When it comes to studying in Scotland, Dundee is one of the most popular choices, as the two universities have more graduates in professional jobs than any other Scottish city. The University of Dundee and Abertay University surround the city centre and are encompassed by a variety of cultural amenities, famous museums such as the V&A Museum, and plenty of activities of interest for students.
However, before choosing any student accommodation, prospective Dundee students may want to first discover the type of nightlife that they can enjoy outside of studying.
This guide will look at the Dundee nightlife, including bars, clubs and pubs, and the areas that are most popular with students.
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Where are the most popular bars in Dundee?
Perth Road
Known as “Mennies” by the locals, The Speedwell Bar is one of the most popular bars in Dundee and is the starting point for the Perth Road pub crawl. Named after its landlady, the Mennies embraces its Edwardian architecture and is one of the few pubs in Scotland to be listed for its quality of interiors.
From there, students can try and down a pint as they make their way down Perth Road, including The George Orwell and concluding with The Braes pub.
City centre
In the city centre, there are an array of bars which are popular with both students and locals. Dundee’s only wine bar is The Wine Press, which consists of a wide range of wines and a good selection of beers. You’ll be in safe hands as the owners are the oldest wine merchants in the city. Just around the corner,The West House is perfect for a quieter night, with an extensive food menu.
Close to the city centre on Nethergate is The Phoenix. Over 150 years old, The Phoenix is one of the oldest bars and is decorated with local artworks and stained-glass windows.
Choosing your student accommodation is an important step before moving to Dundee. You must consider the different types of accommodation and their location in Dundee. Find out where you should live as a student in Dundee here.
What is the club scene like in Dundee?
Standing out from the rest is Dundee’s Reading Rooms; a former library turned the longest-running house and techno nightclub in the city. Reading Rooms is based in the city centre and is a perfect and unconventional place to end the night.
Across from Dundee REP Theatre, Underground Dundee is open every day of the week. The late-night nightclub has different genre rooms and different music nights, including R&B and old-school jukebox jams. Nearby, for lovers of the 80s, is Club Tropicana. There are several screens displaying classic 80s films and a model of Doc Brown’s DeLorean.
It’s important that students prioritise their safety when experiencing the nightlife in Dundee; especially partying late at night. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings and feel safe in the group you are with. For more information on student safety, read our advice centre.
Hidden gems in Dundee nightlife
A homage to the 1920s, Dundee has its own ‘speakeasy’ in a secret location. Draffens has a complete menu for cocktails and is one of the city’s hidden gems. We recommend asking the locals and remembering to keep the secret to yourself.
Duke’s Corner was once a school. Nowadays, it’s a late-night venue that has 24 rotating taps and a range of diner-style food.
Make sure you are aware of the student accommodation options available in Dundee. To compare the different accommodation types, read our guide here.
What areas are popular with students for Dundee nightlife?
Students at both Dundee universities may want to go to popular places that are located near where they are studying. This includes The Dundee University Students Association (or DUSA), which is one of the most popular student unions in Scotland. The Union hosts various club nights and is located on the University of Dundee’s campus.
Housed within Dundee Contemporary Arts, the Jute Café bar is popular with students no matter the time of day. The café turned bar turned nightclub has an impressive menu and varying playlists. For the students of the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, the popular Art Bar is a basement pub that permeates a laid-back aesthetic; with mid-week open mic nights and resident DJs at the weekends.
Near the Abertay University campus, there are the bars Bergies and BrewDog Dundee, which is a popular chain. Although there is less of a nightlife near this university, the city centre is only a short ten-minute walk.
Student accommodation in Dundee
Before students can experience Dundee’s nightlife, it is important to first book student accommodation. Consider the amenities and other factors that are your priorities; such as being near the university or within walking distance of the most popular pubs and clubs.
Peterson Hall is just over a fifteen-minute walk from the city centre, where many popular bars and clubs are located.
Enquire today to arrange a viewing at Peterson Hall, or contact us at 0800 652 7844 to book your student accommodation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Dundee famous for?
Dundee is known for its culture and as the sunniest and fourth largest city in Scotland. It is known for its production of confectionery, specifically Dundee’s long association with marmalade. Dundee is also home to the V&A Design Museum and is the UK’s only UNESCO City of Design.
What accommodation does the University of Dundee offer?
The University of Dundee offers various facilities across the city, including Heathfield, Belmont, and Balfour. These are self-catered, a single-bed occupancy, and inclusive of bills.
University accommodation primarily suits first-year undergraduates looking for students in a similar position. However, this type of accommodation tends to be dated and often smaller than other student housing available. Find out more about the different student accommodations in Dundee here.
When should I book student accommodation in Dundee?
At Mansion Student, we recommend booking student accommodation as soon as possible, so that you can have peace of mind. Once you have been accepted into a Dundee university, it’s important to starting looking at the accommodation options to ensure you receive your first preference.
We have recently acquired Peterson Hall, which has been converted into luxurious student accommodation, complete with modern appliances, a secure fob entry system, and all bills inclusive. Discover more about our Dundee student accommodation here.