Art & Culture

The best way to really get to know a city is to live it like a local. Our insider’s guide takes you off the beaten track and into the best hidden spots to Discover Dundee. One of the great things about Dundee is that it’s a really compact city. You don’t have to wander far from the centre to discover hidden gems well worth whiling away a few hours in. The Museum of Transport is one of them. Less than a mile from the city centre at Market Mews, its unassuming façade hides a fantastic attraction telling the stories of local transport pioneers and innovators as well as displaying vehicles from local and national collections. It’s a great day out for little and big ones alike.

 

 

 

 

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Continuing east, a walking and cycle path leads to picturesque Broughty Ferry. A former fishing village, it retains an easygoing appeal just a few miles from the busy heart of the city. The large beach facing out into the Tay estuary is stunning and is dominated by Broughty Castle, an old fort that functions as a museum and viewpoint. While there, ideally enjoying the weather which makes Dundee Scotland’s sunniest city, an ice cream at Visocchi’s is a must. You can’t miss it – on summer days there will be locals and visitors queued down the street.

 

 

 

 

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Heading the short distance back into town, it’s easy to miss the charming waterfront area at City Quay. What was once a working dock area has been beautifully converted into a parade of shops, eateries and business premises. Don’t miss a wander down beautiful Chandlers Lane to the water – very Instagrammable! Nearby is the Frigate Unicorn. At nearly 200 years old, HMS Unicorn is one of the world’s most remarkable historic ships and preserved as a museum and visitor attraction in Dundee with four atmospheric decks for visitors to explore. This reminder of the golden age of sail now shares the water with energetic wakeboarders – try it out for yourself at Foxlake if you’re feeling energetic.

 

 

 

 

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Having worked up a hunger – and a thirst – it’s the West End you want to be heading for. While there are great bars and restaurants all over Dundee, some of the best hidden gems live on the lively stretch west from the cultural quarter at DCA. With its hard-to-spot entrance, visitors could be forgiven for walking right by Taypark House. A former baronial mansion house, with impeccable landscaped grounds, it now offers a delicious menu and has a cosy gin lounge, where tasting days are often hosted.

 

 

 

 

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If beer’s more your thing, you don’t want to miss 71 Brewing. Reviving the historic Dundee brewing trade, it produces traditional IPAs and Pilsners as well as more experimental beers finished with extracts from apricot and blueberry to coffee. Tours of the brewery are offered and include a chance to taste its products.

 

 

 

 

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Of course, a good drink deserves good company. And there’s always plenty of that in the West End institutions that is the Speedwell Bar. Known confusingly to locals as Mennie’s (after a long-gone landlady), this old-style pub is full of Edwardian wooden fixtures and fittings, split up into cosy nooks with open fires. With a bit of luck some talented local fiddlers will launch into an impromptu gig while you’re in. To end the night, there’s only one place to go. Not far from Mennie’s is Clark’s Bakery, which is open 24-hours and one of the best places in the city to enjoy to famous Dundee ‘peh.’ Dundonians love a peh, or pie, and will put anything in them, from the staple steak and gravy to curry and even Bolognese. Why not try out a bit of Dundee dialect while you’re ordering too – “eh’ll heh a peh!”

 

 

 

 

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V&A Dundee has welcomed its 1 millionth visitor today (Tuesday 4 February), just over 500 days after it first opened.

Seven-year-old Nalani Becker from Berlin arrived at the museum at 11.04am with her father Jan, while her mother was working at the University of Dundee. 

The family are visiting friends in Dundee and technology enthusiast Nalani was excited to see the latest exhibition Hello, Robot. Design Between Human and Machine which closes this Sunday and will not be shown anywhere else in the UK.

Nalani and Jan were surprised with a gift bag including Hello, Robot exhibition tickets, afternoon tea in Tatha Bar and Kitchen, and a voucher for £100 to spend in the museum shop.

The museum opened in September 2018 and welcomed over 830,000 visitors in its first year, far exceeding the estimate of 500,000.

V&A Dundee also had a £75 million economic impact across Scotland in its first year after opening, according to recent independent research conducted by Ekosgen and Reference Economic Consultants.

