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Dundee offers lots of exciting family days out with a good choice of indoor and outdoor attractions to suit everyone. The family focused website www.dayoutwiththekids.co.uk recommends these top 5 things to do with kids in Dundee. 

Dundee Science Centre is the only UK science centre...

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Dundee offers a range of accommodation to suit everyone’s taste and pockets.  From upmarket city-centre hotels with waterfront views to traditional seaside cottages, affordable travel lodges, budget friendly hostels and short-stay apartments, there is something for every...

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Dundee has plenty of places to see and visit whether you are looking for a family day out, want to visit one of the annual events, or want to learn more about the city's history with its monuments and landmarks, its maritime heritage, the arrival of jute or the city's new scientific and...

Eating and Drinking in Dundee

Dundee’s food and drink scene is transforming at a dynamic pace.  Contemporary restaurants and enterprising bistros sit alongside cool coffee houses, tasteful cafes, craft beer bars and good food shops. 

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V&A Dundee is the first design museum in the UK outside London. This international centre for design is located in the heart of Dundee’s revitalized waterfront, next to the famous RRS Discovery and Discovery Point. V&A Dundee celebrates Scotland’s illustrious design heritage with their fantastic and permanent Scottish Design Galleries, which you can visit free of charge. For more information, please visit: www.vam.ac.uk/dundee

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The culture of a city can be about may things - its history, its buildings, its music and art - and of course its people. Read on and come and visit!

First Heathrow flights in a generation celebrated in Dundee

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Scotland’s fourth-largest city – fun and vibrant Dundee – is a bustling social hub. For those planning to come to visit Scotland, rest assured that there are loads of fun and exciting things to do in Dundee on your visit. The city has a legacy of being at the centre of the global jute industry, like many other large Scottish cities, which stemmed from the Industrial Revolution.

From its involvement in this industry and others, Dundee earned a nickname for being the city of “jute, jam and journalism”. We’ll chat more about those later, but rest assured that there are plenty of things to do in Dundee for all the family to enjoy.

The city has an amazing culture of science and football, but what really draws visitors year-round is the atmosphere. With friendly people and a laundry list of things to do nearby, it’s a city well worth visiting.

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Top 37 Things to do in Dundee

Dundee is a big city, so it’s probably not surprising that there are so many great activities for you to enjoy. If you like variety and plenty of options, you’re in the right place.

Here for a long time or a short visit? Either way, you’ll have no trouble making the most of the indoor and outdoor activities in Dundee.

To make it even easier for you, we’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Dundee. Check it out down below!

V & A Dundee

The very first design museum to open in Scotland is here in the heart of the town , and it’s one of the top things to do with kids in Dundee.

This fascinating and stylish museum illustrates the brilliance of Scottish creativity , the human body and its five senses. It also features some of the best examples of design from all around the world.

The museum opened in 2018 and has quickly become one of the ‘must-see’ Dundee attractions . So, don’t miss out on your chance to see it in all its glory.

The McManus Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum

It is fitting that this grand museum should reside within such a beautiful Gothic revival building.

The museum features a collection of fine and decorative art alongside a natural history collection. Originally conceptualised as a memorial to Prince Albert , the ever-changing exhibitions of McManus Dundee are worth a trip no matter when you visit.

They regularly host activities and events, including crafty, fun activities and captivating behind-the-scenes tours from the Collections Unit.

Vertical World Climbing Centre

Are you an experienced climber or a total newbie? Either way, you’ll have a fabulous time at this incredible indoor climbing centre!

There are over 300 potential routes of both top rope and lead climbing. Plus, an excellent bouldering area, cosy café and more!

Friendly staff are always around to help you and can run courses suitable for kids aged seven and upwards.

Verdant Works

If you’re interested in Dundee’s rich history as a jute manufacturer , you should definitely take some time to visit this museum. It’s one of the best places to learn about Dundee’s industrial history and pick up something from the gift shop to take home with you.

Within the atmospheric setting of a beautifully refurbished old mill, this world-class visitor’s attraction brings history to life and is certainly one of the most unusual things to do in Dundee.

Learn all about Dundee’s industrial textile heritage, dating as far back as 1833. The story of jute and the story of Dundee are forever entangled – don’t miss the chance to explore it.

Broughty Castle Museum

This 15th-century riverside castle sits on the banks of the River Tay in Broughty Ferry.

Within the castle, you can explore fascinating displays of the history of the people, environment, and wildlife of Broughty Ferry. Delve into the past, then look out at the incredible views of the river.

One of my personal favourite places to visit in Dundee.

Camperdown Wildlife Centre

If you’re looking for a day out that your little ones will love, this is a great place to start!

This lovely park sits on the former grounds of a 19th-century mansion. It is also the largest park in Dundee.

If you love animals and spending time outside, I can’t recommend enough this fantastic day out. Little kids and big kids alike will love it.

Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre

There’s no shortage of activities to keep you happy here. This wonderful museum in the centre of Dundee has it all.

There are two contemporary art galleries, a two-screen cinema, a print studio, and a public engagement programme. Not to mention the great little shop and café bar.

You could spend all day here!

Tay Rail Bridge

If you’re visiting Dundee and want to see some history, the Tay Rail Bridge is a must-see location.

This old bridge has a tragic history. It stands beside the remains of the original bridge, which collapsed in 1879.

The bridge collapsed as a train passed over it, and all on board lost their lives.

Parts of the old bridge can be seen sticking out of the water at low tide, an eerie reminder of the past.

At the highest point in the middle of Dundee, a war memorial sits upon an extinct volcano. The most prominent feature on the Dundee skyline.

This is one of the things to do in Dundee that will get you a really beautiful picture, and make you feel very peaceful.

The panoramic views from this summit are stunning. There are places to park near the top but I recommend the walk up to really soak in the beauty.

Dundee Science Centre

Part of the Scottish Science Centre Network, this non-profit organisation introduces people of all ages to the wonders of science. It’s one of the most popular attractions for children, so if you’re bringing any young tykes with you, then be sure to stop by.

The amazing interactive exhibits focus mostly on the life sciences, particularly the senses.

They also focus on robotics and practical exploration of learning, which is great for the kids to experience.

You won’t regret taking the day to visit here – you might even leave with a new love for science!

HMS Unicorn

One of the most unique of Dundee’s visitor attractions is this historic Royal Navy warship with four decks.

It’s the 3rd oldest ship still afloat today in the world – now a museum ship!

This unusual museum welcomes you aboard for an opportunity to explore and learn. Try your hand at knot tying, test out the hammocks, learn all about the armament and much more.

Mills Observatory

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to do a bit of stargazing!

This classically styled sandstone building has a distinctive 7-meter dome—one of two made from papier-mâché to survive (you have to believe it to see it).

The observatory is home to a Victorian refracting telescope, display areas and a small planetarium.

Staff are knowledgeable and passionate, and on a clear night, you get a spectacular view of the stars and planets. It can get cold, though, so wrap up warm!

Explore Parks in Dundee

There are plenty of lovely parks to visit in Dundee. We’ve put the best ones together to make planning your park day even easier.

Baxter Park is a peaceful grassy park, perfect for settling down for a picnic. The wide-open spaces make it a great place to play with the kids and walk the dogs.

Magdalen Green is located to the West of the city centre, with lovely views of the Tay Railway Bridge. There’s a grand bandstand that has hosted brass bands and open-air concerts.

Stobsmuir Park is one the kids will like, with a lovely little outdoor play area and ducks and swans to feed. Plenty of seating, so it’s a perfect spot to sit together and watch the sunset.

Victoria Park is a beautiful place to walk with your friends and family. The park has rose gardens, bedding plant displays and recreational areas for sports or picnics.

Dundee Museum of Transport

At this museum, you are invited to learn about the lives of local transport pioneers and innovators.

Also, to take a look through the displays of vehicles from local and national collections.

They host amazing transport-related events year-round, so be sure to have a look at what’s on when you plan your visit.

Desperate Dan Statue

Are there any lovers of the Desperate Dan Tales comics looking through our list? If so, you’ll be happy to hear that this odd statue exists.

There are plenty of things to do in Dundee that will give you a great picture —but none quite like this one!

Slessor Gardens

This central parkland area is a multi-functional space large enough to host big events. It’s hard to believe that such a lovely lush spot would be so close to the town centre.

Used for pop concerts and other fantastic gatherings, you can check out the up-and-coming events on Dundee City Council‘s website.

Claypotts Castle

A tiny, peculiar-looking late medieval castle straight out of a fairy tale.

This well-preserved 15th-century castle started life as a private dwelling, a fortified residence for the Strachan family. Tours of the castle are free but need to be booked by phone ahead of time.

If you drop by spontaneously, don’t worry, the grounds and exterior are absolutely beautiful. A perfect picnic spot!

St Pauls Episcopal Cathedral

If you adore historical sites and stunning architecture, this is the place for you.

Towering high right in the centre of this small town is this gorgeous Anglican cathedral, designed by Sir George Gilbert and built in 1855.

If you’re looking for things to do in Dundee that are close to the city centre, we would definitely recommend stopping in here.

Morton Lochs

The Howff is a lovely little cemetery nestled into the heart of the city. While not the first thing you think of when wondering about what to do in Dundee, the Howff is an incredible cultural touchstone of the city.

Walking amongst the crumbling gravestones is incredibly peaceful, and there are benches where you can sit and contemplate. It’s a popular spot, so this pretty burial ground is not too spooky.

This one is for the beer lovers! 71 Brewing is a fantastic brewery that wa s voted Best Beer Experience in Scotland—and not for nothing. They offer award-winning tours that fill up fast, so pre-booking is advised.

On-site, they sell their own quality brews on draught or in cans or bottles to take away with you. Delicious!

Templeton Woods

Just on the outskirts of Dundee is this utterly beautiful woodland and one of the top things to do in Dundee for families.

There’s free parking available, plus the use of a great scenic seating/picnic area and barbeque. Seats are also dotted throughout the excellent trails, so you know you can stop for a little rest.

Perfect for nature lovers of all ages!

D’Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum

An impressive collection of flora and fauna from around the globe is on show here , which makes D’Arcy a superb location if you’re looking for things to do in Dundee for kids. Children of all ages will be absorbed into exhibitions showing off animals of land and sea, as well as notable flora throughout Scotland.

