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Discovery Point & RRS Discovery Dundee

4.7
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

Step aboard Captain Scott's RRS Discovery ship and explore Dundee's maritime past at Discovery Point museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
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Diving Discovery...a real 5 stars diving center

Discovery Point & RRS Discovery Dundee

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step aboard Captain Scott's RRS Discovery ship and explore Dundee's maritime past at Discovery Point museum.

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A captivating dive into Dundee's maritime heritage, offering education and adventure for all ages."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a pass for Discovery Point & Verdant Works for great value and a deeper dive into Dundee's history.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be exploring the ship's decks and museum; wear comfy shoes for lots of walking.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

RRS Discovery Ship

RRS Discovery Ship

Discovery Point

Step aboard Captain Scott's legendary Antarctic expedition ship. Explore decks, galley, and crew quarters.

Discovery Point Museum

Discovery Point Museum

Discovery Point

Immersive exhibits detailing the ship's history, polar exploration, and Dundee's maritime heritage.

Discovery Dome

Discovery Dome

Discovery Point

Experience a 360-degree view of Dundee and art installations like Luke Jerram's Gaia globe.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Peak Times

While some visitors get in free, booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for families or during school holidays, to secure your spot and avoid potential queues. Consider a combined ticket with Verdant Works for a fuller Dundee heritage experience. Reddit

Allow Ample Time for Exploration

Don't rush your visit! Exploring the RRS Discovery ship and the Discovery Point museum takes time. Many reviewers suggest dedicating at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the exhibits and the ship's interior. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends & Holidays
Why
Can be busy, book ahead
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Scottish tour guide for Dundee's Discovery ship doesn't give a fuck #craigthetourguide #Scotland #scottishtiktok #scottishcomedy #dundee #funny
@eleanormortoncomedian
15.9K likes • 104.1K views

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a pass for Discovery Point & Verdant Works for great value and a deeper dive into Dundee's history. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be exploring the ship's decks and museum; wear comfy shoes for lots of walking. TikTok

ad Ultimate guide to Dundee Dundee is fast becoming one of our favourite places to visit in Scotland. With amazing indoor and outdoor experiences for all ages, we’ve compiled our ultimate list of 40 unmissable things to do in the city and its suburbs: 📍 See & do: Kayak with Outdoor Explore, Camperdown Park, RSS Discovery, Broughty Ferry Castle, walk Dundee Law, see Desperate Dan Statue, Universi...
@traveltwo
1K likes • 38.5K views
💡 Fun tip: Discovery Point at SeaWorld doesn’t cost a thing to enter — the only catch is that parking isn’t cheap. Still, it’s totally worth a stop! We swung by after the park and it was the perfect cool-down with those aquarium feels, all without an extra ticket. 🐠✨#familyfriendly #sanantonio #satx
hayrodlife
13 likes • 568 views

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! Give yourself 2-3 hours to truly absorb the history and explore the ship. Reddit

🚗 Parking Nearby

City Quay car park is a short, convenient walk away. Reddit

We had such a brilliant family day out at Discovery Point in Dundee! 🧭⚓️ With summer activities like kids’ crafts, a fun lanyard trail, the adorable Emma penguin treasure hunt, and ship tour — there’s something for everyone to enjoy, and it’s all included in the price of admission! 🎨🗺️🐧 It’s the perfect way to spend a day with the kids, learn something new, and make special memories — all while s...
tinygingerlove
358 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Combined Tickets Save

Consider a pass for Discovery Point & Verdant Works for great value and a deeper dive into Dundee's history. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be exploring the ship's decks and museum; wear comfy shoes for lots of walking. TikTok

⏳ Allow Plenty of Time

Don't rush! Give yourself 2-3 hours to truly absorb the history and explore the ship. Reddit

🚗 Parking Nearby

City Quay car park is a short, convenient walk away. Reddit

📸 Great Photo Ops

Capture stunning shots of the ship and the waterfront, especially from the Discovery Dome. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Discovery Point and the RRS Discovery for its immersive historical experience and well-preserved ship. The museum's detailed exhibits and the opportunity to explore the vessel are highlights, with many appreciating the value of combined tickets and the engaging content for families. Some find the visit best suited for a few hours rather than a full day.

"Was well worth the visit as we got in free to see the ship very interesting and lots of information on boat and in museum. Amazing how much was below deck a must for anyone interested in boats,travel, history."

Brian

"Highly recommend had a wonderful day today at Discover point and RRS Discovery purchased ticket pass for also Verdant works museum really good price from 10.30 til 4pm ,on my dundee Scotland holiday absolutely fantastic the exhibition, displays, all the videos you wish to listen to, very moving , history all the way to the present ,the finale was to experience the RRS Discovery what a beautiful she is , high praise the team who are doing g work to preserve her to be able to go inside and upstairs was a privilege, the toilet facilities very clean and the gift shop i had some fun spending x the team all very friendly x thanks for an amazing visit cheers nicki t car park i do recommend City Quay just a 5 minute walk x"

Nicola Tranter

"A nice place to visit, but not somewhere to stay for a long time. Car park was very busy, we were lucky to get a space. Discovery Point itself was fairly quiet, especially considering visiting on a Sunday."

Claire Tallis

What People Like

Immersive ship exploration
Detailed historical exhibits
Engaging for families

What People Dislike

Can be a short visit

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Discovery Point is easily accessible in Dundee city centre, located at the waterfront. If arriving by car, the City Quay car park is a recommended 5-minute walk away. Reddit Public transport options are also available, with bus routes serving the city centre. For those arriving by train, the station is a short taxi or bus ride from the attraction. TikTok

While there might not be dedicated parking directly at Discovery Point, the nearby City Quay car park is a convenient and well-regarded option, just a short stroll away. Reddit

Yes, Discovery Point is situated on the waterfront, making it a pleasant walk from most parts of Dundee city centre. It's part of the vibrant waterfront area. TikTok

Absolutely! Dundee has a good public transport network, and Discovery Point is well-served by local bus routes that stop in the city centre, making it easy to reach. TikTok

For first-time visitors, walking from the city centre or taking a short bus ride is ideal. The waterfront location is a key landmark, and signage is generally good. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary, but many visitors mention getting in free or purchasing tickets that include access to both the RRS Discovery ship and the museum exhibits. It's wise to check the official website for current pricing and any special offers. Reddit

Yes, you can typically purchase tickets on the day of your visit. However, booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or school holidays, to guarantee entry and potentially save time. Reddit

Discounts are often available for families, concessions, and sometimes for locals. It's worth inquiring about these when booking or checking the website for details. Reddit

Yes, a popular option is the combined ticket that includes entry to Discovery Point and the Verdant Works museum, offering a comprehensive look at Dundee's industrial and maritime heritage at a good price. Reddit

A great perk mentioned by visitors is that your ticket often doubles as a 1-year pass, allowing you to return and explore further if you wish! Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Discovery Point offers a fascinating journey through the history of the RRS Discovery, Captain Scott's ship. You can explore the ship's decks, galley, and crew quarters, and delve into the museum's exhibits on polar exploration and Dundee's maritime past. The Discovery Dome also provides a unique visual experience. TikTokReddit

The ship itself has multiple levels and areas to explore, including below deck. While efforts are made for accessibility, some areas might be challenging due to the historic nature of the vessel. Check with the venue for specific accessibility details. TikTok

The Discovery Dome is an immersive space within Discovery Point that offers a 360-degree view of Dundee and often features impressive art installations, such as Luke Jerram's 'Gaia' globe. It's a modern addition to the historical experience. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Families often have a brilliant time. Activities like craft sessions, treasure hunts, and the ship tour are designed to engage children, making it a fun and educational day out. Instagram

Most visitors recommend dedicating at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum and the RRS Discovery ship. Rushing through can mean missing out on the rich details and stories. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a cafe on-site at Discovery Point where you can grab refreshments. Alternatively, the waterfront area has several dining options nearby if you prefer to eat out. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume outside food in designated areas or before/after your visit. The on-site cafe is available for convenience. Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of light meals, snacks, and beverages. It's a good spot for a coffee break or a light lunch during your visit. Reddit

The waterfront area surrounding Discovery Point is home to numerous restaurants and cafes, offering a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes. Reddit

Prices at the on-site cafe are generally in line with typical visitor attraction cafes. For more budget-friendly options, exploring eateries slightly further from the immediate waterfront might be beneficial. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The RRS Discovery ship itself offers fantastic photographic opportunities from various angles. The Discovery Dome provides a unique perspective of the city, and the waterfront setting is picturesque. TikTokInstagram

