A visitor attraction all about discovery, RRS Discovery takes you on a journey to Antarctica in a three-masted Royal Research Ship, which was originally sailed by Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton.
RRS Discovery
RRS Discovery
Discovery Quay
Built in 1901 by the Dundee Shipbuilders Company, RRS Discovery cost £51,000 in total and was specially designed to travel in intense sea conditions. In fact, RRS Discovery was the first ship to ever be built for scientific research in Antarctica. Less than five months after it was built, the ship left Dundee and set sail for its destination.
Today, the ship is a true dedication to the two Antarctic expeditions taken by Scott and Shackleton. Across two decks and a galley, you’ll find an impressive array of artefacts – including Captain Scott’s pipe and rifle – and learn the complete tale of the British National Antarctic Expedition. This is a five-star accredited visitor attraction that has won numerous awards for its standards and entertainment value.
The pace is self-led, so you can take as much time as you need to peruse the fascinating information on board. It doesn’t end there though – the ship did make a number of journeys after this time, and all are explored at this fascinating visitor attraction.
In terms of what you’ll learn, the museum is split into nine zones, each dedicated to different aspects of the ship’s expeditions. Find out exactly how it was built, discover more about the lives of the men who sailed it, find out what scientific discoveries they made on the voyages and so much more.
While you’re there, make sure you take a break at Cafe at the Point, a modern and airy café offering snacks and hot meals all day. The food served here is high quality, sustainable and sourced locally. Truly immerse yourself in the Scottish food scene by choosing one of the traditional options, such as haggis, stovies and their famous black pudding. If you just want a quick coffee break, there is a great selection of hot drinks too. There is also a fantastic gift shop on-site, full of delightful treasures and specialist gifts.
If that isn’t enough excitement for you, RRS Discovery also hosts a photography exhibition every week, which is usually centred around landscape and travel photography.
Find RRS Discovery at Discovery Quay, a swift three-minute walk from our Dundee Centre Hotel. The opening times are Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm and Sunday, 11am-6pm in summer, and Monday-Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday, 11am-5pm in winter. You can also buy a joint ticket for RRS Discovery and its partner museum, Verdant Works.