Discovery Point
Discovery Point
4.5
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
MADE IN DUNDEE | DESIGNED FOR ADVENTURE Discovery Point is home to the world famous Antarctic research vessel RRS Discovery. This award-winning visitor attraction tells the story of the Discovery, from her beginnings in Dundee in to her amazing Antarctic expedition and her voyages thereafter. Follow in the footsteps of Captain Scott and his heroic team at Discovery Point! Find out about the Heroes of the Ice who braved the harsh conditions of the Antarctic and hear their stories first hand. As you explore the self-led museum at your own pace you will: Enter the shipyard and find out how and why Discovery was built Learn about the first voyage of Discovery to the most inhospitable place on the earth Walk in the footsteps of Heroes and climb aboard one of the most incredible ships ever built Find out about ‘Scott of the Antarctic’ and explore the crews quarters and the Officers Wardroom Discover more about the ships voyages and journeys after The Discovery Expedition. Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique Discovery themed items or your very own cuddly toy Emma Penguin. There is also a cafe on site with something for all tastes.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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- Liz ABradford, United Kingdom708 contributionsAn enjoyable few hours spentI went to Discovery Point as part of a coach trip with Lochs and Glens. I found all the staff to be very friendly and helpful and it was a very interesting experience. I thought walking around the ship was great and a real privilege and I also enjoyed my visit to cafe there.Hi Lizzie, thank you for your generous review!Written 4 January 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited December 2022Travelled soloWritten 25 December 2022
- GlasgowVegasGlasgow, United Kingdom44 contributionsIt's good but could be so much betterSuperb location. It looks amazing from outside. Visitors centre inside is ok to be honest. Not a lot to see and a bit disappointing how thin it is. There is a great story to be told here and I don't think it conveys it. Discovery the boat. Awesome, it's been saved and put in a dry dock but I'd like to see a bit more history. Perhaps a audio tour or some more to read. Thanks, but could be so much better.Hi, Thank you for taking the time to review your recent experience with Discovery Point. And I am sorry to see you did not feel you had the experience we wish all our visitors to have. The ticket price allows for a full visit to the museum, which currently features over 150 objects on permanent display and several temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The museum also has over 20 audio-visual displays and hands-on interactives for all ages. The star attraction is, of course, the RRS Discovery herself. The ticket price includes full access to all her deck levels and the chance to spend as long as you wish walking in the footsteps of famous explorers such as Captain Scott, Ernest Shackleton and Douglas Mawson. Your ticket automatically entitles you to a free annual pass which allows as many return visits as you wish within a 12-month period at no extra cost. If you have any particular questions that arose during your visit that you feel were not covered by the displays or audio-visuals please feel free to email our education officer, who will be happy to answer: education@dundeeheritage.co.uk Discovery Point is operated by Dundee Heritage Trust, a not-for-profit, independent charity that generates 94% of its annual running costs through various activities, including ticket sales. This income is used to support the conservation and preservation of the world-famous polar ship RRS Discovery and its associated collections held within the museum. This helps us to ensure the history of the ship is not lost now or for future generations. Your admission costs really do make a difference for us.Written 14 February 2023This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited February 2023Travelled with familyWritten 11 February 2023
- Rosemary MStirling, United Kingdom39 contributionsWell worth a visitJust across the road from the railway station and next to the Dundee V&A. The tour of Discovery is worth going for on its own. Fascinating to see of the early discoverers lived in very cramped quarters and extreme conditionsVisited February 2023Written 18 February 2023
- SL510Ayr, United Kingdom140 contributionsBrilliantI was initially sceptical but what a place this is. You could easily spend all day here in the museum/visitors centre, totally immersed in the history of the time. It really makes you proud that Dundee and our country was at the forefront of polar exploration. What these men managed is nothing short of sheer brilliance. After exploring the interactive rooms and watching several short videos, it have you sufficient detail to then step aboard and explore the ship itself. Discovery is a work of beauty and it’s a testament to the staff and the charity she is at pride of place today. A stone throw from Dundee train station and literally next door to the V&A, what are you waiting for?!Visited February 2023Travelled soloWritten 21 February 2023