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the RRS Discovery ship and the museum. However, always be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions. TikTok

It's advisable to check for specific rules regarding flash photography, especially in museum areas where it might be restricted to protect artifacts. TikTok

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful light for exterior shots of the ship and waterfront. Midday can be good for capturing details inside the ship. TikTok

The Discovery Dome with its art installations, like the large globe, offers a very unique and visually striking photo opportunity that stands out from typical ship photos. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Discovery Point is a fantastic destination for families! The RRS Discovery ship is an adventure playground for kids, allowing them to explore decks and imagine life at sea. Instagram The museum offers engaging exhibits and often features interactive activities, craft sessions, and treasure trails designed specifically for younger visitors. Instagram The Discovery Dome's visual displays can also captivate children. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as there's plenty of exploring to do on the ship and in the museum. TikTok

🚢 History & Maritime Enthusiasts

For those passionate about maritime history and exploration, Discovery Point is a must-visit. You'll get an in-depth look at the RRS Discovery, a ship with a significant role in polar exploration history. Reddit The museum provides detailed information on Captain Scott's expeditions, the ship's construction, and the lives of its crew. Reddit The chance to walk the decks and see original artifacts offers a truly immersive experience. Reddit

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Photographers will find plenty to capture, from the majestic RRS Discovery ship against the waterfront backdrop to the intricate details within the museum. TikTok The Discovery Dome is a particular highlight, offering unique opportunities to photograph impressive art installations like 'Gaia' and panoramic city views. TikTok The modern architecture of the nearby V&A Dundee also complements the historical site for diverse photographic subjects. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the RRS Discovery

The RRS Discovery is more than just a ship; it's a vessel steeped in history and adventure. Launched in 1901, it was built in Dundee and famously carried Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his crew on their first Antarctic expedition (1901-1904). This voyage was crucial for scientific research in the polar regions, gathering invaluable data on geology, meteorology, and biology. The ship's design was robust, built to withstand the harsh Antarctic conditions, and its journeys paved the way for future polar exploration. TikTokReddit

Visitors can step aboard the RRS Discovery at Discovery Point and experience firsthand what life was like for the crew over a century ago. You can explore the various decks, from the cramped living quarters of the sailors to the more spacious officers' mess, and even the engine room. The ship is remarkably well-preserved, offering an authentic glimpse into maritime life and the challenges faced by explorers. Reddit The sheer scale of the ship and the stories of its voyages are truly awe-inspiring, making it a central highlight for any visitor interested in history and exploration. TikTok

Exploring Discovery Point Museum

Discovery Point itself serves as a comprehensive museum dedicated to the RRS Discovery and Dundee's rich maritime heritage. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, taking visitors on a chronological journey from the ship's construction in Dundee to its pivotal role in polar expeditions. You'll find a wealth of original artifacts, photographs, and personal accounts that bring the stories of Captain Scott, Ernest Shackleton, and their crews to life. Reddit

The museum utilizes a mix of textual displays, video presentations, and interactive elements to engage visitors of all ages. It delves into the scientific discoveries made during the expeditions, the political context of the era, and the technological advancements that enabled such daring voyages. The information is presented in an accessible manner, ensuring that even those with little prior knowledge can appreciate the significance of the RRS Discovery's missions. Reddit The museum also highlights Dundee's shipbuilding prowess and its enduring connection to the sea, making it a vital part of understanding the city's identity. TikTok

The Modern Touch: Discovery Dome

Adding a contemporary dimension to the historical experience, the Discovery Dome at Discovery Point offers a unique visual and artistic element. This space often hosts large-scale art installations, most notably Luke Jerram's stunning 'Gaia' globe, which provides a breathtaking 360-degree view of Earth. TikTokReddit It's a modern counterpoint to the historical artifacts and the ship itself, offering a different perspective on our planet and our place within it.

Beyond the art, the Discovery Dome provides panoramic views of Dundee's waterfront, allowing visitors to see the city from a new vantage point. This blend of historical exploration and modern artistic expression makes Discovery Point a well-rounded attraction. It's a place where the past and present converge, offering something for everyone, from history buffs to art enthusiasts. TikTok

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