Aberdeen Union Street Audio Tour: Walk, Listen & Discover

Summary

Union Street Walking Tour: History, Statues & Local Stories

If you want to explore Aberdeen without missing its hidden stories or main sights, this self-guided audio tour lets you set your own pace while learning from locals’ voices. It’s easy to use—even offline—and perfect for anyone who likes wandering with purpose but hates being herded around in big groups.

What’s the experience like?

Started my walk at Holburn Junction, where the city’s granite buildings catch the morning light in a way that makes everything look a bit silver. The air had that salty North Sea edge—hard to miss if you’re coming from inland. With my earbuds in and the VoiceMap app running, I just slipped my phone in my pocket and let the audio guide do its thing. It’s nice not having to stare at a screen or a map for once; the narration just kicked in as I walked past each spot.

Gilcomston Church was one of the first big stops. You can’t really miss it—the spire stands out above the shops and cafés. There was a local guy outside selling oatcakes from a little cart, which seemed about as Aberdeen as it gets. The guide shared some stories about the church’s role in the city, stuff I’d never have picked up on my own.

A bit further along, there’s this massive statue of William Wallace—he looks like he could step off that plinth any second. Our guide explained why he matters here (not just because of Braveheart), and you get a sense of how deep local pride runs. The traffic noise fades as you walk by St. Nicholas cemetery; if you’ve got time, it’s worth pausing to wander among those old stones. Some of them are so weathered you can barely make out the names.

The view over Union Terrace Gardens is one of those moments where you’ll want to stop and snap a photo—or just sit for five minutes if it isn’t raining (which, let’s be honest, it sometimes is). By now, I’d already heard more stories than I expected about Aberdeen’s history and people—turns out “The Granite City” nickname has layers.

The tour wraps up at Marischal College and then Market Cross—a proper finish with plenty of space to linger or grab a coffee nearby. The whole thing took me about an hour, but I paused here and there for photos and snacks. The best part? You can go at your own speed; nobody’s rushing you along.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Union Street Walking Tour

• The tour starts at Western End of Union Street
• Visit Gilcomston Church landmark
• See the Wallace statue
• Pass by St. Nicholas cemetery
• View Union Terrace Gardens
• Learn about 'the Granite City' icon
• Tour ends at Market Cross

Top questions

Is this Aberdeen audio tour suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The narration is clear and friendly for all ages—just bring headphones small enough for little ears if needed.

Can I take breaks or stop for coffee during the walk?

You sure can! Pause anytime—your place is saved in the app so you won’t miss anything when you’re ready to continue.

Do I need mobile data or WiFi during the tour?

Nope! Download everything before you start—the audio and maps work offline using GPS.

Is Union Street wheelchair accessible?

The route is mostly flat with only minor adjustments needed—wheelchairs and strollers are welcome along most of Union Street.

What’s included

Your ticket includes lifetime access to the full Union Street audio tour on VoiceMap, plus offline maps and directions so you don’t need WiFi while exploring. All ages welcome—just bring your own headphones!