A guide to Aberdeen’s nightlife

Looking for more information on life at Robert Gordon University and wondering what Aberdeen has to offer? With an ever-increasing student population and as the third-largest city in Scotland, explore this hidden gem as it comes to life at night.

Whether you enjoy a night at the comedy club, partying until the sun comes up or an evening of history, arts and culture; here is what you don’t want to miss:

  1. Breakneck Comedy

For those who enjoy an evening of laughter, you can head to Aberdeen’s first-ever dedicated comedy club.

Playing host to both local and international comedians, there will be something to suit your humour. Based in the city centre, the venue is open Thursday-Sunday until late and offers a selection of drinks behind the bar. For all budding stand-up comedians, the venue regularly holds new-act nights, giving you the opportunity to take to the stage and show your talent.

  1. Ma Camerons

If you enjoy heading out for a drink at the pub, why not throw some Scottish culture and history into the mix?

Known as Aberdeen’s oldest pub, Ma Cameron’s dates to 1746. Serving traditional Scottish food and drink, the charming pub lies in the heart of the city centre acting as popular hangout for locals and students. Appealing to a mixed crowd, you can join in with Monday-night quizzers, catch the latest games with sports fans or enjoy live music nights at the weekend.

  1. CASC

Calling all whisky lovers! Say hello to Scotland’s finest…

Offering more than 500 whiskies and a wide selection of craft beers, this late-night bar caters to all tastes. Priding themselves on their expert knowledge, the staff can also match a range of cigars to suit your tastes. Introducing draught beers regularly means that there is always something new for you to try. With its own shop available, you can also treat yourself by taking some favourites home with you.

  1. Krakatoa

If you’re looking to hit the live music scene, it doesn’t get more rock ‘n’ roll than this.

Claiming that ‘a city’s DNA is found in its dive bars, not its shiny new shopping malls’, the popular music venue regularly hosts live gigs from local and touring bands. Attracting a raucous crowd and promising unrestrained revelry, it is aptly named after a volcano recorded to have made the loudest sound in history. Aberdeen’s original Tiki Dive Bar, it specialises in beer, cider, absinthe and a special Tiki cocktail made to a recipe that’s 80 years old.

  1. The Lemon Tree

Are you a theatre lover but don’t want to spend a fortune?

Run by charitable trust Aberdeen Performing Arts, catch the latest on the scene by heading to this contemporary venue. Home to two different areas, you can attend live gigs in The Lounge or a more intimate show in The Studio. Prior to this, you can visit one of the two well-stocked bars for a pre-show drink. With a programme that celebrates up-and-coming talent, it presents tomorrow’s legends today by holding theatre productions, poetry nights and much more. Offering space to local groups, if you’re a budding director or event organiser, you may have just found your next venue to host in.

  1. The Tunnels 

If you want to know where the party’s at, welcome to Aberdeen’s biggest underground rave…

If you’re used to the same old when it comes to going out out, this club situated in two tunnels underneath the city offers something unique. With top DJs around the world spinning the latest tracks until late, prepare for a sleepless night. Hosting more than 100 events annually for up to 500 party-goers, this venue has recently undergone a huge revamp featuring a new sound system to immerse you further into the world of techno, house and much more.

With so many more options to choose from, Aberdeen is the city that just keeps on giving. With seasonal festivals that take place in the city centre throughout the year, your evening calendar will be even more jam-packed with exciting and unmissable events.

Never a dull moment, Aberdeen’s nightlife offers something for everyone and is just waiting for you to discover it.