Dundee Law: Dundee’s Iconic Volcanic Peak and Historic Landmark
Dundee Law, a volcanic peak and historic hillfort, offers sweeping 360° views and a rich blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Dundee Law is a 174-meter volcanic sill and the highest point in Dundee, offering panoramic 360° views over the city, River Tay, and surrounding hills. This grassy peak, once an Iron Age hillfort, features a poignant war memorial and rich archaeological history. Visitors can explore woodland paths, enjoy diverse wildlife, and learn from informative panels while soaking in spectacular vistas.
A brief summary to Dundee Law
- Dundee, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit on a clear day for the best panoramic views stretching up to 45 miles, including Dundee city and the Sidlaw Hills.
- Bring windproof clothing as the summit is often exposed and can be quite windy.
- Explore the woodland paths around the Law to enjoy native wildlife and peaceful natural surroundings.
- Check out the war memorial at the summit, dedicated to those who lost their lives in the world wars.
- Parking at the summit is limited to about 6-7 spaces; consider walking or using public transport during busy times.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
Getting There
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Bus
Take the local bus services from Dundee city centre to stops near the base of Dundee Law; the journey typically takes 10-15 minutes. From there, a 20-30 minute walk uphill leads to the summit. Bus fares range from £1.50 to £3.00 one way.
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Car
Drive to Dundee Law via city roads; parking is limited to 6-7 spaces at the summit. The drive takes about 10 minutes from the city centre. Parking is free but fills quickly during peak times, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
A steep 1.5-mile walk from Dundee city centre to the summit takes approximately 30-45 minutes on paved and natural paths. The route offers scenic woodland views but can be physically demanding, so suitable footwear and moderate fitness are advised.
Dundee Law location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
Discover more about Dundee Law
Geological Origins and Natural Formation
Dundee Law is not a volcano but a volcanic sill, formed around 400 million years ago when molten lava was forced sideways through weaker rock layers. Over millions of years, erosion by rain, wind, and glaciers stripped away softer rock, revealing the hard volcanic rock that now forms this distinctive peak. Similar in formation to nearby Balgay Hill, the Law stands as a testament to the region’s ancient geological past.Historical Significance and Archaeological Finds
For thousands of years, Dundee Law has been central to the area's human activity. It served as an Iron Age hillfort, and prehistoric graves dating back to about 1500 BC have been found on its slopes. Roman pottery from the 1st century AD has also been uncovered, highlighting its long-standing importance. The summit hosts a war memorial erected in 1925, commemorating those who lost their lives in both world wars, adding a solemn historical layer to the site.Visitor Experience and Scenic Views
Visitors can reach the summit by a steep 1.5-mile walk or drive up a narrow road with limited parking. The top offers breathtaking 360-degree views stretching nearly 45 miles on clear days, encompassing Dundee city center, the River Tay, Fife, Perthshire, and the Sidlaw Hills. Informative fact panels guide visitors in identifying landmarks and understanding the Law’s natural and cultural heritage. The grassy summit is ideal for picnics, photography, and peaceful reflection.Ecological Importance and Conservation
Dundee Law is a Locally Important Nature Conservation (LINC) site, home to a variety of native trees, plants, mosses, fungi, insects, birds, and mammals. The area’s natural habitats are actively conserved, and a Friends group organizes regular activities to maintain and celebrate its biodiversity. The blend of public art and natural environment creates a harmonious space for wildlife and visitors alike.Community and Cultural Role
The Law is a beloved landmark for Dundonians, symbolizing local pride and heritage. It is a popular spot for walking, running, and quiet contemplation. The annual tradition of climbing the Law, sometimes called the 'wee walk,' offers a rewarding challenge and a chance to connect with the city’s landscape and history. The site’s accessibility and panoramic views make it a cherished destination for both locals and tourists.Modern Amenities and Accessibility
Although the paths can be steep, there is an accessibility guide available to help visitors with mobility needs. The summit features benches, information boards, and a telecommunications mast. The Law is open year-round, free to visit at any time, though weather can be windy and variable. Nearby facilities include limited parking at the summit and easy access by bus or car from the city center.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dundee War Memorial
0.0 km
A dignified memorial on elevated ground in Dundee, honoring local heroes with panoramic city views and a serene atmosphere.
