Discovery Point and RRS Discovery
Discovery Point is an award-winning visitor attraction centered around the RRS Discovery, the ship that carried Scott and Shackleton to Antarctica. It is located on the Dundee Waterfront, Angus, and uses the postcode DD1 4BP.
What to Expect and Enjoy
The experience starts in a modern museum where you follow the story of the ship’s construction in Dundee and its harrowing journey to the frozen south. You then get to step aboard the actual wooden ship, exploring the decks, the galley, and the cramped officer’s cabins where the explorers lived for years. It’s incredibly atmospheric and gives you a real sense of the bravery required for early polar exploration. Interactive displays and audio-visual shows make the history come alive for younger explorers, while adults will appreciate the detailed technical displays and original artefacts.
Best For and Time Spent
This is a brilliant all-ages attraction. Kids love the “adventure” feel of being on a real ship, while adults and seniors enjoy the deep historical and scientific focus.
- Duration: Expect to spend about one and a half to two hours here to see both the museum and the ship.
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
- Combined Tickets: If you’re also planning to visit the Verdant Works (Dundee’s historic jute mill), you can often buy a discounted combined ticket for both.
- Accessibility: While the museum is fully accessible, the ship itself has some steep ladders and narrow doorways that may be challenging for those with limited mobility.
- Food & Drink: There is a café on-site with views over the ship and the river, serving light lunches and home baking.
Nearby and Combine-able Hits
Being situated right next to the V&A Dundee, these two are a perfect “waterfront pair.” It’s also very close to the main train and bus stations, making it an easy trip for visitors arriving from outside the city.