Philip Long, Director of V&A Dundee, said: “I am thrilled that today we have welcomed our 1 millionth visitor, just over 500 days after opening the doors of Scotland’s first design museum.

“We have a hugely exciting year ahead, with the last chance to see our UK-exclusive exhibition Hello, Robot this weekend and our first major fashion exhibition Mary Quant opening in April. I would like to thank everyone who has helped to create V&A Dundee, and who continues to support its incredible success.”

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said: “I’d like to congratulate V&A Dundee for welcoming its 1 millionth visitor, an impressive achievement and a sign of the museum’s strong appeal to visitors from around the world.

“The museum, built with the help of £38 million in Scottish Government funding, has already more than proved its cultural value, far exceeding expectations for visitor numbers and improving Scotland’s status as a prime destination for world-class cultural experiences.”

UK Arts Minister Helen Whately said: "In a short space of time V&A Dundee has had a huge impact: bringing millions to the Scottish economy, championing Scottish design and now celebrating its millionth visitor.

"The museum has become a tourist magnet, delivering huge benefits to Dundee and the surrounding area, and the UK Government is very proud to be one of its early backers."

Dundee City Council leader John Alexander said: "This is another tremendous achievement for V&A Dundee and the city.

“Our stunning museum is now very firmly part of the cultural fabric of Dundee, with its design galleries and exhibition programme attracting locals and visitors alike.

“It has raised Dundee’s international profile and played a key part in securing record-breaking tourism figures. V&A Dundee is helping to create jobs and new economic opportunities for the city.”

Caroline Clark, Director Scotland of The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “When we took the decision to support V&A Dundee, we recognised the need for a world-class destination in Scotland to showcase the creativity, innovations and inventions that, over time, have changed lives across the world.

“We are delighted that it has reached this incredible milestone so soon. It is a real testimony to the thirst people have for exploring and celebrating their design heritage and a fitting reward for all who have contributed to the project’s success.”

V&A Dundee is currently showing Hello, Robot. Design Between Human and Machine until 9 February 2020, which challenges our assumptions about robots and investigates how they are shaping the world we live in. The exhibition has never been shown in the UK before.

Hello, Robot has been reviewed as a “groundbreaking exhibition” by The Guardian and “an unprecedented exploration” by The Daily Telegraph, and been included as a critic’s choice by The Herald and The Times.

This will be followed by V&A Dundee’s first major fashion exhibition, Mary Quant, from 4 April 2020 and Night Fever: Designing Club Culture from 31 October 2020, another UK-first exhibition.

V&A Dundee was developed with support from the Scottish Government, The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Dundee City Council, the UK Government, Creative Scotland, Scottish Enterprise, University of Dundee, Abertay University and many trusts, companies and private donors.

The museum was officially opened by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in January 2019.

The “coolest little city,” the UNESCO City of Design and the home of jute production. We have design and fashion running through the veins of Dundee. With such a rich textile history, the city was already set to be a fashion centre in Scotland. Now, design institutes and successful contemporary fashion designers born and or based in the city, have continued the momentum that started over a century ago.

Jute may have been the beginning of the fashion journey in the city, even earning Dundee the name ‘Juteopolis’ in the 1900s. It started at the beginning of the industrial revolution. The burgeoning British Empire brought the trade of flax, which began the development of jute. It was a coarse material to begin with, only used for packaging and burlap sacks. Many years of refining the process in the mills of the city however, transformed the material into something coveted in couture brands the world over. Major fashion houses such as Balmain and Donna Karen have been known to use the ‘golden fibre’ on the catwalk. After cotton, it’s the cheapest fibre to use but more importantly is sustainable and eco-friendly, which is why you might find it cropping back up in a modern world, centred on environmentalism.

Not only is the production of fabric an accolade the city can be proud of, UNESCO recognised the city’s design expertise in 2014. It was recognised then, and still is today that Dundee has a contemporary creative scene with an expertise in fashion. The 2012 winner of 'Scottish Young Designer of the Year’ Hayley Scanlan was born in the city and has dressed pop culture queens such as Little Mix, Pixie Lott, Jessie J and more. She went on to win the award once again in 2014, making her the only designer to win the title twice.  

