Romantic charm of Aberdeen

ABERDEEN has been voted the UK's favourite city for an "alternative" romantic break.

Pollsters asked 1,000 people to choose between British destinations not normally associated with a steamy weekend.

Voters swooned over the Granite City, with almost half rating it ahead of English rivals such as Manchester, Birmingham and Liverpool. Hotel owner Stewart Spence said: "The beauty of Aberdeen is that you have got a vibrant city but also great countryside on your doorstep."

A spokeswoman for car maker Nissan, which commissioned the poll, said: "When we pointed out the attractions, like the castles and the cathedral, people said they would definitely consider going to Aberdeen for a romantic break."