Dundee is a city that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or an adventure seeker, Dundee offers a wealth of activities to suit all interests. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the V&A Museum of Design, or step back in time and visit Broughty Castle Museum. For those who love the outdoors and the scenic waterfront, take a boat trip and get to see Dundee from a new perspective.

Families can enjoy a day out at the V&A taking in the many free exhibitions and stay for a spot of lunch or Afternoon Tea.

There’s never a dull moment in Dundee. It’s a friendly city with an array of dining and drinking options too, making it a delightful place to visit. Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, Dundee promises a memorable experience for all.

And if you are staying overnight, choose Hotel Indigo Dundee. It has a perfect blend of modern comfort and historical charm. Located in a beautifully restored 19th-century mill, the hotel features stylish rooms that reflect Dundee’s industrial heritage. With its convenient location near the city centre and waterfront, you can easily explore local attractions and enjoy Scottish cuisine at the hotel’s Daisy Tasker restaurant. Whether you’re here for the culture, the history, or the vibrant nightlife, Hotel Indigo Dundee provides a memorable and comfortable stay. Read my review HERE

Saltdog Marine Boats and Tours - Broughty Ferry Harbour

SaltDog Marine offers exhilarating Rib Boat Seafari trips on the Tay Estuary, providing a unique way to explore the stunning coastal scenery around Dundee. Their tours, which run from April to November, allow you to see sights like the V&A Museum, lighthouses, and local wildlife such as bottlenose dolphins and grey seals. The boats are modern, safe, and comfortable, and the knowledgeable guides ensure an informative and enjoyable experience.

We boarded a sleek, powerful RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) on a bright, sunny day in Broughty Ferry. Due to the weather, it was extremely windy; we couldn’t partake in the full boat tour but Ian took us out on the water for a short tour. As the boat pulled away from the dock, the engine roared to life, and we all couldn’t help but feel a rush of excitement. The wind whipped through our hair as the boat accelerated, skimming across the water at high speed. The sea spray cooled our faces, adding to the thrill of the ride.

Ian expertly navigated through the waves, bouncing and gliding effortlessly. The Dundee city coastline unfolded before us, revealing the V&A and the sprawling sights of Dundee. Ian, brought the boat to a stand still hoping we’d spot dolphins playing in the water nearby, but they weren’t coming into the bay today. Ian is a superb guide making the experience both educational and exhilarating.

They have various tours available starting from £30 per person (adults) and £16 per person (children 7-17yo)

Visit their website for more information and to book www.saltdogmarine.com

Broughty Castle Museum - Broughty Ferry Harbour

Pre or post your boat trip, definitely spend some time in this gorgeous castle museum on the opposite side of the dock to the Saltdog Marine Boats.

Broughty Castle Museum, located in a 15th-century coastal fort at the mouth of the River Tay, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and wildlife of Broughty Ferry. As you explore the museum, you’ll find captivating displays on the local environment, the people of Broughty Ferry, and the castle’s own storied past, including its role in various battles and sieges. The observation deck provides stunning views over the river and nearby beach, and you might even spot dolphins frolicking in the water. The museum is free to enter and features a small gift shop and seasonal events, making it a delightful and educational outing for visitors of all ages.

Visiting this castle museum is like stepping back in time. As you walk over the wooden draw bridge which once would have been over a moat, and through the grand stone entrance, you’re greeted by centuries-old architecture and the faint echo of past inhabitants. Climbing winding staircases, up to battlements and look out points, you’ll find breathtaking views of the surrounding sea and landscapes. The museum is filled with stories and whether you’re a history buff or just curious, this castle museum offers a fascinating journey through time and some fabulous spots for selfies!

For more information visit the Facebook page www.facebook.com/BroughtyCastle

V&A for the incredible Kimono exhibition

You can’t come to Dundee and not visit the V&A! You can’t miss it! Located on the city’s waterfront, the obscure shaped building is Scotland’s first design museum and the only Victoria and Albert Museum outside of London. Opened in September 2018, this architectural marvel was designed by the renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, inspired by the cliffs of Scotland. The museum showcases a rich collection of design heritage, celebrating both historical and contemporary Scottish creativity. It serves as a cultural hub, offering a variety of exhibitions, events, and educational programs that inspire and engage visitors from around the world.

The current exhibition is “Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk,” which opened on May 4, 2024, and runs until January 5, 2025. This exhibition is Europe’s first major showcase dedicated to the kimono, tracing its evolution from 17th-century Japan to its influence on contemporary global fashion. Featuring over 300 items, the exhibition includes rare historical kimonos, modern pieces by designers like Issey Miyake and Alexander McQueen, and even costumes from popular culture, such as those seen in Star Wars. The exhibition is divided into three thematic sections: Kimono in Japan, Kimono in the World, and Kimono Transformed, each exploring different aspects of the garment’s cultural and fashion significance. It’s beautifully curated and one not to be missed!

Tickets to see the Kimono exhibition are £11.82 for adults but have various pricing if you are a student, disabled person, etc.

Entrance to the V&A is free and there is plenty to see and do including an exhibition Creature Collective by Donna Wilson.

For more information and to book tickets visit www.vam.ac.uk/dundee

Enjoy Japanese inspired Afternoon Tea at the V&A

The V&A Dundee offers a delightful Japanese-inspired afternoon tea at the Tatha Bar & Kitchen, perfectly complementing the “Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk” exhibition. This unique culinary experience features a fusion of Japanese and Scottish flavours, with treats like miso caramel and white chocolate tart, matcha and vanilla cake, and savoury delights such as miso soup and crispy fried kataifi prawns with zingy wasabi mayonnaise. You can enjoy these delicacies while taking in the stunning views of the River Tay, making it a truly memorable experience.

The afternoon tea is priced at £30 per person and must be booked at least 24 hours in advance as Tatha operates a scratch kitchen where everything is prepared fresh, daily.

To book Afternoon Tea visit the website - www.vam.ac.uk/dundee/whatson/events/afternoon-tea

Eden Mill Gin and Whisky Distillery

Eden Mill is the local gin and soon to be whisky in the area. Why not enjoy a few G&T’s in Bar Eighteen22 at the Hotel Indigo and/ or take a 16 minute drive to their Bothy at Guardbridge to check out their new distillery that will open in 2025. Their gin collection, including the popular Golf Gin and Love Gin, showcases unique botanicals inspired by the local landscape. Golf Gin, for instance, features lavender, heather, and seaweed, reflecting the coastal golf courses of Scotland. Love Gin, with its pale pink hue, combines raspberries, goji berries, rose, and angelica for a light, sweet flavour.

For more information visit their website - www.edenmill.com

Take a Walking Tour of Dundee.

Walking tours in Dundee offer a unique way to explore the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. From the fascinating edgy street art filled with pops of colour thanks to Open Close Dundee and their amazing street art trails, to the engaging DD Tours that delve into both the celebrated and notorious aspects of Dundee’s past, there’s something for everyone. These tours often highlight key historical sites, and whether you’re interested in the city’s maritime heritage, its industrial past, its art or simply want to enjoy a leisurely stroll through its scenic streets, Dundee’s walking tours provide an informative and enjoyable experience for all ages.

To check out walking tours visit DD Tours website - www.ddtours.co.uk- and Open Close Dundee website - www.openclosedundee.co.uk for more details and booking.

An added extra - Fisher and Donaldson Bakery for the famous Fudge Doughnut. They have two stores in Dundee - Whitehall Street and Perth Road.

Whatever you do, don’t skip this!

TartanSpoon is an Award-winning blog that brings you reviews and recommendations on the very best places to eat, drink and stay in Edinburgh, Scotland and beyond.

Adele is a writer, reviewer, judge and panelist living in Edinburgh. She sits on the Committee for the Guild of Food Writers (Scottish Events),  is a Great Taste Judge for the Guild of Fine Food, Scottish Bakers, Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards and a Judge for the Gin Co-operative awards.

Should you wish to work with, invite or collaborate with TartanSpoon, please email tartanspoon@yahoo.co.uk