As far as Scotland goes, Dundee is one of our flatter cities. It lies to the east of the Central Lowlands, which is known as the Central Belt, to the rest of the world. Being flat isn’t a bad thing, but if you are heading to Scotland for the mountains you may want to aim higher up.
On the other hand, if spending time by the River Tay, lounging around near the sea, and indulging in some excellent historical sites appeals to you, then Dundee might be just your bag.
The Lowlands of Scotland and the Highlands of Scotland had a historic rivalry. The highland clans, such as the MacGregors and the MacMillans, detested the ‘newer’ Lowlander clans such as the Maitlands and the Crawfords, who came in boats from Europe in the early days. Dundee was a lowland powerhouse. To this day, the population remains mostly made up of lowland clan names.
So… You’ve decided to pay this fantastic central city a visit, have you? Let’s talk about the best things to see and do in Dundee.
Dundee in Five Minutes… All the Best Bits
The Dundee Law – The highest point in the City
Editorial credit: Ferne Arfin / Shutterstock.com
If you were ‘just passing through’ on your way to another destination, what would be the five attractions we (locals) recommend that you make time for? Read on to find out…
If you can afford the ticket prices, this is a must-see. You will be able to find it in the river, just off the city centre. The RSS Discovery is the ship that took Scott and Shackleton on their Arctic Adventure all of those years ago. Nowadays there is a fun interactive tour that, for whatever reason, the kids really love. There’s also a café and a gift shop so you can spend more money; if you have it.
The RSS Discovery photo bombing the V&A design museum. The Penguins are cute too.
Editorial credit: lou armor / Shutterstock.com
This is a former linen and flax mill that has seen conversions over the years and now stands as a visitor centre. It’s actually won awards for being a visitor attraction – but it’s not really somewhere us locals go… except maybe to work. They have food, shops, a whole museum type exhibit going on and some other fun stuff to do.
Perhaps the most interesting thing about the textile industry in Scotland is that it was largely wool dominated in later years. After the desire for wool started to drive prices up, the farmers cleared tenants from their lands to make way for more sheep. This was known as the Highland Clearances, and our nearly-dead textile industry is all that remains to remind us of it. For this reason, a visit to any Scottish textile mill is always haunting and a little sad. They used to hire children in there. It makes you want to cry.
The McManus Gallery and Museum
Again, this is not somewhere you are likely to find locals hanging out – but it is a must-see in Dundee. It exhibits works from regional artists, has some fascinating historical pieces, and runs all sorts of activities throughout the year. They also do a lot for the kiddies through their creative learning programs. If you are staying in Dundee for long definitely get the little ones involved here.
If you haven’t figured it out by now; Dundee is a great place to spend holiday time with the family. There’s loads to do that will keep the kids entertained, including the Museum of Transport. There are old cars galore, old trains and trams, and even a few coaches the kids can sit in. The absolute best part is the giant tiny train set and the conductors that talk you through them. It’s a memory most Dundee adults have from their childhood…
This place is just about the most Scottish an animal sanctuary can be. How? They give you free umbrella hire when you arrive! Dress warm, get your wellies on and go see some cute little critters. Kids, teenagers, and adults all love it. P.S… They have Pygmy Marmosets – the smallest monkeys in the world!!
Pygmy Marmosets – just adorable.
By Eric Isselee/ Shutterstock.com
Where to Eat, Drink and Party in Dundee?
If you want to eat out in style the Tayberry Restaurant is perfect for both a classy romantic evening and for entertaining clients. If you are looking for a family meal then try the Bridgeway Station Restaurant. We also need to mention the Kingsway Farm though. It has a Carvery that is genuinely scrumptious. The best part of it is that kids eat for a pound Monday through Friday at Kingsway.
For drinking and good times we suggest you visit the Malbar at Malmaison for cocktails or for an upmarket evening. The best local drinking can be found in Duke’s Corner for students, or the Trade’s House for older clientele.
If you are looking for a dance then the Dundee Student’s Association (DUSA) always offers a good night. You should visit Clarks on Lindsay Street if your student days are behind you though.
Other Notable Attractions
There is far too much to see and do in and around Dundee for us to fit it all into one page. That being said, if you have a bit more than five minutes spare there are a few other things you should try to fit in.
Free things to do in Dundee:
The Dandy’s favourite Son Desperate Dan without a Cow Pie in sight!
Editorial credit: tourpics_net / Shutterstock.com
- Visit the Desperate Dan statue, just because it’s funny.
A More typical Desperate Dan pose
- Or the Oor Wullie Statue…
Part of the Bucket Trail
- Wander around Dundee University and try to look intelligent.
- The Botanic Garden at the University is worth a wander if you are there.
- Go to the Dundee Law the highest point in central Dundee, which features an impressive war memorial at its summit. You can’t miss it as it is the most prominent feature on the local skyline.
The War Memorial atop the Dundee Law.
Image By Stephen Finn/ Shutterstock.com
Dundee attractions that cost you dough:
- The HMS Unicorn is in the harbour. It’s one of the world’s oldest warships. It’s actually free but it’s charity run, so make a donation.
- The V & A Design Museum is very, very cool.
- The Broughty Castle museum is in the Castle you have been wondering about.
- Avertical World is the only climbing centre in Tayside and it’s hilarious in a group.
V & A Museum of Design a quite stunning piece of modern architecture
Editorial credit: Abi Warner / Shutterstock.com
Still Have Five Minutes?
If you have more free time and you want to learn a new skill or hobby, we can teach you that. We also have loads more information on fun things to do out and about in Scotland. Stay tuned for more!