This museum lives at the University of Dundee and got its name from the Scottish biologist and mathematician D’Arcy Thompson. Come and learn all about birds, insects, mammals, fish and reptiles (oh my!) from far and wide.

Lemmings Statues

This charming landmark is located in a public garden area on Perth Road.

The classic pixel characters come to life here, climbing up the stone pillar. One sits at the top and looks out over the river and city , and you can almost expect them to come to life any second and run away.

The landmark stands as a tribute to perseverance and Dundee’s success in the Technical Sector and Gaming Industry.

Powrie Castle

This crumbling 16th-century castle may be in ruins, but that shouldn’t put you off. There’s still beauty in these old stones , which makes them one of the top Dundee tourist attractions to see on a visit.

As someone who loves very old things, I highly recommend a visit here. The peaceful setting makes for a lovely place to take a walk or have a picnic.

Ninewells Community Garden

This gorgeous 1-acre garden is bursting with lovely greenery. Sensory plants, herbs, vegetables, flowers, trees, wildlife habitats, and beehives – all of them thriving.

There are wheelchair accessible paths and a great little children’s play area, as well as workshops and volunteering for all ages go on all through the year.

Caird Park Golf Club

Golf lovers will be more than satisfied by this fantastic parkland course, first opened in 1923. The course is suitably challenging, drawing enthusiastic players year-round.

Caird Park also boasts an athletics stadium, stunning nature trails and a historic 16th-century mains castle.

Make sure to come and check it out!

Ancrum Outdoor Centre

This one is for the thrill-seekers among you.

Excitement and adventure await you at the Ancrum Outdoor Centre. For 40 years, this fantastic outdoor facility has been introducing people to the thrilling world of land and water-based adventure activities.

You can tailor your package to your group’s specific needs, so you’ll always get exactly what you’re after.

If you’re looking for things to do in Dundee that get the blood pumping, this is a good shout!

Balgarthno Stone Circle

This strange, secluded historical landmark is not the only one of its kind. The keen travellers among you may have seen stone circles in other places.

If you haven’t seen a stone circle before , I recommend taking a look at this one while in Dundee.

They’re not much at first sight, but they have a real air of strangeness and mystery that makes them worth a visit.

The McManus Collections Unit

Another excellent museum – The McManus Collections Unit, is a dream location for history buffs.

At the McManus, eight incredible open gallery spaces house interesting exhibitions of history, art and the environment. You’ll leave here with a little more insight into the Dundee of yesterday.

All of this is inside a beautiful Victorian Gothic-style building.

Broughty Ferry Nature Reserve

There are lots of amazing things to do in Dundee that let you soak in the local natural beauty. This one just happens to be my favourite.

The place is absolutely beautiful. You can choose to walk through the woods or along the beach, both are perfect for family walks, cycling of jogging.

It’s a lovely place for a picnic or to treat the dogs to the prettiest walk of their life.

Dundee Treasure Trail

Are you looking to learn more about this splendid city but also want to know the top things to do in Dundee with kids? The Dundee Treasure Trail gives you the best of both—an informative walking tour full of mystery and fun that the whole family can enjoy.

After all, what kids wouldn’t be interested in the prospect of treasure?

Put your detective skills to the test and solve the whodunit game together on this mystery-themed trail. Or take on the spy mission trail and save the world (well, Scotland).

Discovery Point Dundee

An absolute must-see among all the fascinating things to do in Dundee. This award-winning visitor attraction is home to the Antarctic research vessel RRS Discovery.

Here you can learn the vessel’s harrowing tale of adventure and the pursuit of knowledge – from humble beginnings in Dundee to the Arctic expedition and beyond!

Learn of the heroes who ventured to one of the most inhospitable places on the planet in the name of discovery.

Ryze Dundee – Xtreme Air Sports

If you’re looking for things to do in Dundee that will get the kids good and tired, a fun and thrilling day out here will do it!

This place is amazing. It has an ocean of oversized trampolines, a huge stuntman airbag, a ninja obstacle course, obstacle pits, a ginormous inflatable with attached slides and much more!

A day spent here is a day well spent.

Dundee Botanic Garden

This luscious garden is open year-round and always has something worth seeing, no matter the season.

A particularly romantic spot, the garden is home to a vast range of plant life . Trees, shrubs, flowers, tropical temperature greenhouses, a water garden, and a herb garden.

It’s a great place to stop and smell the flowers.

Balnuith Alpacas

Balnuith Alpacas is a marvellous day out the whole family will adore! This charming rare breed farm offers visitors the opportunity to meet some strange and adorable furry friends. Alpacas, miniature Mediterranean donkeys, Poitou donkeys, Falabella miniature horses, and guanacos await to be pets and pictures (although they may need persuasion with some pellets).

If you’re really lucky, you might get the chance to see some newborn babies. Once you’ve made friends with your favourite alpacas , you get to take them for a leisurely countryside stroll. Yes, really!

Escape Rooms Dundee

Ending the list on a high note here! Escape Rooms Dundee is an ideal day out for groups of all ages, with escape rooms featuring five different games to try. Witchcraft and Wizardry, Da Vinci Room, Contagion, Overthrone, and Prison Break – each one suitable for up to six people.

Don’t miss out!

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9 Top Things to Do in Dundee, Scotland

Dundee, Scotland's fourth-largest city and the United Kingdom's only UNESCO City of Design, is a place in the process of reinventing itself through engineering, design, and tourism. Dundee was once one of the world's great whaling ports and later, its jute manufacturing capital (think sandbags, burlap sacks). Today it's where some of the world's most popular video games—Grand Theft Auto, Lemmings, Minecraft are created. It's a small, walkable destination surprisingly rich in landmarks and attractions. And, because tourists do not yet overrun it, local people are friendly, helpful, and genuinely glad you've come.

Situated on the Tay estuary near the east coast of Scotland, Dundee's south-facing location makes it one of the sunniest places in the country. It's also conveniently close to Edinburgh , St. Andrews , and Cairngorms National Park . It's a terrific place for a short cultural break—with museums, galleries, historical attractions, tours, and great views to enjoy. Here are nine of the best things to do when you visit.

Explore the New V&A Dundee

Ferne Arfin

The new Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) opened in September 2018 as Scotland's first and only design museum and the first branch of the V&A outside of London. Located in the center of Dundee's quayside cultural district, the building, designed by Japanese architect Kengo Kuma is a showstopper. Inside there are two main gallery areas—one focused on Scottish design and the other a series of spaces for changing exhibitions. Don't miss Charles Rennie Mackintosh's Oak Room reassembled in the center of the Scottish Galleries. Designed for a Glasgow tea room, it's considered a prototype for the library at Glasgow School of Art, destroyed by fire in 2018, and a must-see for anyone interested in Mackintosh's Arts & Crafts style.

The V&A is free, except for special exhibitions. Facilities include a casual cafe and a stylish restaurant that's open for dinner. Both have, arguably, the best riverside restaurant views in the city.

Head for the Antarctic with Scott and Shackleton on the RSS Discovery

 Edward Haylan/iStock Editorial/Getty Images

When Captain Robert Falcon Scott was preparing for his first voyage to the Antarctic, his expedition turned to the shipbuilders of Dundee. They'd been building the sturdy ships that Dundee whalers had used to chase their prey into the southern oceans for generations. The triple-hulled, bark-rigged auxiliary steamship Royal Research Ship (RRS) Discovery took Scott, along with fellow officer Ernest Shackleton, further south than any human being had ever ventured on a voyage that discovered the coastline of the Antarctic continent in 1902.

Now the ship is docked quayside in Dundee as part of the Discovery Point attraction that allows you to imagine following in the footsteps of the Antarctic explorers. Models, artifacts, films, and some chilly special effects set the scene before you venture onto the ship itself.

And if you are thinking of tying the knot in an extraordinary place, Discovery Point is licensed for both civil and religious wedding ceremonies—you can even have drinks on the deck.

While Away an Afternoon in The McManus

The McManus is Dundee's city museum. Its eight spacious galleries include two outstanding art galleries along with galleries devoted to local history, natural history, and Dundee's international role—stories gathered over centuries of trade, whaling, and textile manufacturing. If you're expecting a small, dusty local museum, you'll be pleasantly surprised. The McManus, revamped at the cost of more than 8 million pounds between 2005 and 2010, is well done and full of exciting things to see. There's also a sunny, casual and inexpensive café with excellent food. The museum itself is free.

In case it looks a bit familiar, the architect, Sir George Gilbert Scott, who designed this as a memorial to Prince Albert in the mid 19th century, also designed London's Albert Memorial and St. Pancras Hotel.

Tour in Luxury Aboard Henry the Vintage Coach

Jim Smith for Henry Tours 

Henry is a vintage-style coach that's fitted out inside like a Scottish baron's private den with tartan carpets and comfy tartan upholstered swivel chairs. Board for a two-hour overview tour of Dundee and nearby Broughty Ferry, the city's seaside resort and site of the castle pictured here. Riding along with Henry's personable tour guide, you'll discover the kind of insider information (like where to taste the best Dundee cakes) that you won't find in guidebooks and websites. With only eight people on board, it's a bit like being taken around a city by a friend who happens to be a native. Daily public tours leave from Discovery Point, and booking is essential.

Challenge Yourself at Dundee Contemporary Arts

With two spacious galleries, two cinemas, and a range of events and workshops, there is always something exciting and ahead of the curve going on at this internationally recognized city center contemporary art establishment. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2019, it bills itself as a place to "see, experience, and create." If seeing and experiencing is not enough, you can get your hands dirty and create in the DCA's well equipped Print Studio. Courses include some tasters, weekend courses and drop-in sessions, with staff on hand to offer technical assistance. Downloadable leaflets on the website describe equipment, classes, and fees. And while you are there, sample what's on offer at the DCA's Jute Cafe Bar , a popular spot—with surprisingly good food—for drinks and meals throughout the day and into the evening.

Experience the Sights and Sounds of Verdant Works

At the height of jute production in Dundee, at least 150 mills were engaged in turning this tough plant fiber, imported from the far reaches of the British Empire, into a fabric—burlap for sandbag and potato sacks, hessian for wall coverings and upholstery. From the mid 19th century to about 1900, it was a vast and surprisingly little known Scottish industry. It continued, at a reduced scale, into the 1960s.

