Living in Dundee

Dundee’s bar scene is a vibrant mix of relaxed charm and contemporary cool, offering everything from locally brewed craft ales to elegant cocktails and scenic riverside settings. Whether you’re after a laid-back pint or a stylish night out, the city’s pubs and bars deliver with character and flair.

A West End favourite, The Phoenix blends traditional pub charm with a buzzy, student-friendly vibe. Known for its rotating selection of Scottish craft beers and hearty pub food, it’s a go-to for casual pints, sports screenings, and weekend catch-ups with friends.

Set within Dundee’s cultural quarter, Gallery 48 is part art space, part sophisticated bar. The sleek interior and curated exhibitions set the tone, while the menu brings Spanish-inspired tapas and standout gin-based cocktails. Their signature serve, infused with rosemary and grapefruit, is a local favourite.

Overlooking the Tay, The Wine Press offers an elegant yet unfussy spot for wine lovers. Run by local wine experts, its curated list spans classic reds to organic vintages. Pair your glass with a cheese board or charcuterie platter and take in the river views for a relaxed, grown-up evening. Bookings are recommended for peak times.

It should come as no surprise that design, discovery, and green escapes lead the way among Dundee’s many attractions. Not into architecture or galleries? No problem—this city makes room for everyone, whether you’re after inspiration, relaxation, or a dose of local flavour.

Scotland’s first design museum, the V&A Dundee, is an architectural statement in itself. Sitting boldly on the waterfront, it hosts international design exhibitions, interactive installations, and family-friendly workshops. Whether you’re here to admire the building or immerse yourself in its rotating displays, it’s a must-visit for creatives and curious minds alike.

Dundee’s largest green space, Camperdown Park, offers over 400 acres of parkland, woodland walks, and a wildlife centre. It’s the perfect place for a Sunday stroll, a picnic with friends, or to explore the walled garden and ornamental trees that make it a favourite among families and nature lovers.

Interactive and educational, Dundee Science Centre is where innovation and play collide. With hands-on exhibits covering everything from robotics to human biology, it’s ideal for curious kids and grown-ups looking to dive into the world of STEM.

From spin sessions to street food, galleries to green getaways, Dundee gives everyday activities a fresh and engaging edge.

Held monthly at varying locations like Riverside or city centre streets, the Dundee Farmers’ Market showcases local bakers, brewers, and makers. From hand-pulled coffee to handmade preserves and savoury street food, it’s a favourite for those who love to shop and snack locally.

Housed in a striking Gothic Revival building, The McManus is Dundee’s flagship museum and art gallery. Inside, you’ll find everything from historic artifacts and fine art to thought-provoking contemporary exhibitions. Free to enter, it’s a cultural gem in the heart of the city.

Located at Riverside Drive, this award-winning attraction brings Dundee’s maritime heritage to life. Step aboard the iconic RRS Discovery, the ship that carried Scott and Shackleton to Antarctica, and explore interactive exhibits on polar exploration and shipbuilding. A must-do for history lovers and adventurers seeking an immersive journey.