40 Epic Things To Do In Dundee: A Locals Guide
Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland. This post lists the epic things to do in Dundee.
Also, Dundee is home to two universities, so it is a fun vibrant social city with quirky restaurants and cafes. Dundee is known as the sunniest city in Scotland.
You can enjoy the spectacular scenery by the sparkling River Tay. Dundee is an upcoming touristy city and is perfect for the next staycation.
Historically, Dundee has a legacy for being the focal point of the global jute industry. As well as jute, Dundee was well known for the The Dandy franchise and the production of jams and marmalades.
Therefore Dundee is now famous for the ‘3Js‘ for ‘jute, jam and journalism’. Nowadays, Dundee is more well known for scientific research, video game production and the football teams, Dundee United and Dundee.
The city offers historic castles, fantastic museums, creative galleries, quirky cafes and much more. Keep reading to find out why Dundee is called the ‘City of Discovery’.
Dundee Accommodation: Waterfront Apartment, Bridgeview, Alberta Guest House, Villa by the Sea
The Waterfront
There are excellent walking and cycling paths stretching from Invergowrie in the west to Monifieth in the East.
The scenic route will take you past the Discovery Point, V&A, urban beach, Slessor Gardens, City Quay, plenty of fishing spots, Broughty Ferry boat club, Broughty Ferry and the golden sand beaches thereafter.
V&A Dundee
Dundee is currently undergoing a large restoration in the heart of the city at the waterfront. The opening of the V&A is one of the most notable and famous transformations on the site.
Most importantly, the V&A is the first dedicated design museum in Scotland and it is the first V&A museum outside of the island.
The unique structure is the first building in the UK to be designed by internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma (the same guy who designed the Olympic Stadium for Tokyo 2020).
Kuma states that he got the inspiration for the building from the eastern cliff edges in Scotland. Also, the impressive architecture features a prominent spike which outreaches into the River Tay.
The museum showcases the brilliance of Scottish creativity, also including the best art and design pieces from all over the world. Also, there are changing exhibitions that showcase the best designs.
Entry is free with some exhibitions you need to pay for.
RRS Discovery Point
The RRS Discovery was built for expeditions to the Antarctic. The three-masted ship was launched in 1901.
After surviving sailing the seas she is now permanently parked at the waterfront.
Exploring the ship and visitor centre is one of the most fascinating things to do in Dundee. Here you can learn about the heroes including Captain Scott, who lived in the most horrific conditions in order for research and discovery.
HMS Unicorn
The HMS Unicorn is a historic Royal Navy warship with four decks.
Interestingly, the HMS Unicorn is one of the sixth oldest ships in the world, dating back to 1824. Therefore, it is almost 200 years old.
Nowadays, it is perched in the dock at the City Quay and there is a unique museum on board. Once you step aboard, you will be transformed back in time.
Also, you can learn about life at sea, history of the Navy in Dundee and the warships in ‘the Golden Age of Sail’.
Although the ship is looking a bit rusty around the edges, you can view the very detailed unicorn crafted into the front of the ship. Interestingly, unicorn’s are the official national animal of Scotland.
Tay Rail Bridge (& Ruins)
The Tay Rail Bridge represents one of the most tragic historical events in Dundee’s history. On a winter’s evening in 1879, due to bad weather and poor engineering of the bridge the south end of the bridge collapsed.
It is estimated that all 75 people on board died. There are small stumps sticking out of the water which are notable at low tide, which acts as an eerie reminder of the past.
The City Centre
St Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral
The outside of St Paul’s Cathedral can is a spectacular sight on Dundee’s skyline. As the tower stands tall at 65 metres high, the cathedral is recognisable from across the River Tay.
The gorgeous Anglican cathedral was designed by Sir George Gilbert in 1855. It is situated perfectly in the middle of Dundee, you will probably pass it as you move from attraction to attraction.
Also, you can admire the beautiful paintings hanging over the altar. St Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral is open from 10 am to 4 pm most days and is closed on Mondays.
The McManus Galleries
The McManus Galleries is an impressive Gothic revival-style building which was built in 1867. Originally, the museum was commissioned as a memorial for Prince Albert, which included lecture halls and a library.
The outside architecture is stunning with two winding staircases that lead on two a landing, a perfect photo opportunity.
In the McManus, you can explore 8 galleries of collections of fine and decorative art which gives a spectacular insight into Dundee. Also, you can view natural history exhibitions which dive into 400 million years of history.
Additionally, the museum hosts activities and events, including crafty fun activities and charming tours, informative talks and tours.
There is a café and gift shop on site.
Dundee Science Centre
The Dundee Science Centre is perfect for all ages and abilities. The centre has amazing interactive exhibits which mostly focus on life sciences, including the senses with excellent hands-on learning experiences.
Also, there are robotic expeditions, science shows, workshops and opportunities to ‘meet the scientist’. The staff are super helpful, enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
After a day of learning you can relax in the café and purchase lunch, soft drinks, snacks and cakes. Also, there is a gift shop to check out where you can get souvenirs or science gifts.
Dundee Contemporary Arts
In the Dundee Contemporary Arts, there are five floors which feature two cinema screens, two contemporary art galleries and a print studio. It is a world-class centre for the development and exhibition of contemporary arts and culture.
The DCA is one of the best creative spaces in town. The exhibitions display commissions from Scottish artists and contemporary projects from all over the globe.
Also, you can relax with a coffee at the Jute Café Bar. At night, the hip café becomes one of the city’s trendiest bars, serving creative cocktails and delicious meals.
Dundee Repertory Theatre (The REP)
The ‘Rep’ has displayed a range of award winning shows produced by Dundee Rep Actors and the Scottish Dance Theatre.
Productions are released all year round and include the best drama, art, music and comedy. The theatre proudly stands as the cultural heart of Dundee.
Verdant Works
The Verdant Works is an award-winning museum which takes you through the rich history of industrial textile history and social heritage. Here, you can step back to the 19th and 20th centuries when the mills were the heart of Dundee.
The refurbished mill which dates back to 1833 allows you to imagine what life was like as a worker in the mills. Currently, Verdant Works is the only jute museum in an old mill in the UK.
Avertical World Climbing Centre
The Avertical World is an indoor climbing centre where you can experience rope and lead climbing. This is the only indoor climbing centre available in Tayside.
You can experience over 300 potential routes. Also, there is an excellent bouldering area and a cosy café where you can recharge your batteries.
The staff are very helpful and accommodating so it does not matter if you are a complete beginner or an experienced climber. If you are looking for something different to try, this is the perfect opportunity.
Sculptures around Dundee City Centre
Lemmings Statues: The delightful little statues are located on the Perth Road. Here, you will find them leaping around and climbing up the stone pillar.
The small statues represent a monumental success that Dundee has achieved in the gaming industry. Interestingly, these characters were created by DMA Designs who are the brains behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise.
The Dragon: The Dragon statue is located in the Murraygate, not far from St Paul’s Cathedral. As the story goes, a farmer who lived in Pintempton had lost his daughters to a dragon.
A villager called Martin killed the dragon. If you are ever near Bridgefoot, you can see the Pictish stone which marks where the dragon was killed.
Desperate Dan: Desperate Dan and Co. are located on the edge of the City Square just outside the Caird Hall.
The statues represent the success of the comic strip called ‘The Dandy’ which came alive in 1937. Also, Dundee is home to their publishers, DC Thomson.
Penguins: The Penguin statues are located outside Steeple Church and the Overgate. The penguins mark the exploration to Antarctica by the RRS Discovery.
Antarctica happens to be the home of the penguins therefore this is why Dundee has the connection.
Howff Cemetery
The Howff is an enchanting little cemetery in the heart of the city centre. The grounds were established in 1564, making it one of the most important collections of tombstones in Scotland.
It is incredibly peaceful when you walk past the ancient gravestones.
Also, the graveyard is burial grounds for a few notable people including John and Janet Keilor who made marmalade, the surgeon Alexander Bell, the town’s architect Samuel Bell and a politician who was the last to be buried in the Howff, George Duncan.
There is a new Howff Cemetery which was built in 1834. The location was where the current Bell Street car park is.
You can see a few remaining gravestones on the wall near Bell Street car park. There have been reported sightings of ghosts and unusual things happening to the cars that park at Bell Street car park.
Dundee Law
The ‘Law’ is the highest point in the centre of Dundee and it is the most prominent feature on Dundee’s skyline. There is a war memorial perched on top of the extinct volcano.
Also, the history of the ‘Law’ is believed to date back to 400 million years ago, and interestingly, it was used as a site for a hill fort in the Iron Age.
It can take between thirty to forty minutes to reach the summit. Or alternatively, you can park near the top.
Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with panoramic beautiful views of Dundee, Broughty Ferry, River Tay, Fife and the Sidlaw Hills.
On Bonfire Night, the ‘Law’ is the perfect place to watch the fireworks from all around the city and Fife. You can get an advantage point over Lochee and Baxter Park.
Mill’s Observatory
If you happen to be in Dundee after the sunsets, you can not miss the amazing opportunity to stargaze. The Mill’s Observatory was the UK’s first purpose-built astronomical observatory.
Here you can view the interesting displays on space exploration and astronomy. The whole experience is wonderful as the staff are passionate and knowledgeable.
Also, on a clear night you can get an excellent opportunity for spectacular views of stars and planets.
Broughty Ferry
Broughty Castle Museum
The Broughty Castle Museum is located in Broughty Castle which is perched on the outpost of the old Ferry port, looking over the mouth of the River Tay.
Interestingly, the castle was built back in the 15th century in response to an increase in English naval activity. Also, it was used to support the Tay’s shoreline defence system as a look out spot for German planes in WW2.
Within the castle, you can explore captivating exhibits on the history of the people in the Ferry and how they used to live their lives.
Also, the displays show the environment and wildlife in Broughty Ferry. The entry price is free and the opening hours are mostly 10 am to 4 pm.
Claypotts Castle
Claypotts Castle is a small, medieval castle. To view the inside of the castle, you need to call and book an appointment.
However, you can view the outside of the castle as the grounds are free and it is a perfect place for a picnic.
Although the castle seems to be in a peculiar location, pretty much next to houses in a suburb, it is still an excellent place for a visit.
The inside is beautifully kept and well looked after. Interestingly, the castle was home to Bonnie Dundee. Claypotts Castle is one of the four castles in Dundee.
Barnhill Rock Gardens
The Barnhill Rock Garden is a two hectare public park which is close to Broughty Ferry and all the amenities. Also, the garden is perfectly situated with views overlooking the River Tay.
Back in 1955 the area was cleared of volcanic rock to make way for the beautiful gardens.
The gardens are home to alpines, shrubs, woodland and waterside planting. There are plenty of picnic tables, seating and toilet facilities nearby.
Places To Eat in Dundee
Auld Tram
The Auld Tram is an original Dundee Horse Drawn Tram and it is one of the oldest in existence today. It is believed that the tram was fully operational until the late 1870s then electric trams were introduced into the city.
Now, it is used to serve gourmet teas, wonderful coffee and soup and bloomer sandwiches on the Murraygate.
Fisher and Donaldson
Fisher and Donaldson is a fifth-generation bakery which was started in 1919. The main production is in Cupar, with shops on Perth Road, Whitehall Street, High Street, Cupar and St Andrews.
They serve the best of Scottish baking including delicious sweet treats and French patisserie classics.
You can try Dundee classics including sair heids and yum yums. Also, I would recommend trying the famous fudge doughnuts.
The Bach
The Bach is a café run by two wandering Kiwis. At The Bach, you can enjoy the best casual food, speciality coffee that has been roasted in Scotland and craft beer from New Zealand.
I would recommend trying the matcha pancakes, they were extremely delicious. The Bach is one of my favourite places to go for brunch in Dundee.
Jannetta’s
Janetta’s is a world-famous Italian gelato shop which has opened in Dundee waterfront. Originally, Janetta’s has been trading in St Andrews for 110 years.
At Janetta’s you can try over 100 flavours of ice cream, sorbet and frozen yoghurt. It is seriously the best ice cream in the area.
71 Brewing
The beers that are brewed at 71 Brewery are inspired by traditional European classics with the combination of progressing into new flavours.
You can enjoy a couple of beers while watching the sunset in the newly furbished beer garden.
Gallery 48
The Gallery 48 is a creative and innovative space where you are surrounded by artworks and exhibitions. At Gallery 48 you can enjoy the finest tapas, celebrated Spanish wines and an array of contemporary gins.
Draffens
Draffens is an off-the-beaten-track find, it is one of Dundee’s secret bars hidden in a top location. If you find yourself in this quirky and mystic gem you can indulge in an innovative cocktail or two.
The bartenders are clever and impressive. In addition, they will be able to produce any cocktail that you require.
The Flame Tree Café
The Flame Tree Café is run by Aussies and you can tell by how perfectly their coffee is served. This is the first place where we have ordered a three-course breakfast as there was so much we wanted to try.
So after extensive research, I recommend trying the rainbow bagel, not only are they pretty to look at but they taste amazing too.
Forgan’s Broughty Ferry
Forgan’s is found in the hustle of the main street on Broughty Ferry. You can acquire the full Scottish experience and sit in a cosy ‘bothy’ with rustic and wooden décor.
Once you have enjoyed a fresh hearty meal and tried a platter of the famous Scottish gin you can dance the night away at the roaring ceilidhs.
Clarks Bakery
Clarks Bakery has been based in Dundee for over 60 years with three generations of family involved. The 24 hour bakery is famous for the hot fast food, the ‘pehs’ and the helicopter burger.
The helicopter burger contains a burger, square sausage, bacon, fried egg and chips on a bun. So, if you have a night out and want to find something to satisfy your stomach when the pubs close, make sure you head to Clarks.
Is Dundee Worth Visiting?
As you can see from this post, there is a large number of epic things to do in the city.
The upcoming vibrant city is filled with incredible attractions, historical museums and spectacular sights to see. So, if you are in Scotland, make sure you stop off at Dundee.
What Can You Do in Dundee For Free?
There are so many places to go for free in Dundee. The list includes the V&A, McManus, DCA and St Paul’s Cathedral.
Also, you can walk around the city and view the ships and spectacular statues. Other things you can explore are the many of Dundee’s parks and green spaces including the Howff, the Law, the waterfront, Camperdown, Tentsmuir and Crombie Country Park.
Final Note
Dundee is the fourth largest city in Scotland and is currently being redeveloped to make an awesome touristy city. This post is a locals guide to the epic things to do in Dundee.
Dundee is not far from smaller towns and villages in Angus and Fife.
The city is an excellent base to base yourself for bagging the nearby Munros in Angus or completing one of the long-distance walking routes – Angus Coastal Route, The Cateran Trail or the Heart 200.