About Danestone Community Centre
Danestone Community Centre is the heart of the Danestone neighbourhood in north Aberdeen. It’s a modest thing – a council-owned community hall run by local volunteers – but it’s hugely important to the area. The centre is managed by the Danestone Community Centre Association (a registered Scottish charity) and serves Bridge of Don and Danestone residents. Inside you’ll find a large multi-purpose hall (often nicknamed the “party room” in user reviews) and at least one smaller meeting room or lounge. The building is single-storey with easy access ramps and wide doors. It doesn’t look like a grand theatre – it’s more of a practical community space with painted walls, high ceilings, and simple acoustic tiles – but its friendly atmosphere and variety of uses make it unique. It even has a small “library corner” of books for borrowing, and a quiet study area with Wi-Fi for students or people working from home.
In terms of capacity, the main hall can comfortably hold roughly 70–100 people seated, or up to 150 standing, depending on layout. (It’s often described as a “Medium” sized venue on halls-for-hire sites.) The flexibility means it can be set up for sports, classes, or staged events, though there’s no built-in stage or balcony. The centre has full disabled access (ramps and an accessible entrance) and accessible toilets, so it’s welcoming to wheelchair users and families with strollers. Other thoughtful facilities include baby changing tables, a shower and changing area (handy for sports groups), and even dispensing of free period products in the ladies’ toilets. The venue is family- and dog-friendly, too – well-behaved dogs are allowed with you, reflecting its community-orientated vibe.
Historically, Danestone Community Centre has been serving locals for decades as a drop-in hub and class venue. In July 2019 it became an officially registered Scottish charity (SC049509) to secure its future and expand services. Throughout its life it has remained a modest, unpretentious building – think functional halls, vinyl flooring, folding chairs and trestle tables – but by Aberdeen standards it’s nicely appointed for a local centre. Outside, there’s a car park and a small landscaped area. Its setting right on Fairview Street makes it easy to spot near the Danestone Congregational Church and other familiar suburban landmarks. In short, this venue matters not for grand architecture or celebrity acts, but because it’s the bustling community hub where local events and daily classes bring people of all ages together.
Events and Programming
Danestone Community Centre is not a commercial theatre or concert hall – it’s a multi-use community venue. That means virtually anything can happen here, day-to-day. You’ll find a busy timetable of classes and clubs rather than rock concerts or ballet performances. Typical activities include children’s playgroups and toddler sessions (“Mucky Pups”, “Tea, Toast & Toys”), fitness and dance (jazzercise or aerobics-style exercise classes, pilates, yoga), and indoor sports (badminton, short-mat bowling, table tennis or similar). Local seniors’ groups often hold tea and chat sessions, arts and crafts workshops or coffee mornings, and there are special seasonal events like Christmas parties or summer fairs. The centre also regularly hosts birthday parties and family celebrations – one reviewer noted they often have a bouncy castle, ride-on toys and a pass-through kitchen hatch, making it ideal for kids’ parties.
Beyond weekly clubs, Danestone CC often has one-off events and fundraisers organised by the volunteer committee. These range from quiz nights and bake sales to craft fairs or sponsored fun days, usually with very low entry fees or donation-based tickets. Musical or performance events do happen, but they are mostly grassroots-level: for example, local school choirs, amateur drama groups or ceilidhs. If any community theatre or band performs, tickets are usually sold on the venue’s Facebook page or at the door for a few pounds. In short, programming is very much “for locals, by locals” – think toddler groups, keep-fit classes, knitting circles, darts or bowls clubs, and other social gatherings. Children’s parties are frequent (and well-equipped with toys and a big hall to run around in). The venue’s operators also report offering a free “FairShare” food corner or community pantry – you might see surplus bread and pastries on the counter late in the day.
