What is Dundee Famous For? Scotland's City of Discovery
Dundee is a small coastal city that surprises people in the best ways. Whether it be a walk along the waterfront to spot architectural wonders and historic ships, or a day discovering some true creative hotspots, Dundee is famous for more than many expect.
Within a short walk, you feel history, design, and Scottish friendliness come alive. These qualities also shape student life in the city. Many residents mention how easy it is to settle into life here, and locals are always on hand to lend some advice if you’re lost.
Why is Dundee Called the City of Discovery?
Dundee is known as the ‘City of Discovery’ because of its long tradition of exploration, research, and innovation. The name also honours the RSS Discovery, the polar research ship that carried the legendary Captain Scott and Ernest Shackleton to Antarctica in 1901. The ship itself was built in Dundee, and you can climb aboard it at Discovery Point beside the waterfront.
In 2014, the name took on a new meaning when Dundee became the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design. This prize celebrated decades of work in medicine, video games, comics, architecture, and digital creativity. UNESCO highlighted Dundee’s contribution to the development of medical devices and prosthetics as key drivers in the decision to award this recognition.
The Three J’s: Jute, Jam, and Journalism
If you ask the locals what Dundee is famous for, you’ll hear the three J’s. Each one represents a pillar of Dundee’s industrial heritage.
Jute
Dundee was once the global centre of jute production. Mills across the city employed thousands of workers and supported local communities. Verdant Works, a restored jute mill, gives a detailed and honest look at this time. It’s complete with original machinery and personal accounts from mill workers.
Jam
Another thing Dundee is world-renowned for is its Marmalade. Dundee local Janet Keiller is often credited with creating the recipe, known for its thick-cut peel and distinctive flavour. In time, this family business grew into a major industry that cemented Keiller’s legacy.
Journalism
The final J refers to Dundee’s publishing industry. DC Thomson, based in the city, produced household icons such as The Beano and The Dandy. Many people in the UK (perhaps including your parents) grew up reading Dennis the Menace or Bananaman comics as children.
What Else is Dundee Famous For?
There’s even more that Dundee is known for! These are the things that’ll keep you busy as a student in the city.
The V & A Dundee
The Victoria and Albert Museum Dundee is the first design museum built outside of London by the company. Kengo Kuma created the now iconic building that depicts the Scottish cliffs and gives the Dundee waterfront a striking presence. Exhibitions cover fashion, furniture, digital design and Scottish innovation. Entry to the main galleries is free, which makes it a popular study break spot.
The Closest Football Stadia in Britain
Dundee is home to two top-flight football clubs, Dundee FC and Dundee United. The former play at Dens Park and the latter at Tannadice Park. The two stadiums are so close together that you can walk between them in around 2 minutes. This proximity also creates one of the most unique local derbies in Scottish football.
Gaming History
Dundee is often called the birthplace of the modern games industry in the UK. Grand Theft Auto began here in the 1990s when DMA Design were based in the city. Lemmings was created here, too. Abertay University later launched the world’s first degree in video gaming.
Views from the Law
At the heart of Dundee lies an extinct volcano known as The Law. A walk to the top takes you to a viewpoint over the Tay and the surrounding hills. It’s a great way to start your day, particularly if you catch the sunrise here.
How to Explore Dundee
Here’s a very simple plan to get you started if you’re new to the city:
- Walk the waterfront from the Tay Rail Bridge to the V & A.
- Visit Discovery Point and step aboard the RSS Discovery.
- Walk up The Law on a clear day for the best views of Dundee.
- Explore the McManus Art Gallery and Museum.
- Visit Verdant Works to experience the industrial side of the city.
- Attend a fixture at either Dundee FC or Dundee United.
- Try a café on Perth Road.
Student Insights: A Look into Dundee Life
Reddit reveals some great things about Dundee. Students often mention how simple it is to get around because most regular travel routes sit along Perth Road, Nethergate, and the city centre. This makes commuting from your accommodation to campus a breeze. The smaller size of the city makes it cosier and less hectic than Glasgow or Edinburgh.
Another frequent takeaway is how well the city supports independent study. Students point to the quiet upper floors of the Tower Building library and the long path along Riverside Drive for clearing their heads after heavy coursework. Cafés near Magdalen Green also come up often for group work because they are sociable but not chaotic.
Why Dundee Stands Out
Dundee seamlessly blends industry, design and community. It’s a city where you can explore a polar research boat and enjoy world-class marmalade at the same time. The city is compact, welcoming and built around creativity.
Discover Dundee for Yourself
Now you’ve learned about Dundee’s character and heritage, it’s time to discover it for yourself. Whether you’re planning on moving here for university or are passing by for the day, explore our dedicated city page to further immerse yourself in the story of Dundee.