- DollyBirdScotland458 contributionsPride of DundeeI was here as a young teen twice where it had left a huge impression on me. The ship is still as beautiful and the museum is still great [although I remember a piece of Antarctic ice being in a beautiful glass pyramid being there]. Has a good combination of high quality films to give the history and then more traditional story boards and exhibits. You can feel the sense of pride and love over this Dundee built ship and the city's contribution to early Antarctic exploration. Will definitely be back with the family as I want to do my Xmas shopping in the museum shop. Also has very reasonable priced Scandi like cafe which cured me hangover with the chicken noodle soup.Visited February 2023Written 23 February 2023
- GWoolfeScarborough, United Kingdom81 contributionsA must seeAbsolutely overjoyed with my visit to Discovery Point and onboard RSS Discovery. I didn’t know anything about Antarctic exploration and the museum gives a fascinating insight into this piece of history. The museum is laid out so well that it truly transports you to the era and tells a fascinating story. That being said, I enjoyed the first part of the space more, as I felt it got a bit confusing learning about the Discovery in later life. There is a lot of interaction with videos to watch and it feels like a great place to visit either solo or with a family. It was great to go onto the RSS Discovery, although I felt there could have been a little bit more information points and I was left wondering what I was looking at times. Lovely staff on the front desk, shop and in the cafe. This is 100% worth the price, with a joint ticket available to the Verdant Works and the price is for an annual ticket, which is great.Visited February 2023Written 4 March 2023
- Jethro6721,046 contributionsPhenomenal exhibition and learning experienceWorld class exhibition. Phenomenal, you'll need 2hrs here - at least. Even better than I imagined. I was really rushing and there's a lot to read and watch and was struggling to complete it all in 90 minutes. Extremely educational for all ages. One of the best exhibitions I've been to. Well done to everyone involved. Unfortunately I never had time to go up into the dome and you'll need to book a slot for this. This is one of the many reasons to come and visit DundeeVisited March 2023Travelled soloWritten 11 March 2023
- 797dennispMontrose, United Kingdom30,369 contributionsA most fascinating ship !!This trip to see the Discovery should best be done on a beautiful summer's day but my visit in September was close to perfect could be. The Royal Research Ship Discovery was one of the last wooden three-masted, barque rigged sailing ships to be built in Britain. As a major whaling centre Dundee’s shipyards had long experience of constructing ships robust enough to travel through the Arctic pack ice. Over 100 years after this ship was built it is now back home resting in Dundee.Visited September 2022Written 30 March 2023
- Josepha M148 contributionsSee the ship that took Scott and Shackleton to the AntarcticI have always been fascinated by the stories of the exploration in the Antarctic so was very excited to see the ship, Discovery, which took Scott and Shackleton there in 1901. The ship was inspiring especially seeing the dining saloon and the cabins. However the ship is in poor condition and needs money spent on it. Would be a worthy National Lottery project. There are extensive exhibitions about the construction of the ship and the lives of the men on the ship.Visited April 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 11 April 2023
- thegreenkiwisSheffield, United Kingdom100 contributionsA must-do in Dundee - fantastic exhibition, ship and unexpected extra finale!An absolute must-do in Dundee (even though it hadn't been on the list before we went)! Fabulous location next to the V&A. The exhibitions are really well done and, along with several short films, provide a great insight into the Discovery’s Antarctic journey. I knew various bits of Scott and Shackleton’s adventures but it pulled them altogether for me. Being able to walk around the ship was a huge thrill – it would have been anyway but was all the more so for having understand its history and adventures. I loved the Officers’ Wardroom and cabins, and being on deck admiring the masts and rigging. There was an unexpected finale, needing to be time-slot booked (free) but definitely not to be missed. On the top floor, the Discovery Dome was opened last year and now houses a permanent Gaia (the World installation by Luke Gerram), which I’d been planning to try to see on its tour around the country sometime! There’s a 7-minute soundtrack for it, followed by a film about the development of Dundee, before the blinds are lifted for a spectacular 360 degree view of the city and river. Would 100% recommend a visit!Visited April 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 15 April 2023
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4.5
2,315 reviews
Excellent
1,679
Very good
542
Average
77
Poor
14
Terrible
3
MrsW1608
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK92 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
A great day trip from our Lochs and Glens holiday. Discovery Point museum holds many interesting facts and artifacts about Captain Scott and his crew’s mission to the Antarctic. There are 2 screens with films before and during their hazardous journey. The ship itself was brought back to Dundee and restored. She is berthed just outside and you can go onboard to see where the crew slept and the conditions they lived in.
I can remember being told Captain Scott’s story but this really brings it to life.
I can remember being told Captain Scott’s story but this really brings it to life.
Written 25 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5 star review! We're so glad you enjoyed your voyage and hope to welcome you back soon.