At Verdant Works, the Dundee Heritage Trust brings together the operations of several factories into one former jute mill for a remarkably exciting attraction. There you can experience the processes, from softening the plant fiber with whale oil (from another old Dundee industry) to making the yarn and ultimately weaving the fabric. Volunteers along the way, many of whom worked in the industry, explain their jobs, briefly turn on the incredibly noisy machinery, and answer your questions. Lily Thomson, pictured here, worked as a weaver and shares jaw-dropping memories while she demonstrates her machine. Amongst the highlights is a genuine, functioning Boulton Watt steam engine (restored and powered by electricity now). You may remember James Watt from your school days as the inventor of the steam engine.

Verdant Works has a small café and a shop selling products made from jute.

Climb a Medieval Tower

 Jim McDowall/Getty Images

The Old Steeple, also confusingly known as St. Mary's Steeple (though not actually part of St. Mary's Church), is the oldest building in Dundee, dating back to 1490 at least. It has served as a belfry, a clock tower, and even a prison.

Climbing the 232 steps to the top (at 165 feet) is easier than you might imagine as there are rooms to stop off an explore along the way, including the antiquities room, the bell ringers room, the clock mechanism, the bell rooms, and the "cap" house at the top.

Access is only by guided tour with the personable and well informed Louise and Stewart of DD Tours , the only guides currently licensed to take visitors up the tower. The journey is not suitable for children younger than eight, and children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

See the World from the Perspective of The Law

Ferne Arfin 

Law is a Scots Gaelic word for hill, and The Law, topped by a small war memorial, is the highest point in Dundee. The 360-degree views from up there are pretty impressive, taking in a broad stretch of the Tay estuary, the sinuous Tay Rail Bridge, and the docks where oil platforms from the North Sea oil industry wait to be repaired or decommissioned. There's an orientation table at the very top to help you identify what you're seeing. If you like an uphill hike, there's a signposted, one-mile route from City Square to the top of the Law, rated moderate to easy, that should take you about 40 minutes. And once on the hill, there's a geocaching route that families will enjoy. Several city buses stop close to the start of the circular path up the Law. Or you can be completely lazy and take a tour on Henry, the vintage coach mentioned above. It makes a stop on top of the hill long enough for a good look around and to take some pictures.

Stargaze from a Unique Observatory

 alanfin/Getty Images

Mills Observatory on Balgay Hill, on the eastern edge of Dundee, was the U.K.'s first purpose-built public observatory. Anyone can visit to gaze at the stars and planets through the Mills telescopes for free. It's open from April to September on selected dates with staff on hand to help and a series of special programs and events. Planetarium shows are scheduled on Saturdays from October through March. They have to be booked but must be one of the areas best bargains, costing only a pound for adults and 50 pence for children.

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17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dundee

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Dundee, the fourth largest city in Scotland, spreads along the north bank of the Firth of Tay at the foot of Balgary Hill. Once a major port, the city's waterfront is well worth visiting and has since become a commercial and cultural hub that includes an excellent maritime museum complete with preserved vessels and a science center.

Dundee has also become a popular place for entertainment, and in the Old Town center, you can enjoy the city's food scene, as well as numerous great shopping experiences. Dundee is also a wonderful place to explore on foot. A highlight of a self-guided walking tour is to head up to Dundee Law , an extinct volcano with a peak of 572 feet that offers tremendous views of the city and its surrounds.

For more great ideas on fun things to do in this lovely Scottish city, be sure to read through our list of the top tourist attractions in Dundee, Scotland.

See also: Where to Stay in Dundee

1. Cross the Historic Tay Rail Bridge

2. visit discovery point and the rrs discovery, 3. hms unicorn, 4. visit v&a dundee, 5. take a tour of glamis castle, 6. visit a jute mill: verdant works, 7. the mcmanus: dundee's art gallery and museum, 8. explore the best bits of dundee old town, 9. stargazing at the mills observatory, 10. camperdown wildlife centre, 11. broughty castle museum, 12. dundee science centre, 13. take the train to the house of dun and montrose basin nature reserve, 14. enjoy a day trip to perth, 15. head to scone palace, 16. day trip to blair castle and gardens, 17. journey back in time to loch tay and killin, where to stay in dundee for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in dundee.

If you enter Dundee by train, you'll cross the famous iron bridge over the River Tay. The original two-mile span of the Tay Rail Bridge - usually referred to simply as the Tay Bridge - was built between 1872 and 1878 and carried the railroad from here to Edinburgh along what was at the time the longest bridge in the world.

However, this bridge collapsed in 1879 after a storm, causing a major disaster that saw a train plunge into the frigid waters below, drowning 75 crew and passengers in the process. Stumps from this original bridge are still visible, and a memorial to the victims of this tragic event can be visited on Dundee's waterfront.

Completed in 1887 as a replacement for its predecessor, the present bridge took nine years to build, using recovered girders from the original. Today, it remains one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys . You can even cross the bridge on foot, stopping at the two viewing platforms located along the way, which afford fine views over Dundee and the Firth of Tay.

The nearby Forth Road Bridge is also worth tackling. Much newer - it opened in 1964 - it's a great attraction for those walking or cycling around the city and offers a number of viewing platforms with superb views over its grand old neighbor.

Located on the Dundee waterfront, Discovery Point documents the history of the royal research ship RRS Discovery . It also vividly illustrates the natural wilderness and awe-inspiring beauty of the Polar Regions through state-of-the-art special effects and audio-visual presentations.

Visitors can also climb over the vessel, which was built in Dundee to take Robert F. Scott on his expedition to the Antarctic between 1901 and 1904. The vessel is notable as the last wood-built, three-masted vessel to be constructed in Britain, and at the time boasted the strongest wooden hull of any ship in history. This top-rated Dundee tourist attraction also has a cafe and shop to enjoy.

Address: Discovery Point, Discovery Quay, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.rrsdiscovery.co.uk

Another lovingly restored ship that's now docked permanently on the waterfront is the unusual looking HMS Unicorn . Just a 10-minute walk from RSS Discovery and looking more like Noah's Ark than a warship, this nearly 200-year-old Royal Navy frigate was equipped with 46 cannons and launched in 1824. Now located on Victoria Quay, it's the oldest still-seaworthy warship in the British Isles.

Its unusual appearance was due to the fact this historic vessel was never fitted with masts. Instead, an unusual roof was added to cover crew and cannons (what you see is in fact the original roof). Of particular note is the splendid white unicorn with the royal coat-of-arms carved from Canadian pine that adorns the ship's bow. A shop is also located onboard, and tours and educational programs are available.

Address: Discovery Point,Victoria Dock, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.hmsunicorn.org.uk

One of the newest major attractions to open in Scotland, the V&A Dundee was unveiled in all its hi-tech glory in the fall of 2018. Boasting a stunning design meant to resemble the cliffs of east Scotland - though it definitely sports the profile of a galleon (or even a whale) from one angle - this splendid new museum is the first in the country to be dedicated solely to achievements and trends of Scottish design.

In addition to its revolving exhibits, highlights include the stunning Oak Room, erected originally in Glasgow in 1908 as a tea room and resurrected here after being carefully dismantled in the 1970s. The room now holds the Scottish Design Gallery, a permanent exhibition that pays homage to Scotland's leading innovators and innovations in design and industry. Numerous educational programs are also available.

Museum admission is free (yeah!), which means you can spend the money saved at the on-site café and restaurant, or in the gift shop.

Address: 1 Riverside Esplanade, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.vam.ac.uk/dundee/

Characteristically baronial in style, Glamis Castle is one of the finest tourist attractions in Scotland. Located an easy 12-mile drive north of Dundee, this 17th-century fairy-tale castle is surrounded by parkland and lies at the end of a long avenue of oaks. A castle is said to have stood here as far back as 1,000 years ago and, according to Shakespeare , was where Macbeth murdered King Duncan. It's also said to be haunted, and a fun way to learn more about the many ghost and vampire myths associated with the castle is to join one of their fascinating ghost tours.

Today, the castle contains a wealth of fine objets d'art including furniture, tapestries, Chinese porcelain, old weapons, and paintings, as well as portraits of Elizabeth I. Probably the most striking feature in the Victorian Dining Room is the magnificent fireplace, with its heraldic centerpiece in oak bearing the coat-of-arms of the 12th Earl of Strathmore. Be sure to also glance upwards at the plasterwork ceiling decorated with Scottish thistles, English roses, and lions.

Entry to the castle is via a fun 50-minute guided tour, and you can linger longer in the grounds and in the castle's café and restaurant. If visiting in winter, be sure to check out the castle's popular Christmas Market. Also worth considering is a stay on-site in one of the castle's luxury accommodations.

Address: Glamis Castle, Angus, Scotland

Official site: www.glamis-castle.co.uk

Much of Dundee's growth over the centuries was due to its jute industry, a natural fiber used in the manufacture of ropes and products such as sacks. The excellent Verdant Works (also known as Scotland's Jute Museum) explores the impact of the industry on the area, including its effect upon the local populace, half of whom of working age were employed in the industry.

The museum, housed in a former jute mill, contains fully restored machinery, hands-on exhibits, and multimedia attractions of interest to all ages. Daily demonstrations are included with admission, and provide a fascinating look at how Dundee was once responsible for nearly all global jute production. Of particular interest is the restored High Mill, built in 1833 and the oldest part of the museum complex. A gift shop and cafe are also available to visit.

One of the last remaining relics of the city's jute industry, Cox's Stack is also worth a visit. This 282-foot-high chimney was constructed in 1866 as part of the once massive Camperdown Works.

Address: West Henderson's Wynd, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.verdantworks.com

Located in a grand old Victorian building in the city center, a visit to the McManus Art Gallery and Museum is definitely one of the top free things to do in Dundee. The McManus keeps a collection of works by 19th- and 20th-century European masters and well-known local artists, including James MacIntosh Patrick.

Also of interest are local history exhibits from prehistoric times to the present day. The archaeological department contains some particularly interesting artifacts from ancient Egypt. Dundee's natural history collection is also included here and concentrates on the wildlife of the Lowlands and Highlands, with exhibitions exploring environmental and nature themes. A cafe with a pleasant outdoor terrace is popular with locals and visitors alike.

Also worth a visit is Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA). This bustling art center features two contemporary art galleries, a movie theater, café, and shop.

