10 cultural experiences you’ve got to have in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire with LNER

Embrace and experience Scottish art and culture in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as you visit fascinating art galleries, epic music venues, intimate event spaces, quirky hotels and attend year-round festivals and events! And all of this is within easy reach when you take London North Eastern Railway’s (LNER) direct train service to Aberdeen from cities across the UK including York, Newcastle and Edinburgh. Here are 10 culture and arts experiences you’ve got to have when you visit Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in 2020:

1. See 1,000 pieces of art in one place


Visit the recently reopened Aberdeen Art Gallery and explore exhibition spaces including the impressive sculpture court and the majestic Balmoral Room.

 2. Dine in front of a Picasso


How is this for an afternoon tea setting? You can also admire some of Queen Victoria’s original watercolour paintings at the charming Fife Arms.

3. Watch your favourite stars 


Watch your favourite musician, comedian or entertainer live in Aberdeen’s newest arts venue P&J Live. Announced acts for 2020 include Lewis Capaldi, Cirque Du Soleil and Elton John!

4. Go to a live jazz bar


Enjoy live and atmospheric jazz concerts in the intimate Jazz at the Blue Lamp – many world class jazz artists have even performed in this quirky jazz bar! 

5. Catch a West End show


Take in the grandeur of His Majesty’s Theatre as you enjoy live West End shows; the 2020 line up includes The Book of Mormon, Mamma Mia and Dreamgirls.

6. Tour colourful walls 


Attend Aberdeen’s street art festival, Nuart Aberdeen from 23-26 April 2020; or tour the vibrantly painted walls throughout the city centre at any time!

7. Experience local events


And it doesn’t stop at our colourful Nuart walls, attend events including Aberdeen Jazz Festival, Taste of Grampian, Scottish Traditional Boat Festival and famous Highland Games!

8. Visit a gallery in a castle


Duff House was once home to noted art collectors, today the Georgian mansion houses notable art works from the National Galleries of Scotland.

9. Be entertained all year long


In Aberdeen’s beloved Music Hall enjoy live music (David Bowie and famous Aberdonian, Emeli Sande, have played here) and entertainment ranging from classical concerts, pop music, and orchestras to famous comedians and dance!  

10. Craft a memory


Be inspired by your coastal surroundings at Vanilla Ink: The Smiddy as you craft your very own piece of jewellery and memory of your trip to Aberdeenshire.

For more information about cultural and arts activities and attractions in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire go to www.visitabdn.com/what-to-do/culture-and-arts. Book your LNER train direct into Aberdeen here.

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