Written 29 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Viva-Vampira
Edinburgh, UK23 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
A wonderfully curated little exhibition on Captain Scott, Shackleton and Artic exploration. The information was presented well, videos very well made and a treasure trove of artefacts which were fascinating. Throughout they had placed interactive displays for children and families to enjoy which were also educational and tied in well with the history of the expedition. A wonderful little gem of a museum. A special mention for Derek on the front desk who was so kind, helpful and good humoured with us on our trip. He was a star!
Written 17 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! We're so glad you enjoyed your voyage and hope to welcome you back soon.
Written 29 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jackie H
United Kingdom1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Family
Discovery Point was great - very interesting and there were also things that children could do which kept them interested. The ship was fantastic and really interesting. Afterwards (3pm) we went to the cafe for a hot bite to eat or soup (it was a cold day). We were told by the staff in the cafe that they had stopped serving hot food and could only offer hot drinks and cakes. We were so disappointed and hungry. Due to travelling we didn't manage to get lunch before we arrived. Instead we left Discovery Point and went to McDonalds for lunch instead. An absolute disgrace to stop serving hot food in the middle of the afternoon, especially at the weekend.
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! We are so glad you enjoyed your visit around the museum and will pass your feedback on.
Written 29 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Sam B
Glasgow, UK31 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
My wife and I went here and spent 3 hours exploring the history of captain Scott's ship discovery. Well worth a visit.
Written 11 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5 star review! We're so glad you enjoyed your voyage and hope to welcome you back soon.
Written 29 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
hespenal
4 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
This is one of Dundee's jewel in their crown. An excellent venue very well put together and we would encourage everyone who can to gift aid this venue.
The various interactive exhibits, and the static ones give great depth to Scott and his story. Not forgetting the story of the rest. The ship itself has clearly been cared for well, though in need of more care as it ages, but then again, don't we all!
With the pass lasting upto a year, this is a more than value for money venue where you can hide from the bad weather or keep the kids entertained. A very well rounded experience that we will be sure to revisit on our next adventure
The various interactive exhibits, and the static ones give great depth to Scott and his story. Not forgetting the story of the rest. The ship itself has clearly been cared for well, though in need of more care as it ages, but then again, don't we all!
With the pass lasting upto a year, this is a more than value for money venue where you can hide from the bad weather or keep the kids entertained. A very well rounded experience that we will be sure to revisit on our next adventure
Written 4 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much for your 5 star review! We're so glad you enjoyed your visit and hope to welcome you back for many more voyages.
Written 6 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
glitrberi
USA84 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
It was really neat being on a ship that went on an Antarctic exploration. Closest I'll probably ever get to going on one! I really enjoyed learning about the ship, the men and the journey they went on to explore a part of the world not many get to see.
Written 26 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We're very glad that you enjoyed your visit and hope to welcome you back soon.
Written 30 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mark
Sheffield, UK505 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
It always caught my eye when passing so we had a chance to call and take a closer look.The start gives a good history to the ship, and it's famous crew, lots of interaction for the kids before even reaching the ship. The size and scale of the ship is amazing and the history behind it goes hand in hand.Lots to see above and below decks with areas kept as they were all those years ago, you get a real sense of history.Its looking it's age in places but works are ongoing to restore where needed, not that would take away the enjoyment of the visit, in all a great insite into the past.
Written 19 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review! We're so glad you enjoyed your visit. If you would like to keep up to date with what urgent conservation and restoration works are being undertaken aboard the ship, please do follow our social media; @discoverydundee. Thank you!
Written 25 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
James Knowles
36 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
This was a really cool museum and I wish I'd spent more time there. The ship was really cool to see as well as the video at the end!
Written 10 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5-star review! We're so glad you enjoyed your visit and hope to welcome you back with your annual pass soon.
Written 16 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jean M
Glasgow, UK8 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Visited this venue 5 years ago and were not disappointed with our return today. Such a superbly organised space with knowledgeable and friendly staff (and a lovely cafe). There’s so much to take in one visit doesn’t actually suffice. We bought a joint ticket with the Verdant jute museum in advance and saved a lot of money (you can return within a year to these venues for free if you keep your card). Naturally seeing round the Discovery ship was a highlight and quite awe-inspiring. I’d recommend anyone to go to Discovery Point - you’ll never think about snow the same way again!
Written 6 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your 5-star review! We are glad that you enjoyed it and will pass your lovely words onto our staff.
Written 9 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
KDF4
Glasgow, Scotland, UK271 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
This was unexpectedly brilliant. The museum was so interesting and the Gaia display in the dome is unmissable. Then to actually get on the ship was fantastic. Do not miss this experience if you go to Dundee.
