Aberdeen Art Gallery is on Schoolhill in the city centre, inside a granite building designed by Alexander Marshall Mackenzie and opened in 1885. Its collection spans more than 700 years, from paintings and sculpture to ceramics and other decorative art, with works by Scottish artists alongside Monet and other French Impressionists. Explore the galleries across three floors, try the hands-on drawing activities, then head to the upper level for the city views from the terrace. Admission is free.
A gallery in a granite city
Aberdeen Art Gallery stands on Schoolhill in the city centre. The neo-classical granite building was designed by local architect Alexander Marshall Mackenzie and opened in 1885. Its public collection grew from an exhibition organised by local collectors in the 1870s, and later expanded through gifts, purchases and new displays.
A major redevelopment, carried out from 2015 to 2019, refreshed the gallery and expanded its exhibition space. The building also includes Cowdray Hall, added in the 1920s, as well as the Remembrance Hall and the Cenotaph. Inside, marble columns and the central Sculpture Court provide a striking setting for the collection.
Art from Scotland and beyond
The collection spans more than 700 years and brings together paintings, prints, sculpture and decorative art. Scottish artists have a strong presence, including William Dyce, the Scottish Colourists and local artist James McBey. Displays also include work by French Impressionists such as Monet, Renoir and Pissarro, alongside British and international modern and contemporary art.
Look beyond the paintings for ceramics, glassware and other applied arts. Art deco ceramics and glass are displayed on an upper floor, while portraits, sculptures and Aberdeen-related works appear across the galleries. The collection changes through permanent displays and temporary exhibitions, so the works on show can differ between visits.
Plan your route through the galleries
The galleries occupy three floors. The Sculpture Court is a useful starting point, with sculpture set among marble columns on a checkerboard floor. From there, explore the themed rooms at your own pace, taking time to read the artwork explanations and look for works connected with Aberdeen and Scottish artists.
Interactive displays add a hands-on element. Activities have included still-life drawing and opportunities to engage with ceramic objects. Families can use these to break up time spent looking at paintings, though the exact activities depend on what is currently on offer. Check the gallery's website for exhibition details before setting out.
The upper floor and rooftop terrace
The upper level combines art displays with places to pause. The rooftop terrace looks across the city-centre rooftops, and the gallery also has café spaces where you can take a break during your visit. If the view is a priority, include the upper floor in your route rather than leaving before you reach it.
Admission to the gallery is free. Special exhibitions may have a separate charge, so check current details if you plan to see a particular show. Lifts and accessible facilities serve visitors moving between floors. The gallery is on Schoolhill, close to shops and other city-centre sights.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Aberdeen Art Gallery free to visit?
General admission is free. Special exhibitions may charge an entry fee.
How long should I spend at Aberdeen Art Gallery?
Allow around two to three hours to explore the galleries and collection.
What can you see at Aberdeen Art Gallery?
The collection spans more than 700 years and includes paintings, sculpture, prints, ceramics and other decorative art, with Scottish and international artists represented.
Does Aberdeen Art Gallery have a rooftop terrace?
Yes. The upper-level terrace has views across Aberdeen city centre.