Address: Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.mcmanus.co.uk

Dundee's historic city center is a delight to explore on foot. One of the highlights of Dundee Old Town is St. Paul's Cathedral with its 213-foot-tall tower. This Neo-Gothic cathedral was completed in 1853 and is notable for the Venetian Salviati that adorns the altar.

The pedestrianized City Square is the busy heart of the city and is overlooked by Caird Hall , which doubles as both the town hall and a concert and conference venue. It's also home to the city's tourist information office.

This is a good place to start a walking tour of the old town. Along the way, you'll also take in the many shops and galleries located on the High Street. If time allows, be sure to also pay a visit to nearby Howff, Dundee's 300-year-old graveyard and the former garden of the Grayfriars monastery, considered by those in the know as something of a Dundee hidden gem.

The Mills Observatory was built in 1935 and is located on the heavily wooded summit of Balgary Hill. Just two miles west of Dundee's city center, it's Britain's only full-time public observatory, and provides a unique opportunity to do some stargazing using a computerized telescope capable of spotting upwards of 30,000 objects in the sky.

Exhibits focus on space exploration and astronomy, and the planetarium shows our place in the universe. It's also a great place to simply admire superb views across the River Tay . An on-site shop sells related materials and souvenirs. If time allows, be sure to follow the educational Planet Trail through the observatory's extensive grounds.

Address: Glamis Road, Balgay Park, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.leisureandculturedundee.com/mills

A visit to Camperdown Wildlife Centre, part of Camperdown Country Park, is one of the top things for families to do in Dundee. Set amid the 400 acres of the former country estate, the wildlife center presently houses some 300 or so animals representing 50 species, including the star attractions, a pair of European brown bears named Star and Comet.

Other animal attractions include lemurs and marmosets, along with numerous birds, including golden eagles. For a special treat, have the kids participate in one of the center's fun animal experiences, including zoo keeping and feeding adventures. There's also a great play area for the wee 'uns to blow off steam, as well as a café and shop.

Afterwards, be sure to spend time wandering the delightful grounds surrounding the old manor house. In addition to its well-maintained gardens, the grounds are home to over 190 tree species. If you're a golfer, rent a set of clubs and head out for a round of golf on the park's 18-hole course.

Address: Coupar Angus Road, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.camperdownwildlifecentre.co.uk

Located on the River Tay in the Dundee borough of Broughty Ferry, Broughty Castle was built in 1495 and played a major role in various wars between the Scots and the English. Now home to the Broughty Castle Museum, this impressive fortification houses interesting exhibits relating to the city's history and people, its art, as well as its wildlife and the environment.

A highlight of this free attraction is climbing to its observation levels for stunning views over the city and coastline. A small café and a gift shop are located on-site.

Closer to Dundee (it's located in the city's West Ferry neighborhood), the medieval-era Claypotts Castle is worth visiting, too. Notable for its unique "z-plan" design, its towering presence makes a dramatic backdrop for a photo or selfie.

Address: Castle Approach, Broughty Ferry, Dundee, Scotland

One of the top things to do in Dundee for kids - but one that's suitable for adults, too - the Dundee Science Centre is easy to spend a few hours at exploring its many fascinating exhibits. Popular for its interesting hands-on displays, the museum features interactive experiences focusing on things like the human senses, as well as robotics. The center also features regular screenings of films dealing with technologies such as keyhole surgery, as well as the search for alien life.

A fun planetarium is another highlight, and features a fascinating look at the solar system. Educational and learning programs are held here regularly, too, including the two-week-long Dundee Science Festival. There's also a gift shop plus a café on-site.

If science is your thing, you may want to also visit the D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum . Located at the University of Dundee and established in the late 19th century, this fascinating zoological collection includes species of mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles from a variety of locations worldwide, as well as the founder's original teaching tools (he was a professor here).

Address: Greenmarket, Dundee, Scotland

Official site: www.dundeesciencecentre.org.uk

Built for Lord David Erskine between 1730 and 1742, the House of Dun is a gorgeous two-story Palladian building in the style of the Château d'Issy near Paris. Located an easy 30-minute train ride northeast of Dundee, it makes for an excellent (and easy) daytrip.

In the fabulous Great Drawing Room, the Scottish lion and Mars - a reference to the earls of Mar, the king's sword-bearers - guard the Scottish regalia, flanked by national emblems serving as symbols of the 'Auld Alliance' with France and the 'Grand Alliance', or 'Union of Crowns', with England. Other notable features are an early clockwork roasting spit and the exquisite plasterwork seen in the saloon.

Demonstrations of traditional cloth weaving on old handlooms take place in the courtyard buildings. Admission is via guided tours only, but the superb walled garden and woodland walks can be explored at leisure (guidebooks are available for purchase). There's also a fun playground for kids, plus a picnic area, as well as a good café serving snacks and light meals.

Official site: www.nts.org.uk/visit/places/house-of-dun

Pretty Perth, just 20 minutes by rail west of Dundee, is the perfect place to spend a day shopping and exploring. Perth's Museum and Art Gallery focuses on local history and also serves as a venue for temporary art exhibitions, while the Fergusson Gallery - located in an old water tower - focuses on the work of watercolorist John Duncan Fergusson.

Other Perth attractions are the lovely 15th-century parish Church of St. John, and Branklyn Garden . The garden is one of the most beautiful public gardens in Scotland and notable for its many trees, alpine and ericaceous plants, herbaceous borders, and dwarf rhododendrons.

Scone Palace is situated just 2.5 miles north of Perth, close to where the Abbey of Scone once stood, and is famous as the place where Scottish monarchs were once crowned. In the 9th century, Kenneth MacAlpin chose Scone as the royal residence and brought the Scottish coronation stone (the Stone of Scone ) here, but in 1297 Edward I took it to Westminster Abbey in London where it remained until 1996.

The major part of the palace was built at the beginning of the 19th century and is now the seat of the Earls of Mansfield, whose ancestors are shown in portraits lining the Long Gallery. Art treasures on display include porcelain from Meissen, Sèvres, and Derby, along with fine Chippendale furniture, and 17th- and 18th-century ivory carvings.

After exploring the palace and its expansive gardens and 100 acres of parklands, pop into the on-site coffee shop for a well-deserved treat (there's also a well-stocked gift shop). Guided tours are available.

For a truly memorable experience, check into the luxury apartment available to rent. Sleeping up to six guests, this chic getaway comes with three bedrooms, a kitchen, and the services of a private chef, if required.

Address: Scone Palace Perth, Scotland

Official site: www.scone-palace.co.uk

Another easy day trip, located an hour's drive west of Dundee, Blair Castle dominates the northern end of the village of Blair Atholl and occupies an important strategic spot on the road between Perth and Inverness. The castle has been the seat of the Duke of Atholl (Murray clan) since the 17th century, and in 1845, Queen Victoria granted the owner the unique privilege of maintaining a private army, the "Atholl Highlanders," who, on the last Sunday in May, stage a colorful parade.

A magnificent avenue of linden trees leads up to the gleaming white east front of the castle. Famous guests include Mary Stuart and Bonnie Prince Charlie, who stayed at the castle with his Highland army in 1745. The wood-paneled entrance hall is decorated with hunting trophies and a remarkable collection of arms.

After a tour of the interior, the castle grounds - in particular the stunning Hercules Garden - are ideal for a stroll before you head to the lovely village of Pitlochry . It's a popular stopover for visitors traveling around the area due to its outstanding natural beauty and numerous outdoor activities.

Address: Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire, Scotland

Official site: www.blair-castle.co.uk

Located 60 miles west of Dundee, the long, narrow Loch Tay - a haven for anglers and water sports enthusiasts - is considered one of Scotland's most beautiful lochs. Flanked on both sides by partly wooded hillsides, the full glory of Loch Tay can best be appreciated from the summit of Ben Lawers (3,981 feet) on the north bank, the highest peak in Perthshire.

Also of interest is the tiny village of Killin near the west end of Loch Tay. Here, you'll find the 19th-century Moirlanich Longhouse, an outstanding example of a traditional cruck frame cottage and byre that houses an exhibit of the building's history and restoration. Loch Tay is also where you'll find the Scottish Crannog Centre , an authentic Iron Age loch dwelling with an interesting display of ancient crafts.

We recommend these unique hotels in Dundee, located near the best restaurants, shops, and attractions in the city:

Luxury Hotels :

• For a truly memorable luxury getaway, book into the boutique-style Taypark House . Features of this beautiful 19th-century manor house include larger family suites with separate seating areas and a delightful garden, all just a short walk away from the University of Dundee's botanic gardens.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• One of the best-rated mid-range accommodation options in Dundee, the four-star Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa is popular for its waterfront location, floor-to-ceiling windows, family rooms, indoor pool, and steam room.
• The historic Malmaison Dundee is another great choice, with dramatic décor and lighting in its bedrooms and cool claw-foot tubs in the bathrooms.
• Another great location set in an attractive older building, Shaftesbury Lodge comes with a variety of individually decorated rooms, as well as en-suite bathrooms, and a delicious complimentary full breakfast.

Budget Hotels :

• At the higher-end of the budget hotel category, the Hampton by Hilton Dundee City Center is a three-star hotel with bright and airy rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a sizeable fitness center.
• Other good quality places to stay include the Premier Inn Dundee West Hotel , popular for its modern room décor, comfortable beds, and handy free parking, and the Holiday Inn Express Dundee , a great choice for its cleanliness and proximity to attractions such as the RRS Discovery .

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Scotland's Big Cities : The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of the most attractive city's in the UK, if not Europe. Highlights of a visit include the spectacular Edinburgh Castle, famous for its annual Royal Military Tattoo, as well the lovely Royal Mile linking the castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Once a major industrial hub, Glasgow has bounced back after hard times and has flourished as one of the country's cultural centers, popular for its splendid cathedral, its museums, and art galleries. Aberdeen , the most northerly major Scottish city, is also worth visiting and is known as "The Flower of Scotland" for its pleasant gardens and parks.

Loch 'em Up : Scotland is known the world over for its rugged scenery and beautiful lakes, or lochs. None is more famous than Loch Ness , home to the mythical (supposedly!) Loch Ness Monster and site of the magnificent ruins of Urquhart Castle. The equally attractive Loch Lomond should also be included on your Scotland itinerary. Top things to do including hiking the hilly Trossachs National Park and taking a ride aboard the historic paddle steamer, the Maid of the Loch.

Scotland Travel Ideas : Popular vacation ideas in Bonnie Scotland include spending time exploring the majestic Highlands , encompassing the city of Inverness, Cawdor Castle, and the Culloden battlefield, where the Scots and English armies clashed for the last time. The Isle of Skye is another top place to visit, as popular with hikers as it is with fisher folks and sightseers. St. Andrews , too, is also worth visiting - not just for the golf, but also for its old university and cathedral ruins.

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• Discovery Point
• Verdant Works
• The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
• The Dundee Law
• Desperate Dan Statue
• Camperdown Country Park
• Dundee Botanic Garden
• Broughty Ferry Beach
• Camperdown Wildlife Centre
• St Andrews and Dundee Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen
• Full Day OUTLANDER Film locations Tour from Dundee
• Balnuith Alpacas
• HMS Unicorn
• Dundee Museum Of Transport

• 1.1 Visitor information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 5.1.1 Football
• 5.1.3 Other
• 13 Stay safe

Dundee is an industrial city and port, historically part of Angus county in North East Scotland . It stands on the north bank of the Firth of Tay, which here broadens out into the North Sea, and in 2021 had a population of 148,000. Dundee's prime visitor attractions are the polar sailing ship RRS Discovery , the Verdant Works jute mill, and the V&A design museum. It's also a good base for nearby major golf tournaments, and for exploring Deeside and the Eastern Highlands.

Understand [ edit ]

Dundee used to be a grubby, rough industrial town famous for its three J's: jute, jam and journalism. Jute (see "Verdant" below) still marks the landscape: the mills have closed but many still stand as offices and apartments. Jam was made from fruit grown nearby. Journalism refers to the D C Thomson publishing empire, whose renown was less for their journalism than for their stable of comics and cartoon strips. These include the Sunday Post with "Oor Wullie" and "The Broons", the Dandy with "Desperate Dan" and the Beano with "Dennis the Menace". Of course that wasn't all the city had to offer: delicacies such as Dundee Cake, studded with sultanas and almonds, was probably what your Great Aunt Morag enjoyed for Sunday tea along with some Dundee Marmalade to top it off (if you're Scottish). And then there was the bridge that famously and tragically fell down. And Dundee's great cultural icon was William McGonagall (see info box), surely the world's worst poet.

But the industrial grubbiness is gradually disappearing, enabling the city to shine in its attractive natural setting. There are major visitor attractions already and more appearing. There's a student buzz from the universities, and a friendly feel to the place. It's definitely worth a day or two to visit.

Dundee has its own dialect: the vocabulary is much the same as Lowland Scots (see Scotland#Talk ) but pronunciation is distinctive. "T" is often dropped in a glottal stop, but the signature sound is the short "eh" (phonetic: ɛ) replacing ay, ae, e, i, ie, uy, y and more. So a pie is a "peh"; "eh" can mean I, yes, what? or hmmm... Dundonians can conduct entire conversations by just saying "eh".

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Dundee Visitor Information
• Dundee City Council
• 56.45999 -2.96947 1 Visit Scotland iCentre ( TIC ), 16 City Square ( next to Caird Hall ), ☏ +44 1382 527527 . M-Sa 9:30AM-5PM . Information on Dundee and elsewhere in Scotland. ( updated Feb 2020 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Edinburgh Airport ( EDI  IATA ) is usually the most convenient. From there, take Xplore Dundee's Edinburgh Airport Xpress Service from directly outside the terminal all the way non-stop to just across from the train station in Dundee. Alternatively, take Stagecoach Bus Jet 747 to Inverkeithing in Fife to catch the hourly train to Dundee, or to Halbeath for the hourly Stagecoach Bus X54. Otherwise take the tram or bus from the airport to Edinburgh Haymarket, or Gateway for trains or buses to Dundee.

56.4525 -3.0175 1 Dundee Airport ( DND  IATA ) is 2 miles west of city centre on A85 - with light baggage you could walk it in 30 min. You can fly to Dundee from London City (LCY) or Belfast City (BHD) with Loganair year-round. You can fly from London twice daily Monday to Friday, and there is one service on a Sunday, flights take around 1 hr 45 min. The Belfast flights operate once per weekday and Sunday lunchtime with flights taking just over one hour. These air routes are flown using ATR-42 turboprop aircraft, with 48 seats.

By train [ edit ]

Dundee has Scotrail trains hourly or better from Edinburgh, Glasgow and Aberdeen, all taking 80 min. Three direct daytime LNER trains run from London King's Cross (6 hr) via York and Newcastle , but it's usually more convenient to change in Edinburgh. From the Midlands and Southwest, take the CrossCountry train, winding all the way from Penzance via Bristol , Birmingham , Sheffield and York.

The Caledonian Highland Sleeper to Aberdeen runs Su-F from London Euston , departing after 9PM and ejecting you onto a chilly Dundee platform at 6AM. The southbound train picks up around 11PM to reach Euston towards 8AM. You might prefer to take the Lowland Sleeper from Euston towards midnight and change to a day train in Edinburgh. Going back, you need to leave Dundee around 10PM to join the southbound sleeper at 11:30PM from Edinburgh.

There's also a station halt at the west edge of town at Invergowrie , which might be more convenient for Ninewells Hospital area.

Four miles east of town is the seaside town of Broughty Ferry , with an hourly train (towards Arbroath) taking 7 min.

The slow trains to Arbroath also stop at Monifieth and Carnoustie .

By car [ edit ]

From 30 May 2024, the city centre will be a Low Emission Zone . There will be a £60 penalty charge for driving into the city centre in a non-compliant car or van. Cars built after 2015 generally are compliant, but check online . The zone covers an area within the A991 Inner Ring Road.

From Edinburgh and the south follow M90 / A90 north, about 55 miles (90 km) or just over an hour's drive. A slow scenic route is to branch off onto A92 towards Kirkcaldy then wind along the Fife coast and through St Andrews .

From Glasgow follow M80 then M9 / A9 to Perth, and then swing east onto A90. It's 75 miles (120 km), about a 90-min drive.

From Aberdeen follow A90 south: it's 67 miles (105 km) and will take about 80 min.

A90 skirts the north of Dundee, where it's called Kingsway . The speed limit of 40/50 mph is vigilantly enforced.

By bus [ edit ]

Scottish Citylink buses run hourly from Glasgow Buchanan station (1 hr 40 min) and Aberdeen Union Square (1 hr 20 min), and every two hours from Edinburgh St Andrews Square (90 min): beware slower buses that meander through the small towns. Megabus competes on those city routes, and also runs direct from Manchester (6 hr). National Express coaches take 11-12 hr from London Victoria and continue to Aberdeen.

Ember Electric Bus glides quietly from Edinburgh every 90 min daytime, plus two night buses, for a single fare in 2022 of £7.50. It takes 1 hr 45 min via Haymarket, the zoo, Ingliston P&R (for trams), Edinburgh Airport, Rosyth P&R, Kinross P&R, Bridge of Earn and Perth Broxden P&R.

Ember buses also run from Glasgow Buchanan Station every two hours daytime, with two night runs, single fare £8.50. They take two hours via Cumbernauld, Stirling Castleview P&R, Dunblane and Perth Broxden P&R.

56.463 -2.966 3 Dundee bus station is on Seagate. There are no left-luggage facilities, but lots of cafes & fast-food nearby.

Get around [ edit ]

The main sights are all within walking distance. The local bus you're most likely to use is Stagecoach Bus 73, which runs every 10 min between Ninewells Hospital, Dundee High Street and bus station, Broughty Ferry, Monifieth, Carnoustie and Arbroath .

Cycle Hub [dead link] for bike rentals is by the V&A, 100 yards from the railway station.

By taxi you'll pay about £6 for a journey within the city centre and £15 to Broughty Ferry.

See [ edit ]

• The Beach is a little triangle of fine sand on the promenade between V&A and the Cycle Hub, with plenty of seating. The nearest natural beach is at Broughty Ferry.

• Tay Rail Bridge . And then there's the infamous first Tay Rail Bridge, remnants of which can be seen next to the current rail bridge. It opened in 1878 but collapsed in high winds on 28 Dec 1879, taking a train with it, and all 75 aboard were killed.  

• 56.46288 -2.87023 16 Broughty Ferry is the small town 4 miles east of Dundee which was the historic crossing point over the Tay. It has a small castle built in 1496 now housing a local history museum (Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 12:30-4PM, admission free).
• Broughty Ferry to the east merges into Monifieth where many Pictish stones have been found, which are in the National Museum in Edinburgh. You'll need a car or bike to reach Ardestie and Carlungie Earth Houses, two Iron Age souterrains off A92. They're free to enter Apr-Oct.
• Tealing Earth House is a Pictish souterrain from 100 AD. Next to it is a 16th century dovecot, and the village has a 17th century church. Tealing is on A90 six miles north of the city.

Do [ edit ]

• 56.45834 -2.98803 4 Whitehall Theatre , Bellfield Street DD1 5JA , ☏ +44 1382 434940 . Mostly light fare: musicals, tribute acts, light opera and comedy. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Duck Slattery's Showbar: Dundee’s biggest party venue! Which includes a night of non stop singing and dancing on benches, massaoke, disco bingo and more! With live music and dancing it's not one to miss!
• Club Tropicana & Venga Dundee: This nightclub is one of Scotlands biggest clubbing venues with 2 levels, 4 rooms and 6 bars! Offering a variety of packages for Hen Do’s, Stag Do’s and Birthdays as well as Work Night’s Out this 1980s and 1990s club has all the throwback floor-filler classics and hits to keep you dancing till 3AM!
• Aura Dundee: Aura Nightclub is Dundee’s largest nightclub with an amazing sound system, resident DJ, VIP area, student nights and online booking available!
• Walk up 56.47 -2.989 6 Dundee Law , a 572-ft extinct volcano, for views over the city and Tay.
• Olympia Swimming Pool , 3 East Whale Lane DD1 3JU . Public leisure pool with waves, flumes and diving pool. All pools at Olympia are closed for long-term maintenance and refurbishment works, with a projected completion date around October 2023. [1] [2] . ( updated Oct 2022 )
• Places of worship: Dundee has over 30 churches, 3 mosques, a Sikh temple and a Buddhist group. See section above for the two cathedrals.

