A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Lake District National Park vs. Aberdeen for Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Lake District National Park and Aberdeen. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a relaxing, enjoyable, and unique national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food and hiking.

Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a cultural, architectural, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Lake District National Park and Aberdeen: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Aberdeen than Lake District National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Aberdeen is better known for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Lake District National Park is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Aberdeen and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Aberdeen is well known for its longstanding maritime history and its many cultural sights and activities. Also, Aberdeen is famous for St Machar's Cathedral Aberdeen.

How is Lake District National Park different from Aberdeen?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aberdeen and Lake District National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Aberdeen. The city's long running history means that there are plenty of sights and museums worth exploring. Highlights include St. Machar's Cathedral, the University and King's College of Aberdeen, Brig o'Balgownie, and the Tolbooth Museum.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Aberdeen has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Everything from brunch bistros to fine dining are available in this city. You can enjoy local specialties or international options at any of the unique restaurants around town.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Nightlife?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Aberdeen. The nightlife scene is diverse with whisky dens, local pubs, and even trendy nightclubs to choose from.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for its Old Town?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town charm. However, Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Aberdeen. This city's old town is a hidden gem in Scotland. The cobblestone streets and long history make for a fascinating place to explore.

Lake District National Park does not have a historic old town.


Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Hiking?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

People visit Lake District National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Aberdeen is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Aberdeen has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. A mix of modern shopping centers, antique vendors, and local boutiques make for an interesting shopping scene. For some of the city's best shopping head to Union Square Shopping Centre, the Trinity Centre, or Bon Accord Aberdeen.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Families?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Both Lake District National Park and Aberdeen are superb family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Lake District National Park. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

Aberdeen is a very family-friendly place to visit. Explore the city's history or wander through one of the many museums. Some of the best museums for kids include the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Little Treasures Toy Museum, the Aberdeen Science Center, and the Gordon Highlanders Museum. Adrenaline seekers will enjoy rock climbing and ropes courses at Transition Extreme or ziplining at Go Ape Crathes Castle. Also nearby is horseback riding and Codona’s Amusement Park.


Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Couples?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Lake District National Park is a well-known place for romance. Also, Aberdeen is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Lake District National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

Aberdeen makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many of the standard activities for couples such as interesting restaurants, theaters, and fun concerts.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Lake District National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Lake District National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Aberdeen is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Students?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Lake District National Park is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Aberdeen. The city is a nice affordable option for students who want to study at the University of Aberdeen.

Lake District National Park is not popular with students.


Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in options for its public transit.

Aberdeen has some public transit options. There are public buses through town and it's possible to pick up a Grasshopper ticket that lets you ride on most of the bus companies.

Public transit is generally limited in Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.

Is Lake District National Park or Aberdeen a more walkable city?

Lake District National Park
Aberdeen

Aberdeen is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

Aberdeen is a very walkable destination. It's easy to walk to most of the city's attractions.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Lake District National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Aberdeen Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aberdeen or Lake District National Park?

How long in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lake District National Park and Aberdeen. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Aberdeen. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Lake District National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Aberdeen.

Families should spend more time in Aberdeen than Lake District National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Aberdeen, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Aberdeen than Lake District National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Aberdeen.


  • How many days in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen? Ideal Length of Stay
    Lake District National Park 3-7 
    Aberdeen 2-3

One day in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

The beautiful national park of Lake District National Park offers food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the historic destination of Aberdeen. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.