Many other designers have emerged on catwalks from Dundee including Dreamland clothing whose line was requested exclusively by online fashion giants ASOS and Forever 21. Wilde Mode is a brand specialising in underwear for comfort that promotes body positivity and confidence. These amongst many others contribute to the flourishing fashion culture alive and thriving here. 

In 2018, Dundee hosted its own fashion week, celebrating up-and-coming designers. It championed the city’s artists, fashion designers, bloggers and jewellery designers. The V&A also honours the cities fashion heritage by hosting workshops and exhibitions. Last year the work of designer Nicholas Daley was exhibited in the museum, showing his creative workspace and how his Scottish-Jamaican heritage influenced his work. As of April this year, Mary Quant, whose iconic, sixties Mod style contributed to changing the face of fashion worldwide, will be exhibited.

Dundee has always and will continue to be the coolest little city, most likely because of its long standing connection with fashion. The future looks bright for the already successful designers affiliated with the city.

The food and drink scene in Dundee has an eclectic vibe, with many choices to dine out any day or night of the week. Between cultural and quirky cafes, wholefood shops and exquisite restaurants of varying themes and cuisines, there is an abundance of choice for all.

This list of the top ten restaurants, chosen by customers, is dominated by independent outlets, which shows the local affinity for food and service. Heart, soul, quality and imagination are poured into the food served here every day.

 1. Gidi Grill

The food and atmosphere here is Caribbean, African, Barbecue, and Jamaican.

Tripadvisor describes it as “a grill restaurant fusing the most delicious sauces from all over the world cooked over a Josper charcoal grill with a great selection of sides in a warm and beautiful setting.” A recent review states that it is “a great fusion of West African and Caribbean food in the heart of Dundee Quay.” The City Quay area is a picturesque waterscape, home to great restaurants and other businesses - well worth a walk to take in the sights!

 2. Sol y Sombra

It may not be situated in the Costa del Sol but this little taste of Spain is located just yards from the shore in Broughty Ferry. Its food and atmosphere are described as Mediterranean, European and Spanish.

One reviewer calls this place the “best restaurant in Scotland” and another describes an “amazing dinner” and “such a great experience.” With these reviews it sounds like reservations should be made rápido!

Broughty Ferry is just a few miles from the city centre and has many quaint and charming cafes and restaurants. Many like to take a bike down the scenic cycle path that runs the whole way along the waterfront. 

 3. Collinson’s Restaurant

Another Broughty Ferry favourite, Collinson's offers European, British, Scottish and contemporary cuisines. 

The photos of the food are works of art, with a distinct feel of fine dining. Their reviewers like that it’s family friendly and were unsurprised at how busy it was as they “had great food and excellent service.” Another was bowled over by the “excellent service coupled with outstanding food” and continue to say it’s “a must visit for any foodies.”

The food scene is ever-changing in and around the city. Now more than ever local produce is at the heart of menus, showcasing wonderful delicacies we have right on our doorstep.

 . Tahini

This lovely tapas restaurant is right in the heart of Dundee and its menu features Lebanese, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern Cuisine. 

The reviews of very recent visits brim with love for the place. ‘Fantastic Food” says one, which goes on to say the food “left you full.” Nothing better than good food and abundance of it! Another review says that it’s “easy to find and that everything was also “totally yummy.”

Off one of the main pedestrian area in the city, Tahini is a fine example of some of the exciting eateries you can find around town. 

 5 The Palais Tea Room

 The first of three cafes to make Dundee’s top ten, the Palais Tea Room serves Scottish cuisine.

Reviewers loved the Afternoon Tea and “had a lovely time” there. Many speak of the “friendly staff” which is perfect for when you need a happy face to brighten your day on a visit to a new city

The street The Palais Tea Room is on showcases a gorgeous view of the V&A, RRS Discovery and the river Tay.

6. Piccolo

Italian, Mediterranean and local cuisine make Perth Road’s Piccolo a must visit, just minutes from the very centre of town. This little place also offers “after-hours” perfect for night owls. 

Described as ”a fantastic little gem” and "consistently good” by one diner and a “small friendly establishment with great customer service and great food” by another, Piccolo is a favourite for everyone it seems.

The Perth Road is a foodie route of delight. Many independent, quirky cafes, restaurants and bakeries can be found there, as well as organic greengrocers.

