Club UK Issue 6 | October 2004
Scotland
The HIGH life
Scotland is famous for its dynamic cities, stunning countryside and thriving cultural scene. Justine Vaisutis provides a guide to one of the most vibrant regions in the UK
Dundee

On Scotland’s east coast, Dundee has one of the most scenic locations of any town or city in Scotland

Dundee is Scotland’s fourth largest city and was once a manufacturing metropolis. Traditional industry has been replaced by a rich cultural rejuvenation, and although Dundee is punctuated by towering walls of concrete, those who savour its attractions and delve beneath its surface will discover a city bubbling with charisma and an utterly convivial population.


Days out
In downtown Dundee, magnificent St Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral and the attractive city square mingle with contemporary retail outlets. Drawing the gaze of onlookers on the River Tay is the RRS Discovery. Built in Dundee in 1900, this splendid ship spent two harrowing winters in the Antarctic, captained by Robert Scott. Just four miles from Dundee, seaside villas and fishing cottages share the scenic seaside suburb of Broughty Ferry with cosmopolitan dining and shopping.


Eating out
Dundee’s West End teems with affordable eateries. During the summer, al fresco dining is popular when diners bask in the sun and feast on gourmet fare at cafes like Twin City Café. Seafood lovers get a tasty dose of fresh fish from the River Tay at excellent and inexpensive eateries like Deep Sea. For cultural infusions, devour authentic Italian gelato and pastas at restaurants like Visocchis, or dig into exquisite curries at colourful Jahangir.


Nights out
Accompanying the West End’s eateries is a lively collection of drinking holes, where Dundee’s reputation as the friendliest city in Scotland rings true. Popular pubs such as Drouthy Neebours and Nosey Parkers attract the students, while the Nether Inn keeps customers happy with cushy lounges. Style without the attitude can be found at waterfront bars like The Ship Inn, or you can catch a live gig at The Globe.


Cultural life
The city’s most arresting building is the gothic McManus Galleries, where Dundee’s museum and main art collection are housed. Dundee is also home to the award-winning Verdant Works, which details the city’s industrial roots. Modern culture bares its soul at Dundee Contemporary Arts,where cutting edge cinema, art and design are exhibited.
> The high life > Glasgow
> Dundee > Stirling

> 24 hours in Edinburgh

Web links
> Scotland’s National Tourism Board
www.visitscotland.com
> VisitBritain
www.visitbritain.com
> Highlands of Scotland Tourist Board
www.highlandfreedom.com
> The Tourist Board for Greater Glasgow and the Clyde Valley
www.seeglasgow.com
> The Official Angus and Dundee Tourist Board
www.angusanddundee.co.uk

All images courtesy of www.britainonview.com