An overview of: Aberdeen

Where is Aberdeen?
About the region
Transportation
Living in the area
Schooling
Leisure
Healthcare
Relocation support

Where is Aberdeen?

Aberdeen is a city located in the northeast of Scotland, United Kingdom. It sits on the eastern coast of Scotland, along the North Sea.

As one of Scotland’s major cities, Aberdeen is an important economic hub, known for its oil and gas industry, as well as its port and fishing activities.

The city also has a rich history, with various landmarks and historical sites to explore, making it an attractive destination for tourists and residents alike.

About the region

Aberdeen is situated in the Northeast region of Scotland, a picturesque area characterised by its coastal location along the North Sea.

This diverse region includes the city of Aberdeen, known for its vibrant economy driven by the oil and gas industry and bustling port activities. Surrounding the city is Aberdeenshire, a county with charming towns, historic castles, and fertile farmland, offering a mix of coastal and rural landscapes. The Northeast’s rugged North Sea coastline provides stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities. History enthusiasts can explore ancient castles like Dunnottar Castle, and whisky lovers can visit distilleries in the area. The region is also close to the scenic Cairngorms National Park, known for outdoor adventures. Throughout the year, festivals and events celebrate local culture and traditions, making the Northeast of Scotland an appealing destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Transportation

Aberdeen has a well-developed transportation network, providing various options for travel by car, rail, air, and public transport.

Car: Aberdeen is well-connected to the rest of Scotland and the UK by road. The city is accessible via the A90 dual carriageway, which connects Aberdeen to the cities of Dundee, Edinburgh, and beyond to the south. The A96 connects Aberdeen to Inverness and the Highlands to the west.

Rail: Aberdeen is served by Aberdeen railway station, which offers regular train services to major cities across Scotland, including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness, and Dundee. The city is connected to the national rail network, making it easy to access other parts of the UK by train.

Air: Aberdeen International Airport (ABZ) is the main airport serving the city. It offers a range of domestic and international flights to destinations in the UK, Europe, and beyond. The airport connects Aberdeen to major cities like London, Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin, making air travel convenient for both business and leisure purposes.

Public Transport: Within the city, Aberdeen has an extensive public transport network, operated mainly by bus services. Local buses run throughout the city and its suburbs, providing frequent connections to various neighborhoods and surrounding areas. First Aberdeen is the main bus operator in the city.

Overall, Aberdeen’s transportation links make it easy for residents and visitors to travel both locally and to other parts of Scotland and beyond.

Living in the area

Aberdeen provides a diverse range of housing options to cater to various needs and budgets. The city’s housing market includes apartments and flats, offering convenient urban living in both the city center and surrounding areas. Additionally, there is a variety of houses available, such as terraced, semi-detached, and detached properties, catering to different lifestyles and family sizes. Aberdeen being a university city, it also offers plenty of student accommodation options. For those seeking luxury living, upscale apartments and houses with high-end amenities can be found in select areas.

As for the cost of living, Aberdeen’s overall expenses are influenced by factors like accommodation, transportation, food, and entertainment. While city centre living may be pricier, the cost of groceries and transportation remains very reasonable. The city’s well-developed public transport network and bike-friendly infrastructure contribute to manageable transportation costs.

Schooling

Aberdeen has a range of schools at both primary and secondary levels, offering quality education to its residents. Additionally, the city is home to a prominent university.

Primary and Secondary Schools: Aberdeen’s primary and secondary schools are part of the Scottish education system, which follows a broad and balanced curriculum designed to cater to students’ needs and interests. Some primary schools in the city include Mile End Primary School, Hazlehead Primary School, and Airyhall Primary School, among others. At the secondary level, schools like Aberdeen Grammar School, Cults Academy, and Harlaw Academy provide comprehensive education and a range of subjects for students. Additionally, Aberdeen offers a variety of independent (private) schools for parents seeking alternative educational options for their children.

University of Aberdeen: The University of Aberdeen is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK, founded in 1495. It is a research-intensive institution and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses across various disciplines. The university’s main campus is situated in Old Aberdeen, which is just a short distance from the city centre. It is a vibrant and diverse campus with state-of-the-art facilities, libraries, and student support services. The university has a strong commitment to research, and its academic staff contributes to significant advancements in various fields.

The University of Aberdeen provides a rich and rewarding academic experience, attracting students from around the world to study in this historic and culturally vibrant city.

Leisure

Aberdeen offers a diverse range of leisure activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

The city’s coastal location provides opportunities for relaxing walks along the sandy beaches or exploring the picturesque North Sea coastline. Outdoor enthusiasts can venture into nearby parks like Duthie Park, with its beautiful gardens and recreational spaces, or enjoy the scenic trails in the surrounding countryside. Golfers can indulge in the city’s many golf courses, some of which offer stunning views of the sea. Aberdeen’s cultural scene is vibrant, with art galleries, museums, and theaters hosting a variety of exhibitions and performances. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating music, food, and local heritage.

Additionally, shopping enthusiasts can explore the city centre’s retail districts, while dining establishments offer a diverse range of cuisines to satisfy all tastes.

With a blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and entertainment options, Aberdeen provides a well-rounded and enjoyable leisure experience for all.

Healthcare

Aberdeen Royal Infirmary (ARI) is a major hospital and healthcare facility located in Aberdeen, Scotland. It serves as one of the main hospitals within NHS Grampian, providing a wide range of medical services and specialised treatments to the local population and beyond. ARI is renowned for its excellent standards of care, medical expertise, and research contributions.

The hospital is one of the largest and most significant teaching hospitals in Scotland. It serves as a teaching and training centre for medical students and healthcare professionals, contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge and expertise.

ARI offers various medical specialities, including but not limited to cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics, neurology, paediatrics, and maternity services. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and the latest medical technologies to provide comprehensive and advanced care to patients.

In addition to its primary role in providing medical care, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary actively engages in research and clinical trials, contributing to advancements in medical science and improving patient outcomes.

As a prominent healthcare institution, Aberdeen Royal Infirmary plays a critical role in the region’s healthcare system, providing essential medical services to residents of Aberdeen and surrounding areas. Its dedicated staff of healthcare professionals, commitment to excellence in patient care, and ongoing contributions to medical research have solidified its reputation as a leading healthcare facility in Scotland.

Relocation support

How do Doctors Relocate assist with your relocation?

In addition to providing personalised career guidance, facilitating interviews and managing negotiations to secure the right job opportunity for each individual, we offer ongoing relocation support to our candidates, helping with practical matters such as accommodation arrangements, banking, and setting up other essential services.

Our dedicated team is readily available to address any concerns or queries that you have along the way, ensuring that you feel supported and confident throughout your relocation.

With our guidance, you can confidently navigate the relocation journey, focusing on your professional and personal growth in the UK.