Shopping in Dundee: A Guide to Local Crafts and Souvenirs
The first time I wandered through Dundee’s streets, I was immediately captivated not by grand malls, but by the charm of small, independent shops tucked into historic lanes. There’s a certain thrill in exploring a city through its local crafts, and Dundee offers that in abundance. Unlike larger tourist hubs, where the same chain stores dominate, here every corner promises something unique—a hand-painted tartan scarf, a carefully carved wooden ornament, or a piece of jewellery inspired by the city’s heritage.
From the moment I arrived, I had a list in mind, but I also allowed myself to be led by curiosity. Armed with a notebook and a camera, I strolled down the High Street, over cobbled alleys, and along the waterfront, discovering the rhythm of Dundee’s shopping culture. Each shop felt personal; the proprietors often shared stories behind their products, from the artist’s inspiration to the materials used. This is shopping as experience, not merely transaction.
Dundee’s Craft Scene: Why It Matters
Dundee has a rich history of creativity, from the jute mills of the 19th century to the modern design hub represented by the V\&A Dundee. Local crafts are more than souvenirs—they are a reflection of this heritage. I found that many items embody both traditional techniques and contemporary aesthetics, blending Scottish identity with modern design sensibilities.
Handcrafted textiles, tartan accessories, pottery, jewellery, and even small-scale design toys are all part of the shopping landscape. Supporting these local artisans not only provides a unique memento but also contributes directly to the city’s creative economy.
Top Streets and Areas for Shopping
High Street and Murraygate
Walking along High Street and Murraygate, I was drawn to colourful shop windows displaying everything from handmade jewellery to local artwork. One of my favourite discoveries was Tay Artisans, a shop tucked away on Murraygate, featuring hand-painted ceramics and glassware made by Dundee artists. I spent over an hour exploring, chatting with the owner about each piece, and ultimately bought a small, hand-blown glass ornament shaped like a seagull, a perfect souvenir from the coast.
Murraygate also hosts pop-up markets on weekends, showcasing new designers and crafters. Visiting during a Saturday morning meant I could sample homemade fudge, touch locally woven scarves, and admire miniature models of the RRS Discovery.
Seagate and Reform Street
Seagate offers a mix of modern boutiques and independent shops. The Dundee Craft Emporium, in particular, became a highlight. This multi-room store is almost like a gallery, with walls adorned with framed art, shelves stacked with pottery, and corners dedicated to textiles. Each room felt like stepping into a different artist’s world. I picked up a tartan cushion made from recycled materials, combining sustainability with Scottish tradition.
Reform Street, slightly quieter, revealed small jewellery shops where silver and semi-precious stones were turned into elegant rings and pendants. Speaking to the jeweller, I learned that many designs are inspired by Dundee’s maritime history, with subtle engravings of waves or the Tay Bridge.
The Waterfront Experience: Design and Souvenirs
No visit to Dundee feels complete without a stroll along the waterfront. Besides being scenic, it is home to design shops connected with the V\&A Dundee. The museum shop, in particular, is exceptional. I spent an hour here, drawn to items that reflected the museum’s exhibitions. From modern prints inspired by Scottish design to high-quality notebooks and stationery, each piece seemed to tell a story.
I bought a set of postcards featuring Dundee’s waterfront at sunset and a beautifully designed coffee mug with a geometric pattern reminiscent of Kengo Kuma’s architectural style. Shopping here is more than purchasing; it is a form of cultural engagement.
Markets and Pop-Ups
For a more dynamic experience, I recommend checking Dundee’s weekend markets. The Dundee Farmers’ and Craft Market, held on Saturdays, offers a combination of food, art, and craft. Local soap makers, candle crafters, and leather artisans display their wares alongside fresh produce. I tried a small lavender-scented soap shaped like a tartan heart, which became a cherished gift for a friend.
Pop-up events in the city’s community centres also provide opportunities to meet designers directly. I attended one such event on Bell Street, where I discovered a miniature model maker whose handcrafted ship models were inspired by Dundee’s maritime heritage. Each piece took weeks to complete, reflecting meticulous craftsmanship.
Specialty Shops Worth Visiting
Dundee Vintage & Retro
For lovers of nostalgia, Dundee Vintage & Retro offers quirky finds—vinyl records, old postcards, vintage jewellery, and classic Scottish books. Walking through the aisles, I felt transported to a different era. I ended up buying an illustrated 1960s guidebook to Dundee, a charming souvenir that captures the city’s history from a bygone perspective.
