One of the perfect day-trip destinations in Dundee is the little town of Broughty Ferry. With a stunning beach, a historic castle and several lively restaurants and eateries, it’s the ideal place to spend a sunny summer’s afternoon.
Often referred to as ‘The Brighton of the North’, The Ferry has the feel of a quaint seaside resort with its own cultural scene and buzzing nightlife. And with a railway station and bus links from the city centre, it’s easily accessible. There’s also a scenic path and cycle route from Dundee to Broughty Ferry along the banks of The River Tay.
Whether you fancy going for a day-trip or just an afternoon, here are the top 5 things to do in Broughty Ferry:
Go to Forgan’s for food and drinks.
Forgan’s is a charming restaurant and bar serving seasonal and ethically sourced produce. Offering everything from brunch classics to sharing boards and fresh, local lobster, it’s a great restaurant choice for any time of day. The bar also serves a variety of cocktails, wines and whiskies and Forgan’s very own ale if you fancy popping along just for some drinks.
If you take a wander along Brook Street, it suddenly feels like stepping into a botanical garden or a quaint, country barnyard. The entrance to the restaurant has a stunning living wall filled with an abundance of plants and flowers, and fairy lights strung across the ceiling.
Forgan’s is available for private hire with cosy bothies for larger groups, perfect for a special occasion or birthday meal. On Saturday nights, the restaurant transforms into a ceilidh with live country music and dancing.
The restaurant’s cosy and enchanting interior space is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a family get-together, whilst the outdoor seating area is ideal for brunching in the sunshine.
Have a wander around Broughty Ferry’s independent boutiques.
Dundee has an increasing number of independent retailers and boutiques, perfect for browsing after a spot of lunch.
Tiger Lily Boutique is just along from Forgan’s on Brook Street, selling women’s clothing and accessories. Lulu & M on King Street is another fashion boutique selling Scandinavian and British apparel and accessories, including women’s watches from Olivia Burton.
Go for ice cream at Vissochi’s.
Once you’ve built up an appetite after wandering around the town, you could always nip into Vissochi’s for an ice cream. One of the best ice cream parlours in Dundee, Vissochi’s Cafe serves everything from ice cream sundaes to cakes and milkshakes, as well as authentic Italian cuisine. The recipes have been passed down through generations, bringing a little slice of Italy to Dundee. On a hot summer’s day, the queue for Vissochi’s is often out the door as people flock from all around Dundee for some of their delicious ice cream.
Take a stroll along Broughty Ferry beach.
One of the main selling points for a Dundee staycation, Broughty Ferry beach is the perfect place to go on a summer’s afternoon. And where better to enjoy a Vissochi’s ice cream than on the beach? There’s a small shingle beach by the pier if you fancy a quiet picnic spot and there’s another golden sand beach behind Broughty Castle.
Visit Broughty Ferry Castle.
An iconic Dundee landmark, the picturesque Broughty Castle sits on the mouth of The River Tay and is an important historic monument. You can climb up to the top of the castle for magnificent views across the Tay. With various programmes, events and displays, it’s a must if you’re visiting Broughty Ferry for the first time!
The Ferry is a great place to go for a day trip rain or shine and it’s definitely a treasured jewel in the crown of Dundee.
Interested in other things to do around Dundee? Check out my blog post on the Open/Close City Centre Street Art Trail or head over to the Urban Dundee archives.