Newport-on-Tay Waterfront
A vibrant waterfront blending modern design, maritime history, and stunning River Tay views with art, gardens, and family fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for outdoor activities
Newport-on-Tay Waterfront
Best Time
Perfect for outdoor activities
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant waterfront blending modern design, maritime history, and stunning River Tay views with art, gardens, and family fun.
"A beautiful, relaxing place for family and friends with dancing fountains and a beautiful view of the river."
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk or cycle the mile-long waterfront, enjoying the gardens and views .
⛲️ Fountain Fun
Kids love the dancing water fountains, especially with the lights at night .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Slessor Gardens
Dundee Waterfront
A vibrant urban beach with dancing fountains, sand play, and stunning river views.
V&A Dundee
Dundee Waterfront
An architectural marvel housing design exhibitions, a must-see for art and culture enthusiasts.
RRS Discovery
Dundee City Quay
Explore the historic polar exploration ship, a testament to Dundee's maritime heritage.
Shoreline Newport
Newport-on-Tay
Enjoy riverside dining with breathtaking views of the River Tay.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Waterfront Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk or cycle the mile-long waterfront, enjoying the gardens and views.
⛲️ Fountain Fun
Kids love the dancing water fountains, especially with the lights at night.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Check out new spots like Shoreline Newport for waterside meals.
🚢 Maritime History
Visit the RRS Discovery and Unicorn for a glimpse into Dundee's seafaring past.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Stroll the Waterfront
Walk or cycle the mile-long waterfront, enjoying the gardens and views.
⛲️ Fountain Fun
Kids love the dancing water fountains, especially with the lights at night.
🍽️ Riverside Dining
Check out new spots like Shoreline Newport for waterside meals.
🚢 Maritime History
Visit the RRS Discovery and Unicorn for a glimpse into Dundee's seafaring past.
🌳 Garden Escapes
Discover the unique garden niches and sand dune areas for a relaxing break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the waterfront's beautiful, relaxing atmosphere and stunning views of the River Tay. Highlights include the interactive fountains, sand playground for kids, and the architectural marvel of V&A Dundee. Some note that parts can feel a bit 'arty' or that certain areas, like City Quay, could benefit from more active businesses.
"Strange little place which comes up at you out of nowhere.
It has speakers in the metal part which blare a variety of ocean based sounds at you, from barge horns to whale sounds. The structures in that area are all metal which flowing which is meant to remind if the see (I think). There is also some screens with images from the past, all sea/harbour themed.
The little fountains are cool, the size of the spray varies in sequence and there are lights under them, which will be more prominent at night.
The garden part seems to be apeing a sand dune area.
Parts of it are arty and perhaps went above my head, but it's for sure a nice are to spend half an hour in."
Drew Young
"It is a beautiful, relaxing place for family and friends. Sand playground for kids, dancing water fountains with colourful lights, and sitting areas to watch the beautiful view of river Tay. Highly recommended to visit ❤️"
Parveen Banu
"First time visit here on a beautiful sunny day. Had a walk through Slessor Gardens . There is the V &A to visit. Enjoy a beer/coffee/ice cream/bagel from the food vendors. Visit the boat Discovery. Have a luvly walk by the Tay, see the Tay Whale also watch happy families with children enjoying the Urban Beach and water fountain area. Hire a bicycle if you fancy riding the cycle route. Toilets also there. Walk round to City Quay area. Visit the Unicorn boat. visit the inflatable area. Very impressed with the area. Worth a visit :)"
Anne Harvey-chisholm
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newport-on-Tay is easily accessible by car, with parking available near the waterfront. If coming from Stirling, it's about a 56-mile drive. Trains are also an option, taking around an hour and a half. The Dundee Waterfront is also easily reachable by public transport and is a short drive or ferry ride across the river.
Yes, Dundee Waterfront is well-served by public transport, including buses and trains. The V&A Dundee and RRS Discovery are within walking distance of the main transport hubs.
Absolutely! There are cycle routes along the waterfront, and bike hire is available for those who wish to explore further.
