Family-Friendly Accommodation: Where to Stay in Dundee with Kids
I remember the first time I planned a family trip to Dundee. The city, nestled on the northern banks of the River Tay, offered an inviting blend of culture, history, and seaside charm, and I was determined to make it as enjoyable for the kids as it would be for me. Dundee is often celebrated for its museums, like the V\&A Dundee and Discovery Point, and for its welcoming parks and riverside walks. However, what really made or broke our trip was the accommodation we chose. Finding a family-friendly place that balances comfort, convenience, and entertainment can make a huge difference.
With children, I learned that location is everything. You want to be close enough to attractions to avoid long drives and keep evening routines manageable, but also have access to spaces where kids can run, explore, and release energy safely.
1. Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa
Location
Perched right on Dundee’s waterfront, near the V\&A Dundee and Discovery Point, the Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa immediately caught my eye. Its location is nothing short of ideal for families: you can step out of the hotel in the morning, stroll along the Tay, and enjoy the gentle sound of the water lapping against the quayside while the city slowly wakes up. The hotel is also within walking distance of Dundee’s bustling city centre, which made running quick errands or heading out for dinner with the kids remarkably convenient. On our first morning, we watched joggers and cyclists pass by, and even spotted a few early fishermen along the river, which became a little adventure for the children.
Hotel Overview
This modern hotel strikes a wonderful balance between luxury and family comfort. The rooms are spacious, with some offering interconnected doors—a blessing for families who want a bit of privacy while still keeping an eye on their little ones. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the river, and waking up to that view each morning was a highlight of our stay. The hotel’s indoor pool quickly became a favorite activity; it’s well-maintained, shallow in parts for younger children, and provides a safe and fun environment for kids to burn off energy. Additional amenities, like the spa and fitness centre, cater to parents who want a bit of relaxation or exercise while the children are occupied.
Personal Experience
I remember our first evening vividly: the children splashing gleefully in the pool while I watched the sun set across the Tay, painting the water in shades of gold and pink. Later, we returned to our room, still energized from the fun, and enjoyed a comfortable night’s sleep in the quiet, spacious room. Breakfast the following morning was an adventure in itself: a wide variety of cereals, fresh fruits, cooked options like eggs and sausages, and even pancakes that delighted the kids. The staff went above and beyond, patiently providing colouring sheets and crayons to keep our three-year-old entertained, which made the morning much more relaxed for all of us.
Reviews
Other families frequently praise the Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa for its central location, spotless rooms, and welcoming, attentive staff. Parents often highlight the pool and children’s menu at the on-site restaurant as key advantages, as well as the ease of walking to nearby attractions without needing a car.
Cost and Booking
- Average rate: £120–£200 per night for a family room, depending on the season
- Booking platform: Booking.com often provides free cancellation and the best family room rates. Expedia occasionally has packages including breakfast and parking.
Booking Tips
Book early for summer weekends, as family rooms sell out quickly. Always request a riverside room in advance for the most memorable views, and if possible, ask for interconnected rooms if traveling with older children who appreciate a bit of privacy.
2. Malmaison Dundee
Location
Situated on the waterfront near the city centre, Malmaison Dundee combines quirky boutique design with family-friendly facilities. It’s a short walk to the V\&A Dundee and Dundee Contemporary Arts.
Hotel Overview
The rooms are stylish yet practical. Family rooms come with additional sleeping arrangements, and the hotel provides rollaway beds or cots on request. The in-house brasserie serves child-friendly meals alongside a sophisticated menu for adults.
Personal Experience
Our room had floor-to-ceiling windows, letting in plenty of daylight, which made our early mornings much brighter. The kids were fascinated by the nautical-themed décor and the unique furniture designs. Evening walks along the quayside, returning to a comfortable, stylish room, made it a favourite part of our stay.
Reviews
Guests consistently praise Malmaison for cleanliness, helpful staff, and the central location. Families appreciated the easy access to attractions without needing a car.
Cost and Booking
- Average rate: £140–£220 per night
- Booking platform: Hotels.com often has family packages with free breakfasts for kids.
Booking Tips
Mention that you are traveling with children when booking; the staff are accommodating with early check-in or extra bedding.
3. Best Western Invercarse Hotel
Location
A short drive from Dundee city centre, near the University of Dundee, the Best Western Invercarse Hotel is ideal for families looking for spacious grounds and easy parking.
