Things to do in Dundee & Angus
While other parts of Scotland might grab more headlines, a visit to Dundee and Angus should be at the top of anyone’s list. This part of the country combines the lively, contemporary feel of Dundee with the beautiful, historic countryside of Angus. But what are the best things to do here?
Discovery Point and RRS Discovery
History lovers will get a real buzz from visiting this fully accredited museum in Dundee. Discovery Point is home to the famous ship RRS Discovery and tells the story of its many voyages, including an Antarctic trip in 1901 with Captain Scott!
V & A Dundee
This iconic building on Riverside Esplanade in Dundee is one of the UK’s best design museums. Open daily from 10.00 am to 17.00 pm, it also boasts free admission (with exceptions for specific special events) and a room dedicated to Scottish design.
Heather Street Food
If you get a bit peckish when checking out V & A Dundee, why not try a bite from this award-winning street food spot? Situated right outside the museum, it serves up gorgeous doughnuts, tasty coffee and a selection of tempting sandwiches.
Wee Mexico Dundee
Found on Nethergate, Wee Mexico is Dundee’s premier choice for authentic Mexican food. Whether it’s classics like tacos or burritos, you will always find something you love here. Their menu also comes with vegan, halal and gluten-free options.
Bird & Bear
Close to V & A Dundee is this inviting and contemporary venue. With a lively feel and a bi-level design, it not only serves up top-notch pub food but has an eye-catching cocktail menu as well. A drink in their dock street beer garden when the sun’s out is also a real pleasure.
The Howff
The Howff in Dundee is a burial ground which was constructed on the site of a former Franciscan monastery. It was established in 1564 and enjoys a reputation for having the most important tombstone collection in Scotland. Due to this status, it’s listed as a Category A building.
The McManus Art Gallery & Museum
Located in the heart of vibrant Dundee, this art gallery and museum are housed in a Gothic-revival type property. It actually contains 8 different galleries and tells the story of Dundee in a fascinating way. Admission is free and galleries such as ‘Dundee and the World’ really are worth a look.
Desperate Dan / Minnie the Minx statues
Popular attractions in the centre of Dundee are the statues of Desperate Dan (from the classic kids comic ‘The Dandy’) and Minnie the Mix (from the ‘Beano’). Both comics were published in the city and the statues make a great photo opportunity for visitors.
Oor Wullie’s Big Bucket Trail
Billed as Scotland’s first public art trail, this features the popular character of ‘Oor Wullie’ from the DC Thompson newspaper ‘The Sunday Post’. Running from June until September, Slessor Gardens in Dundee is where to head for the fun.
Dundee Contemporary Arts
This is a world-class venue in Dundee that’s dedicated to the exhibition and development of contemporary arts. It features 2 art galleries, a 2-screen cinema and a print studio, so it’s a mecca for contemporary art fans. There is also a shop here for souvenirs and a cafe if you need a break.
Penguin sculptures in Dundee
Anyone who passes close to City Churches in Dundee will notice these cute penguin sculptures. Produced by sculptor Angela Hunter, they have become a real favourite with both locals and tourists. They were installed to celebrate Dundee’s connection with penguins and regularly get dressed up to mark special occasions.
Verdant Works
This is a beautifully-restored textile mill which dates back to 1833 and recalls the history of textile production in Dundee. Ideal for an interesting family day out in the city, there is even a cafe here to grab a refreshing coffee or tea at.
Spex Pistols Optical Boutique
This independent boutique optician located in Dundee’s cultural quarter offers a wide choice of glasses to suit all tastes, from designer frames to vintage looks and one-off pairs. Open 6 days a week, all glasses come with free lenses currently.
Abandon Ship bar
Dundee is well-known as a great city for socialising and the Abandon Ship bar shows why. Ideal for a relaxing daytime drink with friends or a more lively night out, it has a great selection of beers, wine, cocktails and spirits.
Broughty Ferry
Known locally as ‘the jewel in Dundee’s crown’, Broughty Ferry is an upmarket seaside village found around 4 miles out of the city. It boasts not only an award-winning beach but also a lovely esplanade for strolls in the sun. There are also plenty of shops here to browse around.
Broughty Castle
One of the major attractions in Broughty Ferry is Broughty Castle. It is found on the banks of the River Tay and has a history stretching back to 1495. The castle now houses a fabulous museum which tells the story of Broughty Ferry itself.
Gracie’s of Broughty Ferry
Bruach Bar
Pretty Fly Workshop
Knit Shop
Have Arbroath Smokies
Art Attack Angus
Arbroath Abbey
Seaton Cliffs
Lunan Bay
House of Dun
Bridge of Dun
This area is found in the parish of Dun in Angus and on the River South Esk. It is known for its stunning walks and proximity to the Montrose Basin Local Nature Reserve. For fans of steam trains, the Bridge of Dun station is a real treat.
Glamis Castle
Majestic castle found in Angus which has been the home to the Earls of Kinghorne and Strathmore since 1372. Visitors can take a tour of the castle to find out more about its history and there are regular events held here throughout the year to enjoy.
Strawberry Bank Lane
Strawberry Bank Lane is known locally for being the city’s prettiest lane and is home to some of the best architecture Dundee has to offer. The West End of Dundee is also a famous part of the city and home to the University of Dundee. This district is also known as Dundee’s cultural quarter and plays host to venues like the Whitehall Theatre.
Photography by Simon Hird