A weekend in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Lake District National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Aberdeen for a weekend. Visiting the old town is also a must. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Lake District National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Lake District National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The cultural destination of Aberdeen offers shopping and museums. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Lake District National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lake District National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

Aberdeen, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best Adventure Tours to United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Aberdeen or Lake District National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Lake District National Park is £81, while the average daily cost in Aberdeen is £121. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Lake District National Park and Aberdeen in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lake District National Park £39
    Aberdeen £65
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lake District National Park £78
    Aberdeen £130
Compare Hotels in Lake District National Park and Aberdeen

Looking for a hotel in Lake District National Park or Aberdeen? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Lake District National Park


Hotels in Aberdeen


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Aberdeen Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lake District National Park £33
    Aberdeen £34

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33
  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Aberdeen

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Aberdeen:

  • Private Aberdeen Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $49
  • Private Aberdeen Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $49
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport(ABZ) to Balmedie - Arrival Private Transfer: $44
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ): Private Transfer to Aberdeen: $181
  • Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) to Aberdeen - Arrival Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen City to Aberdeen Dyce Airport (ABZ) - Departure Private Transfer: $57
  • Aberdeen Airport to Aberdeen - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $131

Is it cheaper to fly into Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Prices for flights to both Aberdeen and Lake District National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Lake District National Park £21
    Aberdeen £35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lake District National Park £20
    Aberdeen £19

Tours and Activities in Lake District National Park

For Lake District National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $140

Tours and Activities in Aberdeen

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Aberdeen are as follows:

  • 3 hour Gin School Experience in Aberdeen: $153
  • 500 Years of Crime and Punishment: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $18
  • Aberdeen Historical & Turbulent Times Walking Tour: $76
  • Aberdeen Historical Walking Tour: $60
  • Aberdeen Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Aberdeen's Ancient Heritage and Folklore Tour: $87
  • Aberdeen's Union Street: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.34
  • Daily City Centre Walking Tour (2pm): $17
  • Dark history Self-Guided Smartphone Walking Tour: $6.99
  • Private Street Art Guided Walking Tour: $144
  • Union Street App-Based Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lake District National Park £4.64
    Aberdeen £3.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Aberdeen

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Aberdeen:

  • Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink: $34
  • Aberdeen’s Distillery Discovery Tour: $34
  • City of Aberdeen Distillery: Gin School Experience: $150
  • Aberdeen&Shire Castle & Distillery Private Group 1 Day Tour: $401


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Lake District National Park and Aberdeen, we can see that Aberdeen is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Aberdeen would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Aberdeen than you might in Lake District National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Lake District National Park Expensive? and Is Aberdeen Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Lake District National Park as well as Aberdeen. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lake District National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aberdeen for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lake District National Park in July average around 15°C (59°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Lake District National Park often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 159 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 157 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in July than Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F) 
    Aberdeen 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen in the Autumn?

Both Aberdeen and Lake District National Park are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Aberdeen in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Lake District National Park is generally around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Daily temperatures in Lake District National Park average around 10°C (49°F), and Aberdeen fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives less sunshine than Aberdeen during autumn. Lake District National Park gets 69 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 93 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Lake District National Park. In October, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 77 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F) 
    Aberdeen 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen in the Winter?

Both Aberdeen and Lake District National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the winter for the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Aberdeen for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Aberdeen can be very cold during winter. Lake District National Park can get quite cold in the winter. Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Aberdeen in the winter. The daily temperature in Lake District National Park averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Aberdeen fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Lake District National Park often gets less sunshine than Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 40 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aberdeen receives 52 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. Lake District National Park usually gets more rain in January than Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Lake District National Park 3°C (38°F) 
    Aberdeen 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Lake District National Park or Aberdeen in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Lake District National Park and Aberdeen. Most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the natural beauty during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Aberdeen because of the activities around the city.

In the spring, Lake District National Park is around the same temperature as Aberdeen. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lake District National Park in April average around 7°C (45°F), and Aberdeen averages at about 7°C (44°F).

Lake District National Park usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Aberdeen during spring. Lake District National Park gets 134 hours of sunny skies, while Aberdeen receives 144 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lake District National Park usually receives more rain than Aberdeen. Lake District National Park gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Aberdeen receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F) 
    Aberdeen 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Aberdeen and Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park Aberdeen
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in) 3°C (38°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Apr 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
May 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in) 9°C (49°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in) 13°C (55°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jul 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in) 14°C (57°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Oct 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 77 mm (3 in)
Nov 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in) 5°C (42°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in) 4°C (39°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)