Sports [ edit ]

Football [ edit ]

The city has two professional soccer teams, with stadiums almost adjacent:

Golf [ edit ]

• See St Andrews for the Royal & Ancient: best known is the Old Course, but they run half a dozen others, and there are several more clubs and courses that are not part of R&A.
• See Perth and Kinross for Gleneagles .
• 56.484 -2.958 10 Caird Park Golf Club is north edge of Dundee. There are also clubs at Downfield to the northwest, and Ballumbie Castle north.

Other [ edit ]

• Rugby: Dundee HSFP play rugby union in National League One, the amateur second tier in Scotland. Their home ground is Mayfield, on Arbroath Rd a mile east of town centre.
• Skiing: see Braemar for Glenshee, an hour's drive north on A93. See also Aviemore .

Events [ edit ]

• Fingask Follies are a cabaret in April / May based at Fingask Castle 10 miles west of Dundee, see Perth (Scotland)#Do for dates.
• Westfest is a music festival and community fair held on Magdalen Green. The next is probably Su 2 June 2024, tbc.
• Solas is a midsummer music festival at Errol Park 8 miles west of the city in June.
• Dundee Flower and Food Festival [dead link] isn't happening in 2023 and its future is uncertain.
• Festival of the Future is about collaboration between science, arts and culture in October in the Botanic Gardens.

Learn [ edit ]

• Dundee University
• University Of Abertay
• Dundee & Angus College
• Tayside Language Centre

Work [ edit ]

• The City Jobcentre is in the Wellgate Centre, open M Tu Th F 8:30AM-5PM, W 10AM-5PM.
• Adecco is a recruitment agency on Commercial St, open M-F 8AM-5:30PM. You can search their job offers online.

Buy [ edit ]

The Overgate and the Wellgate are Dundee's two main shopping malls which sit at either end of the city centre. Each has various national and international brands such as H&M, Gap, Superdry and Next in the Overgate, and New Look in the Wellgate.

• In addition to this, there are substantial branches of High street stores along the Murraygate and city centre area.
• Dundee also has the usual large-scale out of town retail parks that are common in Scotland's bigger towns and cities.
• Farmers Market is in City Square, 10:00-16:00 on the third Saturday of each month.
• 56.46476 -2.9645 3 Dundee Candle Works , 51 Cowgate, Dundee, DD1 2JF ( In city centre ), ☏ +44 1382 416255 , [email protected] . 9AM-5PM . Scottish candle shop selling scented candles, reed diffusers and luxury gift sets. ( updated Jun 2023 )

Eat [ edit ]

There is a flourishing café culture in Dundee city centre. Lots of fast-food, takeaways, cafés and restaurants.

• Duke's Corner , 13 Brown Street DD1 5EG . Su-Tu noon-midnight, W-Sa noon-2:30AM . Lively entertainment venue, serving burgers, salads, pizzas from noon. Student clientele. Good for lunch or early dinner, gets noisy once the music starts. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.45938 -2.97939 1 Parlour , 58 West Port DD1 5EP . M-Sa 8AM-5PM . Popular café near Uni, small place so it gets busy and cramped. Menu changes daily, lots of vegetarian options. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Balaka , 115-117 Perth Road DD1 4JB . M W noon-3:30PM & 5:30-11PM, Tu Th 5:30-11PM, F Sa 3PM-midnight, Su 5-11PM . Long-established budget Indian restaurant. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Jahangir Tandoori , 1 Session Street DD1 5DN . M-Th noon-10PM, F Sa noon-11PM, Su 5-10PM . Friendly family restaurant with goldfish pool. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Phoenix , 103 Nethergate DD1 4DH . M-Sa 11AM-midnight, Su 12:30PM-midnight . Good pub grub at reasonable prices. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Dil'se , 99-101 Perth Rd, DD1 4JA , ☏ +44 1382 221501 . Daily 4-11:30PM . Friendly Indian and Bangladeshi restaurant. Earlybird dinner (5-7PM) £17 pp . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• City Harbour Chinese Buffet , Unit 3 & 4, City Quay, 21A Camperdown St DD1 3JA . Daily noon-4:30PM & 5-9:30PM . Waterfront all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Tickety Boo's , 51 Commercial Street DD1 2AA ( corner with Seagate ). Su-Th 11AM-midnight, F Sa 11AM-1AM . Highly recommended for food & drink. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Old Bank Bar , 34 Reform Street DD1 1RH . Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight . Belhaven pub with reliable food. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Rancho Pancho , 16 Commercial Street DD1 3EJ . M-Sa 5-10PM, Sa noon-2:30PM, Su 5-9PM . Mexican classics, hefty portions. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• The Counting House , 67-71 Reform St DD1 1SP ( opposite McManus ). Daily 8AM-midnight . JD Wetherspoon's efficient chain choice. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Molly Malone's ( formerly The Globe ), 53 West Port DD1 5ER . Daily 11AM-midnight . Belhaven pub with extensive menu including vegetarian. ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Don Michele , 177 Perth Road DD2 1AS , ☏ +44 1382 660600 . M-Sa 5-11PM, Th-Su noon-2:30PM . Italian restaurant. ( updated Feb 2020 )

For self-catering, there are lots of supermarkets. Tesco predominates, with four branches: in the city centre, one next to the railway station (24 hr), one in South Road near Sterling Mills and another on Kingsway. ASDA have a big store on East Kingsway (24 hr) and a smaller one on Gilburn Road. Morrisons are on the Forfar Road, north of A90 Kingsway.

Drink [ edit ]

Pubs are dwindling, as in other cities, but there's no shortage. The main concentration is along Hawkhill, Perth Road or West End of the city, with another strip along Nethergate. The student unions of Dundee and Abertay Universities are great for a cheap night out. The following were all in business in early 2020, and see also "Eat" listings.

City centre pubs:

• Tickety Boo's , Seagate at Commercial Street.
• Klozet , Seagate is the main gay bar.
• Trades House Bar , Union Street.
• The Old Bank Bar , Union Street.
• The Westport Bar , North Lindsay Street.

Pubs along Hawkhill, Perth Road, and West End:

• The Nether Inn , Nethergate. Cheap Student 'Scream' pub.
• Phoenix , Nethergate at Perth Road. Traditional pub
• Jute Cafe Bar , Perth Road. Trendy bar attached to Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre
• Braes , Perth Road. Modern bar, middle-aged clientele at weekends.
• Speedwell Bar , Perth Road. Locally renowned traditional pub

Nightclubs are all in the city centre:

• Fat Sams , South Ward Road
• Underground , South Tay Street.

Local breweries include 71 Brewing and St Andrews Brewing Co . There's a gin distillery at Verdant Spirits [dead link] .

Sleep [ edit ]

Central choices include:

• Sleeperz is right above the railway station, B&B double £60.
• 56.460822 -2.963192 1 Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa , 1 West Victoria Dock Road DD1 3JP ( near foot of Tay Bridge ), ☏ +44 1382 202404 , fax : +44 1382 201401 , [email protected] . Stylish contemporary 4-star hotel, in the new City Quay development, with views of the river and Quay with ship Unicorn . Double (room only) £70 . ( updated Jun 2021 )
• 56.45702 -2.97581 2 Best Western Queens Hotel , 160 Nethergate DD1 4DU ( close to railway station and University of Dundee ), ☏ +44 1382 322515 . Good chain choice, central. Double (room only) £50 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4558 -2.9704 3 Premier Inn Dundee Centre , Riverside Drive, DD1 4XA ( at Discovery Point ), ☏ +44 333 777 4656 . Riverside budget inn with 150 rooms. Make sure to pay for parking (£3 / night) immediately on arrival. £9 pp for breakfast in Beefeater. Double (room only) £40 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Malmaison , 44 Whitehall Crescent DD1 4AY ( opposite railway station ), ☏ +44 1382 339715 . Central mid-range hotel, dog-friendly. Double (room only) £75 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4607 -2.9784 4 Travelodge Dundee Central , 152-158 West Marketgait DD1 1NJ , ☏ +44 871 984 6301 . Central budget hotel. There's another Travelodge north of the centre on Strathmore Ave, and a third (listed below) on the A90 ring road. B&B double £50 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.45743 -3.02378 5 Best Western Invercarse Hotel , 371 Perth Road DD2 1PG ( West End, near Botanical Gardens ), ☏ +44 1382 669231 . Chain 3-star hotel. Double (room only) £60 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.46151 -2.96943 6 Dundee Backpackers , 71 High Street DD1 1SD , ☏ +44 1382 224646 . Central hostel with dorms and private rooms. Dorm £18 ppn . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4612 -2.9653 7 Holiday Inn Express Dundee , Dock Street Dundee DD1 3DR ( at foot of Tay Bridge; railway station 400 yards ), ☏ +44 1382 314330 , [email protected] . Very central 3-star hotel. Rooms are small but not cramped, equipped with tea/coffee maker. B&B double £60 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• Student accommodation is mostly empty in summer. Try contacting the local Universities (via websites under "Learn") to see if they have anything to offer. Other flats and apartments may also be available: Dundee empties out in summer unless there's a major golf tournament nearby.
• Taypark House is a Victorian Gothic mansion a couple of miles west of town centre.

There's a string of hotels along the A90 at the edge of the city, including:

• 56.4666 -3.0644 8 DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Dundee ( formerly The Landmark Hotel ), South Kingsway DD2 5JT ( A90 ring road NW edge of city ), ☏ +44 1382 641122 . 4-star lodging in 19th-century mansion with extensive gardens. £15 pp for breakfast. Double (room only) £80 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4705 -3.0599 9 Premier Inn Dundee West , South Kingsway DD2 5JU ( on A90 ring road, NW edge of city ), ☏ +44 333 777 4659 . Budget hotel, handy for motorists. Double (room only) £40 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4777 -3.036 10 Travelodge Dundee Strathmore Avenue , 296A Strathmore Avenue, Dundee, DD3 6SH ( North edge of city ), ☏ +44 8719 846460 . Budget chain hotel, convenient for motorists. B&B double £50 . ( updated Feb 2020 )

Further out in the countryside:

• 56.5302 -3.0238 11 The Hideaway Experience , Balkello Farm, Auchterhouse DD3 0RA ( 6 miles north of city ), ☏ +44 1382 320707 . Luxurious cottage on farm. B&B double £350 . ( updated Feb 2020 )
• 56.4994 -3.1313 12 Landal Piperdam , Piperdam, Fowlis DD2 5LP ( 7 miles NW of city on A903 ), ☏ +44 1382 585000 , [email protected] . Self-catering lodges by small loch. B&B double £250 . ( updated Feb 2020 )

Connect [ edit ]

As of Aug 2021, Dundee and its surrounds have 4G from all UK carriers, and city centre has 5G from Vodafone.