Written 4 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your 5-star review! We really appreciate it and are glad that you enjoyed your visit so much.
Written 9 October 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LJSpence
Edinburgh, UK35 contributions
What’s the difference between Discovery Point and the ship?
Ali
Dundee, UK
Discovery Point is the name given to the visitor centre housing the museum, shop, cafe as well as conference and events facilities. Access to Discovery Point and the Royal Research Ship Discovery is included in one ticket. The museum tells the story of the ship, her crew, her voyages includes a large number of films, games and over 150 historical objects. as you finish your journey through the museum you arrive on the quayside and go on board the ship to explore all her decks and discover what life was like on board. The average visit time for is between 2 and three hours but many visitors will spend much more time. We have a large cafe on site as well as an outdoor picnic area. Hope to have you visit soon.
How long does it take to walk round the ship?
Ali
Dundee, UK
Hi, as it is a self-guided visit the time taken is really down to the individual. Currently our average is between 2 - 3 hours but some visitors will take less and others much much longer. Remember a free annual pass is included in all admissions so anything you want to spend more time enjoying you can return and view for free as many times as you want for 12 months.
Soulihull1
9 contributions
Are dogs allowed?
Ali
Dundee, UK
Hi, only assistance dogs are allowed in the museum and on board the Discovery.
gerryblair57
Te Henga (Bethells Beach), New Zealand
What is the entrance fee
Gordon H
Valencia, Spain369 contributions
The main cost is £11.25 however I received a concession as a retiree at £8.75. Children go for £6.25. Not sure of the conditions but there is a Family Ticket at £30
gerryblair57
Te Henga (Bethells Beach), New Zealand
What is the entrance fee
Patricia G
11 contributions
We had a joint ticket with Verdant Works booked on line . Concession £13 adult £18.25. Verdant works is an excellent museum not to be missed. Museum websites give you full details.
Peggy B
London16 contributions
Hi I am planning to visit Discovery Point on Thursday or Friday next week. Do you think we should book in advance or is there a good chance of buying tickets when we turn up? Peggy
June P
Cleethorpes, UK72 contributions
I just turned up just before it opened and went straight in before any groups arrived. Did not book in advance.
yunyils
Hong Kong, China14 contributions
What is the opening hour?
Lorna D
Aberdeen, UK56 contributions
Depends on season:
Summer opening
April – October
Mon – Sat - 10am-6pm (Sun 11am)
Winter Opening
November – March
Mon – Sat - 10am – 5pm (Sun 11am)
Closed 25th & 26th December and 1st & 2nd January
NB. last admission 1 hour prior to closing
Helen S
2 contributions
how much does it cost for car parking
Dundee Heritage T
Dundee, UK
Hi Helen. The Parking at Discovery Point is in a Dundee City Council run car park next to us. The cost is £2.00 for 2 hours. There are options to increase your time if needed.
As with all council car parks, parking is free if you have a blue badge.
We are only a 5 minute walk from Dundee City Centre and its hotels if you would prefer to walk down.
Thanks,
Mark Munsie
General Manger
Discovery Point
Thebrushinverness
United Kingdom1,287 contributions
We are in Dundee overnight next week to visit my daughter, she has to work on Friday, thought Discovery Point might be an interesting place to take my 22 year old Autistic son. He usually enjoys museums etc.
First question is will it be open next Friday the 27th November and if so what time does it open?
My son is disabled and has concession cards for the bus and also for getting in to attractions in the Highlands will we be entitled to any concession on entry for him if we bring these card?
If hope it is open as I think this is something we will enjoy.
Thebrushinverness
United Kingdom1,287 contributions
Been and enjoyed it very much. Filled in the form for the season ticket.
Christine F
Zurich, Switzerland12 contributions
Correction: Of course, Scott and his crew went to the South Pole, not the North Pole! C.F.
maggie672015
Darlington, UK93 contributions
Capt. Robert Falcon Scott & his team made their first Antarctic expedition in 1901, reaching further SOUTH than anyone before in the research ship `Discovery.` On returning he planned the attempt to be the first to reach the SOUTH POLE. He & his team sailed from Cardiff, Wales in 1910 on the whaling ship `Terra Nova`. With great difficulty the expedition reached the SOUTH POLE only to find they had been beaten by a Norwegian party led by Roald Amundsen.
The SOUTH POLE is at the bottom of the earth, the NORTH POLE is at the top. (where Santa Claus lives).
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Claim your listingDISCOVERY POINT: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Discovery Point
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