Bieldside
About Bieldside
Nestled to the west of Aberdeen City Centre, Scotland, Bieldside is a suburb that stands out for its affluent reputation. Along with its neighbouring suburb of Cults, Bieldside is recognized as the wealthiest area in Scotland. This exclusive enclave is home to a significant number of millionaires, with residents including notable figures such as oil billionaire Sir Ian Wood, construction magnate Stewart Milne, and former UK Open winner Paul Lawrie.
Local Amenities
Bieldside offers a range of local amenities that cater to the needs of its residents. The area features a pub/restaurant known as The Bieldside, a foodstore, a hairdresser, a tea room, and a charity shop. These amenities provide a convenient and comfortable living environment for the community.
Historical Significance
Bieldside has a rich historical background, with the Old Deeside railway line, now converted into the Deeside Way, passing through the area. This railway line was once a regular route for Queen Victoria during her journeys between Balmoral and Aberdeen. The Bieldside Cairn, a large prehistoric burial cairn, is another historical landmark located within a housing estate in the area.
Notable Residents and Education
The suburb is known for its high-profile residents, including former Deputy First Minister of Scotland Nicol Stephen, who was brought up in Bieldside. The area is also renowned for its excellent educational facilities. Most children in Bieldside attend Cults Primary School and then proceed to Cults AcadeOur or the International School of Aberdeen, which have consistently achieved high academic standards.
Community and Disability Centres
Bieldside is home to several Camphill Communities, including Newton Dee Village and the Murtle Estate, which provide curative education and support for individuals with learning disabilities, including those with autism. These communities play a vital role in the local social fabric, offering specialized care and education.
Commercial Property Agents
When considering luxury and exclusivity in Scottish suburbs, Bieldside stands out as a paramount destination. Located to the west of Aberdeen City Centre, Bieldside, along with its neighbouring suburb of Cults, is renowned as the wealthiest area in Scotland. This affluent suburb is home to a plethora of high-net-worth individuals, including oil billionaires, construction magnates, and other influential figures.
Affluence and Notable Residents
Bieldside boasts an impressive list of residents, including former UK Open winner Paul Lawrie and Stewart Milne, the owner of a significant construction group with an estimated worth of £400 million. Sir Ian Wood, an oil billionaire, and other prominent figures such as Ian Suttie and Bob Keiller, who are directors of oil companies, also reside here. The suburb's postcode area holds the distinction of having the most millionaires outside of London.
Historical Significance
The area has a rich history, with Queen Victoria frequently stopping at Bieldside during her journeys between Balmoral and Aberdeen City Centre. The Old Deeside railway line, now transformed into the Deeside Way, passes through Bieldside, adding to its historical charm. Bieldside railway station, which operated from 1897 to 1937, served the local community and was part of the Aberdeen suburban service on the Deeside branch.
Local Amenities
Despite its exclusive nature, Bieldside offers a range of local amenities. Residents can enjoy dining at The Bieldside pub/restaurant, shop at the local foodstore, visit the hairdresser, or relax at the tea room. A charity shop is also available, contributing to the community's social fabric.
Residential Appeal
For those seeking a luxurious and prestigious lifestyle, Bieldside offers some of the most desirable residential properties in Scotland. The area's mansion houses and estates, such as Woodthorpe and Dalmunzie, are testaments to its grandeur and appeal to high-end buyers and investors. Whether you are looking for a luxurious home or a sound investment opportunity, Bieldside's unique blend of history, exclusivity, and modern amenities makes it an attractive choice.
Residential Property Agents
When considering residential property in London and its suburbs, several key factors come into play, especially in the current market landscape of 2025.
London's Housing Market
London is off to a strong start in 2025, driven by increased activity in the housing market. With new sales agreed up 12% year-on-year, buyers are eager to secure properties before the introduction of higher stamp duty rates in April. This surge is despite concerns over rising mortgage rates and a softening in consumer confidence.
Suburbs and First-Time Buyers
The suburbs of London, such as those in South East England, are particularly attractive to first-time buyers. For instance, the average first-time buyer property in South East England costs around £332,500, with stamp duty set to increase from £0 to £1,625 from April. However, three in five first-time buyers will still pay no stamp duty, making these areas viable options.
Market Activity and Affordability
The number of homes for sale in London and its suburbs has increased by 10% compared to the previous year, with 31 homes available per estate agency branch – the highest in seven years. This increase in inventory, combined with rising incomes and anticipated base rate cuts, is expected to improve affordability and support consumer sentiment. As a result, we forecast a modest 2.5% rise in average UK house prices in 2025, with sales projected to be 5% higher than the previous year.
