Food and Drink has always been a passionate subject in Aberdeen City and Shire. As the main producer for food and drink in Scotland, its rich arable land and North Sea coastline provides a wealth of fabulous raw materials and fresh, natural produce that is world renowned. It’s the home of the three superfoods – oats, berries and omega 3 – as well as quality beef, dairy, vegetables and grains in abundance. It’s not surprising then that Aberdeen City and Shire is known as Scotland's food larder. Whether it’s Scottish salmon, freshly-caught fish from the North Sea, succulent locally-reared Aberdeen Angus, or juicy raspberries and berries, then you’ll find it on the menu of many of the region’s eating establishments, which are proud to use locally sourced produce. Naturally, it means that Aberdeen City and Shire boasts many excellent quality restaurants and cafes, so whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner a deux, casual lunch with friends, or simply to relax and enjoy the café culture while taking a break from sight-seeing or shopping, you’ll certainly be spoilt for choice.
Aberdeen enjoys a lively nightlife. Union Street, the main thoroughfare, and the streets leading off it, such as Belmont Street, are teeming with restaurants, cafes and bars. However, probably one of the most exciting locations in Aberdeen at the moment is the historic Green area, emerging as the centre for savvy diners. The Green is undergoing something of regeneration and the previously run-down area has been transformed into a trendy entertainment and retail district.
Restaurants opening to acclaim include the revamped Carmelite Hotel, and Musa, housed in an old banana warehouse, in addition to the well-established and highly praised Café 52 and Bistro Verde, both on The Green itself. Musa Art and Music Cafe, in nearby Exchange Street is, as its name suggests, a vibrant cafe during the morning and afternoon and a relaxed restaurant at lunchtimes and evenings. A frequently changing menu uses fresh seasonal ingredients, and the chefs create imaginative menus to complement the season. With quality food and drink and a great atmospheric setting, Musa also provides the venue for some of the best art and live music to be seen and heard in Aberdeen, covering everything from acoustic, to jazz, blues folk and country. The walls of the restaurant display contemporary art and design from local and Scottish-wide artists with a regularly changing programme of exhibitions.
The Carmelite, a boutique hotel in Stirling Street, opened 18 months ago and features striking open-plan lounges, a bar, restaurant and private dining room. The hotel dates back to the 1820s and the stunning redevelopment has captured the hotel’s former style and elegance and combined it with a contemporary twist. Enter through an antique revolving door into lounges with ceiling to floor windows and featuring huge comfy sofas, with formal and informal food served every evening in the restaurant and lounges. Aberdeen's only Gold Plate restaurant (Awarded by Hotel Review Scotland 2007) the menu is uncomplicated but stylish. The bar serves champagne by the glass - a particular favourite which can be served along with mezze style appetisers in the lounge or bar. Sharing plates are available for starters and desserts, the top choice for those who simply can't decide which to order....
Tucked away down a lane in the city centre, is le Cafe Boheme, bringing a touch of Parisian sophistication to Aberdeen. A small, intimate restaurant with an authentic French Cafe decor, Cafe Boheme fuses traditional and modern French cuisine - perfect for that romantic dinner.
If you’re in town for a visit to His Majesty’s Theatre, or to catch a concert at the Music Hall, then the Golden Square area of town is the ideal choice. With its elegant and imposing buildings that tell the story of the city's prosperous past, try The Square, or Jerome Jerome, both located in Golden Square itself.
The Stage Door, in adjoining North Silver Street, is described as ‘ the best hidden gem in the granite city’ by actor Steven Tompkinson, star of ITV’s Wild at Heart and BBC’ s Ballykissangel. The Stage Door restaurant has a great atmosphere and, being just over the road from His Majesty’s Theatre, is also ideal for pre-theatre diners – and maybe a little star-spotting.
Or try the new restaurant which has opened in His Majesty’s Theatre itself. Operated by Aberdeen Foyer, a local charitable organisation working to prevent youth homelessness and unemployment, the Foyer at HMT is open for lunch and dinner, offering a la carte and pre-theatre menus with a strong focus on fresh and simple classic dishes. A unique initiative in the city, all the profits generated are used to support Aberdeen Foyer; as are those from the original Foyer restaurant and Gallery located on Crown Street, and acknowledged as one of the best restaurants in Aberdeen. A haven of light, taste and style, the professional team at the Foyer Restaurant consistently deliver high quality food with a modern, confident take on classic cooking, while the uncluttered, relaxed setting features exhibitions in the gallery space by contemporary artists.
Of course, with Aberdeen City and Shire’s rich maritime heritage, the freshest of seafood is a feature on many a menu and there are several restaurants which have made seafood their speciality. The Silver Darling Seafood Restaurant is strikingly located in Aberdeen's former customs house, with the roof-top conservatory restaurant offering terrific views of Aberdeen's beach, the coastline and harbour. Specialising in seafood with a French flavour, the Silver Darling is, among its many accolades, listed by the Times as one of the top seafood restaurants in the UK and a "truly memorable place to eat', (The Times, The Big Eat Top 10 UK Fish Restaurants, April 2007.
Other fabulous choices for seafood are the Atlantis Restaurant at the Mariners Hotel on Great Western Road, and the Tolbooth in Stonehaven, just a 25 minute drive south of the city. Also worth visiting is the Creel Inn in the historic fishing village of Catterline. Perched on cliffs overlooking the
bay and harbour, it specialises in seafood prepared to the highest standard from the freshest local produce (the lobster and crab are caught in Catterline Bay), there is also a full range of dishes for those who desire something other than the "catch of the day". The menu is changed in-keeping with the seasons, while the specials board changes daily depending on what fruits the sea provides. Artists, poets and musicians have over the years drawn inspiration from the dramatic seascape and The Creel Inn reflects this, featuring local artists, past and present on its walls.
Like any cosmopolitan city, Aberdeen has a great array of Italian restaurants and Pizzeria and La Rustica and Ciao Napoli are two of the most well established and well-regarded. Casa Gabriele on the corner of Bridge Street and Union Street is one of the most striking Italian restaurants in the city. Its owner, Gabriele Gabbriellini, born in Tuscany, has a passion for food and love of art which is apparent throughout the restaurant. Gabriele is a sculptor and you will find a number of his unique creations adorning the restaurant.
