Dundee is a very open and green coastal city in eastern Scotland, with lots of shops and a vibrant food scene. Sitting on the banks of River Tay and at the mouth of the North Sea, the city was an essential port throughout history, a fact that is celebrated today in its two waterfront nautical museums, HM Frigate Union, and the RRS Discovery ship. This Scottish city goes beyond its port-related history, as it is known today for its many castles, Scottish art, splendid architecture, and countless statues sprinkled throughout the city. In 2014, Dundee became United Kingdom’s first UNESCO City of Design. Other worthwhile destinations here are Hyland Estates and Dundee Hills, where you can enjoy wine tastings and vineyard tours. Read on as we explore the long list of things to do in Dundee, Scotland, to help you curate an itinerary for a sightseeing trip.
1. Go on a scavenger hunt (from USD 20.0)
Scavenger hunts are always a great idea and a fun way to spend time with family and friends, but this one has particularly caught our attention. The idea behind the zombie scavenger hunt is that you’ll need to survive a zombie apocalypse, so you’ll have to walk around Dundee and collect supplies to survive. You’ll have to use your smartphone to find as many items as possible. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to gain virtual weapons that will protect you from zombies, but you’ll need to answer trivia questions or do different challenges. The ultimate goal is to find all of the items on the list, but also have fun and enjoy the beautiful setting that Dundee has to offer.
Zombie Scavengers Game - Dundee, UK
Duration: 1 hour
2. Learn about Dundee's textile history at Verdant Works (from USD 16.0)
The textile industry, especially the jute industry, has played a significant role in Dundee’s history. Visiting Verdant Works will shed light on many aspects of Dundee’s history of textile trade and focus to jute manufacturing. The tour lasts between one hour and a half and two hours, and it includes visiting a refurbished jute mill building that now has lots of natural light, exploring several machines and interactive displays, and listening to fascinating stories about mill workers. One of the perks of this tour is that you’ll avoid long visitor lines, plus it’s a family-friendly activity.
Skip the Line: Verdant Works Admission Ticket
Duration: 90 to 120 minutes
3. Explore the RRS Discovery and learn about its fascinating tale
RRS Discovery is the last traditional three-mast ship to be built in the United Kingdom. Launched in 1901, it arrived in Antarctica in 1902, was acquired by the Maritime Trust in 1979, and returned to Dundee-Berthed in Victoria Dock in 1986. Today, it is one of the top attractions in Dundee, as people can step foot on the famed ship, and follow the footsteps of Scott and his crew, while at the same time learning about their fascinating tale and heroic voyages. You can extend your historical tour and head over to the nearby D'Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum for interesting exhibitions of specimens from across the globe.
RRS Discovery
Address: Discovery Point & RRS Discovery, Riverside Drive, Dundee DD1 4XA
Website: RRS Discovery
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm; Sun: 11am - 6pm
Price: 14 USD
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4. Visit Broughty Castle Museum and catch spectacular river views
Broughty Castle Museum, a 15th-century castle, sits on the banks of River Tay and offers its guests free admission. While throughout history it faced many sieges and battles, today the castle houses impressive displays on the life and times of Broughty Ferry, including the people, lifestyle, and wildlife back in the day. It is also home to lots of events and activities, so it’s an excellent attraction for the whole family. On top of it all, the views over the river from the castle are nothing short of spectacular.
Broughty Castle Museum
Address: Castle Approach, Dundee DD5 2TF
Website: Broughty Castle Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 4pm
Price: Free
5. Watch a show at Dundee Repertory Theatre
Dundee Repertory Theatre is a famed world-class theater and arts company in Dundee, Scotland. Considered one of the best regional theaters in the UK, it is both a producer, staging its productions throughout the year, but also a receiving house that welcomes other comedies, musicals, jazz, opera, and more. When in Dundee, make sure you check out one of the shows performing here, whether it’s theater, music, dance, comedy, or a family-friendly show. The on-site Rep Restaurant is an award-winning bar and brasserie that serves fresh, tasty dishes with a modern twist. They’re open for lunch and dinner, so guests can enjoy a delicious meal before the performances.
Dundee Repertory Theatre
Address: Tay Square, Dundee DD1 1PB
Website: Dundee Repertory Theatre
6. Visit the fabulous Camperdown Wildlife Center
Camperdown Wildlife Center is part of Camperdown Country Park, Dundee’s largest public park. The center is home to a variety of wild animals and birds, including the European brown bear, the golden eagle, the European otter, the red-bellied lemur, or the brightly colored lilac-breasted roller and violet turaco. It is an excellent place for a fun family day, but also for educating children on different species of animals. They offer a variety of animal experiences, including being a zookeeper for a day, for a chance to go behind the scenes and get up close and personal with the animals.
Camperdown Wildlife Center
Address: Camperdown Country Park, Coupar Angus Rd, Dundee DD2 4TF
Website: Camperdown Wildlife Center
Opening hours: 10am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: 7.3 USD
7. Tour the exceptional McManus
Located in Albert Square, the McManus Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum hosts an impressive array of fine and decorative art and natural history collections. The building itself is quite interesting too, as it was built in a Gothic Revival style. At the moment, eight galleries are spread over two floors featuring an extensive collection of art and natural history. McManus is a great learning center too, hosting different kinds of educational activities and events.
The McManus Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
Address: Albert Square, Meadowside, Dundee DD1 1DA
Website: The McManus Dundee’s Art Gallery & Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 4:30pm
Price: Free
8. Wander around Dudhope Park
Dudhope Park is primarily known for its superb castle, which has been used as a military base for a long time. Today, the castle is home to the offices of Dundee City Council, so people only get to enjoy its surroundings. The parkland boasts beautiful gardens, excellent for wedding ceremonies or as a backdrop for photographers. The park also has lots of recreational facilities, including an equipped play area, a skateboarding park, and tennis, football, and basketball courts.
Dudhope Park
Address: 1 Inverlaw Pl, Dundee DD3 6HL
Website: Dudhope Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
9. See modern art at Dundee Contemporary Arts
Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) is a world-class, internationally renowned art center. People come here to get lost in the two large-scale galleries, and admire every piece of contemporary art there, but also to watch a movie at the on-site two-screen cinema, or get a souvenir at the gifts shop. DCA is also home to a print studio, and a learning program packed with workshops, classes, events, and all sorts of educational activities. The art center is easily accessible too, as it sits right in the heart of Dundee, a walking distance from Dundee railway station and University of Dundee.
Dundee Contemporary Arts
Address: 152 Nethergate, Dundee DD1 4DY
Website: Dundee Contemporary Arts
Opening hours: 10am - 12am (daily)
10. Check out the exhibits at V&A Dundee
V&A Dundee is a new entry in the top things to do in Dundee, as it opened its doors on September 15, 2018. An output of the creative mind of the Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, the building is the first Victoria and Albert museum outside of London, and the first-ever design museum in Scotland. Admission to the museum is free, although some exhibitions may have a separate entry fee. Past, present, and future collections include a brightly colored videogames collection, a Ciara Phillips display, and Night Club, an exhibition on the most influential nightclubs in the world.
V&A Dundee
Address: 1 Riverside Esplanade, Dundee DD1 4EZ
Website: V&A Dundee
Opening hours: Sat - Thu: 10am - 5pm; Fri: 10am - 9pm
Price: Free
11. Spend a relaxing day at Finlathen Park
Finlathen Park in Dundee is yet another outdoor space where tourists and locals can go for a stroll to get their bodies moving by practicing different sports, or just to breathe the fresh air and take in the vast greenery. Finlathen Park spreads along the Dighty stream and it is home to a play area, football pitches, woodlands, and walking trails, as well as a mini skate park. The park is also linked to the Green Circular cycle route.
Finlathen Park
Address: Fintry Cres, Dundee DD4 8EZ
Website: Finlathen Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
12. Admire the architecture of Broughty Castle Museum
We already talked about what you can see on the inside of Broughty Castle Museum as well as the stunning river views that the castle boasts, but that’s not all it has to offer. Perhaps the first thing you notice when visiting the castle is its splendid architecture, a blend of English and Scottish influences, as it was in both hands at some moment in time. Its history dates back to 1490 when the second Lord Gray built it. Afterward, it was taken by the English, reclaimed by the Scots, and in 1860, turned from ruin to modern artillery defense, as a French invasion became imminent.
Broughty Castle Museum
Address: Castle Approach, Dundee DD5 2TF
Website: Broughty Castle Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 12:30pm - 4pm
Price: Free
13. Visit St. Paul's Cathedral
While the London St. Paul’s Cathedral is quite impressive, it is not the only one. Sitting right in the heart of the city, Dundee’s St. Paul’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral designed by famous Victorian architect, George Gilbert Scott, and built in the 19th century. Its exterior boasts superb Gothic architecture and a soaring spire that catches the eye of all parts of the city. The church welcomes people of all religions or none to come inside, admire the construction, light a candle, or attend a service.
St. Paul's Cathedral
Address: High St, Dundee DD1 1TD
Website: St. Paul’s Cathedral
Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 12:30pm, 7:45pm - 9pm (closed on Mon & Sat)
14. Tour the remarkable Glamis Castle
Dundee is known for its magnificent castles, but Glamis Castle might be the most spectacular yet. The castle’s history spreads over centuries, as it has been the ancestral seat to the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne, the childhood home of Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mother, as well as the birthplace of Princess Margaret. Many have found their inspiration in the superb castle, its history, architecture, and surroundings, including Shakespeare himself, who wrote Macbeth based on this stunning gem. Travelers come here to wander inside the castle, hear its storied past, and explore its many perfectly manicured gardens.
Glamis Castle
Address: Forfar DD8 1RJ
Website: Glamis Castle
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 19 USD
15. Explore the fabulous Dundee Science Center
If you’re looking to take a break from all the history, art, and architecture that Dundee is well-known for, check out Dundee Science Center. Excellent for the whole family, it will trigger your curiosity in all sorts of fun and exciting experiments and live science shows. Some of the most interesting past, present, or future exhibitions include Mars Odyssey, a family show about the planet Mars, and the Medievals Mechanics, a display of the many inventions in the Middle Ages. The center also supports educating children from an early age, so they host a variety of kid-oriented programs, including the Dundee Science Festival.
Dundee Science Center
Address: Greenmarket, Dundee DD1 4QB
Website: Dundee Science Center
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 10.5 USD
16. Enjoy wonderful music at Caird Hall
Caird Hall is the main concert and event auditorium in Dundee and was built in the city square approximately 100 years ago. Many big names, including Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, and Elton John have all stepped foot on the Caird Hall stage and performed here. Whether there’s a big name like these playing while you’re in Dundee, or there’s someone less famous performing, it’s an activity worth crossing off your to-do list, as you’re bound to have a lovely evening right in the city square.
Caird Hall
Address: City Square, Dundee DD1 3BB
Website: Caird Hall
17. Go stargazing at The Mills Observatory
On a clear-skied night, head over to the Mills Observatory, and gaze at the stars. Built back in 1935 in a classical design, Mills Observatory is nestled in the stunning landscape of Balgay Park, and it is home to a refracting telescope, several display areas, and a small planetarium. Starting early August, the dome is going through some repairs, so certain events have been redirected to McManus, but the observatory will resume all its activities and officially re-launch in November.
The Mills Observatory
Address: Balgay Park, Glamis Rd, Dundee DD2 2UB
Website: The Mills Observatory
Opening hours: Sat: 12:30pm - 4pm (closed from Sun - Fri)
18. Enjoy the outdoors at Monikie Country Park
Back to Dundee’s scenic outdoors, make sure you include Monikie Country Park on your list. The park has been built around two former reservoirs, it is home to numerous bird species, beautiful woodland, and an adventure center, where you can try a wide array of adventures with your friends and family. Visitors can explore one of the park’s many walking trails, go bird watching at Denfind Bird Sanctuary, or try all sorts of watersports, including kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, and boating. If you’re not afraid of heights and you’re looking for an adrenaline boost, try zip lining in the park’s adventure center.
Monikie Country Park
Address: Panmure Rd, Dundee DD5 3QN
Website: Monikie Country Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
19. Tour the exceptional Claypotts Castle
Another castle to add to your sightseeing list is Claypotts Castle. While its doors are open only on specific dates, you can admire the exterior year-round. What sets Claypotts Castle apart is its outstanding Scottish architecture dating back to the late 1500s, its elaborate elevations, and its complex geometry. Take a stroll around the castle to notice its round towers, the original timber roof, and other striking features. Getting to the castle is easy, but there is only street parking available.
Claypotts Castle
Address: 64 Claypotts Rd, Dundee DD5 1LH
Website: Claypotts Castle
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
20. Experience the nightlife at Tickety Boo's
After taking in the natural beauty of Baxter Park and Pavilion, you can check out one of Dundee’s famed pubs. Tickety Boo’s is a pub along Commercial Street that customers recommend for the friendly staff, delicious food, and great drinks. The pub is very spacious, featuring a horseshoe bar, and stained-glass windows. They serve starters, burgers, paninis, and a children’s menu. Some of their most famed dishes include Macaroni and Cheese, Homemade Curry, and Beer Battered Arbroath Haddock.
Tickety Boo's
Address: 51 Commercial St, Dundee DD1 2AA
Website: Tickety Boo’s
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 11am -1am
21. Savor rainbow bagels at The Flame Tree Cafe
Flame Tree Café was founded in 2015 as an independent café in Dundee, and it has ever since, become synonymous with high-quality coffee, a friendly atmosphere, and exceptional service. They serve breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and offer a selection of freshly made juices, milkshakes, and baked goods. Their trademark, however, is the rainbow bagels, which are not only Instagram-worthy but also super yummy. They also serve kids’ meals and babyccino.
The Flame Tree Cafe
Address: 20 Exchange St, Dundee DD1 3DL
Website: The Flame Tree Cafe
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 4:30pm
22. Visit the fascinating Tealing Earth House
Only a 15-minute drive away from Dundee, the Tealing Earth House is an archaeological museum located in Tealing, Scotland. It features an Iron Age underground passage, whose purpose is quite controversial and is often debated. The site was discovered in the 1800s, along with a cup-and-ring marked stone sitting on one of its walls. It may not be a lot to see here, but the site is a testament to Scotland’s rich history and is definitely worth the short drive from Dundee.
Tealing Earth House
Address: 37 Holdings, Tealing, Dundee DD4 0QZ
Website: Tealing Earth House
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
23. Enjoy kebabs at Agacan Turkish Restaurant
It might seem weird that one of the best food places in Dundee is a Turkish restaurant, but once you go to Agacan Kebab House, you’ll immediately understand why it is one of our restaurant recommendations. The first thing that catches its visitors’ eyes is the fact that the building is a part art gallery, part restaurant. Turkish influences can be spotted everywhere, from the walls and doorstep to the tables and chairs. There aren’t many tables, so guests get to enjoy an intimate setting, as well as savor some of the best original Turkish food in Scotland. Make sure you also order a cup of Turkish coffee and their finger-licking baklava.
Agacan Turkish Restaurant
Address: 113 Perth Rd, Dundee DD1 4JB
Website: Agacan Turkish Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 5pm - 9pm (closed on Mon)
24. Have fun at ScotKart Dundee Indoor Kart Racing and Combat City Laser Tag
Dundee has lots of fun indoor options for bad weather too, and one of them is ScotKart Dundee Indoor Kart Racing and Combat City Laser Tag, where you’ll get to race your friends on a 0.2-mile (400-meter) go-karting circuit. There’s room for kids as well, as they have both adult karts and junior karts for children over the age of 8. You’ll also find the largest indoor tactical laser tag arena in Scotland here, so you can also take a break from the karts and challenge your friends in a laser tag game.
ScotKart Dundee Indoor Kart Racing and Combat City Laser Tag
Address: Unit, 10 Myrekirk Road, Dundee City, Dundee DD2 4SH
Website: ScotKart Dundee Indoor Kart Racing and Combat City Laser Tag
Opening hours: 9am - 11pm (daily)
25. Try Scottish food at Castlehill Restaurant
While street foods have a unique spot in the Dundee food landscape, you should also not miss out on the fine dining experiences that it offers. Castlehill Restaurant is where authentic Scottish cuisine meets fine dining. Their sophisticated menu is created from the freshest locally sourced produce and is crafted every day by highly acclaimed chefs. Their blend of classical techniques and modern cuisines gives birth to masterpieces on every plate that they serve. They have a six-course tasting menu, with a vegetarian alternative as well, and an a la carte menu that includes four courses and tastes best when paired with a glass of sparkling wine.
Castlehill Restaurant
Address: 22-26 Exchange St, Dundee DD1 3DL
Website: Castlehill Restaurant
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 12pm - 2pm, 5:30pm - 10pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
26. Enjoy water activities with Foxlake Dundee
Foxlake Adventure is where adrenaline and fun meet the water. They are an outdoor activity organizer and host a variety of exciting activities for whole families, from wakeboarding and paddleboarding to Ringo rides. If you’re not sure what a Ringo ride is, imagine going up and down the lake on a huge inflatable, feeling all the bumps, and catching all the splashes along the way. They also have an aqua park with large obstacles, slides, and a giant inflatable tower. Moreover, private boat tours are provided for a more enriching experience. To maximize your trip in the area, you can visit nearby attractions such as Dundee Museum of Transport, where you’ll get to see a popular vintage car called Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
Foxlake Dundee
Address: W Victoria Dock Rd, Dundee DD1 3JP
Website: Foxlake Dundee
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 8pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 9pm
27. Check out live bands at Duke's Corner
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Delicious meals and live music go hand in hand at Duke’s, one of Dundee’s most acclaimed pubs. Spend an evening there listening to a live band sing, drinking craft beer, and savoring a locally sourced barbecue. Their food menu features starters, burgers, gourmet fries, flatbreads, hot dogs, and some yummy desserts. They also serve a long list of vegan and vegetarian dishes, so their menu caters to everyone. If you want to calm your sweet tooth, try their Banana Fritter or the Raspberry Cheesecake Sundae.
Duke's Corner
Address: 13 Brown St, Dundee DD1 5EG
Website: Duke’s Corner
Opening hours: Sun - Tue: 12pm - 12am; Wed - Sat: 12pm - 2:30am
28. Shop at Overgate Shopping Center
If you’re thinking of including a little bit of shopping in your day trip to Dundee, check out Overgate Shopping Center, a modern shopping mall with a variety of fashion outlets and a food court. The mall is easily accessible by bike, car, bus, or train, and it is open daily. While the shopping center dates back to the 60s, the building was demolished and rebuilt with more modern architecture in the late 90s. It spreads over two floors, just like the original building, and features a glass elevation that overlooks the city’s historic City Churches.
Overgate Shopping Center
Address: Dundee DD1 1UQ
Website: Overgate Shopping Center
Opening hours: Mon - Wed, Fri - Sat: 9am - 6pm; Thu: 9am - 7:30pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm
29. Visit the magnificent Dundee Law
While the name might be confusing, Dundee Law is a hill in the center of Dundee. It boasts a massive war memorial at the summit of an extinct volcano, along with panoramic views of the city. This hill is the result of hundreds of years of landscape changes and was formed 400 million years ago from molten rock. Today, it is one of the most popular visitor destinations, home to a rich history, historic stones, World War II defenses, woodland habitats, and scenic views.
Dundee Law
Address: Dundee, DD3 6LD
Website: Dundee Law
30. Relax at Camperdown Country Park
Spreading over more than 400 acres (161 hectares), Camperdown Country Park is Dundee’s largest park, a natural oasis only 3 miles (1.2 kilometers) from the city center. The park is home to over 190 species of trees, 2 golf courses, a wildlife center, a vast play complex, and lots of trails, perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. The attraction is the previous location Camperdown House, which is a stunning 19th-century mansion. It is further linked to the Templeton Woods and Clatto Reservoir. A favorite among locals and tourists, Camperdown Park is open year-round and features a wide variety of events and activities to keep attracting people to its grounds.
Camperdown Country Park
Address: Coupar Angus Rd, Dundee DD2 4TF
Website: Camperdown Country Park
Opening hours: 10am - 4:30pm (daily)
Price: Free
Home to castles and woodlands
What strikes most people coming to Dundee, whether it’s their first or fifth time, is the unique blend of Scottish architecture in historic and tall buildings and lush and natural beauty. Home to castles, monuments, abundant history, and some of the best cuisine in the country, Dundee is definitely worth the trip to this part of Scotland. Make sure you check out our list of the best things to do in Dundee, Scotland, for inspiration.
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