Buyer Trends
Renters are a significant driving force in the first-time buyer market, with over a fifth of renters looking to buy homes due to the rapid rise in rental costs over the last two years. Homeowners are also showing increased interest in moving, with nearly a fifth planning to do so in the next two years. This heightened activity suggests a robust market ahead for 2025.
Property For Sale
Bieldside: A Prestigious Suburb of Aberdeen
Located approximately six miles west of Aberdeen's city centre, Bieldside is a highly sought-after residential suburb that offers the perfect blend of rural charm and urban convenience. This leafy suburb, set against the backdrop of the rolling countryside in the River Dee valley, is part of the City of Aberdeen but retains a distinct village feel.
Population and Location
Bieldside has a population of 1,754 people and is just five miles from Aberdeen city centre, making it an ideal location for commuters. The area is well-connected with a regular bus service to and from Aberdeen, ensuring easy access to the city's amenities.
Education
Residents of Bieldside benefit from excellent educational facilities. The nearby Cults Primary School and Cults Academy, one of Scotland’s top-performing secondary schools, are highly regarded. Additionally, the Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools and the International School of Aberdeen are also within easy reach.
Local Amenities
Bieldside is well-served by local amenities, including the Bieldside Inn, a local pub/restaurant, a foodstore, and a hairdresser. The Deeside Golf Club, founded in 1903, is a notable attraction and is widely regarded as one of the most attractive parkland golf clubs in Scotland. The suburb also benefits from its proximity to the amenities in neighbouring suburbs such as Cults, Milltimber, and Peterculter.
Outdoor Activities
For outdoor enthusiasts, Bieldside offers access to the open green spaces of Royal Deeside, providing a range of activities for all ages. The Deeside Way, a long-distance path that runs from Aberdeen city centre to Ballater, passes through Bieldside, offering scenic walks and cycling routes. This path was formerly the old Deeside Railway line, a route often used by Queen Victoria during her journeys between Balmoral and Aberdeen.
Property Market
Bieldside is known for its luxurious properties, ranging from one-bedroom flats to substantial family homes. The area is one of the wealthiest in Scotland, making it a highly desirable location for those looking to invest in premium real estate. Properties in Bieldside often come with significant price tags, reflecting the area's prestige and high demand.
Property For Rent
Bieldside: The Luxurious Enclave of Aberdeen
Nestled in the heart of Aberdeen, Bieldside is renowned as one of Scotland's most exclusive and affluent neighbourhoods, often cited as the richest postcode outside of London. This picturesque area is a haven for those seeking luxury, tranquility, and breathtaking scenery.
Scenic Views and Luxurious Homes
Bieldside boasts stunning homes that reflect a blend of modern elegance and traditional Scottish architecture. The properties here are not just residences but statements of opulence, with many featuring expansive gardens, private driveways, and meticulously designed interiors. The scenic views of the surrounding countryside add to the allure, making Bieldside a perfect blend of urban sophistication and rural tranquility.
Notable Residents and Community
This exclusive neighbourhood is home to a diverse range of notable residents, including royalty, billionaires, and other high-profile individuals. The community in Bieldside is tight-knit and prestigious, with residents enjoying a high standard of living and access to top-tier amenities. From exclusive golf clubs to fine dining establishments, Bieldside offers a lifestyle that is hard to match elsewhere in Scotland.
Property Prices and Market Trends
For those considering investing in Bieldside, the property market is robust and highly sought after. The average price for a property in Bieldside stands at £557,929 over the last year, with prices showing a 31% increase from the previous year, although they remain 26% lower than the peak in 2011.
Lifestyle and Amenities
Living in Bieldside offers more than just a luxurious home; it provides a lifestyle. Residents enjoy easy access to Aberdeen city centre, while also being close to some of Scotland's most beautiful countryside. The area is well-equipped with high-quality schools, shopping centres, and recreational facilities, making it an ideal location for families and professionals alike.
Exploring Bieldside
Whether you are a prospective buyer or simply curious about this affluent neighbourhood, Bieldside is a place that must be experienced. Take a stroll through its picturesque streets, admire the stunning homes, and soak in the serene atmosphere. With its unique blend of luxury and natural beauty, Bieldside is truly a gem of Aberdeen.