Past highlights have included charity ceilidhs, treasure hunts and evening events where community choirs sing. Because it’s volunteer-run, ongoing clubs and events adapt to demand: some months might bring fitness newbies to try a dance class, while others see the bowls team practising on Saturday afternoons. Generally, expect any given week to have a few evenings reserved for parent–infant or under-5 drop-in play, one or two nights of gentle exercise classes, and some daytime craft crafts or lunch gatherings. Ticket prices for pay-to-attend classes are modest – usually only a few pounds per session – and most events are free or ask only for donations. Check noticeboards or their social media for current events listing.
Tickets and Booking
Since Danestone Community Centre is community-run, there’s no big box office or online box-office for most events. Payment methods depend on the type of event. For clubs and classes you typically just pay on arrival or set up a membership with the instructor. Many morning and daytime groups are “drop-in” style – for example, parents might just turn up at the playgroup and make a small donation at the door. If there is an admittance charge (as for a quiz night or fundraiser), it’s usually arranged by the volunteers and paid at the door or in advance through local channels.
If you’re hiring the hall or booking a slot, you’ll contact the centre directly. Details for booking parties or classes are handled by the Danestone CC administrator. The simplest way is by phone or email (these are listed on local council postings and at the building entrance), or sometimes in person. Currently there’s no public online ticketing vendor for the centre, though its Facebook page may announce events where tickets are limited. If a popular evening event is coming up, it’s wise to reserve early by phone – some events fill up via word-of-mouth. But in general, lots of programming here is ad-hoc, so early booking is rarely strictly needed except for private hires or very big functions.
For private hires (birthday parties, community meetings etc.) there’s a small hall hire fee, and you can negotiate during the week – again, by contacting the centre’s bookings clerk. Prices are very reasonable (geared to benefit the community fund) – for example, weekend rates for the main hall are often similar to hiring a church hall (dozens of pounds per hour), with cheaper rates for weekday or smaller rooms. There’s usually a refundable deposit and a cleaning fee for party bookings. But you’d simply ring the listed number or email for a quote. No tickets platform to navigate – just deal directly with the manager. In short, buying passes or tickets at Danestone CC is low-key: check a flier or Facebook post for a phone number, or pop in during opening hours (Mon–Fri 9–5) to sign up or pay.
Seating and Layout
Inside Danestone Community Centre you’ll mainly deal with open-floor space rather than fixed seating. The Main Hall is a large rectangular room with room for multiple badminton courts or a dozen 6-foot tables around the edges. It’s often used for parties and clubs, so it’s equipped with stacks of plastic fold-up chairs and banquet tables that can be rearranged. When there’s a performance or talk, chairs are set up facing one end (no permanent stage – presenters will stand on the floor). Best seats would generally be in the middle-to-front in that facing gallery of chairs, for easy view and listening. Avoid the very back row if sound is an issue, or the extreme sides if the view is at a sharp angle. (There are usually speakers near the front, so sitting a little back can give better acoustics.)
Main Hall: a multipurpose hall (often called the “party room” in event bookings) with high ceilings and a wooden or vinyl floor. Great for large gatherings, community plays, exercise classes and children’s parties. It seats roughly 60–80 at tables or up to 100 people on chairs in rows.Smaller Hall/Meeting Room: off one side of the main hall or behind the kitchen. This is a quieter room used for meetings or smaller groups (for example, a coffee morning or a small recycling drop-off). It seats perhaps 20–30 people at tables.Kitchen and Serving Area: a canteen-style kitchen with countertop and hatch opening into the main hall. It has ovens, sinks and a large warming cupboard. This is typically used to serve tea, coffee or simple buffet meals during events. One enthusiastic parent review noted that the kitchen is “open-sided so great for passing through food to the party room”.Cloak and Lounge Areas: Near the entrance there may be coat hooks and a little lobby where people hang coats and umbrellas. During events, volunteers might set up a small snack table or “sweets shop” here, along with the hot drinks station.