 7. The Flame Tree Café

This little Australian café also offers British and Scottish food. The pictures alone are like the country itself; vibrant, enticing and colourful. (There is a rainbow bagel so Instagram-worthy it should be ordered on every visit.)

People rave about these bagels throughout the reviews - “fantastic coffee and rainbow bagels” - and that they “look fantastic and taste better.” One reviewer also stated that “my boyfriend said it’s the best bacon roll he’s ever had (and he has a lot of them).” Who better to take advice from than a bacon roll connoisseur?

The Flame Tree is just one example of the multi-cultural cuisine scene the city has. 

 8. Rancho Pancho

Their cuisine simply says “Mexican,” - no messing there. From the reviews and photos, it looks like they’re getting that right too!

The reviews gush with adoration for this small Mexican restaurant: “extremely happy with the food, service and ambience” said one, “favourite restaurant to visit” said another, while someone else mentions their “amazing cocktails.” It seems Dundee has its own piece of Mexico just a few minutes walk from the train station and waterfront!

The waterfront also provides a perfect stroll for after dinner bloating!

 9. Brasserie Ecosse

It’s veggie, vegan and gluten-free friendly. Judging by the reviewers' pictures though, they are doing every cuisine right.

Visitors love their brunch, saying it’s a “great price for what you get.” Another review said that it is “5-star service” and they “can’t wait to return to Dundee and try them for dinner!” It is described as a “Dundee delight.”

Did you know Dundee has a thriving brunch scene? Sundays are particularly busy with brunchers munching all over the city, from the Westport to The Cowgate. 

 10. Simpsons

Simpsons is a Scottish, British and international café. 

The reviews comment on its “nice vibe” and "cosiness." Someone even called it the “best place ever.” Just minutes from the waterfront and V&A as well as the city centre, this small café has good reason to make the top ten eateries in Dundee.

 For more information and reviews on Dundee’s food, visit https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurants-g186518-Dundee_Scotland.html

Huge congratulations as Golden Globes were awarded to the media dynasty drama, ‘Succession’ and lead actor Brian Cox, who hails from Dundee. The series filmed at the iconic V&A Dundee for Season 2 with Scotland-based episodes first appearing on screen in September 2019 on HBO, Sky Atlantic and Now TV.

The 77th Golden Globes took place on Sunday, 5th January 2020.

Emmy Award-Winning Scottish actor Brian Cox (Medici, War & Peace, Churchill) returned to his roots, like his character Logan Roy. 

Created by Academy Award nominee Jesse Armstong (Fresh Meat, In The Loop, Peep Show), Succession tracks the lives of the Roy family as they contemplate their future once their aging father (Brian Cox) begins to step back from the media and entertainment conglomerate they control. Beginning where season one dramatically left off, season two follows the Roy family as they struggle to retain control of their empire, and while the future looks increasingly uncertain, it is the past that threatens to ultimately destroy them.

The series also stars Matthew MacFadyen (Ripper Street, Howard's End, Pride & Prejudice) and Sarah Snook (The Glass Castle, Winchester, Black Mirror).

The production was supported by Screen Scotland’s Production Growth Fund and was also a brilliant opportunity for work experience for students of Screen Academy Scotland’s Screen NETs Programme.

Succession brought Production Manager, Donald MacKinnon and Location Manager, Martin Henderson to the region. TayScreen, the screen office for the Councils of Dundee City and Perth & Kinross Council were delighted to welcome the team and provide support.

V&A Dundee is an iconic new museum of design on the city’s Tay River Waterfront. It’s the first V&A outside London and its unique ship-shaped architecture reflects the city’s links with sea. It’s right next to the Polar exploration sailing ship of Captain Scott, Discovery.

Subscribers can watch Succession on HBO or Sky Atlantic.

Fife Tay based photographer Moira Lavigillante caught a few impressions of production behind the scenes at V&A Dundee.

Dundee’s status as one of Scotland’s most exciting foodie destinations has been confirmed with the launch of Dundee Eats – a beautifully illustrated, fold-out guide celebrating the city’s delicacies, food districts, favourite tipples and even its eating habits!

The guide was produced in conjunction with a group of food and drink experts from the city’s thriving independent food and drink sector and is packed full of locals’ tips and advice about what to try and where to go, along with an insider’s guide to three of Dundee’s best-loved food districts.

