the city meets the sea at the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, which overlooks the lively harbour. Dive into the city’s rich fishing heritage, shipbuilding history, and maritime trade. Imagine Aberdeen’s historic shoreline bustling with smokehouses, fish markets, and granaries. Savor a classic Aberdonian “rowie” or buttery, topped with marmalade. These salty, flaky delights are a coastal staple, once essential for fishermen needing a hearty snack at sea.
• The Green - Once the heart of medieval Aberdeen, The Green is steeped in stories of vibrant trade, women brewsters, and centuries-old brewing traditions. Before industrialization, brewing was a domestic skill, with many women crafting small-batch ales for a living. Discover the area’s transformation from an old market to a modern creative hub, featuring bold NuArt murals. While beer tasting is yet to come, the deep-rooted brewing culture in the city becomes evident.
• Union Terrace Gardens - In the shadow of the Wallace Monument and above what was once a bustling stream powering Aberdeen’s early mills, pause to toast with Scotland’s other national drink: Irn-Bru! Reflect on William Wallace, the vanished mills of Denburn, and the city’s ties to the textile and grain trades. Surrounding you are layers of architectural history — the striking Triple Kirks spire, St. Mark’s Church, the grand His Majesty’s Theatre, and the Central Library — all part of the Victorian vision for the city.
• Marischal College - Standing before the gleaming granite façade of Marischal College, turn attention to Scotland’s beloved grain — oats. From porridge to bannocks, oatcakes to crowdie cheese pairings, oats have nourished Scots for centuries. Enjoy a taste of local oatcakes and cheese while learning how Robert the Bruce supported Aberdeen during conflicts and how the city reciprocated. If the moment is right, share a reading of Sheena Blackhall’s witty “How to Make an Aberdonian” — a poetic tribute to local character and cuisine.
• Mercat Cross - In the historic Castlegate, where the Mercat Cross once marked the center of trade and proclamation, explore Aberdeen’s market culture. For centuries, this was the hub for buying, selling, and celebrating — from weekly markets to royal visits. Now, enjoy a locally brewed beer, a nod to both the area’s trading past and today’s thriving craft beer scene. It’s also an opportunity to highlight Aberdeenshire’s brewing and distilling legacy — from traditional farm ales to the global success of brands like Chivas Brothers.
• Provost Skene’s House - Conclude at one of Aberdeen’s oldest surviving townhouses — Provost Skene’s House. This museum shares stories of Aberdonians who made a global impact. Nearby, Guest Row and Ragg’s Lane once buzzed with bakers and local shops serving the city center. End the tour with a scoop of Mackie’s ice cream — a creamy, locally made treat from Aberdeenshire dairy farms. A delightful way to conclude the journey through Aberdeen’s flavors, past and present.

• Snacks

Aberdeen’s true essence is revealed through its culinary history. This guided walking tour offers insight into how the city’s development was influenced by its fishing, brewing, baking, and trading industries, along with the dedicated individuals who worked in these fields daily.

Commencing near the harbour, participants will learn about the herring fishing industry, salmon rivers, and the overnight fish trains to London. The tour continues through historic streets where women once played a significant role in brewing and managing alehouses, and explains why oats, rowies, and smoked fish became integral to the local diet.

Throughout the journey, the guide will highlight historic wells, markets, food streets, and buildings that illustrate how Aberdeen sustained itself over the centuries.

• 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

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