The ceiling lights are plain fluorescent panels, so there’s no special stage lighting – events rely on the room’s existing lighting. A portable sound system (microphone and speakers) can be brought in for talks or music, but there’s no in-house PA system beyond a basic amp. Acoustically the hall has noticeable echo when empty, so speakers often use a microphone. The room is big and open, so sound carries; if you’re sensitive to noise, peripheral areas (like the corner against the wall) are slightly quieter than the centre. In short, it’s a single-level hall system: main event space plus a side room, connected by corridor near the kitchen. If visiting, aim for center-front seating for the best view; stand nearby adults tend to drift to corners during kids’ parties where there’s a little more space.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Danestone Community Centre, Fairview Street, Danestone, Aberdeen AB22 8ZP. This puts it in a residential area a few minutes’ walk from Danestone shops on Laurel Drive. City map coordinates place it just north of the Bridge of Don area. If you have GPS or a smartphone map, use the postcode AB22 8ZP and look for the building near Danestone Congregational Church.
By Car: There is a small free car park directly outside the venue (enough for a couple dozen cars). It’s shared with adjacent community buildings, but spaces are usually sufficient for most events. The parking surface is level tarmac. There is one marked disabled parking bay near the entrance. On busy nights, you can also park on Fairview Street and the neighbouring roads (street parking is generally unrestricted, but do not block driveways or ramps). Since it serves teachers, club members and parents, the car parks fill up early – arriving a few minutes before an event starts almost always helps snag a space. There is no paid lots or time limit imposed by the council – all parking here is free.
By Bus and Public Transit: Danestone CC is served by First Aberdeen bus service #1 (RGU Garthdee – Danestone). The stop you want is “Danestone Fairview Street” at the corner next to the shops, a one-minute walk from the hall. Buses to Danestone run roughly every 15–30 minutes on weekdays (slightly less frequently late evenings or weekends). You can catch the #1 from Union Street or from locations like the city centre bus station. Some return services are labelled “Danestone,” or simply look for the Fairview Street stop. No train station is within easy walking distance – the nearest rail links (Dyce, Aberdeenshire) require a taxi or a city bus to reach Danestone. If arriving by airport (which is ~6 miles north), Stagecoach and First run direct buses (around £4–5, 15–30 minutes) from Aberdeen Airport to Danestone Fairview Street. Otherwise a taxi from downtown Aberdeen to Danestone takes 15–20 minutes depending on traffic (£10–15).
Walking and Cycling: From Bridge of Don or Persley, it’s about a 20- to 30-minute walk to Danestone (most people would simply take the bus). There are sidewalks along most of the route. Some visitors cycle here – there are no formal bike racks at the door, but you can lock a bike on the fence or railing near the entrance.
Rideshare/Taxi: If using a taxi or Uber/Lift from Aberdeen city centre, tell the driver “Danestone Community Centre, Fairview Street.” The taxi drop-off point is right outside the front doors. Note that evening events can get busy, so pre-booked rides (or the drop-off lane outside Aalborg Court condos) might ensure easier access to the entrance without blocking other cars.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you enter through double doors into a tiled foyer or lobby. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming – you’ll often be met by a duty volunteer or class instructor at the door. A visitor’s first view is usually the main hall to your left, or a reception desk on the right. Coat hooks line the wall by the entrance for brollies and jackets (though there’s no formal cloakroom or lockboxes, valuables are best kept with you). The centre has a relaxed vibe: if no one is at the desk, people come in and out as if it’s their own building.
Security & Entry: There is no metal detector or bag check for typical events. For very large parties, they may have volunteers manning the door to greet guests and direct them. In general, trust and community spirit prevail – kids and families mix freely. After-hours or late events can have separate door alarms, but daytime activities (9am–5pm) are open access for everyone dropping in. Always look for the neon fire exit signs in case of evacuation.
Food and Drink: Danestone doesn’t have a full café inside, but it often offers refreshments. Hot drinks and snacks are typically available for sale or donation during events. There is a canteen area (with microwave, kettle and urns) where volunteers keep tea, coffee and biscuits. One reviewer mentioned biscuits and sweet treats on a table by the entrance, often run by fundraising volunteers. Outside food delivery (pizza, fish & chips) is allowed into the halls (especially for kids’ parties), and many parents do that. If you’re attending a public event, you can usually carry cups or plates; if it’s a public function, expect paper plates and disposable cups to be provided. During pandemic times they added hand sanitizer stations in the lobby, and those remain as a hygiene perk.