 “Our city has a fabulous reputation for its food and drink and we hope Dundee Eats encourages visitors and locals alike to experience the food and drink scene we have here to the full.” said Cllr Alan Ross of Dundee One City, Many Discoveries, the campaign who developed the guide.

As well as showcasing the excellence of Dundee’s food and drink, Dundee Eats shines a spotlight on the gastronomic delights to be found throughout Tay Country, the stretch of coast and countryside radiating out from the centre of Dundee.

“Dundee’s a great place to eat and drink because of our proximity to field, farm and coastline, so we’ve included a map of the wider area showing how close Dundee is to these world-class food producing areas” said Chef Rory Lovie of Bridgeview Station restaurant.

“We’ve also included a Food Bucket List,” added Rory Lovie. “These are ten food experiences unique to Dundee which everyone should taste at least once. We’re hoping people will tell share their own suggestions too, using the hashtag #DundeeEats!” 

In addition, Dundee Eats shines a light on the city’s Good Food Heroes – people who are really making a difference to how Dundonians eat, drink and cook, including a pioneering café owner, multi award-winning chefs, a café owner who uses vegetables grown in her grandad’s allotment and Dundee’s Godfather of Pizzas, Luigi Esposito.

“Scotland’s food and drink has changed beyond all recognition in the last 30 years to become one of the country’s most successful sectors. This corner of Scotland is a prime example of how to make the most of Scotland’s top quality, locally-produced vegetables, fruit, meat, game, fish, seafood and more” said Fiona Richmond, Head of Regional Food, Food & Drink Scotland. “Dundee is fast becoming one of the top places to eat in the UK, and Dundee Eats will help spread the word further about the fabulous food and drink on offer in Dundee and across Tay Country, contributing to the national food tourism ambition at the same time”

Dundee Eats is beautifully illustrated by local artist Laura Darling, whose eye-catching maps and illustrations bring Dundee’s unique food story to life.

“My illustrations were inspired by the playfulness of Dundee's food and drink scene - people are doing delightfully innovative and creative things yet at the same time not taking themselves too seriously.

“The guide is packed with fascinating facts and I loved working on it, although I did get very hungry drawing fish suppers and fudge doughnuts.” said Laura Darling.

Printed versions of Dundee Eats are now available to pick up from many independent food shops, eating places and bars throughout the city.

To download Dundee Eats, visit  https://www.dundee.com/DundeeEats

Special thanks to all who contributed their thoughts and suggestions particularly those representing Dundee’s indy food and drink sector, Mhairi Wild, Tayble; Danny Cullen, Law Brewery; Claire Simpson, Simpsons; Rory Lovie, Bridgeview Station; Ian Alexander, Birchwood Emporium.

Ends

Media enquiries please contact Dundee One City, Many Discoveries Jennie Patterson jennie@patterpr.com Tel: 07773 849586

Dundee has a wealth of vibrant and interesting historical landmarks and locations for history fans to visit, ranging from our massive involvement in the jute industry, shipbuilding industry, journalism and our history of pioneering and exploration.

Dundee is home to one of the world’s oldest surviving ships, the sixth oldest in fact, HMS Unicorn, which was a Royal Navy frigate built and launched in 1824. In 1873 she was moved to Dundee, remaining a training vessel for the navy and also serving as a command/ headquarters vessel for senior Royal Navy officers during both the first and second world wars.

Visitors can explore the 46 cannon gun deck, the crew’s sleeping quarters, the grand and plush officer’s mess at the stern of the ship as well as the gallery and gift shop on the vessel's upper decks.

Following the nautical theme, Dundee is also home to RRS Discovery, an Antarctic exploration vessel built and launched in the city in 1901. The Discovery is the last traditional wooden, three mast vessel to be constructed by the UK and following a successful expedition to the Antarctic, the Discovery was put into service as a merchant ship, before becoming the first Royal Research Ship put into service by the United Kingdom. Discovery is one of two surviving Antarctic exploration ships, the other being the Norwegian ship, “Fram”.

