Shopping

From independent boutiques in the city to artisan gift shops in Royal Deeside, discover a wealth of distinctive shopping across the region.

Jump to another category...

Union Street and shopping centres

To start your shopping journey in Aberdeen, use Union Street as a base. From here you can enter most of the major shopping centres whilst also having access to the Belmont Quarter, Rosemount and the West End.

Union Square, conveniently attached to the city's train and bus stations, is home to more than 50 shops and restaurants including Apple, Zara, The North Face, Jo Malone, H&M, and Mango alongside a 10-screen cinema and plenty options for a bite to eat.

The Bon Accord Centre brings together high street staples like Boots, Next and New Look with local independents such as Curated Aberdeen, Forbes Gallery & Gifts, and Edit.

The nearby Trinity Centre rounds out the city-centre picture with the likes of Primark, the Works, Lovisa and HMV.

DSC05842 1200x800

The Belmont Quarter

Just off Union Street, the cobbled streets of the Belmont Quarter offer Aberdeen's most concentrated pocket of independent shopping. This area is where historic architecture meets a vibrant cafe and boutique culture.

Juniper on Belmont Street is one of the area's standout destinations, a beautifully curated homeware and gift shop stocking Scottish-inspired pieces, jewellery and lifestyle goods.

Luxury jeweller Jamieson & Carry has been a fixture of the quarter for generations, while Oliver Bonas and White Stuff add a contemporary lifestyle dimension. For Music lovers, Assai Records on the Back Wynd hosts a wide selection of vinyl, from the classics to newer pop hits.

Image: Belmont street by @eskimo on Instagram

654796366 1387682043396159 5141456605969472771 n

Rosemount

Rosemount, a short walk from Union Street, is a charming Victorian neighbourhood full of family-run specialist shops.

Food lovers are well served by Gourmet Cheese Co. for artisan cheeses, The Creel Fish Shop for fresh local seafood, and Humbug and Gumblossom for traditional Scottish sweet treats. The Rosemount Market brings locally sourced produce together on a regular basis and is a lovely way to experience the neighbourhood at its most vibrant.

For gifts and lifestyle, Heartfelt Aromas stocks handmade candles, Thistle Jewellers offers bespoke jewellery, and Four Seasons Florist creates beautiful bouquets. Unique gifts can be found at CloudyBlue, The Owl at Number Two, and Wool for Ewe, while SEED skateshop adds a more contemporary edge to the mix.

Aberdeen spires 46

The West End

Aberdeen's West End is a refined shopping destination, where independent boutiques and specialist retailers have built a reputation that draws shoppers from across the region.

Women's fashion is particularly well represented, with Tigerlily Boutique, Sirene, Bellino and Hamish Munro all offering carefully curated contemporary womenswear. Men's style is covered by Pure Man, Signature Menswear and Cruise Fashion, spanning smart casual to premium designer labels.

For gifts and homeware, No. 18 Gifts and Cards and Copper and Gray are both worth exploring. Antique hunters should seek out Colin Wood Antiques, and no visit is complete without a stop at the Aberdeen Whisky Shop and Tasting Room.

DJI 0120 2

Royal Deeside

Royal Deeside is home to a wonderful collection of independent retailers, many of them reflecting the area's distinct character and royal roots.

Food and drink lovers should seek out the Braemar Chocolate Shop for handcrafted confectionery, while The Roaring Stag in Ballater stocks quality Scottish gifts, clothing and homeware with a strong Highland character. Deeside Gifts and Crathie Post Office and Gallery are both charming spots for souvenirs and locally made pieces. Book lovers should not miss Deeside Books, and those with a creative streak will enjoy Deeside Stitches for needlecraft supplies and inspiration.

In Banchory, Country Ways is a trusted destination for country and equestrian wear alongside home and decor.

Milton of Crathes on the banks of the River Dee brings together a curated collection of independent retailers, galleries and hospitality businesses in a beautiful rural setting.

Ballater 109 of 129

Aberdeenshire towns

In the countryside, Aberdeenshire's towns are home to a variety of independent shops well worth seeking out.

In Inverurie, The Inverurie Whisky Shop is a specialist destination for malt whisky enthusiasts, Treehouse in Midmar is a popular independent, and Kilts Wi Hae in Newmachar is a family-run highland wear business offering quality kilts, accessories and traditional.

Image: Ellon

Ellon Visit Aberdeenshire 054

Coastal shopping

In Stonehaven, My Beautiful Caravan is a tiny shop with a big personality, specialising in quirky cards and gifts from local makers, Aly Bali and Sofasoy Candle Co. add further independent character to the Stonehaven offer. South of Stonehaven,  Starfish Studio in Johnshaven offers locally made art and crafts inspired by the coastline.

Headed north, the Spotty Bag Shop in Banff is a beloved institution for gifts and crafts. In Portsoy, Portsoy Marble is a fascinating and unique stop, selling jewellery and gifts crafted from the distinctive local serpentinite stone the town has been famous for since the 17th century.

Over in Newburgh, the Little Gift Shop by the Sea is a lovely coastal stop for gifts and keepsakes, perfectly placed for visitors exploring the dunes and seal beach nearby.

Image: Banff

Banff Bridge 1

Farm shops and garden centres

For locally sourced produce and everything you need for the garden, the region has an excellent selection of farm shops and garden centres spread across the region.

Farm shops worth seeking out include Finzean Farm Shop, Mains of Drum, Castleton Farm Shop, Barra Berries, and Marshalls Farm shop.

For garden centres, Raemoir Garden Centre and Parkhill Garden Centre are both popular destinations with strong plant and gift selections, while Kirktown Garden Centre and Simpsons both offer a welcoming neighbourhood option for green thumbs.

Image: Barra Berries

Try our Farm shop trail

Barra Berries 90 of 269 1

We Think You'll Love

69514679 3359885387359383 690730272768917504 o
  • Coast
  • |
  • Family Friendly

A Special Treat

A Special Treat offers visitors to Peterhead quality greeting cards and gifts alongside serving fine teas and coffee.

Read More
Michies Union St Gift Window

Charles Michies

Discover Charles Michies an Aberdeen Landmark Since 1921. Right in the heart of Aberdeen, at 391 Union Street, you'll find Charles Michies a family-owned, independent pharmacy group with over 100 years of history.

Read More
North east image with logo3

Doric Books CIC

Doric Books offers bespoke storytelling sessions in a location of your choice across the North-East of Scotland.

Read More
IMG 2192

JR Webb Antiques

Antique shopping experience in the West End of Aberdeen.

Read More
20240116 155622

The Vintage Market

Located a short walk away from Union Square and the ferry terminal, The Vintage Market has a wonderful selection of vintage and pre-loved goodies for your shopping trip!

Read More

Search All Our Businesses

Frequently asked questions

What are the main shopping areas in Aberdeen city centre?

Aberdeen’s main shopping areas are Union Street, Rosemount, and three covered centres: Union Square, Bon Accord, and Trinity. Union Square focuses on major brands and leisure, Rosemount on independents, while Bon Accord and Trinity offer a mix.

Are there independent shops outside Aberdeen city?

Absolutely. Aberdeenshire's towns and villages are full of independent retailers, many of which are genuinely unique.  Hot spots include Banchory, Ballater, Stonehaven and Inverurie.

Where can I buy Scottish highland wear, kilts and tartans?

You can buy Highland wear in Aberdeen city centre at McCalls Highlandwear. Nearby options include Kilts Wi Hae in Newmachar and Country Ways in Banchory, all offering kilts, tartans, and accessories.

Is there late-night shopping in Aberdeen?

Union Square operates 9am-8pm, Bon Accord is open 9am-6pm, Trinity Centre is open 9am-6pm Mon – Sat and 10am - 5:30pm on Sunday, however store times may vary.

Store times vary, please check directly with the store.

How do I get to the city for shopping?

Aberdeen city centre is easy to reach by public transport, with Union Square above the bus and train stations. Buses run from all areas, and there are several central car parks including Loch Street, Harriet Street, and Trinity Centre.

For more information, see our  Getting Around guide.

Is shopping in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire accessible for visitors with reduced mobility?

Many of Aberdeen's main shopping destinations are well set up for visitors with reduced mobility. Union Square, Bon Accord Centre, and Trinity Centre all offer step-free access, lifts, and accessible facilities. Accessibility varies among smaller independents, particularly in older buildings, so it is worth checking ahead. Our accessibility guide has more information to help you plan your trip.

Where can I find sustainable and ethical shopping in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire?

The region has a growing number of independent retailers with sustainability at their heart. The Ethical Gift Shop and Refillery in Huntly champions conscious gifting and zero-waste living, while Sofasoy Candle Co. on the Aberdeenshire coast produces natural, handmade candles. Many of the region's farm shops, including Finzean Farm Shop and Castleton Farm Shop, prioritise locally sourced and seasonal produce, cutting down on food miles. Shopping independently across Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is in itself a sustainable choice, keeping money within local communities and supporting small businesses.

Subscribe for insider tips

Sign up for travel inspiration, upcoming events, and insider tips from the region’s official tourism organisation.

Craigievar Castle 142 DS 31 2