The Howff: Dundee’s Historic Meeting Place and Cemetery
Discover Dundee’s historic Howff cemetery, a serene meeting place and burial ground with royal roots and rich artisan heritage.
The Howff is a historic cemetery and former meeting ground in Dundee, Scotland, established in 1564 when Mary Queen of Scots granted the land for burials. Once the garden of the Greyfriars Monastery, it features distinctive tombs and gravestones that reflect the city’s rich social and cultural history. The site also served as a gathering place for local craftsmen, adding a unique communal character to this tranquil and evocative heritage landmark.
A brief summary to The Howff
- 4 Meadowside, Dundee, DD1 1AA, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Take time to observe the intricate carvings and symbols on the gravestones, which reveal much about Dundee’s history and beliefs.
- Visit during daylight hours for the best experience of the tranquil atmosphere and to appreciate the details of the tombs.
- Combine your visit with other nearby Dundee heritage sites to deepen your understanding of the city’s past.
- Respect the solemn nature of the cemetery by keeping noise low and following any site guidelines.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services run from Dundee city center to Meadowside, near The Howff, with journey times around 10–15 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £1.50–£3.00. Buses operate frequently during the day but check schedules for evening and weekend services.
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Walking
From Dundee city center, walking to The Howff takes about 15–20 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible and suitable for most visitors, offering views of the city’s historic streets.
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Taxi
Taxis provide a quick and convenient option from anywhere in Dundee, with typical fares ranging from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day.
The Howff 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 The Howff
From Monastic Gardens to Sacred Burial Ground
The Howff occupies land that was originally the garden of the Greyfriars Monastery, founded in the medieval period by Devorgilla, mother of King John Baliol. The monastery was destroyed around 1547-1548 during the Reformation upheavals, and the garden grounds were later repurposed. In 1564, Mary Queen of Scots officially granted this land to the burgh of Dundee as a burial ground, marking the beginning of the Howff’s long history as a cemetery. This royal connection adds a significant historical depth to the site, linking it to Scotland’s turbulent religious and political past.A Gathering Place for Dundee’s Craftsmen
The name “Howff” is derived from an old Scots word meaning 'meeting place.' Beyond its function as a cemetery, the Howff was historically a social hub where Dundee’s craftsmen—such as weavers, bonnetmakers, and other tradespeople—would gather to discuss business and community matters. This dual role as both a burial site and a convening spot for local guilds imbues the Howff with a unique character, blending solemn remembrance with the lively pulse of civic life.Distinctive Tombs and Symbolism
Visitors to the Howff will notice the remarkable variety of gravestones, including Roman-style coffin tombs that stand out for their architectural elegance. Many stones bear traditional symbols such as skulls and crossbones, reflecting the memento mori theme common in post-medieval Scottish cemeteries. These motifs serve as poignant reminders of mortality and the passage of time, while the inscriptions and carvings tell personal stories of Dundee’s past residents, preserving local heritage in stone.An Atmosphere of Quiet Reflection Amidst History
The Howff today offers a tranquil environment in the heart of Dundee, where the interplay of history, architecture, and nature invites contemplation. The layout of the cemetery, with its rows of aged tombstones and mature trees, creates a peaceful setting that contrasts with the bustling city nearby. It remains a place where visitors can connect with the layers of Dundee’s history and appreciate the craftsmanship and stories etched into the stones.Preserving a Cultural and Historical Landmark
Managed with care, the Howff is recognized as an important heritage site, reflecting the social and religious evolution of Dundee over centuries. Its preservation allows ongoing exploration of the city’s past, from medieval monastic life through to the vibrant artisan communities of later centuries. The Howff stands as a testament to Dundee’s identity, combining elements of sacred space, community gathering, and historical record.Engaging with Dundee’s Past Through the Howff
Exploring the Howff offers insights into the lives of ordinary and notable Dundee citizens, their trades, beliefs, and customs. The site’s layered history—from monastery garden to burial ground and meeting place—makes it a compelling destination for those interested in Scottish history, genealogy, and cultural heritage. The Howff remains a unique window into the social fabric of Dundee across the ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Meeting House
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St Andrews Brewing Co. Caird Hall
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Discovery Walk Historical Walk
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Wishart's Arch
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Dundee War Memorial
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The Sinderins
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DD Tours
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Cox's Stack
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Unmissable attractions to see
The McManus Collections Unit
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Howff Secret Supper Club
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PILGRIMS FOR PEACE
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The Pancake Place
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Overgate Shopping Centre
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The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery & Museum
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Albert Square
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Albert Square
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Queen Victoria Statue
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Desperate Dan Statue
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Discovery Bach Cantata Project
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Escape Dundee
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The Hat
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The Jigsaw
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Essential places to dine
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The Barrelman
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The Bach
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Franks - Wine and Pasta Bar
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Gidi Grill, Dundee
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Milas
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Mexican Grill
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Tony Macaroni
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A lively Italian restaurant in Dundee offering generous portions and a vibrant atmosphere for families and groups in the city center.
Bellini Restaurant
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Bird & Bear
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The Flame Tree Cafe
0.4 km
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Vandal & Co
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The West House
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Rancho Pancho
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The Selkie
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Essentials
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New Look
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The Katz Pyjamas
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Strawberryanarchy
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The Keiller Centre
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Scottish Traditions
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Menkind
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Primark
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Lush Cosmetics Dundee
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River Island Clothing Ltd
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Keepsake Scotland
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Maisie and Mac Gifts and Contemporary Arts
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Quirky Coo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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BrewDog Dundee
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The Pillars Bar & Lounge
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Market Bar
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KANDY BAR & NIGHTCLUB
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The Phoenix
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The Tinsmith
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The Snug Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Club One
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Ice Factory Perth
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
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