Upon boarding the ship, guests have the opportunity to see how Captain Scott and his crew lived, how they survived and what the hardships and the triumphs of their voyage were. There is a café and gift shop at Discovery Point, onshore, for visitors to enjoy.

For many years, Dundee was the world hub for jute, a cheap yet tough material ideal for packing produce, such as sugar, wool, coffee and other imported goods. This material had a worldwide reach, being necessary for trade, for the production of sandbags and other military requirements as well as protective coverings for lorries etc.

Verdant Works is a surviving jute mill which now serves as a museum. Visitors can explore what a mill was like in the late 19th and early 20th Century, and see the way in which almost half Dundee’s population lived and worked. Many of the workers were female, which was unusual for the time. The unemployed men who stayed at home gained the name “kettle bilers” (kettle boilers).

Broughty Castle and its grounds date back to the 15th Century, and was a fortified location during the War of the Rough Wooing, following the 1547 battle if Pinkie in which it saw military action. The castle has seen many battles and sieges and was rebuilt and used as a defensive positon as late as the 19th century.

Today, Broughty Castle museum houses displays on the life of Broughty Ferry and its citizens, the wildlife, nature and environment of Broughty Ferry and the surrounding area and the Orchar Gallery, which hosts a number of paintings and other art pieces. There is also a gift shop to browse and refreshments to enjoy.

Claypotts Castle was the fortified residence of the Strachan family, between the years of 1569 and 1588. The castle has been very well maintained, and is one of the few Scottish castles to be in no state of degradation at all. The castle grounds are free to explore all year round, however, access to the castle’s interior has to be pre-arranged.

For an overall view of Dundee’s history, The McManus is Dundee’s Art Gallery and Museum, and is home to eight galleries, which hold a diverse selection of exhibits and artefacts, ranging from objects from the time of early man in the area, to objects from industries past and present.

The McManus offers visitors a comprehensive and fascinating journey through 400 million years of Dundee’s history, transforming from a tiny settlement to the heavily industrialised world capital of jute and now the trailblazing, innovative city it is today.

Like Dundee, its surrounding area is rich with history, both ancient and recent. The fascinating ruins of a fortified ditch and towers at Gask Ridge, Killiecrankie predates the iconic Hadrian and Antonine Walls which were constructed by the mighty Roman Empire.

Visitors to Montrose can visit the Air Station which is the first military air station to be established within the United Kingdom, being home to the Royal Flying Corps in 1913. The Air Station has an assortment of artefacts and photographs which help tell the story of the RCF and RAF and the servicemen and women who served at the station during both WW1 and WW2.

In Crail you can visit Scotland’s (not so) Secret Bunker, which was built during the crisis and paranoia of the Cold War to protect Scotland’s leaders and continue their governance in the event of a nuclear attack by the Soviet Union, which provides a grim, yet intriguing insight into nuclear war, but also how close to home this threat was and how “imminent” it was perceived to be during the four-decade long conflict.

V&A Dundee welcomed over 830,000 visitors in its first year, 330,000 more than the pre-opening estimate of 500,000 visitors.

In the last 12 months the museum was visited by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge for its official opening, made the front cover of TIME Magazine as one of the world’s Greatest Places of 2019, won numerous awards, hosted filming of BBC Antiques Roadshow and even featured in an IRN-BRU Snowman advert.

V&A Dundee’s opening last year marked over ten years of planning and preparation, including the design of Kengo Kuma’s remarkable new building, major conservation projects including Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Oak Room, and a wide range of new commissions and learning projects.

The museum is estimated to have an economic impact of £23 million across Scotland in its first year, supporting 604 full-time equivalent jobs. V&A Dundee’s creation also allows design exhibitions to be shown in Scotland on a scale never seen before, as its exhibition galleries are the nation’s largest.

Scotland’s first design museum sits at the centre of the Dundee waterfront, an ambitious 30-year, £1 billion regeneration project which began in 2001.

