Rabbie Burns visits Aberdeen

The Robert Burns bronze statue in Aberdeen is the work of Henry Bain Smith, a local sculptor, and was unveiled on 15th September 1892.


Robert Burns arrived in Aberdeen on Sunday, 9th September 1787 during his Highland Tour. He recorded his impressions in his journal the following day:

'- meet with Mr Chalmers, Printer, a facetious fellow - Mr Ross, a fine fellow, like Professor Tytler - Mr Marshall, one of the poetae minores - Mr Sheriffs, author of 'Jamie and Bess', a little decrepit body, with some abilities - Bishop Skinner, a non-juror, son of the author of 'Tullochgorum', a man whose mild, venerable manner is the most marked of any in so young a man - Professor Gordon, a good-natured, jolly-looking professor - Aberdeen a lazy town.'

At the moment the statue is marooned behind a barrier protecting the Council's ongoing works to "improve" the Union Terrace Gardens.

The elegant brick spire in the background is all that is left of the historic triple kirks. It has recently been enveloped by a development of dubious architectural merit.