If its Indian food that you fancy, again you’ll be spoilt for choice. The Jewel in the Crown, Crown Street is a long established family business in the very capable hands of Farooq and his sons. It is all in the preparation, and Farooq is a master in the art of blending the traditional spices into a unique combination of tastes.
Or try Cinnamon at the top end of Union Street - an award –winning restaurant which serves traditional curries with a modern twist,
Naturally, as Europe's oil capital, the region is well used to catering for a discerning cosmopolitan clientele, and this is reflected in the many excellent restaurants attached to the region’s hotels. The Marcliffe at Pitfodels, Aberdeen’s only 5-star hotel, boasts President Gorbachev, Tony Blair and Rod Stewart on its visitors’ list, amongst others. Set in extensive wooded grounds on the outskirts of the city, the Marcliffe's popular conservatory restaurant oozes charm and sophistication.
For more casual dining, try The Olive Tree in the city's West End on Queens Road. Located in a former Toll House, The Olive Tree offers perfectly delivered dishes with a Mediterranean bias and the occasional contemporary twist. Or further along Queens Road, the highly popular Simpson restaurant which again has a Mediterranean theme.
Great restaurants aren't confined to the city centre by any means and wherever you find yourself in Aberdeenshire you'll be able to find a fine dining experience that will make your visit a memorable one.
The Milton at Crathes, for example, is one of the country's top restaurants. Situated on the outskirts of Banchory at the gateway to Royal Deeside, it offers exquisite food in picturesque surroundings. The awards speak for themselves – In 2007 The Milton won the Taste of Grampian Restaurant of the Year, Grampian Chef of the Year and Grampian Young Chef of the Year. With a firm policy of supporting local businesses and suppliers, The Milton’s menu is staunchly rooted in the flavours and of the North-east of Scotland and it’s a great venue for a special dinner or celebratory lunch. During the day you can also browse around the craft shops and art galleries that share the Milton of Crathes site.
The Green Inn at Ballater - known as the ‘Royal’ village, due to its proximity to the Queen’s Scottish home, Balmoral – has built an impressive reputation. Chef Chris O'Halloran has held several senior positions over the last seventeen years, gaining experience and a reputation for fine food. Prior to becoming Head Chef at the Inn he spent time training at Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons, Raymond Blanc's renowned Hotel near Oxford, which has influenced the style of cuisine whilst utilising the very best of local produce. Not surprisingly, The Green Inn has been recognized by several awards and mentions in top food guides and awarded 4 stars by Visit Scotland and 4 gold stars (highly commended) by the AA.
The Carron Restaurant in Stonehaven, 15 miles south of Aberdeen, offers diners contemporary cuisine in a stylish restaurant that exudes 1930’s sophistication. One of the UK’s finest examples of Art Deco design, The Carron’s light and airy atmosphere provides a stunning venue to enjoy a wide-ranging menu that will suit all tastes. On warm days or evenings, guests can relax and dine on the unique Art Deco terrace overlooking the tranquil sunken garden, described in the Sunday Herald as “one of the UK’s finest al fresco dining venues”.
Further inland is the Lairhillock, a 200-year-old former Coaching Inn, which now houses the Lounge and Conservatory, The "Crynoch" Restaurant, as well as the original Snug bar. With Real Ales and real fires, the Lairhillock prides itself on quality and is recommended in no less than 12 good food guides.
Eat on the Green, at Udny is also located in a 200-year old coaching inn, but 20 miles north of Aberdeen. The award winning chef and proprietor uses innovative dining skills to create a range of classic and contemporary dishes. Currently holding an Eat Scotland silver award, it also won the Scottish Chefs award for Gastro Pub of the year 2007 – and has won many accolades in the three years since it opened including Visit Scotland’s Northern Lights Food and Drink Award 2007
If you’re looking for a traditional pub, then the Cock and Bull, on the coast close to Balmedie beach, is everything a country inn should be. With its cozy nooks and low beamed ceilings, the Cock & Bull is an atmospheric and intimate Inn and features in the Michelin Eating Out in Pubs guide.
Scottish country house cooking is the order of the day at the Pittodrie House Hotel, near Inverurie. The menu is different every day, planned to incorporate the freshest of seasonal ingredients, including those from the hotel's own Victorian walled garden.
All these and more .....the best quality ingredients and a tantalising selection of restaurants to choose from. Enjoy!
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Monday, February 28, 2011
Friday, February 25, 2011
Your Cutting-Edge aberdeen news sd Information Resource
If shopping tops the list of your favourite pastimes, then Aberdeen City and Shire won’t disappoint.
From designer boutiques to a host of high street names, you’ll find all the labels and top quality outlets you’d expect from a major city.
The city has for centuries been the main shopping destination for a huge catchment area, and a popular destination for European shoppers taking a weekend break. With its striking skyline, historical old town and impressive granite buildings this is a prosperous, cosmopolitan city.
The great range of excellent shopping centres ensures that you’ll always be able to find exactly what you're looking for and if it’s something more exclusive or a little quirky that you’re after, one of Aberdeen's independent retailers will be able to provide that too.
At a mile long, Aberdeen’s Union Street is Britain’s longest high street and is jam packed with a host of household names and high street favourites. At the upper end you'll find the newly opened Hugo Boss, G -Star Raw and Cruise, along with premium stores like Jaeger and Jones the Bootmaker.
Cruise, which opened in the autumn of 2007, is one of the UK’s leading independent luxury retailers with a fantastic reputation not only for designer brands, but as a showcase for fresh cutting edge fashion. Brands currently available at Cruise include Gucci, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, Dior, Hugo Boss, Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood, Fendi, Chloe and Jimmy Choo to name a few.
At the bottom end of Union Street, just before it meets the historic Castlegate, is The Bon Accord St Nicholas Shopping Centre.