Walking is a great way to see the sights, but cycling is also a popular option. Consider a ferry trip for a different perspective of the River Tay.
Yes, there is parking available near the waterfront, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The waterfront area itself, including Slessor Gardens and the general promenade, is free to access. However, specific attractions like the V&A Dundee and RRS Discovery may have admission fees.
Slessor Gardens is generally open to the public throughout the day, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific event timings or temporary closures.
General admission to the V&A Dundee is free, though special exhibitions may require a ticket. It's recommended to check their official website for the latest information.
Admission fees apply for the RRS Discovery. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website for current ticket costs and booking information.
For popular attractions like the RRS Discovery or special exhibitions at the V&A, booking tickets in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy riverside dining at places like Shoreline Newport,
Key attractions include Slessor Gardens with its interactive fountains, the iconic V&A Dundee, and the historic RRS Discovery ship.
You can also explore the Unicorn boat and enjoy the urban beach area.
Yes, Slessor Gardens features a sand playground and dancing water fountains that children love. The RRS Discovery also offers engaging exhibits for younger visitors.
The waterfront, especially Slessor Gardens, is ideal for picnics with plenty of benches and open spaces. You can also grab food from vendors or nearby cafes.
The waterfront features various artistic elements, including metal structures designed to evoke the sea and interactive sound installations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Shoreline Newport offers waterside dining with great views.
Yes, you can find food vendors at Dundee Waterfront offering items like coffee, ice cream, and bagels. Some events may also feature a wider variety of food stalls.
City Quay has several restaurants and cafes, providing a good selection for lunch or dinner after visiting the RRS Discovery or Unicorn.
Definitely! Shoreline Newport is known for its drinks with a view,
Yes, food vendors and cafes offer casual dining options, perfect for a quick snack or a relaxed meal while enjoying the waterfront atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The V&A Dundee's unique architecture, the RRS Discovery, the illuminated fountains at Slessor Gardens at night, and the panoramic views across the River Tay are all fantastic photo opportunities.
The waterfront offers beautiful vistas, and sunsets over the River Tay can be spectacular, providing a golden glow over the water and cityscape.
The area is great for architectural photography (V&A), maritime photography (ships), landscape photography (river views), and street photography capturing people enjoying the space.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial purposes or if photographing specific exhibitions, it's advisable to check with the venue.
Golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) offer beautiful light. Evenings are magical with the illuminated fountains, and sunny days provide vibrant colors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the gardens or grabbing an ice cream from one of the vendors. The V&A Dundee, while a museum, often has family-friendly activities or exhibits that can be enjoyed by children. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to spend a full day exploring without feeling rushed.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
For affordable eats, look out for the food vendors offering snacks like bagels and ice cream,
couples
As the sun sets, the illuminated fountains at Slessor Gardens create a magical atmosphere, perfect for an evening walk. The blend of modern design, historical elements, and natural beauty makes it a versatile spot for couples looking for a charming and memorable experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Redevelopment of Dundee Waterfront
The transformation includes extensive public gardens, like Slessor Gardens, which feature interactive elements such as dancing fountains and play areas, making it a popular spot for families and locals alike.
Community involvement has been a key aspect of the waterfront's development. While some proposals, like a new stadium, have sparked debate regarding ecological impact,
Experiencing the River Tay Estuary
For those looking to engage more directly with the water, activities like kayaking are available, offering a unique perspective of the coastline and its wildlife.
Newport-on-Tay, in particular, capitalizes on its riverside location with establishments like Shoreline Newport, offering dining experiences where the view of the Tay is as much a draw as the food itself.
This focus on the estuary's beauty enhances the overall appeal of the region, making it a destination that truly embraces its coastal identity.Art and Culture at the Waterfront
Beyond the V&A, the waterfront area itself is dotted with artistic elements. The metal structures in the gardens are designed to evoke the sea, and the interactive sound installations add an engaging, sensory dimension to the visitor experience.
Live music events also frequently take place in areas like Slessor Gardens, with past performances by artists like Tom Jones and The Christians.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit