Soul Casino Aberdeen, a popular casino located in the heart of the city, has played an important role in the local entertainment scene for over a decade. Unfortunately, due to a shift in the late-night entertainment culture, the casino has recently closed its doors for good. In this comprehensive article, we will explore the history, offerings, and eventual closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen, as well as the impact on the local community and the future of the adjacent Soul Bar.
A Brief History of Soul Casino Aberdeen
For 12 years, Soul Casino Aberdeen has been a staple in the city's nightlife scene. Owned by Granite Rock Casino Ltd, the venue was situated on Union Street and attracted a diverse crowd of patrons. The casino's official name, Soul Casino, reflected the vibrant atmosphere and exciting gaming options available to visitors. With a small but well-curated selection of slot machines and live table games, the casino quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
The Casino's Offerings
Soul Casino Aberdeen was a relatively small establishment, but it managed to pack a lot of entertainment into its limited space. The venue offered a variety of gaming options, including:
- Slot machines
- Video slots
- Electronic roulette
- American roulette
- Blackjack
- Poker table games
Although the casino did not offer poker cash games, it still provided an enjoyable gaming experience for both casual and serious players. The casino's operating hours catered to the late-night crowd, with slot machines and live table games available from 2 pm until 5 am on most days.
Dress Code and Age Requirements
To maintain a classy and sophisticated atmosphere, Soul Casino Aberdeen enforced a smart casual dress code. This meant that patrons were expected to wear closed footwear, avoid shorts and sportswear, and dress appropriately for a night out on the town. Jackets and ties were not required, but they were certainly welcomed.
In accordance with UK law, the casino only admitted visitors who were 18 years of age or older. All patrons were required to present a valid ID upon entry, and an entrance fee may have been applicable depending on the event or promotion.
The Closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen
In a statement released by Granite Rock Casino Ltd, it was announced that Soul Casino Aberdeen would be closing down due to a "shift in the late-night entertainment culture in the city." The decision was not made lightly, and the company expressed its gratitude towards the long-serving management and staff for their hard work and dedication over the years.
It is unclear how many jobs were affected by the closure, but the impact on the local community is undeniable. The loss of such a beloved venue has undoubtedly been felt by both patrons and employees alike.
Soul Bar: The Adjacent Venue Continues to Thrive
Despite the closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen, the adjacent Soul Bar continues to operate and serve the local community. Located on the ground floor of the same building, Soul Bar is a popular destination for food, drinks, and entertainment in the heart of Aberdeen.
Union Kirk: A New Events Venue in the Soul Bar Building
The upper floor of the Soul Bar building has recently been redeveloped into a brand new events venue called Union Kirk. This multi-functional space maintains the building's traditional features, such as stained-glass windows, vaulted ceilings, and intricate cornicing, while also offering modern amenities and a stylish design.
The redevelopment of Union Kirk was overseen by north-east architects Tinto, who worked closely with the branding team to create a space that is both visually appealing and functional. The result is a stunning venue that can be used for a variety of events, including weddings, corporate functions, and private parties.
Union Kirk is managed by PB Devco, the same company that operates Soul Bar and several other businesses in Aberdeen's city center.
The Impact on Aberdeen's Nightlife Scene
The closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen has left a void in the city's late-night entertainment scene, with many locals lamenting the loss of such a popular venue. While Soul Bar and Union Kirk continue to provide food, drinks, and event hosting services, the city's gaming enthusiasts have been left with fewer options for enjoying their favorite pastimes.
However, the city's nightlife scene is still thriving, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues to explore. While the loss of Soul Casino Aberdeen is undoubtedly a blow to the local entertainment industry, there is still plenty to see and do in this vibrant Scottish city.
The Future of Casino Entertainment in Aberdeen
With the closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen, it's natural to wonder what the future holds for casino entertainment in the city. As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, it's possible that new venues and gaming options may emerge to fill the gap left by the casino's closure.
The rise of online casinos has played a significant role in shaping the modern gaming industry, and it's likely that this trend will continue to grow in popularity. Aberdeen's gaming enthusiasts may find themselves drawn to the convenience and variety offered by online platforms, which often feature a wider range of games and promotions than their brick-and-mortar counterparts.
In Conclusion
The closure of Soul Casino Aberdeen marks the end of an era for the city's nightlife scene. For 12 years, this popular venue provided locals and visitors with a unique and enjoyable gaming experience, and its absence will undoubtedly be felt by the community.
However, the continued success of Soul Bar and the introduction of Union Kirk serve as a reminder that Aberdeen's entertainment industry is still alive and well. As the city adapts to the changing landscape of late-night entertainment, there is hope that new and exciting opportunities will arise to fill the void left by Soul Casino Aberdeen.
So, while we bid farewell to this beloved venue, let us also look forward to the future and the new experiences that await in the vibrant city of Aberdeen.