Cox's Stack
0.9 km
Scotland’s tallest surviving industrial chimney, Cox’s Stack towers over Dundee as a proud symbol of its jute manufacturing heritage.
Dundemo
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dundee at Dundemo, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories come together in a lively atmosphere.
Robert Burns Statue
1.4 km
Discover Dundee’s unique Robert Burns Statue, a rare Scottish tribute to the nation’s beloved poet, linking local pride with global heritage.
Oor Wullie Bronze Statue
1.4 km
Celebrate Scotland’s cheeky comic hero with a visit to the iconic Oor Wullie Bronze Statue in Dundee’s vibrant city centre.
The Sinderins
1.5 km
Historic crossroads in Dundee marking the sundering of roads with rich local heritage and urban charm.
DD Tours
1.5 km
Explore Scotland's beauty with DD Tours, offering personalized experiences and expert guides for an unforgettable journey through this enchanting land.
The Yard Market Dundee
1.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant monthly market celebrating local makers, street food, and community spirit in a historic church setting.
Wishart's Arch
1.7 km
The last standing gateway of Dundee’s 16th-century city walls, echoing tales of plague, faith, and resilience.
Meeting House
1.7 km
Experience the serene ambiance of Meeting House, a historical church in Dundee, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
1.7 km
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.
Dundee Historic Environment Trust
1.7 km
Explore Dundee's rich heritage at the Dundee Historic Environment Trust, where history and environmental conservation come together.
Abandon Ship
1.8 km
Experience the unique maritime charm of Abandon Ship, Dundee's vibrant bar known for craft beers, cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere that's perfect for all.
Metalurgey
1.8 km
Explore your creativity at Metalurgey, Dundee's top tattoo and piercing shop, where artistry meets personal expression for everyone.
Discovery Walk Historical Walk
1.9 km
A bronze trail through Dundee’s history, celebrating local innovators and reformers whose ideas changed the world.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dundee Law
0.0 km
Dundee Law: A majestic extinct volcano offering sweeping 360° views, rich history, and tranquil nature atop Dundee’s highest point.
Dudhope Park
0.6 km
Historic charm meets vibrant recreation in Dundee’s scenic Dudhope Park, a green refuge with views and play for all ages.
Canon
0.8 km
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and rich history of the Canon in Dundee, a must-visit tourist attraction for every traveler.
Verdant Works Museum
1.0 km
Step into Dundee’s industrial past at Verdant Works Museum, where history, machinery, and stories of mill workers come alive in a beautifully restored jute mill.
Dundee Central Mosque
1.1 km
A vibrant spiritual and educational heart of Dundee’s Muslim community, welcoming worshippers and learners alike.
The Stack Retail Park
1.1 km
A bustling retail and leisure hub in Dundee’s Lochee area, offering popular stores and convenient shopping for all needs.
Gallery 48
1.3 km
A vibrant fusion of contemporary art and authentic Spanish tapas in Dundee’s Cultural Quarter, offering creative inspiration and culinary delight.
The McManus Collections Unit
1.3 km
Explore Dundee’s rich heritage through the hidden archaeological and natural history collections housed in a stunning historic Carnegie building.
Balgay Park
1.3 km
Historic hilltop park in Dundee offering scenic woodlands, panoramic river views, botanical gardens, and the unique Mills Observatory.
Wellgate Centre
1.4 km
Dundee’s central shopping hub blending budget retail, leisure, and community facilities in a multi-level city centre complex.
Victoria Park
1.4 km
A vibrant Dundee park blending historic charm, active sports, and tranquil green spaces for all ages to enjoy.