Stay safe [ edit ]

The local police is Police Scotland and the main office is in the town centre at the end of West Bell St beside Dundee's Sheriff Court. In the UK, '999' is the number to call the emergency services, and 101 for less urgent calls to the police. The pan-European emergency number 112 also works.

Dundee has an extensive CCTV system, covering most of the city and the entire city centre. This is owned by Dundee City Council and run by Tayside Police and has helped reduce crime significantly.

Dundee, like any other major city, has its anti-social problems, mainly drugs. The area round the rear of the Wellgate centre (Hilltown) and Stobswell have a bad reputation and care should be exercised on The Law at night. Overall the city has a good reputation.

Dundee has a dual carriageway going through it, the Kingsway, which almost splits the city in half. Be aware of speeding cars, as in any other busy city, as accidents are common.

Go next [ edit ]

• South across the Tay is St Andrews , an ancient university town by the sea. It's the home of the Royal and Ancient, the ruling body of golf, and is the former ecclesiastical capital of Scotland. Frequent buses take 30 min. With your own car, continue south to the charming fishing villages of East Fife, such as Anstruther , and to Falkland Palace.
• A short bus or train ride brings you to Perth and Stirling .
• Visit the nearby glens: Glenshee, Glenisla and the Tay Valley. North on A9 through Dunkeld and Blair Atholl leads to Aviemore , the Spey Valley and Inverness.
• North along the coast is Aberdeen and Deeside, and eventually Inverness. So the coast route and the Tay Valley route together make a natural circuit of the east and central Highlands.

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14 Cool Things to Do In Dundee

Cool Things to Do in Dundee.

Things are changing in Dundee. There’s a palpable buzz in the air, and I couldn’t believe the difference on my recent visit! Here is my list of cool things to do in Dundee, including where to stay and where to eat.

This post contains affiliate links to experiences which I love, and may make a small commission from, at no extra cost to you. 

Dundee’s waterfront is in the middle of a £1 Billion redevelopment, and everyone is talking about it. Affectionately known as the home of jam, jute and journalism, these industries will always be tightly woven into Dundee’s heritage and identity, as the city undergoes an exciting regeneration. Once overlooked as a tourist destination, Dundee has fast emerged as the cool kid in class, and this is only the beginning.

As Dundee develops and morphs into a modern butterfly, visitors are flocking from across the globe to experience it. From the new V&A Dundee and the city-wide surge in street art, to the flourishing food and drink scene, Dundee really is the place to be.

Honestly, I had expected the changes to be somewhat over-hyped, but I was wrong. Dundee really took me by surprise, and quickly stole the top spot for my favourite city break of 2018. There is so much that I love about this city, and there are lots of wee gems waiting to be discovered.

Things I love about Dundee:

• It’s wee – Dundee is perfectly compact and easy to walk around. Most of the main sights are within close walking distance, which makes for a relaxed and leisurely city break. It also means that you’re never far from the River Tay.
• It’s close – Dundee can be reached in just over an hour by train from Edinburgh, and its only 30 minutes by bus to adorable St Andrews .
• It’s embracing chance – Local businesses and entrepreneurs are jumping on the spike in tourism, and locals are genuinely excited about the city’s transformation.
• It’s unpretentious – Despite its sudden rise to fame, Dundee is totally down to earth, and so are its residents; it’s a city that’s not going to ‘forget where it came from’!
• The accents – the local dialect and Dundonian tones are unlike any other. ‘Twa’, ‘awa’ and ‘teckle’. Need I say more?

What to Do in Dundee.

1) Visit the new V&A.

The eagerly anticipated V&A Dundee is at the heart of the all the hype, and has been the catalyst for many of the improvements around the city. Not only is it the first design museum in Scotland, it is the only other V&A museum outside of London in the world. The building is designed by famous Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, who will also be responsible for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic stadium. The striking contemporary design, which floods the interior with natural light and views of the Tay, is a symbol of the city’s developing waterfront. Kuma described the space as a “livingroom for the city”, and it is exactly that.

A design museum could be perceived as niche or intimidating, but the reality is far from it. You may think you’ve had little exposure to the industry, but design is everywhere and there is something for everyone at the V&A. In the Scottish Design Galleries – which is a permanent exhibition – visitors will find costumes from famous films, epic architecture on the Isle of Skye, the reconstructed Ingram Street Tearoom by Rennie Mackintosh , illustrated films, theatre sets and a truly stunning winged tiara.

‘Ocean Liners: Speed and Style’ is the museum’s debut temporary exhibition, and it’s so cool . Showcasing over 250 objects from collections around the world, the exhibition captures the opulence and extravagance around the romantic era of ocean travel; from the engineering of the ships and the interior design, to the highly fashionable garments worn aboard, and the graphic design of the iconic posters advertising the voyages.

• The V&A also has an excellent café and restaurant, run by Heritage Portfolio. I had a most enjoyable coffee and managed to refrain from indulging in one of the seriously good-looking cakes. I won’t be so sensible next time!
• Entry to the V&A Dundee is free, however there is a charge for the Cruise Liners Exhibition; £11 per adult and £7 per child
• The museum has lockers and a ‘changing places’ toilet
• There is no dedicated parking at the museum – even more incentive to travel by public transport!
• For more information, visit the V&A Dundee website

2) Admire the street art.

OpenClose Dundee is a creative street art initiative which has brought a very welcome splash of colour to the doors of Dundee. Founded and run by PhD student Russell Pepper, OpenClose initially received funding for 6 doors, however thanks to support from local businesses, and artists volunteering to be involved, there are now 19 door murals on the city centre trail. My favourite mural is Dreamer by Sofia Sita (below) which is at the back of Dundee Contemporary Arts.

The project is an amazing, alternative way to draw in visitors and regenerate the city, while showcasing the talent of both local and international artists. Russell is now working on another project called Waste of Space, which will apply the same approach to the general waste and recycling bins on Perth Road. I’m excited to see the progress!

• Visitors can self-guide around the trail – orbook a tour with Russell, which I highly recommend!
• For more information on where to pick up maps or to book a tour, please visit the OpenClose website

3) Take a tour of The Vaults.

Who knew that Dundee had underground vaults? Having been on many a ghost tour in Edinburgh, I was intrigued by what DD Tours had to offer. Besties Louise and Stuart set up a website five years ago, purely as a place to document stories about Dundee, and as a resource for people to learn about the city’s less-than pleasant past. Soon they were receiving numerous requests for tours, and the rest is history!

Louise and Stuart deliver their tours in tandem – something I’ve not experienced on a walking tour before – and they work so well together; they have a comical camaraderie and they really know their stuff. They recently obtained access to the vaults at Custom Exchange, which they cleared out, made H&S compliant, and transformed into an eerie visitor experience. Our group made the descent in our super-stylish hard hats, and listened to entertaining tales of the darkest years in Dundee’s history. There are no theatrical frights or ghost stories on this tour; the real deal is disturbing enough, thank you.

• DD Tours offer a range of tours including orientation walks of the city and the waterfront. You can view the tours and prices on the DD Tours website
• My Dark Dundee – The Vaults tour cost £12 and lasted around 1 hour

4) Meander through the McManus.

The McManus Art Gallery and Museum is housed within a beautiful Victorian, Gothic-style building and is packed with exhibits which tell the story of Dundee’s history and heritage. Delve into the details of the once thriving jute industry, as well as Keiller’s marmalade, and D.C. Thomson’s famous publications. I discovered that Dundee also played a significant role in shipping, whaling and computing industries. Safe to say this city was a bit of an all-rounder!

On my most recent visit to the museum, there was an ‘McMenace’ exhibition (which closes on the 21st October 2018) in celebration of The Beano’s 80th birthday. The ‘Bring Bash Street Back’ slogan donned the fun and colourful exhibits which told the story of the nostalgic childhood comics. Just like the V&A, this is a free attraction and a perfect wet weather option.

• Find out which exhibitions are currently displaying, on the McManus website
• Check out the Beano 80th birthday visual timeline on the DC Thomson website

5) Browse the shelves in This Way Up.

I stumbled across this wee gem of a book & record shop on my wanderings along Dundee’s cute Perth Road area. Owners Ani and Matt used to run a pop-up shop in the George Orwell pub but decided to take the leap into their very own premises in September 2017, and they haven’t looked back.

The couple are members of the Alliance of Radical Booksellers, so the shelves are filled with a range of curated books covering everything from feminism and anti-racism, to travel and 20th century literature. They also have an eclectic selection of second-hand CDs, cassettes and vinyl. This Way Up gives you that reminiscent experience of browsing and handling your music and books before you buy; everything that Amazon does not.

• Check out This Way Up Facebook page or pop into the shop for a chat with the lovely Ani
• There is another record store on Perth Road called Le Freak which I’m told also hosts in-store music events at weekends. You can check out their website for more info

Where to Stay in Dundee.

There are a number of new hotel developments springing up in Dundee to improve the city’s tourism offering, and ensure that all its lovely new visitors have a choice of places to stay. You search hotel availability for your trip to Dundee here , or read on for my top two recommendations on where to stay.

6) Stay in an old Jute Mill at Hotel Indigo. 

Hotel Indigo Dundee opened in September 2018 after an eye-watering £32 million refurbishment. The strikingly tall building dates back to 1822, where it began its life as a linen factory, before switching it’s focus to jute manufacturing. The hotel is colourful and industrial, with numerous wee references to Dundee’s heritage; from jute and marmalade, to computer games and The Beano. I loved the exposed brickwork on the bedroom ceiling, the massive bathroom (with underfloor heating) and the custom-designed fabrics. The twin beds were much bigger than expected, and the breakfast was FABULOUS.

[envira-gallery id=”4860″]

• I stayed in a twin room at Hotel Indigo in February 2019 on a B&B basis for £75 per night
• Check prices and availability or book now

7) Go to sleep at Sleeperz Hotel.

