Broughty Ferry, Dundee, Scotland
Tayside Chill in Broughty Ferry
Broughty Ferry is a riverside suburb 4 miles east of Dundee on the northern shores of the Firth of Tay. "Ferry" as it is affectionately known to locals, is a pleasant mix of former jute barons' mansions on the hill and fishers' cottages on the River Tay. Ferry now has a population of around 20,000 inhabitants.
History
The town's origins date back to the medieval period when it served as a modest fishing and ferrying settlement on the northern shores of the Firth of Tay. The name "Broughty" is believed to derive from the Scottish Gaelic Bruach Tatha, meaning "bank of the Tay," highlighting its geographical significance. The construction of Broughty Castle in the 15th century by the Douglas family marked a strategic point for controlling the entrance to the River Tay, emphasizing the area's military importance during this period.
The transformation of Broughty Ferry into a fashionable seaside resort began in the 19th century, fueled by the expansion of the Dundee and Arbroath Railway in 1838, which connected the town more efficiently to Dundee and other regions. This accessibility attracted affluent merchants and industrialists from Dundee, who built grand villas along the coastline, leading to the town being dubbed "the richest square mile in Europe" during the Victorian era.
The decline of the jute industry in Dundee in the early 20th century shifted the town's role, but it remained a desirable residential area, blending its historical legacy with modern suburban development. Today, Broughty Ferry retains much of its historic charm, with landmarks like Broughty Castle and the waterfront continuing to reflect its past.
Attractions
The Broughty Castle Museum housed in the 15th century, much fought-over castle is free. It has exhibits on its four floors relating to the history and wildlife of Broughty Ferry. There are exhibits on the area's past as a fishing and whaling port and also a collection of paintings in the Orchar Gallery. There's a cafe for refreshments, a museum shop and great views over the River Tay.
Ferry's sandy beach is the other major attraction popular with walkers and swimmers. Founded in 1884, Ye Amphibious Ancients Bathing Association (Yeaaba), known as 'The Phibbies', organize the annual New Year's Dook (open swimming) event on January 1. In 2024 around 300 people, some in fancy dress took part to celebrate 140 years in the open, freezing water. Indeed, in 1989 pick axes were needed to break the ice in the harbor before the swimmers could enter.
Green spaces include picturesque Orchar Park, Broughty Ferry Nature Reserve and Barnhill Rock Garden.
Eat & Drink
Some recommended places to wine and dine in Ferry include Collinsons Restaurant on Brown Street, Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar on Gray Street as well as Forgan's and nearby Bruach Bar both located on Brook Street. Urban Beach on the Esplanade offers 'dining for family and friends looking to catch up and relax' as well as wedding and funeral hires and even (sometimes al fresco) yoga.
Pubs in fun-loving Ferry include The Royal Arch Bar, The Anchor, The Ship Inn, which dates back to 1847, Gunners Bar and The Eagle Coaching Inn with live music, karaoke and outdoor seating.
Access
By car Dundee Airport is roughly 20 minutes from Broughty Ferry depending on traffic.
From Dundee Station it is just 6 minutes and one stop by train to Broughty Ferry Station on the line to Arbroath.
Dundee Station on South Union Street has trains to London King's Cross Station in London from Aberdeen via Edinburgh, Newcastle and York Station in York as well as more local ScotRail trains to Glasgow Queen Street in Glasgow via Perth and Stirling as well as connections south to Edinburgh Waverley Station in Edinburgh.
Hotels
If you wish to stay in nearby Dundee try the Sleeperz Hotel Dundee, with three stars and views of the V&A Dundee. Also recommended are the Malmaison Dundee and Holiday Inn Express Dundee.
The Best Western Woodlands Hotel Dundee is in Broughty Ferry. Once a former jute mansion, the 3-star hotel offers breakfast and a pool.
Dundee Attractions
Verdant Works, housed in a former jute mill, DCA Dundee and the V&A Dundee are other places of interest back in the city of Dundee on Tayside.
Dundee has a connection with comics as the publishers D. C. Thomson & Co are based in the city. The company published such former classic comics as The Dandy and The Beano. A statue of Desperate Dan and other characters from the comics, such as Minnie the Minx and Dawg the Dog can be seen here and there in Dundee city center.
Scotland Related
Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
Hermaness National Nature Reserve
Maps of Dundee
Hotels in Scotland
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