Europe

Aberdeen, Scotland

A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Places to Run in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Ballater

Scotland’s third most populous city, Aberdeen is located on the north east coast of the United Kingdom, between the mouths of the Don and Dee Rivers. It’s known as the “Silver City by the Golden Sands” for its locally quarried granite buildings and gorgeous beaches. It’s a great spot to visit for its food, marine life, and sunny skies (at least by Scotland standards). There are excellent options for running in Aberdeen, from long distance rail trails to forest parks to treasures along the coast.

One of the best places to run in Aberdeen is the Esplanade path along Aberdeen City Beach, but the beaches to the north of the city, the beautiful Aberdeenshire Coastal Path, and a loop around Walker Park are also great seaside options. The long distance paths along the River Don, the River Dee, and the Formartine and Buchan Way likewise make great running routes. There are also plenty of parks and forests for running, including Hazlehead Park, Kincorth Hill, and Kirkhill Forest.

The public bus system around Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is the best way to get around, but the railway or a car may be useful for traveling longer distances. There are also taxis and plenty of paths for cycling – or running – wherever you need to go around the city.

Editor's Picks

Some of our favorite runs in Aberdeen, Scotland

Esplanade

The signature running option in Aberdeen is the Esplanade, a 3.7 km asphalt pathway stretching from the... more...

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Aberdeen’s climate is predictably Scottish — often cloudy and cool, although with less rainfall many would think. Summer temperatures top out in the 18C (64F) range, with occasional warmer spells. A layer is needed for the cool nights which dip to below 10C (50F). Owing to the maritime location, winter temperatures are warmer than Aberdeen latitude suggests, with high temperatures averaging 6C and lows dipping to just below freezing. Significant snowfall is rare. It can often be windy.

Most hotels in Aberdeen are located right downtown by Union Square/Aberdeen Station. There is another smattering of hotels around the airport, and some others scattered throughout the city. See visitabdn.com for lodging info.

Run4It is the top running store in Aberdeen.

There are also plenty of running clubs, including the Metro Aberdeen Running Club, the Garioch Road Runners, the Cosmic Hillbashers, and the Stonehaven Running Club.

Don’t miss Parkrun, a free timed 5k, that takes place on Saturdays at Hazlehead Park and the Esplanade.

Most of Aberdeen’s popular running events are 5 and 10 k races, but there are lots of fun themes and varied courses. See a list of upcoming races in Aberdeen at visitabdn.com.