Top 10 Things to do in Dundee

Things to do in Dundee

Welcome to Scotland’s fourth-largest city, Dundee! This vibrant and eclectic city is filled with exciting attractions and activities that are sure to please visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for some good old-fashioned fun, there’s something for everyone in Dundee. In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the top 10 things to do in Dundee so you can make the most out of your trip. From museums and wildlife centres to beaches and famous statues, get ready for an adventure-filled journey through one of Scotland’s finest cities!

1. Discovery Point

Discovery Point is a must-visit for history buffs and anyone interested in polar exploration. It’s located on the waterfront and houses the RRS Discovery, a ship that was captained by Robert Falcon Scott during his first expedition to Antarctica. The exhibition tells the story of this historic voyage through interactive displays, artifacts, and informative videos.

Visitors can explore the ship’s interior to see how the crew lived and worked during their journey south. You’ll get an up-close look at everything from the cramped quarters where they slept to the galley where meals were prepared.

One of the highlights is seeing Captain Scott’s cabin, which has been recreated exactly as it would have looked over 100 years ago. You can also take a guided tour with knowledgeable staff who will provide additional insight into this fascinating period of history.

In addition to learning about Captain Scott’s expedition, visitors can also learn about Dundee’s rich maritime heritage and its connection to polar exploration. Discovery Point is an informative and engaging attraction that offers a unique glimpse into one of history’s most iconic expeditions.

2. Camperdown Wildlife Centre

If you’re an animal lover, the Camperdown Wildlife Centre is a must-visit destination in Dundee. This fantastic wildlife centre is home to over 50 different species of animals from all around the world.

One of the main highlights of this centre is undoubtedly its big cats, which include lions and tigers. Visitors can watch these majestic creatures roam around and even catch them during feeding time.

Apart from big cats, there are also monkeys, meerkats, otters, and various bird species that visitors can see up close. There’s even a farm area where kids (and adults) can get up close with some friendly goats and sheep.

The park itself offers plenty of walking paths through beautiful wooded areas that provide picturesque views while you enjoy your leisurely walk between enclosures housing various animals.

Visiting the Camperdown Wildlife Centre provides an amazing opportunity for people to witness a wide range of exotic animals in their natural habitat while enjoying everything nature has to offer!

3. Dundee Law

Dundee Law is a prominent hill that overlooks the city of Dundee. It stands at an elevation of 174 meters and provides spectacular views over the Firth of Tay and surrounding areas. The hill is steeped in history and folklore, making it a must-visit attraction for tourists.

The name “Law” comes from the old Norse word “hlaw,” which means mound or hill. At the summit, visitors can see an impressive viewpoint indicator, helping them identify landmarks such as Broughty Castle and St Andrews Cathedral on a clear day.

Aside from its scenic beauty, Dundee Law has played important roles throughout history. During World War II, anti-aircraft guns were installed on its peak to protect the city from aerial attacks by German bombers.

In addition to being a historical landmark, Dundee Law offers several recreational activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking up to the top is quite popular among locals who want some exercise while taking in breath-taking views along the way.

Visiting Dundee Law should be included in any itinerary when exploring things to do in Dundee because it offers not only fascinating insights into local culture but also incredible panoramic vistas that are worth seeing!

4. Slessor Gardens

Slessor Gardens is one of the newest attractions in Dundee, having been opened only a few years ago. It’s located on the waterfront and covers an area of 2.6 hectares. The garden was named after Mary Slessor, who was a Scottish missionary and social reformer known for her work in Nigeria.

The gardens are beautifully landscaped with plants and trees from around the world. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pathways or sit on one of the benches to take in views of the River Tay. There’s also plenty of open space for children to play.

Aside from its natural beauty, Slessor Gardens has become popular as a venue for events such as concerts, festivals, and markets throughout the year. The design allows it to accommodate large crowds while still maintaining ample open space.

One notable feature of Slessor Gardens is its proximity to other major tourist attractions like Discovery Point and V&A Dundee Museum. Visitors can easily combine their visit with these other sites for a full day out.

Slessor Gardens offers visitors an enjoyable outdoor experience combined with excellent event facilities making it an attractive destination when visiting Dundee!

5. Verdant Works

Verdant Works is a museum located in the West End of Dundee, Scotland. The museum was once a jute mill and now offers visitors an opportunity to learn about Dundee’s textile industry history.

The museum boasts interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience first-hand how jute production took place during the industrial revolution. Verdant Works also has multimedia displays showcasing the lives of workers who were employed in the mill.

Visitors can take guided tours offered by knowledgeable guides who share stories about life during this era. The tour takes you through all aspects of jute production, from raw materials to finished products.

One highlight of Verdant Works is its working machinery exhibit. Visitors can see first-hand some of the machines used for spinning and weaving jute fibres.

Verdant Works is a fascinating place that provides insight into Dundee’s rich industrial heritage. Whether you’re interested in textiles or just looking for something unique to do in Dundee, it’s definitely worth checking out!

6. Desperate Dan Statue

One of the most beloved comic book characters in Scotland is Desperate Dan, and there’s a larger-than-life statue of him in Dundee that’s worth checking out. This bronze sculpture stands proudly at the heart of City Square, an iconic landmark that adds to the charm of this Scottish city.

The 5-meter-tall statue depicts Dan with his trademark cowboy hat and massive chin, carrying a giant cow over his shoulder. It was created by sculptor Tony Morrow and erected as part of Dundee’s regeneration project.

Desperate Dan first appeared in The Dandy comic book series back in 1937 and has since become one of Britain’s most popular cartoon characters. His adventures were set in Cactusville, a fictional Wild West town where he would face off against bandits and other villains.

Whether you’re a fan of comics or not, seeing Desperate Dan Statue is a must-do when visiting Dundee. It’s one way to immerse yourself into British culture while exploring the beautiful city.

7. HMS Unicorn

HMS Unicorn is a historic warship located in Dundee’s Victoria Dock. Built in 1824, the ship has survived two world wars and over 150 years of active service before being decommissioned and turned into a museum.

Visitors can tour the ship and learn about life on board for sailors during the early 19th century. From exploring the captain’s quarters to seeing where crew members slept, guests can experience what it was like to be part of Britain’s naval fleet.

One unique feature of HMS Unicorn is its construction using teak wood instead of traditional oak. This allowed for greater durability and resistance against rotting, which helped keep the ship seaworthy for so many years.

The ship also boasts impressive armaments such as six-pounder guns that were used to defend against enemy ships during battle. Visitors can see these historic weapons up close while learning about their use in naval warfare.

Visiting HMS Unicorn is an incredible opportunity to step back in time and explore one of Dundee’s most significant historical landmarks.

8. Broughty Ferry Beach

Broughty Ferry Beach is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful day out in Dundee. It offers stunning views of the River Tay, and its clean sands are perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles.

The beach is also home to several water sports activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. For those who prefer land-based activities, there are plenty of walking trails nearby where visitors can take in the beauty of nature while getting some exercise.

One unique feature of Broughty Ferry Beach is that it has its own castle overlooking the shoreline. The magnificent Broughty Castle Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Dundee’s history along with beautiful gardens surrounding it.

If you’re feeling peckish after all your beach fun, there are plenty of restaurants within walking distance offering delicious seafood cuisine. All in all, Broughty Ferry Beach makes for a great day trip destination for both locals and tourists alike!

9. Dundee Ice Arena

Dundee Ice Arena is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves ice skating or wants to experience something new. This modern facility offers a range of activities that cater to all ages and abilities, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, and friends.

Inside the arena, you’ll find two Olympic-sized ice rinks with plenty of space for figure skating, hockey games, and public skates. The facilities are well-maintained and clean. Plus, there are helpful staff members on hand to assist if needed.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out in the world of ice sports, Dundee Ice Arena has got you covered. There are lessons available for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Additionally, there’s equipment rental available so no need to bring your own gear!

Aside from skating activities at the arena itself there’s also a snack bar where you can refuel after your session! It serves delicious hot drinks and snacks which will be perfect after expending lots of energy on the rink.

Overall, Dundee Ice Arena is an excellent addition to any trip itinerary in Dundee offering fun-filled entertainment for all ages!

10. Wullie Bronze Statue

The Wullie Bronze Statue is a life-size bronze statue of William Wallace (also known as ‘Wullie’), located in the centre of Stirling, Scotland. The statue was created by sculptor Tom Church and it has become a popular tourist attraction in the city. It stands on a granite plinth at the top of Stirling High Street, and depicts William Wallace brandishing his sword with his shield at his feet. The statue was erected in 1994 to commemorate the 700th anniversary of Wallace’s victory at the Battle of Stirling Bridge.

There you have it, folks! The top 10 things to do in Dundee that are sure to make your trip an unforgettable experience. From discovering the history of the city at Discovery Point and Verdant Works to admiring its natural beauty from atop Dundee Law or on Broughty Ferry Beach, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t forget to visit the iconic Desperate Dan Statue and HMS Unicorn before enjoying a relaxing stroll through Slessor Gardens. And for those looking for some excitement, be sure to check out Camperdown Wildlife Centre and Dundee Ice Arena.