An Irreverent Guide to Culture and Lifestyle in the Tay Cities Region: Dundee, Angus, Fife and Perthshire
Welcome to the Fife Tay region, where history, innovation, and a touch of madness blend seamlessly. This guide will take you through the quirks, charms, and downright oddities of Dundee, Angus, Fife, and Perthshire. Buckle up for a wild ride through Scotland’s heartland!
Dundee: City of Discovery, Comics, and Contemporary Cool
Dundee, Scotland’s fourth-largest city, has transformed itself from an industrial powerhouse into a vibrant hub of culture and innovation. Start at the V&A Dundee, a stunning museum that’s part spaceship, part shipwreck, and all design. For a taste of the city’s digital renaissance, visit Abertay University, renowned for its game design program.
Dundee is also the birthplace of some of the UK’s most beloved comics. Statues of Desperate Dan, Minnie the Minx, and other DC Thomson characters are scattered around the city centre.
Fife: From Coastal Charm to Academic Prestige
Fife, also known as the Kingdom of Fife, is a mix of coastal villages, academic brilliance, and royal history. St. Andrews is the jewel in Fife’s crown, famous for its university (where Prince William met Kate) and its world-renowned golf course. But St. Andrews isn’t just for the posh – it has a lively pub scene too. Head to The Central for a pint and some local banter.
The East Neuk of Fife is a collection of picturesque fishing villages like Anstruther and Pittenweem. Try the fish and chips at the Anstruther Fish Bar, frequently hailed as the best in the UK. If you’re an art lover, the Pittenweem Arts Festival showcases local artists in quirky venues like fishermen’s cottages.
Perthshire: Adventure, Culture, Relax, Adrenaline
Perthshire is known as Big Tree Country, and for good reason. The Hermitage near Dunkeld offers walks among towering Douglas firs and ancient oaks. Visit Dunkeld Cathedral, a peaceful spot with a history as tumultuous as any castle. Speaking of castles, Blair Castle is a must-see. It’s home to Europe’s last remaining private army, the Atholl Highlanders.
For a slice of regal history, visit Scone Palace, where Scottish kings were crowned on the Stone of Destiny. The palace grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and you might even spot a peacock or two.
Take a closer look at Perthshire
Angus: From Arbroath Smokies to Haunted Castles
Angus is where you’ll find some of Scotland’s best-kept secrets and a few head-scratchers. Start your journey in Arbroath, famous for the Arbroath Smokie. This smoked haddock delicacy is a must-try, but be warned: it’s an acquired taste. Then head to Glamis Castle, reputed to be the most haunted castle in Scotland. It’s home to not just one, but several ghosts, including the infamous Monster of Glamis, a deformed heir allegedly kept hidden in the castle.
If you’re a history buff, check out Arbroath Abbey, where the Declaration of Arbroath was signed in 1320. For a dose of the macabre, visit Forfar, notorious for its witch trials in the 17th century. The local witch-dunking pond still exists, although thankfully, the witch hunts do not.
A few tips:
Weather: One the one hand, Dundee is on record as the sunniest city in Scotland. On the other, it is Scotland so embrace the four seasons in one day thang.
Language: Learn a few Scots phrases like “dreich” (dreary) and “braw” (great) to impress us.
Food and Drink: Local delicacies go well beyond the traditional and delicious haggis and smokies with amazing local food producers. #whatever you eat, wash it down with a dram of whisky or one of the new artisan gins from a local distillery.
Join in local festivals and events. The Dundee Food and Drink Festival, the Crieff Highland Games, and the St. Andrews Lammas Fair are just a few of the region’s lively happenings.
The Tay Cities region offers a delightful blend of ancient and modern, natural and the supernatural. It's an intriguing place whether you’re into history, food, scenery, or a bit of Scottish banter.