Right in the heart of the city it has a fabulous range of stores and is the prime retailing area in Aberdeen. The biggest shopping centre in the city, it is split into two buildings and has three floors extending to 630,000 sq ft over two levels. Built in a serpentine shape to maximise shop unit frontage, it is covered by a barrel vaulted glazed roof with a 90-ft high glazed dome.
Flagship stores include New Look and Monsoon, one of the largest in Scotland, a large Boots and Woolworths and shops such as The Body Shop, River Island, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Ortak and Oasis. A new Costa Coffee will revive the most weary shopper, while the restaurants within the Upper Mall, John Lewis and Marks and Spencer, located at either end of the Centre, remain a poplar rendezvous for a casual lunch and a catch-up with friends. And of course, there’s a Starbucks, with an outdoor sitting area, if you fancy a spot of cafe culture.
Just across from the city’s Union Terrace Gardens, The Mall Trinity is a great, one floor shopping centre with around 27 stores including Debenhams, Argos Extra, T-Mobile, HMV, Superdrug, Waterstones and a large Primark.
Cobbled Belmont Street, known for its trendy bars, cafes, and art house cinema, is also the location for The Academy shopping centre. Surrounding an Italianate style piazza, it has an excellent range of upmarket brands and individual shops, coffee shops, bars and restaurants, and the open-air piazza is often a focus for live entertainment throughout the summer months. Here the style conscious will find independent shops such as Attic, AB10 and Concept, which specialises in casual designer-ware for men. A true style leader in Aberdeen, Attic is constantly introducing new collections including U.A.R.M, Green Apple Tree and Six Pack. AB10 has everything from footwear to accessories, with many main stream brands including G-Star, Ted Baker, Miss Sixty, Replay, Firetrap and Gio-Goi.
Nicknamed ‘Little Chelsea’, the Thistle Street area of the city is the acknowledged style quarter of Aberdeen with a range of independent shops stocking everything from clothes, shoes and accessories, in addition to gift shops, delicatessens, French bakers, florists and art galleries. Bellino and Hamish Munro both have excellent ranges of shoes by continental designers, and if you need a dress for a big night out, try Frox - with everything from funky to formal, it’s evening wear with attitude. Esslemonts and Esslemonts 2 stock a stylish choice of menswear and women’s fashion from leading brands such as Camel Active, Tommy Hilfiger, Remus, Hobbs and Turnover.
Verdict, also on Thistle Street, stocks a wide range of really unusual designer clothing and accessories that are both wearable and glamorous. From contemporary evening wear and associated accessories through to casual jeans and edgy tops, Verdict was named by style guru Caryn Franklin as one of the top ten independents in Scotland.
For stylish, classic designs Kafka, just around the corner in Alford Place, has the latest from Armani, Burberry and Prada, while Kafka for men can be found on Rosemount Viaduct.
Aberdeen's up and coming area, The Green, is home to a range of first class bistros and fine dining, and a number of trendsetting shops have also opened in the area, including Coco Violet, designs for the cool and trendy. It houses an eclectic collection of fashion for the woman that wants to stand out from the crowd, with stunning items you won’t find anywhere else in Aberdeen, let alone the UK. For shoes with a difference take a look at Fenner and Coburn at Netherkirkgate with an impressive collection of distinctive designs.
Meanwhile Zoomp, tucked away in Jopps Lane behind John Lewis, has a wide range of clothing covering everyday casual to Jimmy Choo and Matthew Williamson.
If it‘s a retro feel you’re after, head to The Closet in Jopps Lane for quirky, vintage retro – an Aladdin’s cave of retro finds and one off pieces , or nearby Retrospect, which was recently featured in Vogue magazine, while Vintage Phoenix in Chattan Place will tailor your finds to fit.
Jewellery, art and antiques
Aberdeen is not known as the Silver City for nothing – the sparkling granite buildings that make up much of the city are testament to that – however the city is also the home of some independent jewellers who can design that signature piece to celebrate a very special occasion.
Family-owned Finnies the jewellers, has Scotland’s largest stock of diamond jewellery – and biggest collection
of grandfather clocks. As well as over 26 watch brands, you’ll find unusual gifts including silver snooker chalk holders. Jamieson and Carry is another family firm, established in 1733. From pearls to pendants it’s a firm favourite with jewellery lovers. You can even commission a special piece to be individually designed and made in-house. Sandy Menzies Designer Jewellers present a constantly evolving range of contemporary jewellery. The design and production of commissioned pieces in precious metals and gemstones is also available, while George Kite on Holburn Street features a range of modern Scottish designers.
For antiques, head for the city’s West End, where you’ll find Elizabeth Watt on Thistle Street, specialising in ceramics, silver and jewellery while Rendezvous, on Forest Avenue, has great art deco finds as well as contemporary art. Thistle Antiques on Esslemont Avenue is the place to go for gorgeous antique mirrors and lamps, and Atholl Antiques on Great Western Road has quality furniture and paintings. For antique maps, go to Colin Wood on Rose Street, who carries a very fine range.
Gallery Heinzel specialises in contemporary Scottish art from its base in Aberdeen’s Thistle Street. The gallery hosts up to 10 exhibitions a year showcasing the work of established and emerging Scottish artists. The Carby Art Gallery, in a contemporary art space, offers a unique gallery experience. Resident artist Ian Carby, famed for his vibrant landscapes and shoreline scenes, exhibits alongside international and local artists with sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and photography
If you’re searching for that special gift that’s a little bit different from the run of the mill, Nova on Chapel Street has long been a favourite with Aberdonians. Its comprehensive gift selection ranges from the cool and funky to the classic while Annie Mo’s, on Holburn Street and the bottom end of Union Street, also stocks an unusual range of gifts along with some beautiful furniture.
Markets
Aberdeen's Country Fair is a monthly market with over 30 stalls of fresh farm produce, local crafts, home-baking, food and drink. The main market takes place on the last Saturday of every month and there's a smaller weekly version every Saturday at the Academy Shopping Centre. One of the largest markets in Scotland, it provides local farmers and crafters the opportunity to showcase their quality home-grown and handcrafted products. A typical Aberdeen Country Fair will feature everything from Aberdeen Angus beef, fish landed at Aberdeen and Peterhead Harbours, local fruit and vegetables, baking, cheeses, confectionary, Scottish whisky, wines and handmade
crafts.