Hotel Overview
The hotel provides large family rooms and suites. Its standout feature is the outdoor garden area, perfect for letting kids play safely. On-site dining includes a children’s menu and flexible breakfast options.
Personal Experience
During our stay, the children spent hours exploring the lawns while we enjoyed tea on the terrace. Even rainy days were manageable, as the rooms were spacious enough for indoor play, and the hotel offered board games and books for young guests.
Reviews
Guests often comment on the helpful staff, family-friendly amenities, and convenient location with easy access to the A90 for day trips.
Cost and Booking
- Average rate: £100–£160 per night for family rooms
- Booking platform: Booking.com or Expedia for free cancellation and family offers.
Booking Tips
Check for weekday stays if possible; rates are lower and the gardens are less crowded.
4. Hilton Dundee
Location
Located on the waterfront, Hilton Dundee is adjacent to Discovery Point and a short walk to the city centre. Its modern design and extensive facilities make it ideal for families wanting a touch of luxury.
Hotel Overview
Family rooms include king beds with sofa beds, flat-screen TVs, and spacious bathrooms. The indoor pool and fitness area, along with a kid-friendly menu in the restaurant, make it highly convenient for families.
Personal Experience
I recall our evening swim session; the kids were thrilled by the pool’s layout and the shallow areas for younger children. Breakfast included hot and cold options, from pancakes to fresh fruit, keeping everyone happy. The hotel also provided stroller rental and guidance for local attractions.
Reviews
Parents highlight the professional service, central location, and cleanliness. Kids particularly enjoy the pool and the accessibility to riverside walks.
Cost and Booking
- Average rate: £150–£250 per night
- Booking platform: Hilton.com often has member discounts and breakfast-inclusive packages.
Booking Tips
Book early for riverside rooms and weekend stays. Weekday rates may offer significant savings.
5. Malmaison Dundee Penthouse Suites / Alternative Apartment Stays
Location
For families preferring apartment-style stays, some penthouse suites or serviced apartments near Dundee city centre provide kitchens, separate living areas, and multiple bedrooms.
Hotel Overview
These apartments are ideal for longer stays, allowing for self-catering and a home-like environment. The city centre location ensures easy access to museums, restaurants, and shops.
Personal Experience
We booked a suite through Airbnb, which provided ample space for kids to move around without feeling cramped. Preparing our own breakfast in the kitchen, we could stick to the children’s morning routines without rushing. Evening walks along the quayside were just minutes away.
Reviews
Guests often note convenience, flexibility, and the freedom of cooking meals for picky eaters. Parents appreciate having multiple bathrooms and separate bedrooms for kids.
Cost and Booking
- Average rate: £120–£200 per night depending on size and location
- Booking platform: Airbnb or Booking.com for serviced apartments.
Booking Tips
Check amenities carefully: look for washing machines, kitchen facilities, and child safety features. Early booking is recommended, especially during school holidays.
Practical Tips for Staying in Dundee with Kids
- Location Matters: Waterfront hotels provide scenic views and proximity to museums and riverside walks.
- Pool Access: Indoor pools are a big hit with children and allow for fun regardless of the weather.
- Kitchen Facilities: If you have younger children or picky eaters, apartments or suites with kitchens can be invaluable.
- Booking Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Airbnb provide comprehensive options for families.
- Advance Booking: Dundee has a small number of large hotels, so family rooms often sell out, especially during summer and school holidays.
- Check Reviews: Platforms like TripAdvisor help verify family-friendly amenities and guest experiences.
Combining Comfort with Exploration
Choosing the right accommodation sets the tone for a family trip to Dundee. Staying in the right place allows for relaxed mornings, convenient access to attractions, and stress-free evenings. With riverside walks, accessible museums, and kid-friendly dining nearby, each hotel or apartment mentioned offers something unique to suit different family needs.
Personal Reflections
After multiple visits, I can honestly say that Dundee caters well to families. The combination of central locations, spacious rooms, and friendly staff makes it easy to balance sightseeing, dining, and relaxation. Having a hotel with a pool or a suite with a kitchen transforms a family trip from manageable to truly enjoyable. Choosing wisely can mean the difference between a rushed, stressful trip and one where every member, from toddlers to teens, has space, comfort, and entertainment.
The joy of walking along the Tay, visiting Discovery Point, exploring the V\&A, and returning to a welcoming, family-focused hotel cannot be overstated. These experiences, coupled with the right accommodation, ensure memories that last far beyond the trip itself.
