Skip to main content
“By creating we think, by living we learn” Patrick Geddes
Main University menu
 

Student Services Top Level Menu

Free things to do in Dundee and Edinburgh

There are lots of things you can do for free or for a small charge to give you enjoyment and inspiration!


Free things to do in Dundee


The Howff

It's a graveyard right in the centre of the city - really interesting and a good place to relax for a while.
The Howff

Seal spotting

Take a walk along the riverside to the Tay Rail Bridge when the tide is out and see them lying on the sandbanks.
Walking Stories

Walk up the plug of a volcano

The views from the top of The Law are great.
Walking Stories

Botanic Gardens

Free for students with your matriculation card.
Botanic Gardens


McManus Galleries and Museum

Voted Dundee's favourite building in 2000 and housing an eclectic collection.
McManus Galleries


Visit a local castle

Broughty Castle, next to the old harbour in Broughty Ferry.
Broughty Ferry Castle


Visit a library (other than the University library!)

Great places to hang out on a wet afternoon.
Dundee Libraries


Join a society

The University and DUSA offer an amazing selection
DUSA


Go "star gazing"

Visit Mills Observatory, the UK's only full time public observatory.
Mills Observatory


Free things to do in Edinburgh


Art Galleries

Lots to choose from, both classical and modern.
National Galleries


Museum of Childhood

Take a step back in time with toys from around the world.
Museum of Childhood


Arthur's Seat

Take a walk up to the highest point in Edinburgh and enjoy the view.
Arthur's Seat


National Museum

Huge collection relating to Scotland, the world and the universe! Don't forget to visit the rooftop for a spectacular cityscape.
National Museums of Scotland


The People's Story

Telling the story of the ordinary people of Edinburgh since the late 18th century.
The People's Story


Royal Botanic Gardens

Over 70 acres of landscaped gardens just 1 mile from Princess Street.
Royal Botanic Gardens


Scottish Parliament

Visit the seat of the government of Scotland.
Scottish Parliament


Writer's Museum

Dedicated to the lives of Scotland's literary figures.
Writer's Museum


Central Library

Visit for the stunning building if not for its contents!
Edinburgh Libraries

Image of happy students around campus

Getting around couldn't be easier - local travel information or log on to Transport Direct to get directions for driving, and train and bus timetables.

Do you have any other suggestions? Share these with others by posting on the student chatboards - just click on the Student Services tab at the top of your My Dundee homepage (for University of Dundee matriculated students).

Free things to do a short journey away