Three or four times throughout the year, and in the weeks leading up to Christmas, you‘ll find Aberdeen’s popular International Market, one of the largest and most successful of its kind. The annual three-day event offers a wide range of European and British foods with 70 stalls including fresh French fruit and vegetables, French, Dutch, Scottish and English cheeses, hams from Spain, biscuits from Brittany, and a variety of French breads. You’ll also find an array of fine textiles, accessories, and arts and crafts on offer.
Shopping in the Shire
You don’t always need to visit the City for shopping, as Aberdeenshire also has a great range of shops. Quirky craft shops abound, and there are a number of stylish clothes shops that are well worth a visit. In Inverurie try Altro Designer Wear on North Street for D&G, Versace, Armani, Guess, Hugo Boss, and G-star. B’s Knees Too (and original B’s Knees in Oldmeldrum) carries a fabulous range of clothing and accessories from casual wear to exclusive evening wear and a wide range of bags, shoes and jewellery. A branch of Attic has recently opened in the town too.
Thirty minutes drive from Aberdeen City centre, Royal Deeside is a treasure trove of galleries, craft shops and exclusive outlets, many of them with Royal Warrants.
The royal village of Ballater has a good selection of individual shops and boutiques, many carrying the Royal seal of approval. There are a few surprises too, such as the Chocolate Box, which also sells Lulu Guinness handbags, and Foxy for an eclectic range of clothes, jewellery and furniture.
Future developments
Aberdeen will see huge changes in the next few years as part of the Bon-Accord Quarter Masterplan which will completely redevelop the city centre around the Bon Accord St Nicholas Shopping Centre, Marischal College and St Nicholas House. This will involve building a second floor on the single-storey St Nicholas Centre and then connecting it to the Bon Accord Centre via an enclosed bridge across Schoolhill. Further phases of the Bon Accord Quarter scheme will see the total retail space expand to in excess of 1million sq ft. The plans include a glass walkway to connect the Bon Accord St Nicholas centres and an improved link to the John Lewis department store, which will form an anchor at the far end of the shopping mall, with Marks and Spencer at the Union Street end. The scheme is expected to be completed by 2010.
The Bon Accord Centre will also see a new entrance being built at Gallowgate with another wing added to house more retail units. This is currently under construction and is due for completion next year, and will include a huge new Next, the largest in Scotland.
A new retail centre on the corner of Market Street/Union Street is also proposed. This will refurbish and reconfigure existing properties, including Aberdeen’s Indoor Market, to create modern retail space and it will also provide improved access to the historic Green area of the city.
Due to be completed in 2009, the Union Square project will provide Scotland's second-largest shopping centre, complete with a multiplex cinema and links to a new transport hub at the nearby Aberdeen railway station and the Guild Street bus station.
The new developments are expected to bring a number of new stores to the city and will confirm Aberdeen’s position as the premier shopping centre in the North of Scotland.
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
From designer boutiques to a host of high street names, you’ll find all the labels and top quality outlets you’d expect from a major city.
The city has for centuries been the main shopping destination for a huge catchment area, and a popular destination for European shoppers taking a weekend break. With its striking skyline, historical old town and impressive granite buildings this is a prosperous, cosmopolitan city.
The great range of excellent shopping centres ensures that you’ll always be able to find exactly what you're looking for and if it’s something more exclusive or a little quirky that you’re after, one of Aberdeen's independent retailers will be able to provide that too.
At a mile long, Aberdeen’s Union Street is Britain’s longest high street and is jam packed with a host of household names and high street favourites. At the upper end you'll find the newly opened Hugo Boss, G -Star Raw and Cruise, along with premium stores like Jaeger and Jones the Bootmaker.
Cruise, which opened in the autumn of 2007, is one of the UK’s leading independent luxury retailers with a fantastic reputation not only for designer brands, but as a showcase for fresh cutting edge fashion. Brands currently available at Cruise include Gucci, Prada, Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, Dior, Hugo Boss, Paul Smith, Vivienne Westwood, Fendi, Chloe and Jimmy Choo to name a few.
At the bottom end of Union Street, just before it meets the historic Castlegate, is The Bon Accord St Nicholas Shopping Centre.
Right in the heart of the city it has a fabulous range of stores and is the prime retailing area in Aberdeen. The biggest shopping centre in the city, it is split into two buildings and has three floors extending to 630,000 sq ft over two levels. Built in a serpentine shape to maximise shop unit frontage, it is covered by a barrel vaulted glazed roof with a 90-ft high glazed dome.
Flagship stores include New Look and Monsoon, one of the largest in Scotland, a large Boots and Woolworths and shops such as The Body Shop, River Island, Miss Selfridge, Dorothy Perkins, Ortak and Oasis. A new Costa Coffee will revive the most weary shopper, while the restaurants within the Upper Mall, John Lewis and Marks and Spencer, located at either end of the Centre, remain a poplar rendezvous for a casual lunch and a catch-up with friends. And of course, there’s a Starbucks, with an outdoor sitting area, if you fancy a spot of cafe culture.
Just across from the city’s Union Terrace Gardens, The Mall Trinity is a great, one floor shopping centre with around 27 stores including Debenhams, Argos Extra, T-Mobile, HMV, Superdrug, Waterstones and a large Primark.
Cobbled Belmont Street, known for its trendy bars, cafes, and art house cinema, is also the location for The Academy shopping centre. Surrounding an Italianate style piazza, it has an excellent range of upmarket brands and individual shops, coffee shops, bars and restaurants, and the open-air piazza is often a focus for live entertainment throughout the summer months. Here the style conscious will find independent shops such as Attic, AB10 and Concept, which specialises in casual designer-ware for men. A true style leader in Aberdeen, Attic is constantly introducing new collections including U.A.R.M, Green Apple Tree and Six Pack. AB10 has everything from footwear to accessories, with many main stream brands including G-Star, Ted Baker, Miss Sixty, Replay, Firetrap and Gio-Goi.