Sleeperz is a shiny new hotel which sits above Dundee Railway Station, and is just a stone’s throw from the city’s blossoming waterfront. The vibrant and contemporary abode features 120 fully-equipped, modern bedrooms and a restaurant which serves breakfast and an all-day menu. The location was perfect for my sightseeing trip, my room overlooked The Discovery and the V&A Dundee, and I found all staff to be super-friendly. Yet another positive addition to Dundee’s tourism offering.

• I stayed at Sleeperz Hotel on a Room Only basis in September 2018 for £75 per night

Foodie Things to Do in Dundee.

It’s time for this list to shine a spotlight on Dundee’s foodie scene. I was really impressed by the quality of the food on offer in Dundee, from restaurants and unassuming cafes, to a converted tram out on the street. Here are six tasty dishes to add to your list when visiting Dundee.

8) Go for pub grub at Tickety Boo’s. 

Tickety Boos is a friendly pub right in the centre of Dundee on Commercial Street, and the unusual horseshoe-shaped bar is the first thing you see as you step inside the traditional interior. I visited Dundee with my Gran, and we perched in a wee booth, before browsing the menu which features plenty of ‘pub favourites’. We both ordered the Beer Battered Arbroath Haddock, which was served with chips, tartare sauce, fresh salad and homemade coleslaw. Such a satisfying scran!

• Our bill for 2 x Fish & Chips, a tea and a soft drink = £25
• View the full food menu here

9) Pop in for a Padrino Pizza.

Padrino Pizza is a small, independent pizzeria in the centre of Dundee, which serves delicious Neapolitan pizza with a sourdough base and fresh toppings. I opted for a pizza with spicy Italian sausage and caramelised peppers, and a side of parmesan fries. The stone-baked oven had my pizza ready as quick as a flash, and the slices started disappearing into my mouth at the same speed. What I couldn’t manage was taken back to the hotel for later. The setting is casual, the food is great value, and the staff are lovely.

• Pizzas start from £5
• Check out the Padrino’s Pizza Facebook page for more information

10) Munch on Mince on Toast at The Bach.

It was here, in this trendy New Zealand-style café, on a drizzly midweek morning, that I discovered my new favourite brunch dish; mince on toast. It’s simple really – tasty chipotle chilli mince with a poached egg and hollandaise. Why didn’t I think of this before?! While I’d be tempted to order this again on my next visit, I will probably try something else on the menu as it all sounds amazing. The flat white was spot on too!

• My coffee and mince on toast was £10.90
• To view the full menu click here

11) Have a sober kebab at Agacan.

When scouting for Dundee restaurant recommendations on social media, Agacan just kept appearing. The Turkish restaurant is intimate and bursting with colour, from the painted tables and chairs, to the mosaics and artwork on the walls. On the recommendation of lovely waitress Lara, I went for the Iskender, which featured various meat kebabs with rice and fresh salad, all doused in garlic yoghurt and chili sauce. The portion was massive, and everything was delicious.

• My main dish and soft drink came to £20.90
• To view the full menu visit the Agacan website

12) Try a famous rainbow bagel at The Flame Tree Café.

A rainbow bagel is exactly what it sounds like, and I had to get involved in the novelty of it all. The bagels are made by a Jewish baker in London, before being transported up to Dundee, and they’re so popular, the café sells wee rainbow bagel badges as a tribute. Though it tastes exactly like a normal bagel, it just didn’t feel right ordering a savoury filling, so I went for peanut butter and jam. I also had a breakfast smoothie with banana, blueberries, oats, milk and honey. Yum!

• My breakfast smoothie and rainbow bagel was £6.35
• Check out the Flame Tree Cafe Facebook page

13) Go old-school with breakfast at Tony’s Diner.

When it comes to foodie finds, ‘cool’ doesn’t have to mean ‘new’, and this humble establishment is as far away from ‘hipster’ as you can get. Tony’s Diner is a wee serving of café nostalgia, and reminds me of the kind of place my Gran would take me as a child. The current owners have had the café for 20 years and little has changed. It’s popular with workmen and locals, as well as visitors from areas around Dundee. The interior is a retro beige colour and a cup of tea is 90p. I loved the walk down memory lane, and my sliced sausage and egg roll.

• Tony’s Diner is open Mon – Sat from 08.00 – 16.30

14) Order Stovies from the Auld Tram.

The Auld Tram is a unique city vendor offering street food with a historical twist. Comfort food and hot drinks are served from within a Dundee & District Tramways Horse Drawn Tram which would have been used in the 1870s. Much more than just a novelty, The Auld Tram is known for its quality food, as well as for being the sister restaurant to the award-winning Bridgeview Station (which is now on my list). I took a cup of stovies back to my hotel room, which obviously tasted even better because it was cold and raining outside.

• My tasty cup of stovies was £2.50
• Check out The Auld Tram Facebook page

How to Get to Dundee on Public Transport.

• I travelled from Edinburgh to Dundee by train
• The journey takes between 1 hour 10 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes depending on which time you travel
• Ticket prices start at £26 for an Off-Peak return (you might be able to grab even cheaper advanced purchase tickets)
• If you prefer to travel by bus check out the Stagecoach x54 which takes just over 2 hours and costs £11.20 each way with a Fife Dayrider Plus ticket. You can view the timetable here

My trip to Dundee in 2018 was sponsored by Stagecoach East Scotland , and my dinner at Padrino Pizza was complimentary. As always, all content, opinions & chaotic behaviour are my own.

Happy travels, kay 💙, you may also like.

Hello Kay, Thanks for the lovely article on Dundee. I was there two weeks ago to check out the V&A which I loved, but I did not know about the street art trail. Maybe next time… 🙂 Best regards from Germany, Tanja (Caledonia72)

Hi Tanja, Glad you enjoyed the post The street art is such a nice addition to the city – definitely check it out next time. Thanks, Kay

Padrino Pizza has been closed since May 2019. In its place, it’s now Wee Slice, which is just o-k. Not sure how it would compare with Padrino, though.

Hi Bella! Aw, it didn’t last very long. Thanks for letting me know. I’ll update my post 🙂

Hi Kay, a great positive review of Dundee, there is more of course, and it’s a shame you didn’t have a chance to check out the finest wee guided history and architecture tour in town, the ‘Bright Dundee’ wander around the Albert Square outside the McManus Galleries. Its a definite cool thing to do, maybe next time you’re passing through the area?

Hi George. I absolutely love Dundee, and I’ll definitely be back! Should I contact yourself to arrange the tour? 🙂

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About Dundee

Unlike some city break destinations, Dundee isn’t an oversized sprawling metropolis in which you end up spending half your holiday time travelling from one location to another. While our wonderful city has an excellent public transport infrastructure, many of our most popular landmarks, attractions and experiences can be found within easy reach of each other.

Take a look at our interactive map and use it to plan your days before you even arrive here. Whether you’re walking from the fabulous V&A Dundee to the fascinating Verdant Works or cycling from the Dundee Museum of Transport to the RRS Discovery, the map will help you get there with ease. This is a place that lends itself perfectly to the planning of a perfect city break.

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A Decade of Design

To celebrate the tenth anniversary of Dundee’s UNESCO City of Design status, this exhibition showcases a decade of design created by students at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, many of whom have since gone on to successful careers as professional designers. The show features beautiful and thought-provoking examples of animation, comics, graphic design, illustration, jewellery, metal design and textile design.

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Global sport stars and documentary premiere set for Fort William

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series turns its attention to Scotland. The world’s very best downhill mountain bike riders will converge on Fort William for the opening round of the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup from 3 to 5 May 2024.

The event will draw thousands to the UK’s outdoor capital for the ultimate weekend of downhill mountain bike racing. It offers fans a chance to watch mountain biking’s biggest stars take on the iconic Nevis Range track, which is revered as one of the longest and toughest courses in the world.

The UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is the official season opener for the UCI Downhill World Cup. It is proudly supported by EventScotland, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, and the Highland Council.

A historic event

The 2024 edition promises to be one of the biggest in the sport’s history. Seven-time Fort William winner Greg Minnaar (Norco Factory Racing) will join Scottish hero Reece Wilson (Trek Factory Racing) and returning champion Charlie Hatton (Continental Atherton MTB Race Team) in the men’s elite field.

World champion Valentina Höll (YT Mob) and British star rider Tahnée Seagrave (FMD Racing) feature in the women’s elite field.

Top international riders and homegrown talent are all vying to position themselves on the podium at one of the most legendary venues in the sport.

Rider navigates rocks at the Mountain Bike World Cup

Image Credit: Nevis Range

Cable car above a rider at the Mountain Bike World Cup

Rider at the mountain bike world cup, crowds at the mountain bike world cup at fort william, what else can spectators enjoy.

Away from the track, the expo village showcases leading cycling brands. Mountain bike enthusiasts will have the opportunity to test the latest bike technology at the Shimano Test Track and rub shoulders with world class riders and teams moving through the elite athlete corridor before racing begins.

New for this year, fans can watch from the Red Bull fan zone, or enjoy the racing from a new grandstand uniquely positioned before the finish. This will offer unmatched views of the final airborne descent towards the line.

The Fort William crowd can expect to see the strongest calibre of riders take on the 2024 edition. None more so than serial winner Greg Minnaar.

As the luminaries of mountain biking descend into Fort William for the biggest UK race of the year, Warner Bros Discovery Sport will host an exclusive private premiere of a new mountain bike documentary Greg Minnaar: Not Done Yet .

This will be shown at the Highland Cinema on Tuesday 30 April, ahead of airing on Eurosport 2 at 9pm on Wednesday 1 May.

Scotland is the perfect stage for events and EventScotland is proud to be continuing its support of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Fort William. Following the success of the Mountain Bike Downhill at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, this year’s UCI World Cup will provide the ideal opportunity once again come together and share a memorable experience as the world’s best riders battle it out for victory on the iconic Nevis Range course. Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events

How can I get to Fort William?

It's never been easier to get trackside. Exclusive ride and travel packages available in partnership with Citylink for direct access to the venue from either Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are also discounts on all tickets available to Young Scot members.

Spectator parking is only available at dedicated park and ride sites, with a free shuttle service in full operation across the weekend.

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is set to inspire future generations of Scottish downhill mountain bike talent. There is a schools day event on Friday 3 May, and Scottish Cycling’s Mini Downhill Final on Saturday 4 May, ahead of the main event.

Credit: Citylink

Related links

More accolades for the 2023 uci cycling world championships, eventscotland attends sportaccord as silver partners, supported events, scotland's national events strategy.