Baxter Park, Dundee: A Historic Victorian Green Haven
Historic Victorian park in Dundee with elegant pavilion, lush gardens, sports courts, and family-friendly green spaces.
Baxter Park is a beautifully maintained 38-acre Victorian park in Dundee, gifted by Sir David Baxter in 1863. It features a stunning Italianate pavilion, expansive lawns, winding pathways, and well-kept sports facilities including tennis and basketball courts. The park offers a tranquil escape with vibrant flowerbeds, mature trees, children’s play areas, and picnic spots, making it ideal for families, dog walkers, and sports enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Baxter Park
- Arbroath Rd, Dundee, DD4 6NL, GB
- +441382307474
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for peaceful strolls and fewer crowds.
- Enjoy free use of tennis and basketball courts for casual sports.
- Explore the restored Italianate Pavilion, especially if interested in historic architecture or civil ceremonies.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the expansive lawns surrounded by seasonal flowerbeds.
- The park is dog-friendly with plenty of space for pets to roam.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take bus services 22 or 22A from Dundee city centre to the Arbroath Road stop near Baxter Park. The journey typically takes 15-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with a single fare around £2.50. The stop is a short walk from the park entrance.
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Car
Driving to Baxter Park is convenient with ample parking available outside the park on Arbroath Road and Bingham Terrace. Travel time from Dundee city centre is approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Note that parking spaces can fill on weekends and during events.
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Walking
For visitors staying nearby, walking to Baxter Park from Dundee city centre takes around 30-40 minutes along mostly flat and paved routes. The terrain is easy and suitable for most fitness levels, with accessible entrances.
Baxter Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Baxter Park
A Gift of Green Space and Victorian Elegance
Baxter Park was generously gifted to the people of Dundee in 1863 by Sir David Baxter, a prominent flax mill owner. Designed by Sir Joseph Paxton, a leading 19th-century landscape innovator, the park spans approximately 38 acres of ornamental gardens and mature parkland. At its heart stands the magnificent Italianate Pavilion, designed by George Henry Stokes, Paxton’s son-in-law, which has been beautifully restored to its classical grandeur. This pavilion now serves as a unique venue for civil ceremonies and community events, with a terrace overlooking the park and the River Tay.Landscape and Recreational Offerings
The park’s layout features sweeping lawns, manicured flowerbeds, and hedge-beds that change with the seasons, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation. Winding pathways invite visitors to stroll or jog amidst mature trees and wildflower spaces. Baxter Park is especially popular with dog walkers and families, offering a dedicated children’s play area and ample benches for resting. Sports enthusiasts enjoy the well-maintained tennis and basketball courts, some of which are free to use, alongside outdoor exercise equipment and a multi-sport court, making it a hub for active visitors.Community and Cultural Significance
From its inception, Baxter Park was intended as a place for healthful exercise and community enjoyment. Historically, it hosted cricket and football matches, band performances, and fetes. Although some original features like bowling greens have been repurposed or grassed over, the park continues to evolve to meet community needs. The smaller pavilion near the courts now supports youth services, reflecting the park’s ongoing role as a vibrant social space. The park’s historic and architectural significance is recognized locally, contributing to Dundee’s cultural heritage.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors find Baxter Park a peaceful and scenic retreat within Dundee, ideal for picnics, jogging, or simply enjoying nature’s tranquility. The park’s open spaces and varied facilities accommodate all ages, from children playing safely in the enclosed play area to adults engaging in sports or relaxing on benches. The restored pavilion adds a touch of elegance and history, while the seasonal flowerbeds and mature trees create a dynamic, colorful backdrop throughout the year. The park’s accessibility and welcoming atmosphere make it a cherished urban green space.Facilities and Practical Information
Baxter Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with free entry. Ample parking is available outside the park, and public toilets are located nearby. The pavilion can be hired for weddings and civil ceremonies, accommodating up to 60 guests, with facilities for the bridal party and a terrace offering exceptional photographic opportunities. The park encourages respectful sharing of the space among all visitors and allows biodegradable confetti outdoors. It is well served by local public transport and is easily accessible for families and individuals seeking leisure or active pursuits.Seasonal and Environmental Highlights
The park’s gardens and trees showcase seasonal changes vividly, from spring blossoms to autumn foliage. Its mature woodland and flowerbeds support local wildlife, enhancing the park’s natural charm. The open lawns and tree-lined drives provide scenic views and a tranquil environment for mindfulness or casual strolls. Baxter Park’s design and ongoing maintenance reflect a commitment to preserving its historic character while offering a versatile space for modern urban life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Wishart's Arch
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DD Tours
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Metalurgey
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Dundee Historic Environment Trust
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Oor Wullie Bronze Statue
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Robert Burns Statue
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St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
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Experience the best of Scottish craft beer and delicious local cuisine at St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall in Dundee, a must-visit for food and drink lovers.