Nicknamed ‘Little Chelsea’, the Thistle Street area of the city is the acknowledged style quarter of Aberdeen with a range of independent shops stocking everything from clothes, shoes and accessories, in addition to gift shops, delicatessens, French bakers, florists and art galleries. Bellino and Hamish Munro both have excellent ranges of shoes by continental designers, and if you need a dress for a big night out, try Frox - with everything from funky to formal, it’s evening wear with attitude. Esslemonts and Esslemonts 2 stock a stylish choice of menswear and women’s fashion from leading brands such as Camel Active, Tommy Hilfiger, Remus, Hobbs and Turnover.
Verdict, also on Thistle Street, stocks a wide range of really unusual designer clothing and accessories that are both wearable and glamorous. From contemporary evening wear and associated accessories through to casual jeans and edgy tops, Verdict was named by style guru Caryn Franklin as one of the top ten independents in Scotland.
For stylish, classic designs Kafka, just around the corner in Alford Place, has the latest from Armani, Burberry and Prada, while Kafka for men can be found on Rosemount Viaduct.
Aberdeen's up and coming area, The Green, is home to a range of first class bistros and fine dining, and a number of trendsetting shops have also opened in the area, including Coco Violet, designs for the cool and trendy. It houses an eclectic collection of fashion for the woman that wants to stand out from the crowd, with stunning items you won’t find anywhere else in Aberdeen, let alone the UK. For shoes with a difference take a look at Fenner and Coburn at Netherkirkgate with an impressive collection of distinctive designs.
Meanwhile Zoomp, tucked away in Jopps Lane behind John Lewis, has a wide range of clothing covering everyday casual to Jimmy Choo and Matthew Williamson.
If it‘s a retro feel you’re after, head to The Closet in Jopps Lane for quirky, vintage retro – an Aladdin’s cave of retro finds and one off pieces , or nearby Retrospect, which was recently featured in Vogue magazine, while Vintage Phoenix in Chattan Place will tailor your finds to fit.
Jewellery, art and antiques
Aberdeen is not known as the Silver City for nothing – the sparkling granite buildings that make up much of the city are testament to that – however the city is also the home of some independent jewellers who can design that signature piece to celebrate a very special occasion.
Family-owned Finnies the jewellers, has Scotland’s largest stock of diamond jewellery – and biggest collection
of grandfather clocks. As well as over 26 watch brands, you’ll find unusual gifts including silver snooker chalk holders. Jamieson and Carry is another family firm, established in 1733. From pearls to pendants it’s a firm favourite with jewellery lovers. You can even commission a special piece to be individually designed and made in-house. Sandy Menzies Designer Jewellers present a constantly evolving range of contemporary jewellery. The design and production of commissioned pieces in precious metals and gemstones is also available, while George Kite on Holburn Street features a range of modern Scottish designers.
For antiques, head for the city’s West End, where you’ll find Elizabeth Watt on Thistle Street, specialising in ceramics, silver and jewellery while Rendezvous, on Forest Avenue, has great art deco finds as well as contemporary art. Thistle Antiques on Esslemont Avenue is the place to go for gorgeous antique mirrors and lamps, and Atholl Antiques on Great Western Road has quality furniture and paintings. For antique maps, go to Colin Wood on Rose Street, who carries a very fine range.
Gallery Heinzel specialises in contemporary Scottish art from its base in Aberdeen’s Thistle Street. The gallery hosts up to 10 exhibitions a year showcasing the work of established and emerging Scottish artists. The Carby Art Gallery, in a contemporary art space, offers a unique gallery experience. Resident artist Ian Carby, famed for his vibrant landscapes and shoreline scenes, exhibits alongside international and local artists with sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and photography
If you’re searching for that special gift that’s a little bit different from the run of the mill, Nova on Chapel Street has long been a favourite with Aberdonians. Its comprehensive gift selection ranges from the cool and funky to the classic while Annie Mo’s, on Holburn Street and the bottom end of Union Street, also stocks an unusual range of gifts along with some beautiful furniture.
Markets
Aberdeen's Country Fair is a monthly market with over 30 stalls of fresh farm produce, local crafts, home-baking, food and drink. The main market takes place on the last Saturday of every month and there's a smaller weekly version every Saturday at the Academy Shopping Centre. One of the largest markets in Scotland, it provides local farmers and crafters the opportunity to showcase their quality home-grown and handcrafted products. A typical Aberdeen Country Fair will feature everything from Aberdeen Angus beef, fish landed at Aberdeen and Peterhead Harbours, local fruit and vegetables, baking, cheeses, confectionary, Scottish whisky, wines and handmade
crafts.
Three or four times throughout the year, and in the weeks leading up to Christmas, you‘ll find Aberdeen’s popular International Market, one of the largest and most successful of its kind. The annual three-day event offers a wide range of European and British foods with 70 stalls including fresh French fruit and vegetables, French, Dutch, Scottish and English cheeses, hams from Spain, biscuits from Brittany, and a variety of French breads. You’ll also find an array of fine textiles, accessories, and arts and crafts on offer.
Shopping in the Shire
You don’t always need to visit the City for shopping, as Aberdeenshire also has a great range of shops. Quirky craft shops abound, and there are a number of stylish clothes shops that are well worth a visit. In Inverurie try Altro Designer Wear on North Street for D&G, Versace, Armani, Guess, Hugo Boss, and G-star. B’s Knees Too (and original B’s Knees in Oldmeldrum) carries a fabulous range of clothing and accessories from casual wear to exclusive evening wear and a wide range of bags, shoes and jewellery. A branch of Attic has recently opened in the town too.
Thirty minutes drive from Aberdeen City centre, Royal Deeside is a treasure trove of galleries, craft shops and exclusive outlets, many of them with Royal Warrants.
The royal village of Ballater has a good selection of individual shops and boutiques, many carrying the Royal seal of approval. There are a few surprises too, such as the Chocolate Box, which also sells Lulu Guinness handbags, and Foxy for an eclectic range of clothes, jewellery and furniture.