Heather & Thistle
This boutique, located near the High Street, specialises in Scottish textiles, tartans, and handwoven scarves. The owner shared stories about each design’s origins, some inspired by ancient clans, others by contemporary Scottish artists. I selected a soft woollen scarf in muted greens and blues, perfect for the chilly Scottish evenings.
Jewellery and Local Designers
Scotland has a rich tradition in silverwork and gemstone jewellery, and Dundee is no exception. Shops like Caledonia Silver and The Tay Jewellery Studio offer pieces inspired by nature and local architecture. I purchased a silver bracelet engraved with the Tay Bridge, a subtle but beautiful reminder of my time in the city. Meeting the designer added a layer of personal connection to the purchase, making it far more meaningful than an ordinary souvenir.
Home Décor and Ceramics
For interior décor lovers, Dundee has a thriving ceramic and pottery scene. Pottery Lane Dundee showcases handmade mugs, bowls, and plates. The textures, glazes, and colours are distinctively Scottish, often inspired by the coastal landscapes. I bought a small ceramic bowl with a wave pattern, which now holds my morning tea back in London.
Small galleries along Murraygate often include limited-edition prints of local scenes, perfect for those wanting to bring the city’s atmosphere into their own homes. Each gallery owner seems passionate about storytelling through design, adding depth to the shopping experience.
Edible Souvenirs
Scotland is known for its culinary delights, and Dundee offers a range of edible gifts. Dundee Marmalade, a city classic, is available in local delis and specialty shops. Sampling the tangy sweetness while watching the harbour from a café created one of those moments that blend taste, memory, and scenery.
I also explored artisan chocolates, fudge, and shortbread, often sold alongside handcrafted pottery for an added sensory delight. For those planning gifts, I recommend visiting TripAdvisor to find top-rated food shops, or checking OpenTable UK for nearby cafés that sell local treats alongside seating.
Tips for First-Time Shoppers
- Budget Time: Give yourself at least a full day to explore Dundee’s craft shops. Rushing will make you miss the smaller boutiques tucked in alleyways.
- Talk to Artists: Many shops are owner-operated, and asking about the story behind each piece enriches the experience.
- Plan for Shipping: Some larger or delicate items can be shipped directly from the shop to your home.
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Using Booking.com or Expedia ensures you have a convenient base near the High Street or waterfront, making it easier to return to your hotel between shopping stops.
- Travel Tips: Flights into Dundee are limited; check Skyscanner for the best fares and British Airways or EasyJet for connections via Edinburgh or London.
Combining Shopping with Sightseeing
Shopping in Dundee is inseparable from the city’s rich cultural scene. After a morning of browsing in Murraygate, I visited the V\&A Dundee, then returned to pick up prints and postcards inspired by the exhibitions. Walking along the riverside with bags in hand, I could appreciate how the shopping experience is integrated with history, art, and design.
Evenings are perfect for stopping at a café or restaurant, booked via OpenTable, to rest while planning the next day’s discoveries. This combination of walking, browsing, and dining creates a rhythm that makes Dundee feel lived-in rather than purely touristy.
Personal Reflections on Dundee’s Shopping Culture
What struck me most during my days exploring Dundee’s shops was the sense of authenticity. Every item felt carefully curated, whether it was a handwoven scarf, a piece of silver jewellery, or a jar of Dundee Marmalade. Unlike many tourist centres, where mass-produced trinkets dominate, Dundee’s offerings are personal, artisanal, and often limited edition.
The act of shopping became a form of storytelling. Each purchase had a narrative—from the artist’s inspiration to the history embedded in traditional patterns. Carrying these items home felt like bringing a piece of Dundee’s soul back with me, a tangible memory of the city’s creativity and charm.
Platforms for Booking and Planning
- Accommodation: Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb
- Flights: Skyscanner, British Airways, EasyJet
- Tickets and Attractions: TripAdvisor, V\&A Dundee official site, Historic Environment Scotland
- Dining Reservations: OpenTable UK, SquareMeal
Walking Away with Memories
By the end of my visit, my suitcase was heavier, my camera fuller, and my heart lighter. Dundee’s craft shops and markets offer more than souvenirs; they provide connections—to artists, history, and the spirit of the city itself. For anyone visiting for the first time, I recommend allowing time to explore every street and market, to meet artisans, and to let the city guide you to treasures you didn’t even know you wanted. The memories you carry home will be richer than any item purchased.
