The Best Pubs
View of Dundee

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The Best Pubs in Dundee

Forget the guidebooks, Dundee’s pub scene is a riot of character, from a legendary Edwardian time capsule with over one hundred malts to a spot where the scent of jerk chicken fuels the conversation and a place where you can battle at retro gaming between sporting events. Whether you crave a perfectly kept cask ale in a tiny traditional bar or a buzzing quiz night with a fiercely loyal local crowd, the city serves up unforgettable nights out in spades. Read on to discover the best pubs in Dundee.

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1. Artbar

140 Perth Road, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4JW

7.9

Artbar is a brilliant pub that buzzes with energy, thanks to a fantastic selection of craft beers and a lively soundtrack. Its low ceilings and cozy layout create an inviting spot that feels perfect for unwinding near the art college. This place is a true local gem, filled with happy memories and a warm, creative spirit that makes every visit feel special.

The Phoenix in Dundee

2. The Phoenix

103 Nethergate, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4DH

7.7

This is a great traditional pub known for its fantastic cask ale selection, including Timothy Taylor Landlord on tap. The food is excellent, with the Ganga fries described as something that "have to be eaten to be believed." It has a classic, unchanged look and is highly recommended, though it is noted as being very small.

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Speedwell Bar in Dundee

3. Speedwell Bar

165-167 Perth Rd, Dundee, Dundee City, DD2 1AS

7.5

Welcome to the Speedwell Bar, a magnificent Edwardian pub known to generations of locals as "Mennies." This listed gem is one of the finest examples of its era, featuring stunning mahogany fitments, etched glass screens, and even original shanks fitments in the toilets. You can enjoy an extensive range of draught beers with multiple guest cask ales, or explore their impressive collection of over one hundred different types of malt whisky. They also show all major live sporting events across their multi screen set up.

Photo by Stephen McKay — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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4. The George Orwell

168 Perth Road, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4JS

7.4

Step into The George Orwell, a pub that crackles with personality and a fiercely loyal local following. You can test your wits at the brilliant Monday night quiz, or catch the legendary DJ D Love during her monthly residency, spinning tunes that keep the regulars coming back. The staff are wonderfully friendly, and the carefully chosen selection of beer and spirits makes every visit feel like a discovery. This is a place where great music, good company, and a superb drink list come together for a truly special night out.

Bird & Bear in Dundee

5. Bird & Bear

2 Whitehall Crescent, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4AU

6.8

Step into the Bird & Bear, where the buzz of a proper local hangout meets the warmth of a welcoming crowd. This place truly comes alive with the incredible scent of Jerk Chicken filling the air, promising a bold and satisfying bite alongside your pint. It is the kind of spot where genuine conversation flows as freely as the drinks, making every visit feel like a small celebration. You will find a lively, unpretentious energy that makes it a true gem for a memorable night out.

Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

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6. The Braes

14/18 Perth Road, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4LN

6.8

The Braes is a buzzing hub that seamlessly blends a sports bar’s energy with a gamer’s hideout, making it the perfect spot to cheer on the match or battle friends at retro gaming. Fuel up on hearty, Southern inspired comfort food with generous portions, and wash it down with a rotating lineup of craft beers. If you are feeling bold, tackle their famously wild extra hot sauce or stop by on a Wednesday for wings at just 25p each. Coffee lovers can snag a reusable mug for a one time fee and enjoy free brews forever. It is a laid back, welcoming place where you can easily lose an afternoon watching the big game on their projector or meeting new friends over a quiz.

Trades House Bar in Dundee

7. Trades House Bar

40 Nethergate (Union Street), Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4ED

6.6

Welcome to the Trades House, a pub celebrated for its unique stained glass windows that showcase the city’s historic trades, from shipbuilding and baking to journalism. This is the place to catch all the top sporting action, with live football, rugby, F1, and darts shown on big screens throughout the year. The pub offers top notch amenities like a beer garden, free WiFi, and family friendly facilities, plus a lunch club with a dish and drink from just £8.95. You can also try a pint of Belhaven beer from Scotland’s oldest working brewery, or spin the wheel on the app for a chance to win a free main, drink, or dessert.

Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Bank Bar in Dundee

8. Bank Bar

7-9 Union Street, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4BN

6.4

The Bank Bar is the CAMRA Dundee Pub of the Year for 2025 and 2026. It offers a welcoming space where the Dundee Mountaineering Club meets every Thursday for those interested in climbing and hillwalking. You can enjoy real ales and live music during opening hours from Monday to Saturday 11am to midnight and Sunday midday to midnight.

Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Nether Inn in Dundee

9. Nether Inn

134 Nethergate, Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 4ED

6.2

Welcome to the Nether Inn, a bustling pub in the city centre and student district offering great value deals. You can catch all the action with TNT and Sky Sports on HD screens, plus enjoy weekly quizzes, student nights, and Sunday night live open mic sessions. The menu is served daily from 12-9pm, featuring lunchtime deals, burger and drink offers, and famous sharer plates. With a pool table, cocktail menu, and dog friendly policy, this pub has something for everyone.

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The Counting House in Dundee

10. The Counting House

67-71 Reform St., Dundee, Dundee City, DD1 1SP

6.2🌿 Outdoor seating

This award winning pub offers superb quality, choice, and value in both food and drink. The all day menu features an exciting mix of traditional meals and popular international dishes, with recent visitors praising the steak, real ale, and excellent Sauvignon Blanc. It provides outdoor seating and is known for its great value, making it a lovely and busy spot worth returning to again.

Photo by JThomas — CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons