Nestled on the North bank at the mouth of the River Tay, on the east coast of Scotland, Dundee is a lively and contemporary city also known as the "City of Discovery." Dundee has many attractions, below we recommend the top things to do if you are visiting Dundee.
A highlight of Dundee is visiting the V&A Dundee; The V&A is the first design museum and the only V&A museum in the UK outside of London. The stunning contemporary architecture and design exhibitions showcase both local and international creativity. The building, designed by Kengo Kuma, is a work of art. The V&A Dundee is a cutting-edge design museum and one of Scotland's most striking architectural landmarks. Inspired by the cliffs of Scotland's coastline, the building features a curving, layered stone structure extending over the River Tay. The architecture itself is a masterpiece and worth a visit to marvel at the exterior.
The Museum covers various design aspects, from fashion and textiles to architecture, digital technology, and product design. It holds both temporary and permanent exhibitions, focusing on Scottish design while also hosting international works. It includes everything from Charles Rennie Mackintosh's furniture to contemporary innovations in game design and healthcare technology. The Museum engages visitors of all ages through workshops, events, and educational programs. It offers hands-on experiences for families and children to explore creativity and design thinking. Visit The V&A Dundee also boasts a beautiful café with river views, perfect for enjoying a coffee after exploring the galleries. The shop offers a range of unique design objects, books, and souvenirs.
The V&A Dundee is located on Dundee's revitalized waterfront, making it easy to access from the city centre being a short walk, bus or taxi journey. Over the past few years the V&A and the surrounding waterfront area has seen extensive regeneration now being one of the top attractions in Dundee and one of Scotlands must see attractions.
The Camperdown Wildlife Centre is located in the extensive Camperdown Country Park in Dundee, which is the largest public park in the city. The centre is home to more than 50 animal species, making it a popular destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The centre focuses on conservation and education, providing an opportunity to observe animals closely and learn about their habitats and ongoing efforts to protect endangered species.
Visitors to Camperdown Wildlife Centre can see European Brown Bears, Birds of Prey, Lemurs, Meerkats, Scottish Wildcats, and other animal species at the centre.
Make sure to visit the impressive Bear Broch Visitor Centre. It is a specially constructed replica of an ancient Scottish stone dwelling. Visitors can observe the bears playing in their splash pool through the Broch's large viewing window while learning about the bear's artefacts and history.
The Camperdown Wildlife Centre staff educate visitors and are committed to conservation, mainly through breeding programs to assist endangered species, regular talks and interactive activities where visitors can learn about the animals and the significance of wildlife protection.
An on-site café for refreshments, making spending an entire day there convenient as well as playparks for the children to help keep them entertained. Surrounded by the beautiful greenery of Camperdown Park, the Wildlife Centre offers numerous picnic spots for visitors to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
While the centre is open throughout the year, opening times do vary, especially during the winter months; we advise checking this on the official website for the latest visitor information, including ticket prices and special events.
As the Wildlife Centre is part of the larger Camperdown Country Park, it's also worth exploring the park itself. Spanning some 400 acres, the park is ideal for exercise, walks, cycling, and relaxing in the expansive green spaces and wooded areas. Overall, the Camperdown Wildlife Centre is an excellent day out, especially for those interested in animals and conservation efforts.
Travelling to Camperdown Country Park by car is approximately 4 miles from the city centre and is around a 10-15 minute drive; leaving the A90 Kingsway, you will see signs for Camperdown Park; once inside the park, follow the signs for the Camperdown Visitor Centre.
Dundee Law is an extinct volcanic hill and one of Dundee's most prominent natural landmarks, offering stunning panoramic views of the city, the River Tay, and the surrounding countryside. At 174 meters (571 feet) high, it provides a perfect vantage point to take in the beauty of Dundee and its historic ties to the sea.
The Dundee Law is a favourite spot for visitors and locals alike, especially at sunrise or sunset when the view is most dramatic. From the summit, you can see the Tay Rail and road bridge, Broughty Ferry, and even the Fife coastline on a clear day, as well as Perthshire and the Sidlaw Hills to the north. A War Memorial is located at the top of the hill, which makes it a scenic place for historical reflection.
Historically, Dundee Law has been a significant site. Archaeological evidence shows that it was used during prehistoric times, with traces of ancient settlements. The hill's location made it a natural defensive position throughout history and has long held importance for Dundee.
For those who enjoy hill walking or, in this case, hiking! Several walking paths lead up to the summit of Dundee Law; the site is also easily accessible by car. Once at the top, there's seating available, making it an excellent place for a peaceful retreat, enjoying the stunning views of the city and beyond.
Dundee Law is well worth the journey to the top and is one of the top things to do when visiting Dundee.
Discovery Point in Dundee is a popular tourist spot around the RRS Discovery, the famous ship that carried Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his team on their groundbreaking 1901 Antarctic journey.
Located on Dundee's waterfront, the Discovery Point Museum provides an intriguing look into the ship's polar exploration and maritime history. The RRS Discovery is the ship, docked right next to the V&A Dundee. This means that two of Dundee's top attractions sit side by side in the rejuvenated waterfront area. The ship, built in Dundee, was custom-made for Scott's Antarctic expedition and was the final traditional three-masted wooden ship constructed in Britain. Its unique design enabled it to endure the harsh Antarctic conditions.
At Discovery Point, you can step aboard the RRS Discovery and explore its various sections, including the crew's living quarters and the captain's cabin.The Museum offers a unique interactive experience, with exhibits, original artefacts, and personal stories of the crew, vividly bringing the challenges and accomplishments of the expedition to life. It not only delves into the history of Scott's journey but also showcases the scientific discoveries made during the mission, such as studies of wildlife, geology, and climate.
Additionally, the Discovery Point Museum plays a crucial role in preserving and sharing the broader history of polar exploration and the advancements that enabled such perilous voyages. It features captivating displays suitable for all age groups, making it an ideal destination for families. The Museum's location on Dundee's lively waterfront adds to the overall experience, offering stunning views and an opportunity to explore the surrounding area.
Discovery Point is a must-see for those fascinated by maritime history, adventure, and the pioneering spirit of exploration.
Located on Albert Square in the heart of Dundee, The McManus is more than just an Art Gallery & Museum. It is a significant cultural hub that plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing the city's rich heritage, spanning art, history, and natural science. Housed in a remarkable Gothic Revival building dating back to 1867, the Museum's architecture is a standout feature with its intricate stone carvings and an impressive central tower reminiscent of a cathedral. The renowned architect George Gilbert Scott designed the building, adding to its historical significance.
Dundee's Art Gallery and Museum boasts diverse collections spanning art, archaeology, and more, which are showcasedin various galleries. The Fine Art Gallery is a highlight, exhibiting a remarkable assortment of Scottish paintings from the 19th and 20th centuries, including works by acclaimed artists such as James McIntosh Patrick and David McClure. Additionally, international pieces, decorative arts, and design are also featured.
Delving into Dundee's history, the Land and People gallery explores the city's industrial past, focusing on the jute, whaling, and shipbuilding industries that played pivotal roles in its development. The gallery presents artefacts, personal stories, and photographs, providing a poignant reflection of Dundee's evolution.
The Natural History Gallery is another standout section, offering an array of preserved animals, fossils, and geological specimens that provide insights into Scotland's wildlife and natural environment.
The McManus is not just a Museum but a treasure trove of knowledge for art enthusiasts, historians, and science lovers. Its central location on Albert Square ensures easy accessibility, making it a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into Dundee's vibrant cultural and artistic heritage.