Discovery Walk Historical Walk
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Abandon Ship
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Meeting House
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Experience the serene ambiance of Meeting House, a historical church in Dundee, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
The Yard Market Dundee
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Dundemo
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Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.
Dundee War Memorial
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A dignified memorial on elevated ground in Dundee, honoring local heroes with panoramic city views and a serene atmosphere.
Black Watch Memorial
3.1 km
A solemn bronze tribute on Dundee’s heights honoring the brave men of the Black Watch who sacrificed their lives in WWII.
The Sinderins
3.2 km
Historic crossroads in Dundee marking the sundering of roads with rich local heritage and urban charm.
Unmissable attractions to see
Baxter Park Pavilion
0.2 km
Elegant Victorian pavilion nestled in 38 acres of Dundee’s historic parkland, perfect for ceremonies and serene outdoor recreation.
Dundee Museum of Transport
0.5 km
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Proposed Site of Eden Project Dundee
0.7 km
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Gallagher Retail Park
0.9 km
A vibrant shopping hub in Dundee offering top brands like Marks & Spencer and TK Maxx with convenient hours and great value.
HMS Unicorn
1.1 km
Step aboard HMS Unicorn, one of the world’s oldest wooden warships, and explore nearly 200 years of naval history in Dundee’s historic Victoria Dock.
Wellgate Centre
1.4 km
Dundee’s central shopping hub blending budget retail, leisure, and community facilities in a multi-level city centre complex.
Yvonnes Street Art
1.4 km
Discover Dundee’s vibrant street art scene with Yvonnes Wings and dynamic murals that celebrate urban creativity and community spirit.
St Paul's Episcopal Cathedral
1.5 km
A majestic Victorian Gothic cathedral perched on Dundee’s historic castle hill, blending rich heritage with a vibrant, inclusive community spirit.
Escape Dundee
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Dive into Dundee’s top escape room centre for immersive puzzles, themed adventures, and unforgettable fun in the city heart.
Dundee Dragon
1.6 km
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Albert Square
1.6 km
Discover Dundee’s Albert Square, a vibrant blend of Victorian architecture, cultural landmarks, and lively social spaces at the city’s historic core.
Queen Victoria Statue
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Albert Square
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The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
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PILGRIMS FOR PEACE
1.6 km
A serene sanctuary fostering peace and interfaith harmony in the heart of Dundee’s vibrant Reform Street.
Essential places to dine
Porters Bar & Restaurant
1.2 km
Fresh Scottish flavors and vibrant social vibes converge at Dundee’s City Quay hotspot, Porters Bar & Restaurant.
Taza Restaurant
1.3 km
Savor Dundee’s top modern Indian buffet with fresh, local ingredients and a riverside ambiance at Taza Restaurant.
Quayside Bar & Grill
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Relaxed riverside dining in Dundee with locally sourced grills, seasonal menus, and scenic quay views.
