Tourist Guide for Dundee in Scotland
City of Discovery on the River Tay
The city of Dundee sits on the northern side of the River Tay. The city has a wide range of attractions for tourists to explore.
History of the City of Dundee
Dundee has experienced a turbulent history, being invaded numerous times over the years. At one time it was heavily industrialised. Initially, wool production was the main industry, later replaced by linen and jute. Due to its location the city was once an important port and had a thriving whaling fleet.
There are two bridges which link Dundee with Fife. The railway bridge is a replacement for the original structure which collapsed in a storm in 1879, causing a train to fall into the river, resulting in great loss of life. The event was immortalised in William McGonagall’s poem, 'The Tay Bridge Disaster.' McGonagall often recited his work around the city and holds the dubious honour of being dubbed the world’s worst poet.
Dundee advertises itself as the, ‘City of Discovery.’ It is in the city that the famous Antarctic research ship RRS Discovery was built, and it is now open to the public as a museum. One of the city’s biggest employers is DC Thomson. The company have been operating in Dundee since 1905 and, among other publications, are responsible for the children’s comic, ‘The Beano.’
Tourist Attractions and Sightseeing in Dundee
Towering over the city is a large hill known as The Law. A walk to the top rewards visitors with an impressive panoramic view of Dundee and surrounding area. Equally impressive are the views from Mills Observatory. Located on Balgay Hill, it is the only public observatory in the United Kingdom and entry is free.
The city centre has a large selection of shops, with two main shopping centres. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes and pubs which serve food. For visitors wishing to sample the local nightlife there are also several nightclubs and late night bars. For an alternative cultural experience Dundee has several theatres and the Caird Hall, which regularly hosts large concerts.
Sports fans can go and watch at game at one of Dundee’s football stadiums. The city is home to Dundee FC and Dundee United FC. Curiously, these bitter rivals have their stadiums located in the same street.
Camperdown Park is an ideal place to take children. The park boasts a zoo, mini funfair, woodland walks, playparks and a boating pond. It is located near several family friendly eateries, a bowling alley and a cinema.
Accommodation in the City of Discovery
There are several large hotels in and around Dundee’s city centre. There are also numerous smaller establishments in both Dundee itself and the neighbouring borough of Broughty Ferry, just a short trip away on public transport.
Road, Rail, Bus and Air Travel to Dundee
Dundee is well served by excellent road and rail links. By road, the city is connected to Perth by the A90 and to Fife by the A92. There are frequent trains from Perth, Edinburgh and Aberdeen. The city has a well served bus station located near the centre. Dundee also has a small airport, served by ScotAirways and Loganair.
Dundee, from the south bank of the Tay
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