Future developments
Aberdeen will see huge changes in the next few years as part of the Bon-Accord Quarter Masterplan which will completely redevelop the city centre around the Bon Accord St Nicholas Shopping Centre, Marischal College and St Nicholas House. This will involve building a second floor on the single-storey St Nicholas Centre and then connecting it to the Bon Accord Centre via an enclosed bridge across Schoolhill. Further phases of the Bon Accord Quarter scheme will see the total retail space expand to in excess of 1million sq ft. The plans include a glass walkway to connect the Bon Accord St Nicholas centres and an improved link to the John Lewis department store, which will form an anchor at the far end of the shopping mall, with Marks and Spencer at the Union Street end. The scheme is expected to be completed by 2010.
The Bon Accord Centre will also see a new entrance being built at Gallowgate with another wing added to house more retail units. This is currently under construction and is due for completion next year, and will include a huge new Next, the largest in Scotland.
A new retail centre on the corner of Market Street/Union Street is also proposed. This will refurbish and reconfigure existing properties, including Aberdeen’s Indoor Market, to create modern retail space and it will also provide improved access to the historic Green area of the city.
Due to be completed in 2009, the Union Square project will provide Scotland's second-largest shopping centre, complete with a multiplex cinema and links to a new transport hub at the nearby Aberdeen railway station and the Guild Street bus station.
The new developments are expected to bring a number of new stores to the city and will confirm Aberdeen’s position as the premier shopping centre in the North of Scotland.
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
aberdeen american news
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire’s buoyant local economy is continuing to grow despite the credit crunch hitting the rest of the UK. Figures from Aberdeen’s John Lewis store show that sales are generally ahead on like for like sales, compared with the same period last year.
Gavin Gourlay, merchandising manager for the store in the city’s Bon Accord Centre said: "There is no sign of a slowdown in footfall or sales. In particular we’ve had extremely good sales on beauty products and designer hand-bags, up ten per cent, while this week’s mini-heatwave has caused a 167 per cent rise in sales of designer sunglasses." Homes and furnishings are also doing well, up six per cent, while the sale of TVs has risen by 24 per cent.
"Visitors are certainly still spending," said Frank Sutherland, manager of Aberdeen’s Bon Accord and St Nicholas Centres, the region’s shopping hub. "In general we have not seen any decline at all. Aberdeen is continuing to buck the national trend. Retailers are generally doing well on the level of sales per head.”
Average weekly earnings in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire are well above the national average (£481, Scotland - £432, GB £448.6), and well-heeled Aberdonians have amongst the highest disposable income in the UK, with 70 per of the Aberdeen’s core catchment spending well above the Scottish average in a number of key categories. More than half of the region’s spenders are ABs and C1s, compared with the Scottish average of round 45 %, and within this group the number of high spenders is almost double the Scottish average (11% versus 6%).(Sources: Behind the Granite, Aberdeen City Key Facts 2007/8; NSLSP 2006, CES).
"Aberdeen City and Shire does have its own economic climate, to a certain extent," said Louise Scott, head of corporate communications at Aberdeen City Council , who is leading Aberdeen City and Shire’s regional identity campaign. "Our vibrant business community is of course, fuelled by the buoyant oil industry. However, the region is also the primary producer for Scotland’s food and drink industry, we have the highest concentration of life science companies in Europe and are also very strong on research and development, led by our world-class universities."
The high disposable income enjoyed by many in the region means that despite the credit crunch, Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire are currently on the brink of something of a retail renaissance. The recent arrival on Union Street of Cruise/Boss, G-Star Raw and High and Mighty, have all raised the bar and given
a boost to the area - a welcome development for the Aberdeen’s many fashionistas who in the past had to take trips to other cities to get their retail fix.
There are also a number of new retail opportunities opening in the next few years in Aberdeen with the new Union Square development and further phases of the Bon Accord Quarter scheme which will see a dramatic increase in the total retail space.
The regeneration of the historic Green area of the city is also continuing. A number of new hotel developments are in the pipeline for Aberdeen city centre, including a 107 bedroom hotel which will also be the centrepiece of the £30 million City Wharf development near Union Street. And in the West End, £7 million is being spent refurbishing a hotel into a cutting-edge Malmaison.
Meanwhile around £30 million could be spent on two new hotels’ near Aberdeen’s airport. The international Hilton chain proposes a 175-room Hilton Garden Inn at Dyce, and the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Scotland is also planned.
Despite the wealth within the region however, it seems to be the simpler things in life that are the attraction for the many families moving to the area.
Aberdeenshire recently come out top in Scotland for quality of life, according to Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS) research.
A range of factors in the local authority were measured, and the low levels of crime and traffic coupled with high employment meant it was the only Scottish local authority in Scotland to make the list. Aberdeenshire also boasts healthy residents, high life expectancies and larger than average houses.
Aberdeenshire also topped the HBOS quality of life list in education, boasting the smallest class sizes in the UK. The state and private school sectors in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire all perform consistently highly in the league tables throughout Scotland, with both state and private schools appearing in the Top 10, ranked according to examination achievements.
"The perfect work/life balance is the holy grail of modern times," said Jim Knowles, head of economic development at Aberdeenshire Council. "The out-door lifestyle of the region is cited most often as a deciding factor by people who choose to stay on here, often following a corporate move from elsewhere in the UK or overseas. However we are also fortunate that we have a robust local economy that can withstand much of the current economic uncertainty."
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Gavin Gourlay, merchandising manager for the store in the city’s Bon Accord Centre said: "There is no sign of a slowdown in footfall or sales. In particular we’ve had extremely good sales on beauty products and designer hand-bags, up ten per cent, while this week’s mini-heatwave has caused a 167 per cent rise in sales of designer sunglasses." Homes and furnishings are also doing well, up six per cent, while the sale of TVs has risen by 24 per cent.