Facilities: Toilet facilities include an accessible (wide-door) WC with baby-changing station. The men’s, women’s and accessible restrooms are clearly signed and are usually well-kept. The women’s restroom even has free sanitary products. For parents, note that stroller entry is easy, and there’s a small bench in the lobby if you need to strap in a carrier. For sports groups, there’s a shower room (rare in small centres!) which can be used for a quick freshen-up after activities (ask staff if not open). Most events don’t require formal attire, so the dress code is casual – people come as they are, from jogging gear to jeans and jumpers. One tip: during winter months the hall can be chilly (radiators warm it, but it’s large), so bring a sweater or layer if you tend to get cold in open spaces.
Atmosphere: Expect a friendly, slightly noisy hum of local life inside the venue. On any given day you might find toddlers laughing in the play area on the floor, a Pilates class counting reps in one corner, and chatting parents sipping tea at the back. The vibe is very “community centre” – relaxed, informal and family-friendly. The bulletin boards and walls are covered in posters for upcoming local events (including Danestone CC’s own classes, but also Bridge of Don flyers and council notices). Staff and volunteers tend to be very approachable – they know most of the regular visitors by name. There is no strict usher or on-site staff beyond volunteers, so if you need directions inside (like where the nearest exit is) just ask someone in a hi-viz volunteer jacket or ring the centre once inside.
Nearby Amenities
Danestone is mainly a residential suburb, but you won’t be far from food and convenience stores. Just a five-minute walk uphill from the hall is Tesco Extra Danestone on Laurel Drive – a full-size supermarket with a cafe counter. If you need grocery items before or after an event, it’s a short stroll. In that small shopping parade you’ll also find a newsagent, a pharmacy and a few chip shops/takeaways. The village has an Indian takeaway and a Chinese takeaway as well. For more dining variety, the Bridge of Don area (a mile or two south) has several pubs, cafes and fast food outlets – notably a Sea Salt & Sole fish & chip shop and a Domino’s Pizza. (If you have time, Bridge of Don also boasts done-as-many cafes called Grub Fresh Food, and traditional pubs on Cheyne Road and King Street.)
In terms of coffee or snacks near Danestone CC itself, there isn’t a cafe inside the centre, but at nearby Danestone shops you can grab a sandwich or coffee to go. The centre’s own hot drinks are the main “cafe” if you’re on site. If you’re planning a larger outing, the city centre of Aberdeen is just 4 miles south (about a 10-15 minute drive on Bedford Road) and has countless restaurants and bars if scheduling a meal.
For overnight visitors, the closest hotels are along the A90 (Bridge of Don) a few miles away. The best-known is Premier Inn Aberdeen North (Bridge of Don) near the airport turn-off (free parking, on-site restaurant). A little further south you’ll find the Travelodge Aberdeen Bridge of Don and a few guesthouses. Aberdeen Airport itself is about a 15-20 minute taxi ride from Danestone (use the Bobby Calder or Airpark route north). In summary: dining and lodgings are not within immediate walking distance of the hall, but they’re easy to reach by car or a short bus ride down to Bridge of Don.
After events that end late, nearby streets are quiet and lights are modest. If staying out late, note that Danestone does not have a 24-hour diner or night-time food vendors – the closest 24-hour stops would be the airport (which has a Brookleys bar/cafe) or the city center. Taxis and rideshares are available at any hour in Danestone; many locals pre-arrange a taxi for late lifts home. Street lighting along Fairview Street is adequate, so walking remains safe after dark. The hall’s front door exit is flush with the sidewalk, so you can step right onto level pavement when leaving at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Danestone Community Centre’s charm is in its community roots. It’s a scrappy, no-frills local hub that manages to host a bit of everything for everyone – from toddlers making mud pies in arts and crafts to pensioners whacking balls in the bowls session. Because it’s run by volunteers (a council-appointed committee of local group reps), there’s a real “by the community, for the community” ethos. Locals will tell you that personal touch makes Danestone CC stand out: the staff and leaders often live in Danestone, so events and even the snacks menu (think traybakes popular with Danestone families) are tailored to neighbourhood tastes.
One unique feature is how the centre combines unexpected services under one roof. For example, it’s listed as having “hot drinks” on tap (even outside of events, volunteers often kept a jug of tea ready in the foyer for anyone who pops in) and it participates in Aberdeen’s “Fair Share” free-food program. The accessible shower and changing facilities are unusually generous for a small community hall – a legacy, perhaps, of its past uses or when it doubled as a youth drop-in centre. The centre’s library corner and child-friendly play area also add character: if you wander in on a weekday morning you might find grandparents quietly paging through donated books while tiny tots cram wooden blocks into a toy van in the corner.
Architecturally it isn’t historic, but its plain Digby Dundee-style equals the typical Aberdeen community centre design of the 1970s. What matters is the atmosphere inside: there’s often the scent of biscuits in the air, the hum of a glockenspiel from a nursery group in one hallway, and volunteers chatting in kitchen uniforms. Danestone CC has weathered big changes – it survived the council fund cuts of the 2010s by rallying locals as volunteers. During the 2020 Covid-19 lockdowns, it was closed like many halls, but the community used that time to refurbish and rewire (new floor and LED lights went in one year), so it reopened fresh with safer facilities for everyone. Many in Danestone remember that year as a pivot – today the venue includes updated ramps and modernised toilets thanks to grants, a testament to local pride. That down-to-earth renewal, paired with its ongoing role at local events like the annual Danestone Party Week parade or bridge-building bake sale, means both residents and small touring acts appreciate it as a friendly, inclusive spot.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: If you need step-free access or mobility assistance, rest assured the centre is fully accessible. There’s a gently sloping ramp up to the front entrance and a wide “no-step” door. Inside, all rooms (hall, kitchen, toilets) are on one level. The accessible toilet has grab bars and space for folding wheelchairs or stroller manoeuvre. Hearing assistance is limited to portable microphones used at events, so bring earplugs if you’re sensitive to echoes or loudspeakers. Blind or low-vision users should note that big hall spaces have even flooring but minimal contrasting signage – volunteers will gladly guide you around if needed.
What to Bring: Come dressed for the activity – sportswear for classes, casuals for parties. For children’s events, bring a change of clothes if it’s messy play. You may bring your own food or refreshments if allowed by the event (check signage); for private hire you can order takeout. Most visitors carry small change or cards if they plan to buy a tea or donate for snacks. Umbrellas or coats can be hung on hooks; security is basic so keep valuables on you.Things to Avoid: The hall isn’t soundproof from adjacent rooms, so during evening classes avoid excess noise in side lounge if another group is meeting. Don’t block the vestibule with baby strollers if a session is about to start – volunteers may ask you to fold them and store along the wall. The centre is child-friendly, but run at leash rules if bringing a dog. Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside (there’s no shelter outside either), so plan cigarettes or vaping breaks – step well off the building, as smoke does smell up the foyer.Arrival Time: For ticketed events, doors usually open about 15–20 minutes before start. If attending a drop-in class, arrive at least 5 minutes early to sign in. The space is seldom locked if the event is large, but smaller groups sometimes buzz-lock the door – so if the lights are on and nobody answers the doorbell, try the side access (staff will either let you in or point you to the main entrance).Age Restrictions: The centre welcomes all ages. Events are generally family-friendly. (One exception: the bar area for cider at a quiz night might have an 18+ section, but that’s rare.) There’s no strict ID check or dress code. If it feels like a “non-children” event, it will be posted – otherwise you can safely bring kids along until closing time.Technology and Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available (look for an open “Danestone CC” network inside). Outlets in the main hall allow charging phones or laptops during community meetings. There is no official app for scheduling, but the centre regularly updates its Facebook page and community website. If you want to take photos, that’s fine for personal use, but always ask permission before posting pictures of children or adults online.Parking an Issue? On really big events it can fill up. If you find the lot full, you have a couple of street options: turn up Fairview back towards Bridge of Don and park along Gordon Brae (still in Danestone) where spaces free up in evenings, or on nearby Clarke Drive. These are quiet residential streets, so be considerate. The Danestone shops (Tesco etc.) have parking too, but those are reserved for customers. Also check if any neighbouring group has cleared their space – users often leave a note if overflow parking is allowed for a particular event.