Dundee, One City Many Discoveries
1.4 km
Discover Dundee, Scotland’s vibrant city of discovery where rich history meets modern innovation on the scenic Firth of Tay waterfront.
Kingsway West Retail Park
1.4 km
A vibrant retail hub in Dundee offering diverse shopping, dining, and convenience from early morning till evening daily.
Queen Victoria Statue
1.4 km
Explore the exquisite Queen Victoria Statue in Dundee, a stunning tribute surrounded by lush gardens and rich historical significance.
The Howff
1.4 km
Discover Dundee’s historic Howff cemetery, a serene meeting place and burial ground with royal roots and rich artisan heritage.
Essential places to dine
Beiderbeckes Bistro
1.0 km
Eclectic bistro and gastropub in Dundee serving comfort food with vegan options in a lively jazz-inspired setting.
Kingsway Farm - Dining & Carvery
1.3 km
Classic Dundee pub serving hearty carvery meals daily in a warm, welcoming atmosphere on King's Cross Road.
The West House
1.4 km
A lively Italian restaurant and bar in Dundee’s Cultural Quarter, celebrated for quality dishes and creative cocktails in a stylish setting.
The Bach
1.4 km
A vibrant New Zealand-inspired bistro in Dundee offering fresh, made-from-scratch dishes in a relaxed and unique setting.
Tahini
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Lebanon and the Mediterranean in Dundee’s welcoming and lively Lebanese restaurant, Tahini.
The Barrelman
1.5 km
A vibrant Dundee bar and restaurant blending fresh Scottish flavors, craft cocktails, and live entertainment in a relaxed city centre setting.
Don Michele Italian Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm family hospitality combine at Don Michele, a beloved Dundee dining destination for pizza, pasta, and more.
Más
1.5 km
Authentic Mexican small plates and vibrant vegan options served in a lively Dundee setting with fresh flavors and handcrafted cocktails.
Pacamara Food & Drink
1.5 km
A Dundee favourite for specialty coffee and inventive brunch in a warm, wood-clad West End café.
Piccolo
1.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm bistro charm at Piccolo, Dundee’s intimate culinary gem on Perth Road.
Rep Restaurant
1.5 km
Savor fresh, locally inspired dishes in the heart of Dundee Rep Theatre’s vibrant cultural setting.
The Tayberry Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience Dundee’s finest with innovative dishes, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service at The Tayberry Restaurant.
The Giddy Goose
1.6 km
Lively family-friendly pizza restaurant on Perth Road, Dundee, offering diverse menus and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining and late-night socializing.
Medina Bar
1.6 km
A lively and welcoming bar and grill in Dundee’s cultural heart, perfect for casual dining, cocktails, and social gatherings.
Black Mamba
1.6 km
Stylish Asian-inspired tapas and cocktails in Dundee’s vibrant city centre, blending diverse flavors with a lively, relaxed atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Range, Dundee
1.2 km
A versatile homewares and lifestyle store in Dundee offering extensive products, a welcoming dog-friendly policy, and convenient shopping amenities.
B&M Store
1.4 km
Dundee's premier discount retailer offering exceptional value across home, health, and everyday essentials.
The Works
1.4 km
Discover unbeatable savings on books, toys, and crafts at The Works in Dundee’s bustling Wellgate Shopping Centre.
Essentials
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts, tobacco products, and metaphysical supplies at Essentials in Dundee's Keiller Shopping Centre.
The Katz Pyjamas
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and charming jewellery in a cozy boutique nestled in Broughty Ferry’s seaside charm.
Strawberryanarchy
1.5 km
Quirky independent boutique celebrating one-of-a-kind designer toys, jewellery, and artistic treasures.
Oxfam Bookshop
1.5 km
Discover a treasure trove of second-hand books and music at Dundee’s Oxfam Bookshop, supporting global poverty relief through every purchase.
River Island Clothing Ltd
1.5 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at River Island, Dundee’s stylish clothing store in the heart of Overgate Centre.
Lush Cosmetics Dundee
1.5 km
Discover handmade ethical beauty products in a vibrant sensory environment at Lush Cosmetics Dundee.
