Dundee is known for its creativity, having secured the title of the UK’s first UNESCO City of Design in 2014 – merge this with two leading universities and a great college, and the city is full to the brim with things to see and do. There’s a lot of character to our small city too, with regular festivals, events and Pecha Kucha Nights which spark creativity, tie this in with recently being named the cheapest city for students in Scotland by Royal Bank of Scotland, and you have the recipe for a brilliant student experience.
Whilst there are a number of great businesses and places in the city, it can be difficult for new students to know where to find bars, cafes, restaurants and cultural organisations. With the help of people who live here and love it, we have rounded up things to do and local businesses for our city’s latest residents to sink their teeth into.
Top picks for students to dive head first into Dundee life include; The Reading Rooms, an underground club renowned for its ability to cross musical genres; Dundee Contemporary Arts which boasts gallery space, a two-screen cinema, print studio, restaurant and bar; and Clark’s 24 Hour Bakery for a peh (that’s Dundonian for pie) or Helicopter if you’re feeling peckish after a night out.
Image: Justina Smile Photography
Darcy Tayler, Digital Producer at Creative Dundee stated: “We think Dundee is a great city for students to start their career journey. There are a number of brilliant independent pubs, cafes, restaurants and cultural organisations here too so you’ll never be bored!”
“The guide has been used by international visitors to the city, from as far away as Australia, and has encouraged visitors to browse independent businesses. As we had asked locals to get involved, everyone was recommending their own hidden gems in the city which means that 99 Things To See And Do in Dundee will be extremely beneficial for new students moving to Dundee, allowing them to explore their new city from an insider’s perspective.”
Other businesses listed in 99 Things To See And Do in Dundee include city favourites such as Groucho’s for rare and vintage vinyls, The Auld Tram for takeaway sandwiches, and The Art Bar – a West End institution across from the art school. The guide to Dundee also highlights annual festivals that happen in the city including festivals of design, indie gaming, food, literacy, and digital art.
Start exploring your new city by downloading 99 Things To See And Do in Dundee below by clicking here or by picking up a copy at one of our events including Make/Share, a monthly evening which provides a platform for people to share their events.
If you find the guide to be useful, please do share your experiences and any additional recommendations with the hashtag #DundeeGuide.
To keep up to date with creative news and events in the city, like us on Facebook, follow @Creative_Dundee on Twitter and sign up to our newsletter.
Featured image: Ed Broughton