Some call it the Granite City; others believe it’s one of the coldest places in the UK. Either way, Aberdeen is more than just an oil capital.
Scotland’s third largest city has plenty to offer in the way of history and opportunity. Famous for its landscape, it’s rich in public parks and old architecture. It’s also notable for its tech businesses. But the list doesn’t end there.
Here are ten facts about Aberdeen which might take you by surprise:
1. Home to Scotland’s oldest daily newspaper
The Press and Journal, which serves northern and highland Scotland, was launched in 1747. Initially the Aberdeen’s Journal, its notable editors have included the Scottish poet, William Forsyth.
2. Millionaires line its streets
The National Lottery has produced more than 40 millionaires in Aberdeen alone, making the city one of Scotland’s luckiest post codes.
3. Britain’s safest city
That’s according to recent findings by Provident Personal Credit. Their research reveals that over 70% of residents in Aberdeen feel a strong sense of community, while 76% say they’re friendly with their neighbours.
4. There are quite a few famous Aberdonians
We’re talking everyone from architect, Archibald Simpson, to footballer Denis Law. Also hailing from Aberdeen are singers Emeli Sandé and Annie Lennox (pictured above), along with Game of Thrones actress, Rose Leslie.
5. Balmoral Castle lies there
Dating back to 1852, this large estate is one of many royal residences in the UK. Famous films set there (but shot elsewhere) include The Queen and Mrs Brown.
6. You can swim outdoors in a heated pool (all summer long)
Stonehaven Open Air Pool is kept at a constant temperature of 29 degrees, making it warmer than taking a dip in the Mediterranean. The historic sea water lido is open May to September, perfect for summer.
7. It’s a great place for dolphin spotting
That’s right - with an hour and a half sailing trip you can see white beaked and bottlenose dolphins, not to mention basking sharks.
8. The self-seal envelope originates from Aberdeen
Where would we be without this nifty invention? Probably dry tongued from all the extra paper licking. Back in the 19th century, Aberdeen was the UK hub for envelope production.
9. Low levels of unemployment
Unemployment accounts for just 1.8% of Aberdeen Donside’s population and 2.9% in Aberdeen Central. Years of gas and oil prosperity are said to be behind these positive figures.
10. There are more than 30 places called Aberdeen around the world
Just when you thought you’d visited the main one, another two dozen spring up. Towns and cities called Aberdeen can be found in Canada, Australia, Hong Kong and South Africa.
Sources
https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/news/local/credit-agencys-report-finds-city-britains-safest/
https://www.eveningexpress.co.uk/fp/news/local/aberdeen-top-five-national-lottery-millionaires/
https://www.buzzfeed.com/hilarywardle/aberdeen-is-very-surprising
http://www.scotsman.com/news/map-the-highest-and-lowest-unemployment-areas-of-scotland-1-4160805