"Visitors are certainly still spending," said Frank Sutherland, manager of Aberdeen’s Bon Accord and St Nicholas Centres, the region’s shopping hub. "In general we have not seen any decline at all. Aberdeen is continuing to buck the national trend. Retailers are generally doing well on the level of sales per head.”
Average weekly earnings in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire are well above the national average (£481, Scotland - £432, GB £448.6), and well-heeled Aberdonians have amongst the highest disposable income in the UK, with 70 per of the Aberdeen’s core catchment spending well above the Scottish average in a number of key categories. More than half of the region’s spenders are ABs and C1s, compared with the Scottish average of round 45 %, and within this group the number of high spenders is almost double the Scottish average (11% versus 6%).(Sources: Behind the Granite, Aberdeen City Key Facts 2007/8; NSLSP 2006, CES).
"Aberdeen City and Shire does have its own economic climate, to a certain extent," said Louise Scott, head of corporate communications at Aberdeen City Council , who is leading Aberdeen City and Shire’s regional identity campaign. "Our vibrant business community is of course, fuelled by the buoyant oil industry. However, the region is also the primary producer for Scotland’s food and drink industry, we have the highest concentration of life science companies in Europe and are also very strong on research and development, led by our world-class universities."
The high disposable income enjoyed by many in the region means that despite the credit crunch, Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire are currently on the brink of something of a retail renaissance. The recent arrival on Union Street of Cruise/Boss, G-Star Raw and High and Mighty, have all raised the bar and given
a boost to the area - a welcome development for the Aberdeen’s many fashionistas who in the past had to take trips to other cities to get their retail fix.
There are also a number of new retail opportunities opening in the next few years in Aberdeen with the new Union Square development and further phases of the Bon Accord Quarter scheme which will see a dramatic increase in the total retail space.
The regeneration of the historic Green area of the city is also continuing. A number of new hotel developments are in the pipeline for Aberdeen city centre, including a 107 bedroom hotel which will also be the centrepiece of the £30 million City Wharf development near Union Street. And in the West End, £7 million is being spent refurbishing a hotel into a cutting-edge Malmaison.
Meanwhile around £30 million could be spent on two new hotels’ near Aberdeen’s airport. The international Hilton chain proposes a 175-room Hilton Garden Inn at Dyce, and the first Courtyard by Marriott hotel in Scotland is also planned.
Despite the wealth within the region however, it seems to be the simpler things in life that are the attraction for the many families moving to the area.
Aberdeenshire recently come out top in Scotland for quality of life, according to Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS) research.
A range of factors in the local authority were measured, and the low levels of crime and traffic coupled with high employment meant it was the only Scottish local authority in Scotland to make the list. Aberdeenshire also boasts healthy residents, high life expectancies and larger than average houses.
Aberdeenshire also topped the HBOS quality of life list in education, boasting the smallest class sizes in the UK. The state and private school sectors in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire all perform consistently highly in the league tables throughout Scotland, with both state and private schools appearing in the Top 10, ranked according to examination achievements.
"The perfect work/life balance is the holy grail of modern times," said Jim Knowles, head of economic development at Aberdeenshire Council. "The out-door lifestyle of the region is cited most often as a deciding factor by people who choose to stay on here, often following a corporate move from elsewhere in the UK or overseas. However we are also fortunate that we have a robust local economy that can withstand much of the current economic uncertainty."
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Thursday, February 10, 2011
aberdeen gordon robert university
A campaign to encourage the people of Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire to make the most of their weekends by taking part in more activities and outdoor pursuits has been launched by the Aberdeen City and Shire Regional Identity team.
Under the slogan ‘Don’t Lose Your Weekend, Use your Weekend,’ the campaign will highlight the range of leisure facilities and attractions available within Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire.
Speaking at the official launch of the campaign which took place today (November 24) at Aberdeen Snowsports Centre, former Miss Scotland Nicola Jolly and local entrepreneur Garreth Wood pledged their support for the initiative.
Garreth Wood, director of the Signature pubs group, is a former junior champion cyclist, racing for Scotland with the Deeside Cycling Club. Garreth still cycles, regularly plays golf, is a keen skiier and particularly enjoys adventure based sports such as climbing and abseiling. “I love being outdoors, and enjoy just getting out of the house, whether it’s a hill walk or just to walk the dog. It’s so easy to take up a sport within the region, and there is the added bonus that we have such beautiful countryside as a backdrop.”
Nicola Jolly, now a TV presenter and model says she has always been keen to stay fit, particularly if there was a chance to be outdoors. “As a child I was horse-riding mad and still ride whenever I can. Enjoying the outdoors is not only important from a health point of view and to keep in shape, but also for its positive mental health benefits as it’s a great mood enhancer.”
Fronting the
campaign will be the new Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire mascot – Deen. In the form of a six inch high flexible blue man, he gets his name from the nickname - The Deen - used by locals to refer to the city. Deen will be used to highlight some of the activities that can be enjoyed in Aberdeen City and Shire.
“It’s a waste to stay indoors in front of a TV or computer screen when we live in this wonderful environment with a fantastic array of activities on our doorstep, many of them absolutely free,” said Emma Watt, brand manager for Aberdeen City and Shire. “You can bag a few munros, go mountain-biking, kayaking or sailing, climbing, surfing, wind-surfing, and even kite surfing too.
“Indoors there are a range of indoor sport centres which cater for everything from climbing, swimming, gym and racquet sports to bmx-ing and skateboarding at Transition Extreme, Aberdeen’s award-winning extreme sports centre.
“We are also one of the few places in the UK where you can easily take part in snow sports in the winter, when conditions allow - and when they don’t, we have Aberdeen Snowsports Centre to brush up your boarding and skiing techniques.
“There is also world class golf, with no fewer than 50 courses throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, and another three planned to open within the next few years, and no fewer than 45 outstanding parks and gardens to visit so you should never be short of somewhere to go for a picnic, or to kick a ball about.”
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Under the slogan ‘Don’t Lose Your Weekend, Use your Weekend,’ the campaign will highlight the range of leisure facilities and attractions available within Aberdeen city and Aberdeenshire.
