December 2025

Tuesday, 20 December was cold but bright and there was no wind so felt pleasant despite the frost. A group of seven visited Seaton Park and looked round the walled garden. We then went down to the river Don and walked along the riverside path to the old Brig of Balgownie. The walk was through a gorge with interesting views and again we saw ducks and heron on the river.

After we had looked at the historic bridge we continued downstream finishing in the Brig O'Don restaurant for a coffee and a good chat. We shared interesting facts about the park and surrounds including its previous use as a racecourse.

November 2025

On Tuesday, 18 November the group went to Johnston Gardens and had a leisurely walk through the gardens then up to Walker Dam. The weather forecast was not great but it was actually very calm and although only 2 degrees didn't feel too cold. We walked through the gardens and looked at the memorial to those killed in the helicopter crash in 2009 off Peterhead bringing BP workers back onshore from the Miller oilfield. We then went up to Walker Dam where we saw a heron and numerous ducks, and also discussed the history of the dam and the role it played in the bleachfields in Aberdeen in the past. We finished with a visit to the Gordon Highlanders cafe for an enjoyable coffee and chat, and were impressed by the poppy displays outside, which were all hand knitted or crocheted.