Insider Tip: People love sharing that Danestone CC often feels like “home.” Instead of formal ushers, volunteers from local organisations mingle with the crowd. If you attend regularly, bring along a Ryanair-style loyalty card – you’ll rack up credit from the centre’s friendliness and maybe land an extra biscuit at tea time! Also, keep an eye out for the notice board by reception – sometimes last-minute local news gets pinned there (for example, if an outside club like the fishermen’s association has an interest meeting or a charity food drop-off).
Most importantly, remember that Danestone Community Centre thrives on community spirit. The best way to enjoy it is to participate – chat with neighbours during the interval, support the bake sale, or even offer to help out. Locals find that the more you engage, the more the centre feels like an extension of your own living room. That warmth sets it apart more than any glossy finish or fancy sound system could.
Where exactly is Danestone Community Centre located?
Danestone Community Centre is on Fairview Street in the Danestone area of Aberdeen. The postcode is AB22 8ZP. It's just north of Bridge of Don, near Danestone shops on Laurel Drive. Look for it across from Danestone Congregational Church. It’s about 3 miles (5 km) from Aberdeen city centre.
What is the capacity of Danestone Community Centre?
The main hall can hold roughly 70–100 people seated, depending on seating layout, or up to about 150 standing. There’s also a smaller side room for 20–30 persons. Capacity varies with setup: banquet style, theatre style, or sports layout. Public events usually see 50–80 guests at a time. It’s considered a medium-sized hall that’s big enough for clubs and parties but not a large auditorium.
How do I get tickets or make a booking for an event?
There is no traditional box office. For community classes or events, you usually sign up in person or by contacting the centre directly (call or email the admin). Many events are free or donation-based. If a reservation is needed (like for a children’s party or paid class), you’d arrange it by phone or email through the centre. Check the centre’s Facebook page or local noticeboards for event details. In most cases you pay in cash on arrival or via a club coordinator, rather than buying tickets online.
What kind of events and activities can I find here?
Danestone Community Centre hosts a wide range of local activities. Expect children’s playgroups and toddler sessions, fitness and dance classes (jazzercise, yoga, aerobics), indoor sports (badminton, short-mat bowls, table tennis), crafts workshops, and social clubs. They also run community fundraising events like quiz nights, fairs or coffee mornings. Children's birthday parties with bouncy castles happen often. Occasionally there are music nights or ceilidhs by local groups. In short, it’s all-ages community programming rather than big touring concerts, with very affordable prices (often pay-what-you-can).
Where can I park when visiting the centre?
There is a free car park right by the building with about 15–20 spaces (including a disabled spot). It fills up quickly before popular classes or parties, so arriving a few minutes early is wise. If the lot is full, on-street parking is available on Fairview Street or nearby residential roads (no time limits). Parking is free; just be mindful to leave driveways clear. The venue is also cyclists- and pedestrian-friendly if you prefer not to drive.
Which bus routes serve Danestone Community Centre?
First Aberdeen bus service #1 runs to Danestone. You can catch it from Union Street or other city stops; get off at “Fairview Street, Danestone.” The stop is just a short walk from the centre. Service runs roughly every 15–30 minutes on weekdays. There is also an N1 night bus on weekends. Check First Bus timetables for the latest schedules.
Is the centre wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Danestone Community Centre is fully accessible. There are gentle ramps and an accessible entrance door. All rooms and the restrooms are on one level, and the toilets include an accessible cubicle with grab bars and space for a wheelchair. Baby changing facilities are also available inside. The staff are used to accommodating needs, so feel free to request assistance if needed.
Can children participate at Danestone Community Centre?