Key achievements in the first year include:

• 833,015 visitors during normal opening hours
• 33,839 people attending evening events, in addition to the day visitors
• 27,000 people taking part in events and previews to mark the museum’s opening, including the public 3D Festival
• Over 26,000 people taking part in learning events, talks and workshops
• Over 8,000 memberships sold, giving over 20,000 people free access to major exhibitions and other benefits
• Over 4,000 school pupils visiting the museum, supported by a free travel programme
• Contributed to a £16 million boost in the value of Dundee tourism in 2018, which at £187 million already exceeds the city’s target for 2020
• The first ever book published on the history of Scottish design
• Two major exhibitions, and four exhibitions in our Michelin Design Gallery showcasing new Scottish design creativity

Philip Long, Director of V&A Dundee, said: “The last 12 months have been remarkable and I can hardly believe all that’s been achieved in that time. As well as welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors and putting on world-class exhibitions championing Scottish and international design, the museum has really become part of the city, and for that I’d like to thank everyone for their support.

“We’re very proud of the contribution we have already made to Dundee and Scotland, and the opportunities we are generating for our nation’s creative talent, such as our current exhibition of work by the brilliant young fashion designer Nicholas Daley. We look forward to welcoming many more visitors to our upcoming major exhibitions Hello, Robot and Mary Quant.”

Independent research commissioned by V&A Dundee estimated the museum’s economic impact in the first year would be £10.3 million in Dundee and £23 million across the whole of Scotland. This was expected to support 178 full-time equivalent jobs in Dundee and 604 across Scotland.

The research, conducted by Ekosgen and Reference Economics, was based on 500,000 visitors in the first year. Work is underway to calculate the actual economic impact, which is now expected to exceed the initial estimates.

Tim Allan, Chair of the Board of V&A Dundee, said: “V&A Dundee has already proven itself to be a major new international attraction, bringing tourists from around the world to Dundee to spend time and money, supporting local businesses. In turn, this is already encouraging new investment and job creation.

“The 30-year waterfront vision outlined in 2001 is clearly ahead of target and I look forward to seeing many more companies investing in Dundee in the next decade.”

Visitors to V&A Dundee are coming from all over the world, including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore and the United States.

The museum has welcomed 36% of its visitors from Dundee and Tayside, 41% from the rest of Scotland, 14% from the rest of the UK and 9% from the rest of the world, according to the most recent figures. For 41% of visitors V&A Dundee was the sole reason they were visiting the city.

Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs Fiona Hyslop said: “The opening of V&A Dundee on the city’s waterfront heralded an exciting new chapter for Dundee and the future of design and innovation across our nation. As Scotland’s first design museum, V&A Dundee celebrates this heritage and our achievements in innovation across the ages, promoting Scotland globally and attracting visitors and investment.

“I congratulate V&A Dundee on its incredible first year of success and I look forward to its future exhibitions and development.”

The research by Ekosgen and Reference Economics also found that the construction of V&A Dundee had an economic impact of £35.8 million in Dundee, generating total employment of 501 job years. Across Scotland those figures rise to an economic impact of £70.4 million and employment of 981 job years.

V&A Dundee has also this week published its Final Evaluation Report, a major 150-page document summarising the key achievements from the start of construction until six months after opening. This was produced as part of the funding agreement with the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Dundee City Council leader Councillor John Alexander said: “V&A Dundee has helped to boost the international profile of our city, encouraging people to visit this amazing new museum and our other well-established attractions.

“The city’s partners have a long-term vision to create local jobs and opportunities through investment in top-class facilities like V&A Dundee and the latest economic impact figures show this is already paying off, with record-breaking tourism numbers recorded in 2018.

“I am delighted to help our design museum celebrate its first birthday as we look toward to what can be achieved in the years to come.”

Deirdre Robertson, Chief Executive of Dundee Heritage Trust, said: “We have seen significant increases in visitors to Discovery Point since the opening of V&A Dundee last year. Not only paying visitors to the museum, but footfall across our restaurant and gift shop has been considerably higher.

“The approximate increase in paid visits over the period of September 2018 to August 2019 is 44%, and we can only thank our new neighbour, V&A Dundee, for their part in establishing Dundee as a must-visit tourist destination.”

Later this year V&A Dundee will open Hello, Robot. Design Between Human and Machine on 2 November, a ground-breaking exhibition challenging our assumptions about robots and investigating how they are shaping the world we live in. The exhibition has never been shown in the UK before.

This will be followed by Mary Quant from 4 April 2020 and Night Fever: Designing Club Culturefrom 31 October 2020, another UK-first exhibition.