Chances are Edinburgh and Glasgow spring to mind if you think about Scottish tourism, but not necessarily Dundee. This is a shame as there are plenty of great things to do in Dundee.
If you’ve not experienced this awesome underdog city in Scotland’s North East, you’re really missing out on something special. Dundee is close to St Andrew’s in Fife, the home of golf. In recent years has enjoyed a cultural renaissance thanks to major regeneration.
There’s a buzz about Dundee which has led to it being touted as one of the world’s coolest cities in the international press ̶ check out these five terrific things to do here and you’ll see why.
Visit the V&A
This beautiful building looks somewhat like an awesome angular spaceship settled on the banks of the River Ta. Its architect Kengo Kuma took his inspiration from the rough sea cliffs around Scotland’s coasts.
V&A Dundee is an international centre of the design that showcases the best of Scottish creativity and brilliant design from around the world.
Tip: check out these V&A stories to learn more about this inspirational institution.
Go Water-skiing in the city
Yup, you read that right ̶ you can water-ski, wakeboard, or paddleboard on the water on a thrilling ringo ride, right in the heart of the city!
Foxlake is a fab facility at City Quay that’s a brilliant day out for kids of all ages. Also, there’s an Aqua Park with inflatable obstacles and slides.
Tip: try SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard) Yoga while you’re here ̶ it’s superb!
Have a wild night out
Dundee is a university town with a proud working-class heritage, which means that the eclectic pubs and clubs here are primed for partygoers from around the world.
Sample craft beer at BrewDog, enjoy the retro décor in The Speedwell Bar, sip a dark and stormy cocktail in Draffen’s speakeasy. You can also bust some moves to 80s and 90s tunes at Club Tropicana and Vogue ̶ the choices are endless!
Tip: hip pub Art Bar on Perth Road is another cool spot where you should definitely sample a pint!
- READ MORE: What to do in London on a layover
Watch football
If you’re a fan of the beautiful game you’re spoiled for choice here ̶ the stadiums of the city’s two famous football clubs, Dundee United and Dundee FC, are located just 280 metres apart from each other!
If you’re in town at the right time you can watch both teams play separately or perhaps even catch a local derby.
Tip: read Jim Wilkie’s book ‘Across the Great Divide’ for interesting insights on football in Dundee.
Visit Broughty Ferry
Broughty Ferry is a Dundee suburb that feels more like a small town and it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
Stroll along the seafront past pretty pastel-coloured houses, explore the castle and drop into The Ship Inn for fabulous seafood.
Tip: rent a vehicle from car hire site Enjoy and explore the entire east coast from your Dundee base.
We hope we’ve convinced you to see Dundee the next time you’re in Scotland ̶ you can thank us later!
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