Yes, definitely. The centre is family-friendly and hosts many children’s programs (mucky play, toddler groups, youth clubs). During community events, kids are welcome, though some adult classes (e.g. evening dance classes) may be 16+. In practice, all-age attendance is common unless an event is specifically marked “adults only.” Children under 16 usually must be supervised by an adult on the premises. There is no entrance age check for daytime; it’s a place where local families gather.
Are pets allowed inside?
Well-behaved dogs are permitted, reflecting the community centre’s dog-friendly policy. You won’t see many pets during classes, but service dogs or calm pets are allowed. If you do bring a dog, keep it on a leash and out of crowded areas. (On the flip side, note that dogs probably shouldn’t wander into the playgroup sessions.) Always ensure your pet is vaccinated and controlled, as it’s a public space with children and varied activities.
Does Danestone Community Centre have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The centre offers free Wi-Fi for visitors, a nod to its role as a “quiet study” and community working space. The network is open (“DanestoneCC” or similar), though during large events bandwidth may be limited. Outlets are available if you need to plug in a laptop. So you can catch up on emails or set up a presentation if helping to run an event.
Are there food and drink options on site?
There’s no full kitchen or restaurant open to the public, but you will usually find tea, coffee and snacks available. A small canteen area serves hot drinks and sometimes bills or toast pastries (often run by volunteers on donation basis). Many events feature a biscuit-and-brew refreshment table. However, it’s also common to bring your own snacks. The centre itself doesn’t sell full meals – for those, nearby shops or takeaways (Tesco Danestone, chip shops, or Bridge of Don eateries) are your best bet.
Is there a cloakroom or coat check?
No formal cloakroom service is offered. Visitors usually hang jackets and umbrellas on wall hooks by the entrance. It’s safest to keep valuables with you, as there’s no locked storage. During very busy events, volunteers might set aside a corner for coats, but it isn’t locked. Plan to either carry small bags or supervise coats yourself.
What are the centre’s opening hours?
The community centre’s standard office hours are weekdays 9am–5pm (Aberdeen City Council listing). However, the building is used beyond opening hours for classes and clubs, which can run into evening or Saturdays. There is usually staff or volunteers present when events are scheduled, but if you’re coming for a private booking or to inspect the space, standard weekday hours are safest. Always confirm timings with the centre for any particular event.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Often yes, if an event is open to the public and not already sold out. Many Danestone CC events sell tickets only in advance if they expect capacity limits (like holiday parties or paid workshops). But casual drop-in classes and most club nights don’t require a ticket – just turn up and pay at the door or grab a donation bucket. It’s wise, however, for popular events (especially children’s or charity ones) to call ahead to check availability, as simple cash-only sales may occur on arrival.
Are there any noteworthy policies or rules I should know?
Standard community hall rules apply. No smoking or vaping indoors (there’s no outside covered smoking area). Alcohol is only allowed if the event specifically permits it (ask staff). Photography is fine for personal use, but always be respectful of privacy during children’s activities. Bag searches and strict security are not the norm, though unusual events might have additional staff. Dress code is casual – this isn’t a high-end venue. If attending a meeting or class, modest casual wear is the norm. When in doubt, check with the organisers of a specific event.
How do I book a party or hire the hall?
To book the facilities (for children’s parties, meetings, fitness classes, etc.), you’d contact the centre’s bookings administrator. A phone number is listed on the Aberdeen City Council site (01224 828333) and at the centre itself – but you won’t find an online form. Rates are very reasonable (Hall hire is cheaper during weekdays; weekends cost a bit more). You’ll typically pay a deposit and the balance when you arrive for your event. It’s a straightforward process – just call or email to discuss your needs, and the volunteer staff will guide you through the booking details.
Are pets allowed in the community centre?
As mentioned, guide dogs and friendly pets are allowed. You won't see many animals where children's events happen (e.g. playgroup floor), but pets on leads are generally welcome in common areas. It’s considered pet-friendly by Aberdeen standards the centre's features explicitly note “Dog friendly.” Just be sure your dog is calm and won’t disturb any class or damage property (clean up if needed!).
