Free things to do with the family over the festive break in Aberdeen
We have put together a list of ideas for fun with the family
Last updated 21st Dec 2018
As the festive season descends, the excitement and planning fill your head. But when the last present has been unwrapped, and there aren’t any chocolates left in the tub (apart from the toffee ones which nobody wants), your thoughts turn to the rest of the festive period…and how to spend it.
It’s the priciest time of year, and if you want to enjoy your time off with friends and family, it can become even more expensive when enjoying various activities together. If you have children, then you are likely to have even greater need to get out and about and keep everyone amused. How on earth do you do this when your wallet is as empty as Santa’s sack on Christmas morning?
We have put together a list of ideas for fun in Aberdeen, and every single one is free so if you need to break up the holidays with some frugal fun, read on.
Hazelhead Park
Hazelhead is a particular favourite for families with young children but has a great deal to offer everyone. With lots of lovely woodland to explore, it is great for a wintery walk, and there are football pitches, a formal golf course and a maze to play in. A large children's adventure play area makes it a top attraction whatever the weather.
If the thought of two frosty weeks with those hard-to-please companions is weighing on you, and your wallet, just try a few of the above and you might just find your holidays pass with more magic than you expect
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Aberdeen is well-known for its oil industry, however its earlier trade was fishing. In fact, Aberdeen's harbour is one of the oldest in the world. This museum follows that evolution from small fishing village to oil giant.
Aberdeen Beach
What better way to walk off that turkey, not to mention the truckload of mince pies, than with a walk along Aberdeen Beach? If the family are getting a bit stir crazy and cranky, it is a real tonic to get fresh air in the lungs. With two miles of beautiful beach, even the crankiest family member should be in better spirits.
Duthie Park
Duthie Park is a vast 44-acre site and has been a public park since 1883. It is an ideal destination in the winter as its close to the city centre, so no need for long snowy car rides.
Prepare to be spoilt by lovely open spaces, flanked by beautiful flowers and trees. There is the added interest of the wetland area and statues of historical figures. A modern attraction however is Spike – The Talking Cactus, a quirky interactive attraction in the Winter Gardens.
The Christmas Village in Aberdeen
Aberdeen’s Christmas Village will be doling out the cheer until December 31st, so for the first week of the holidays, you can still pop down there and enjoy the continued celebrations. Of course, there are many things to do which cost money, but it is free to just meander and soak up the atmosphere, watch the ice skating, browse the crafts and more. Even if you do stop for a hot chocolate and a snack, it will still be far thriftier than a day out at most places, and you would be surprised how quickly time will fly, and even more surprised that your family will be enjoying it too.
Malcolm’s Way
A bit of a wildcard, Malcolm’s Way is just an ordinary suburban street in Stonehaven. However, its extraordinary residents have created a magical display of festivity. The lights and decorations ornamenting the street can rival some of the official displays, but the most special thing of all is the spirit behind it. These local residents are fundraising for a wheelchair-accessible playground for local children. Ok, so perhaps this isn’t an entirely free thing to do, as it is a fundraising initiative, however, it will still be far cheaper than a family bowling trip, and it will probably feel a lot nicer.
Make sure you wrap up warm if you're going out to enjoy some of this free fun over the festive period!