The Manchurian | Dim Sum Restaurant 翠竹軒
1.4 km
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The White Goose
1.4 km
Contemporary dining in Dundee with expertly cooked steaks and a warm, inviting atmosphere from breakfast to late-night meals.
Rancho Pancho
1.5 km
Experience authentic Mexican flavors and vibrant cocktails in the heart of Dundee’s lively dining scene.
Rama
1.5 km
Experience authentic Thai cuisine with vibrant flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Dundee at Rama Thai.
Bellini Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with generous portions and a calm atmosphere in Dundee’s vibrant Commercial Street.
Vandal & Co
1.5 km
A lively burger and cocktail bar in Dundee offering creative menus with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options in a trendy setting.
The Bach
1.5 km
A vibrant New Zealand-inspired bistro in Dundee offering fresh, made-from-scratch dishes in a relaxed and unique setting.
The Selkie
1.5 km
Experience vibrant Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in Dundee’s lively family-run tapas bar on Exchange Street.
The Flame Tree Cafe
1.5 km
Cozy vegan and breakfast cafe in Dundee’s heart, serving fresh, wholesome meals in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
The Barrelman
1.6 km
A vibrant Dundee bar and restaurant blending fresh Scottish flavors, craft cocktails, and live entertainment in a relaxed city centre setting.
Mexican Grill
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Lively Tex-Mex restaurant and cocktail bar serving authentic Mexican cuisine in Dundee's city centre.
Gidi Grill, Dundee
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Room 39
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MadeAt94
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Arklay St Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover unique local treasures and handcrafted gifts at Arklay St Gift Shop, Dundee’s charming boutique for memorable souvenirs.
Keillers China Shop
1.4 km
Six decades of curated gifts, fine china, and personalised treasures in Dundee's city centre.
The Works
1.4 km
Discover unbeatable savings on books, toys, and crafts at The Works in Dundee’s bustling Wellgate Shopping Centre.
WHSmith
1.4 km
A central Dundee shop blending books, stationery, crafts, and convenience essentials in a welcoming city-centre setting.
B&M Store
1.4 km
Dundee's premier discount retailer offering exceptional value across home, health, and everyday essentials.
Arkive
1.5 km
Discover Arkive, Dundee’s vibrant clothing shop blending streetwear, skate style, and contemporary fashion in a welcoming urban setting.
Keepsake Scotland
1.5 km
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The Cheesery - Dundee Cheese Shop
1.6 km
Discover Dundee’s finest artisan cheeses and expert advice at The Cheesery, your local cheese specialist on Exchange Street.
Maisie and Mac Gifts and Contemporary Arts
1.6 km
Discover unique Scottish contemporary crafts and gifts in a charming Dundee boutique filled with handmade jewellery, ceramics, and art.
Essentials
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Discover unique gifts, tobacco products, and metaphysical supplies at Essentials in Dundee's Keiller Shopping Centre.
The Katz Pyjamas
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Strawberryanarchy
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The Keiller Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snug Bar
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KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
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Market Bar
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Tickety Boo's
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BrewDog Dundee
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Old Bank Bar
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The Pillars Bar & Lounge
1.7 km
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The Salty Dog
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Draffens
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Trades House
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The Bank Bar Dundee
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Nether Inn
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The Phoenix
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Duke's Corner
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The Tinsmith
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
OUT Nightclub
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Pout Bar and Nightclub
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Decades Bar & Nightclub
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Private Eyes
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Club Tropicana & Venga
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Fat Sams
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AURA Nightclub
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Underground
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Afro Beats
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Royal Night Club
19.7 km
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De Vitos Nightclub
24.4 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
The Gig
27.4 km
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Club One
30.5 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Club One, a lively nightclub offering late-night and daytime parties in the city center.
Ice Factory Perth
30.7 km
Perth’s energetic nightclub and live music hotspot, blending dance, DJs, and vibrant weekend nights in a modern setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Victorian Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