West Vintage Dundee
1.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainability at West Vintage Dundee, your go-to vintage clothing shop on Perth Road.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
1.5 km
Colorful Scandinavian gifts and creative essentials at unbeatable prices in Dundee.
The Keiller Centre
1.5 km
Discover The Keiller Centre, where shopping meets art and community in the heart of Dundee, Scotland.
The Windsor Gallery
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and decorative art treasures at Dundee’s charming Windsor Gallery, open daily for your creative inspiration.
Menkind
1.5 km
Discover quirky gadgets, unique gifts, and fun collectibles for men and everyone else at Menkind Dundee in the lively Overgate Centre.
WHSmith
1.5 km
A central Dundee shop blending books, stationery, crafts, and convenience essentials in a welcoming city-centre setting.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Snug Bar
1.1 km
A cozy, friendly bar in Dundee offering great drinks, local charm, and a welcoming atmosphere from morning till midnight.
Duke's Corner
1.3 km
A vibrant pub and live music venue in Dundee’s historic jute district, offering craft beers, artisan cocktails, hearty food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Tinsmith
1.3 km
A lively gastropub in Dundee blending award-winning food, extensive drinks, live sports, and vibrant social events in a welcoming setting.
BrewDog Dundee
1.4 km
A dynamic craft beer bar in Dundee blending bold brews, lively social events, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Old Bank Bar
1.5 km
Historic Dundee pub with ornate interiors, family-friendly booths, sports screens, and lively weekend DJs in a former bank building.
The Speedwell Bar
1.5 km
Experience Dundee’s finest Edwardian pub with historic charm, quality ales, and a warm, inviting atmosphere on vibrant Perth Road.
Tay Bridge Bar
1.5 km
Dundee’s lively sports bar offering great drinks, hearty pub food, and a welcoming atmosphere for fans and locals alike.
The Phoenix
1.6 km
One of Dundee’s oldest pubs, The Phoenix offers authentic Scottish ales, hearty food, and a warm, timeless atmosphere in the city centre.
KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
1.6 km
Dundee’s vibrant LGBTQ+ bar and nightclub offering lively drag shows, karaoke, and a welcoming atmosphere in the city center.
Tickety Boo's
1.6 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Dundee blending historic charm with hearty food, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Trades House
1.6 km
Historic Dundee pub with carved interiors, lively sports screens, and a welcoming beer garden in the heart of the city.
Draffens
1.6 km
Discover Dundee’s hidden gem—a cozy cocktail laboratory blending history, creativity, and intimate nightlife in Couttie's Wynd.
Market Bar
1.6 km
Lively and affordable pub and restaurant in Dundee’s city centre, known for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nether Inn
1.6 km
Lively and welcoming pub in Dundee’s city centre, famed for sports, live music, and great value shared plates in a vibrant student atmosphere.
The Pillars Bar & Lounge
1.6 km
Historic Dundee pub blending traditional charm with friendly locals, quality ales, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Afro Beats
1.2 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
Private Eyes
1.3 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Club Tropicana & Venga
1.3 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
AURA Nightclub
1.3 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Fat Sams
1.3 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
Underground
1.5 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
1.6 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
OUT Nightclub
1.6 km
A lively Dundee nightclub known for quality music, vibrant atmosphere, and a central spot on Seagate’s nightlife strip.
Rewind dundee
1.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant retro club nights and live local music at Rewind, a welcoming hub of nostalgia and nightlife energy.
Decades Bar & Nightclub
1.7 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Royal Night Club
20.4 km
Vibrant nightlife and lively DJ nights in the heart of Forfar’s historic Royal Hotel, complete with rooftop terrace and buzzing bar scene.
The Gig
25.4 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
De Vitos Nightclub
26.7 km
Dive into the electrifying nightlife of Arbroath at De Vitos Nightclub, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant music await you!
Club One
28.1 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
28.4 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Natural
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Protected Area
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly