Hazlehead Park travel guide

Hazlehead Park, a sprawling green space covering 180 hectares, has a rich history dating back to the 14th century. Originally part of the hunting grounds for the King of Scotland, the area was later owned by the powerful Keith family, the Earls Marischal, who maintained the land for centuries. In the early 20th century, the park was acquired by the Aberdeen Town Council under the visionary leadership of Lord Provost Thomas Mitchell.

The park was officially opened to the public in 1920, offering a variety of features such as formal gardens, woodland walks, and recreational facilities. Over the years, it has expanded to include a golf course, a petting zoo, and a maze, making it a versatile destination for families and nature enthusiasts alike.

Hazlehead Park also holds historical significance as it houses the Queen Mother Rose Garden, opened by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother in 1967. Today, it stands as a testament to Aberdeen's commitment to preserving natural beauty while providing leisure and recreational opportunities for its residents and visitors.

Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen boasts an array of unique features that make it a standout destination. The park is home to one of Scotland’s oldest maze gardens, established in 1935, offering visitors a delightful challenge as they navigate its intricate pathways. Additionally, the park features the stunning Queen Mother Rose Garden, which showcases a vibrant collection of rose varieties, providing a picturesque and fragrant experience.

Another distinctive element is the park's extensive sculpture trail, where art enthusiasts can admire a diverse range of sculptures, including works by renowned artists. For animal lovers, the Hazlehead Pets Corner is a must-visit, featuring a variety of animals such as alpacas, pygmy goats, and exotic birds, making it a hit with families and children.

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the park’s two 18-hole golf courses and a pitch-and-putt course, catering to players of all skill levels. The park also offers extensive woodland walks and cycling paths, giving nature lovers a chance to explore its rich biodiversity. With its blend of horticultural beauty, artistic elements, and recreational facilities, Hazlehead Park truly offers something unique for every visitor.

Hazlehead Park is home to one of the largest collections of roses in the UK, with over 12,000 varieties in the Queen Mother Rose Garden. The park also boasts the ‘Piper Alpha Memorial Garden,’ a touching tribute to the victims of the 1988 North Sea oil platform disaster. Animal lovers will be delighted to discover the park’s petting zoo, where children can meet a variety of friendly farm animals. For those intrigued by folklore, the park’s ‘Tree of Knowledge’ is said to grant wisdom to those who sit under it and ponder life’s mysteries. Additionally, Hazlehead Park’s maze, designed by the renowned maze creator Adrian Fisher, offers a fun and challenging experience for visitors of all ages.

Located in the dynamic Aberdeen City, the popular Hazlehead Park is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Aberdeen or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Scotland.

Aberdeen is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Aberdeen offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Aberdeen and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Duthie Park, Queens Links Leisure Park, Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Seaton Park, and Donmouth Local Nature Reserve.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Aberdeen has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Aberdeen, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Scotland!

The best time to explore Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen, Scotland, is during the late spring and summer months, from May to September. During this period, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with longer daylight hours that allow for extended outdoor activities. The park's lush gardens and woodland areas are in full bloom, offering vibrant colors and fragrant scents that enhance the overall experience.

Autumn, from late September to early November, is another excellent time to visit. The park's foliage transforms into a stunning array of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely walks and photography. This season also tends to be less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and reflective visit.

Winter months, particularly December, bring a festive charm to the park, with seasonal events like Christmas markets and light displays. While the weather can be colder, the crisp air and holiday cheer make it a delightful time for families and couples.

To avoid crowds, consider visiting on weekdays or early in the morning. Regardless of the season, Hazlehead Park offers a unique and enriching experience, making any time of year the best time to explore Hazlehead Park.

Hazlehead Park is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Aberdeen, Scotland. If you're flying in, Aberdeen Airport is approximately 4.6 miles (7.3 km) away from Aberdeen. From there, you can easily reach Hazlehead Park by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Aberdeen, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Hazlehead Park, which is located 3.3 miles (5.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Hazlehead Park, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Hazlehead Ave, Aberdeen AB15 8BE, UK, Scotland.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Hazlehead Park!

Conveniently explore Hazlehead Park and plenty more captivating attractions in Aberdeen by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Hazlehead Park and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Aberdeen has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Hazlehead Park below.

Aside from Hazlehead Park, Aberdeen is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Aberdeen, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Duthie Park, Queens Links Leisure Park, and Aberdeen Maritime Museum.

Duthie Park is a bucket-list park and top attraction in Aberdeen, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,900 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Duthie Park is Polmuir Road, Aberdeen AB11 7TH, UK.

Another appreciated attraction in Aberdeen is Queens Links Leisure Park. Like Duthie Park, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars among 2,800 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Links Rd, Aberdeen AB24 5EN, UK.

Aberdeen Maritime Museum is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Aberdeen. This museum and top attraction in Aberdeen has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,200 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Shiprow, Aberdeen AB11 5BY, UK.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Aberdeen below.