Aberdeen house buying guide

Situated northwest of the city centre, Rosemount and Midstocket are popular places to live amongst professionals and young families due to its proximity to the city centre and abundance of green spaces. It has its fair share of independent character with local shops including bakeries, cheese shops and butchers as well as eateries and bars, helping it keep its villagey-feel.

Transport

Only 20-30 minutes walk away from the centre, Rosemount is the ideal location for those wanting to be within walking distance of the city. Alternatively, you can cycle in within 10 minutes, or catch a bus.

Local schools

There are a couple of schools to choose from in the Rosemount area. Skene Square School and Gilcomstoun School are both good primary schools, while nearby Aberdeen Grammar School (the oldest school in the city) offers well-rated secondary education.

Property price growth

Over the last year, property prices in Rosemount have fallen 4% in comparison to the last year.

History

Rosemount was historically an area gifted to the burgesse and people of Aberdeen to enjoy when it was mostly open fields with a few large houses owned by gentleman. But when Aberdeen was extended in the 19th century it became part of the city's boundary. As a result, access improvements were made, notably the construction of the Rosemount Viaduct, which better linked the area to the centre and prompted further development.

North of the city, Old Aberdeen retails a truly unique character. It's historically an area associated with the church, but also learning and trade. Today, it is still home to the city's university, originally founded as King's College in 1495. Rich in history, Old Aberdeen's cobbled paths are home to not only students, but professionals and families too.

Transport

Slightly further out of the city, Old Aberdeen is around a 30 minute walk from the centre. There are buses which will take you closer to the centre, or you can cycle for 10 minutes to get there as quickly. Driving wise, you'd be looking at a 5-10 minute journey into the centre, depending on traffic.

Local schools

In Old Aberdeen, there are three state primary schools to choose from - Seaton School, Riverbank School and St Peter's Roman Catholic Primary School. For secondary education there is St Machar Academy, as well as Oldmachar Academy and Bridge Of Don Academy slightly further afield.

Property price growth

Over the last year, property prices in Old Aberdeen were 13% down on the previous year.

History

Unsurprisingly from its name, Old Aberdeen is the oldest part of the city and was originally an independent market town from 1499-1891. The area has a rich, religious history, including the founding of St Machar (Old Aberdeen's first church) during the 6th century and David I establishing a new Bishopric in the area in 1125.

Its cobbled streets once housed the clergy connected to the church, including chaplains and canons. However, much of these building were destroyed after the Reformation, and replaced during the 18th and 19th centuries, during which time the area was developed for businesses and trade.

Looking for somewhere close enough to Aberdeen for commuting, but offers a more rural lifestyle? Consider Banchory! 18 miles west of the city, Banchory is a compact little town surrounded by beautiful forests and walks along the river Dee and Feugh. Further afield, you'll find the Highlands to the west for perfect weekends away in nature!

Transport

Situated an hour's train journey from Aberdeen, Banchory is worth considering if you want a quieter life but still within commuting distance of the city. Alternatively, you can drive there in about 40 minutes, although this can take longer at busy times.

Local schools

As a small town, Banchory has a couple of local primary schools to choose from, including Banchory Primary School and Hill of Banchory School. When it comes to secondary schools, Banchory Academy is the closest option.

Property price growth

Over the last year, house prices in Banchory are 50% down on the previous year.

History

Archaelogical remains indicate that people have settled on the banks of the River Dee more than ten thousand years ago. However, it wasn't until the foundation of a Christian college by St Ternan in the 5th century AD that the area became noteworthy. Then, the Banchory area grew significantly in the 19th century with the introduction of the railway, which connected the village to the city.