Speaking at the official launch of the campaign which took place today (November 24) at Aberdeen Snowsports Centre, former Miss Scotland Nicola Jolly and local entrepreneur Garreth Wood pledged their support for the initiative.
Garreth Wood, director of the Signature pubs group, is a former junior champion cyclist, racing for Scotland with the Deeside Cycling Club. Garreth still cycles, regularly plays golf, is a keen skiier and particularly enjoys adventure based sports such as climbing and abseiling. “I love being outdoors, and enjoy just getting out of the house, whether it’s a hill walk or just to walk the dog. It’s so easy to take up a sport within the region, and there is the added bonus that we have such beautiful countryside as a backdrop.”
Nicola Jolly, now a TV presenter and model says she has always been keen to stay fit, particularly if there was a chance to be outdoors. “As a child I was horse-riding mad and still ride whenever I can. Enjoying the outdoors is not only important from a health point of view and to keep in shape, but also for its positive mental health benefits as it’s a great mood enhancer.”
Fronting the
campaign will be the new Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire mascot – Deen. In the form of a six inch high flexible blue man, he gets his name from the nickname - The Deen - used by locals to refer to the city. Deen will be used to highlight some of the activities that can be enjoyed in Aberdeen City and Shire.
“It’s a waste to stay indoors in front of a TV or computer screen when we live in this wonderful environment with a fantastic array of activities on our doorstep, many of them absolutely free,” said Emma Watt, brand manager for Aberdeen City and Shire. “You can bag a few munros, go mountain-biking, kayaking or sailing, climbing, surfing, wind-surfing, and even kite surfing too.
“Indoors there are a range of indoor sport centres which cater for everything from climbing, swimming, gym and racquet sports to bmx-ing and skateboarding at Transition Extreme, Aberdeen’s award-winning extreme sports centre.
“We are also one of the few places in the UK where you can easily take part in snow sports in the winter, when conditions allow - and when they don’t, we have Aberdeen Snowsports Centre to brush up your boarding and skiing techniques.
“There is also world class golf, with no fewer than 50 courses throughout Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire, and another three planned to open within the next few years, and no fewer than 45 outstanding parks and gardens to visit so you should never be short of somewhere to go for a picnic, or to kick a ball about.”
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Saturday, February 5, 2011
northern state university aberdeen
Aberdeen City and Shire will position itself as the new mecca for global golf tourism at Visitexpo 09, building on the news that three championship golf courses are to go ahead and supported by a hotel boom in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire which will see a range of luxury and tourist-category hotels open in the next few years.
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire’s bedroom accommodation will increase by around 25 per cent this year alone, thanks to the development of hotels in and around Aberdeen city. The additional hotel occupancy opening this year will support a wide variety of themed events celebrating the year of Homecoming across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire throughout 2009, culminating in a North-East Clan Fortnight, which will coincide with The Gathering in Edinburgh from July 18 to August 3.
Trump International Golf Links Scotland has started work on transforming the Menie estate, on the Aberdeenshire coast, into what Donald Trump has promised will be “the world’s greatest golf course.” The £1billion golf resort will comprise two golf courses, a 450-room 5-star hotel, a conference centre, 36 golf villas and 950 holiday homes.
Also in Aberdeenshire plans are going ahead for a £115m golf resort, with a hotel and conference centre and championship course designed by former
open champion Paul Lawrie, while a £40m development at Ury Estates will be the home of a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and luxury hotel.
The ambitious new developments, totalling 757 rooms in the city, and a further 700 rooms in Aberdeenshire, will all come on stream in the next few years, adding substantially to hotel stock in Aberdeen City and Shire.
Highlights of Homecoming in Aberdeen City and Shire include a March of the Clans at Aboyne Highland Games; Scotland’s biggest two-day event, The Turriff Show; evening entertainments featuring plays and ceilidhs; and the National Trust for Scotland’s North East Clan Ball at Haddo House. There’ll also be the opportunity to learn more about the history of the region, take a blue guide tour, and delve in to the archives at the Family History Centre.
A series of heritage fairs will take place across the region to promote the wealth of culture to be found in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. Also continuing the Homecoming theme will be the annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival in Portsoy in July, while the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh will raise awareness of the Scottish influence in lighthouse design.
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire’s bedroom accommodation will increase by around 25 per cent this year alone, thanks to the development of hotels in and around Aberdeen city. The additional hotel occupancy opening this year will support a wide variety of themed events celebrating the year of Homecoming across Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire throughout 2009, culminating in a North-East Clan Fortnight, which will coincide with The Gathering in Edinburgh from July 18 to August 3.
Trump International Golf Links Scotland has started work on transforming the Menie estate, on the Aberdeenshire coast, into what Donald Trump has promised will be “the world’s greatest golf course.” The £1billion golf resort will comprise two golf courses, a 450-room 5-star hotel, a conference centre, 36 golf villas and 950 holiday homes.
Also in Aberdeenshire plans are going ahead for a £115m golf resort, with a hotel and conference centre and championship course designed by former
open champion Paul Lawrie, while a £40m development at Ury Estates will be the home of a Jack Nicklaus signature golf course and luxury hotel.
The ambitious new developments, totalling 757 rooms in the city, and a further 700 rooms in Aberdeenshire, will all come on stream in the next few years, adding substantially to hotel stock in Aberdeen City and Shire.
Highlights of Homecoming in Aberdeen City and Shire include a March of the Clans at Aboyne Highland Games; Scotland’s biggest two-day event, The Turriff Show; evening entertainments featuring plays and ceilidhs; and the National Trust for Scotland’s North East Clan Ball at Haddo House. There’ll also be the opportunity to learn more about the history of the region, take a blue guide tour, and delve in to the archives at the Family History Centre.
A series of heritage fairs will take place across the region to promote the wealth of culture to be found in Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. Also continuing the Homecoming theme will be the annual Scottish Traditional Boat Festival in Portsoy in July, while the Museum of Scottish Lighthouses in Fraserburgh will raise awareness of the Scottish influence in lighthouse design.
To find out more about Aberdeen City and Shire visit:
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