Seaton Park, Aberdeen

Seaton Park, one of Aberdeen’s largest public parks, sits in the Old Aberdeen area, rich in both history and nature. Purchased by the city in 1947, the park was once part of the Seaton House estate, which had been in the Hay family for generations. Major Malcolm Vivian Hay, a cryptographer and historian, sold the land, and though the house itself is now gone—burnt down in 1963—the park remains a cherished public space.

The River Don flows along the park’s edge, with paths tracing both banks, offering scenic walks. The park’s well-maintained flower beds, running along the central pathway, are replanted annually, providing a bright contrast to the surrounding greenery. Nestled within the grounds are secluded walled gardens near Seaton Stables, offering a peaceful retreat. However, due to its low-lying nature, the park is prone to flooding, leading to the creation of a wetland area in 2016, which now supports local wildlife.

Seaton Park holds historical treasures such as the Wallace Tower, a 17th-century structure that was relocated here in the 1960s, and a Bronze Age motte. Students from the nearby University of Aberdeen frequently traverse the park en route to Hillhead Halls of Residence, passing through Cathedral Walk, where vibrant rose and herbaceous beds lead to the iconic Saint Machar’s Cathedral.

One of the park’s most beloved features is "Mr Therm," a 1947 locomotive that once served the Aberdeen Gas Works. Now a fixture in the children’s playground, the steam engine has delighted generations and was refurbished in 2017.

With its blend of historical landmarks, lush gardens, and connections to Aberdeen’s academic life, Seaton Park remains a vital part of the city’s landscape.