Looking to make new friends in Aberdeen? From Rosemount and the West End to the Beach and Ferryhill, meet locals for low‑key plans that work around real routines.
Established in 2005, Drinking Partners is one of the UK’s longest‑running platforms for meeting new people and building genuine friendships.
Aberdeen has a steady pace, but that can make new friendships feel slower — especially if your work hours are long, you’ve moved for a job, or you’re trying to settle in through winter months.
Drinking Partners helps you meet people nearby who are also open to new connections. Message first, suggest a simple public plan, and take things at your own pace. It’s for friendship and socialising — not dating.
Making friends across Aberdeen often starts with practical plans that fit around work and routine. A walk through Duthie Park, a quick catch‑up around Union Street, or a seaside stroll along the Beach Esplanade keeps things relaxed and public. Aberdeen’s neighbourhoods are easy to navigate, so meeting locally is realistic — whether you’re nearer Rosemount, Old Aberdeen, the city centre or the beach side. Keep the first meet time‑boxed so it feels easy to say yes, then suggest another simple plan soon if you click. That second meet is what builds familiarity and turns a first chat into friendship. Drinking Partners helps you make the first introduction straightforward so you can focus on shared interests and building a steady local connection.
Making friends as an adult can feel awkward — Drinking Partners makes it easier, more relaxed, and pressure-free, without meeting in large groups or organised events.
Take things at your own pace and connect in a way that feels right for you.
Whether you have just moved to Aberdeen or want to widen your circle, it is straightforward to meet local people here.
Follow these steps to connect over shared interests, message freely and plan meet that feel comfortable.
It only takes a few minutes to get started:
To get the most out of Drinking Partners and begin to meet new people in Aberdeen, follow these simple steps:
Share a short intro about yourself and what you enjoy around Aberdeen. Pick your interests so locals know how to start the conversation.
Add a recent photo to help people recognise you. Profiles with clear photos get more replies and appear higher in local results.
Use GPS search or filter by neighbourhoods across Aberdeen to find people nearby. Save your favourite profiles and searches for quick access.
Messaging is free, so say hello to people with similar interests. Swap a few messages to see if you get on and keep the pace relaxed.
Set alerts for new people near you, message reads and profile views. Pause notifications or hide your profile whenever you need a break.
When you are ready, suggest meeting in a cafe, park or another public place. Group settings, activities and daytime meet keep things relaxed and safe.
A quick call or video chat first can help break the ice and make meeting up feel natural. You’re always in control — choose who you talk to, take things at your own pace, and only meet when you’re comfortable.
Short, practical guides to help you meet people and make new friends without the pressure.
Real people in Aberdeen looking to make new friends right now:
35 years old
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
“Just looking for some company for walks, cinema…”
41 years old
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
“Cool and friendly. Looking for active partner. Gym,…”
30 years old
Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire
“Looking to meet chilled out people to enjoy…”
There’s no single way to make friends — people connect in all sorts of everyday ways.
Pick an idea and start a conversation that suits you.
Duthie Park is a calm, public first meet that makes conversation easy. Walking side‑by‑side takes pressure off, and you can keep it short or extend it with a quick chat afterwards.
Explore →A time‑boxed meet around Union Street keeps things central and convenient. It’s easy to fit around your day and makes follow‑ups straightforward if you both enjoy the chat.
Explore →A stroll along the Beach Esplanade is relaxed and open, which helps first meets feel comfortable. The setting gives you natural talking points and plenty of space to chat.
Explore →If you prefer a daytime meet with a bit of atmosphere, Old Aberdeen is a good choice for a gentle wander and a chat. It feels local and gives you easy conversation starters.
Explore →Check out nearby towns and cities.
Answers to common questions about making friends and meeting people in Aberdeen.
Duthie Park, Union Street and the Beach Esplanade are common first meet options because they’re public, familiar and easy to reach.
Yes — time‑boxed plans work well. A short park walk or central catch‑up is realistic around work, and meeting again is what builds friendship.
Try a walk at Duthie Park or along the beach, or a short central catch‑up. Public, open settings help first meets feel comfortable.
It’s designed for meeting people and making friends. Many members are simply looking for more local company and genuine social connection.
Want more tips? Read How to make friends after moving to a new city.
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