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The Courier
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Courier
I knocked the froth off a few at these Dundee pubs and bars - here's what I learned
Given that Dundee is known for its journalism, it's perhaps no surprise that the city is home to numerous pubs and bars. Fortunately, not all these venues are the tobacco-stained drinking dens of yesteryear. In fact, the City of Discovery's drinking scene boasts everything from rejuvenated institutions to lively music venues. That said, there are a handful of Dundee pubs and bars that stand head and shoulders above the rest. I put on my drinking boots and went to find out which of them are the city's best. The first pub I visit is the Star & Garter. This iconic establishment, which first opened in 1874, was inactive between 2018 and 2023 but had new life breathed into it by father-son duo John and Thomas Justice. This is evident from the moment I arrive. Several people are sat at the outdoor tables, making the most of the sunshine. Inside, the pub is traditionally decorated with a beautiful bar, decorative glass panels and leather seating. Many of the original fixtures are present and they add real character. Towards the rear of the pub is a wood-panelled whisky saloon that is absolutely stunning. John tells me there are '300 whiskies in the building and about 200 behind the bar'. Both rooms have a wonderful atmosphere, and several customers tell me how much they love the pub's old-school feel. The pub also serves many different beers, including real ale. The team do a great job of championing local Scottish beers from the likes of SaltRock Brewing and 71 Brewing. Customers who get hungry are also in luck; the Star & Garter sells pies produced locally by Harvey's Takeaway. On the day I visit, chicken tikka and leek and potato are just two of the options available. Address: 42 Union St, Dundee, DD1 4BE As a pub-bar-music-venue hybrid, Duke's Corner is noticeably buzzier than the other businesses I have visited. Here, live music is played every Friday and Saturday. Open mic sessions give brave customers an opportunity to show off their talents, while a Saturday night DJ provides ample excuse to dance. That said, it's clear that Duke's Corner has plenty to offer during day as well. I'm impressed by the range of beers offered by the pub. The blackboard behind the bar boasts an extensive list that includes a surprising number of sour and fruity tipples, including Vault City's rhubarb drizzle beer. It's not just beer drinkers who can try something new at Duke's Corner. Bar staff know how to make an impressive number of lesser-known cocktails. These include the kiwiido, a mix of vodka, lavender, apple juice, kiwi and soda. Whatever customers order, they are encouraged to enjoy them in the pub's extensive beer garden. The sheltered spot is a real suntrap during the long summer evenings. Address: 13 Brown St, Dundee, DD1 5EG Although it is one of the oldest pubs in Dundee, The Phoenix is also among the liveliest. It is packed when I visit just after 1pm on a Friday afternoon. As with several other pubs on this list, The Phoenix has lovely, old fittings and fixtures. But, along with the dark wooden seats and tables, the pub also has blaring rock music and more than its fair share of eye-catching oddities. A stag's head is mounted on the far wall and stained-glass windows cast multicoloured light across the drinkers. The blend of classic and quirky extends beyond just the décor. 'We've got quite an eclectic mix of customers,' owner Andy Robertson tells me. 'This makes the pub quite unique and very exciting.' He goes on to say that 'people come from far and wide for the real ale selection'. The Phoenix serves five cask beers. Two of these are unchanging stalwarts: Duke IPA from Swannay Brewery and Timothy Taylor's Landlord. The other three are rotating guest beers. 'The previous owner built up good relationships with local breweries,' Andy tells me. 'I've kept that going.' The Phoenix is also known for its famous chilli. Decidedly spicy, this dish is a fan favourite. Address: 103 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4DH To step into The Speedwell Bar on Perth Road is to be transported back to the early 1900s. A beautiful, L-shaped Edwardian mahogany bar dominates the main room while two lounges – front and back – are hidden from view by glazed etched glass screens. Mahogany dado panelling completes the lovely space. 'Everything you see is authentic,' owner Jonathan Stewart tells me. 'There's not many pubs like this around any more,' he adds. The luxurious feel of this Dundee pub is complemented by the drinks that are on offer. I spy three cask-conditioned ales and eight lagers on offer, along with numerous bottled and canned beers and ciders. Around 100 whiskies are also served here, including several premium options such as Glenesk 1984 and Coleburn 1981. 'We're seen as a destination pub, mainly because of our whiskies,' Jonathan says. The Speedwell Bar was named pub of the year in 2017, and it is not difficult to see why experts hold the pub in such high regard. From the design to the service, everything at The Speedwell Bar is of a timeless quality. Address: 165-167 Perth Rd, Dundee DD2 1AS Previously a bank, the Trades House is a spacious pub that nonetheless has an intimate feel. This is largely thanks to wonderful wooden interiors and beautiful stained-glass windows, both of which were fitted when the pub opened in the 1990s. Tom Maxfield, who has been coming to the pub since it opened, told me he kept coming back because 'it is such a friendly place'. Aside from a good crowd, the pub also has some 30 beer fonts, ensuring a huge variety – and volume – of beer can be served throughout the day. The Dundee pub also serves an impressive array of wine, including an English white wine and a 0% sparkling wine from Spain. Those abstaining from alcohol can also enjoy alcohol-free cocktails, including a ginger no-jito. Thanks to several TV screens that populate the space, the Trades House is a great spot for those wanting to watch sporting events. I'm told that many customers book tables in advance to ensure they get the best seats for specific matches. A wide range of pub grub classics – like fish and chips, steak and ale pie and scampi – ensure that drinkers don't have to head home hungry. Address: 40 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4ET
The Courier
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Courier
5 of the best pubs and bars in Dundee
Given that Dundee is known for its journalism, it's perhaps no surprise that the city is home to numerous pubs and bars. Fortunately, not all these venues are the tobacco-stained drinking dens of yesteryear. In fact, the City of Discovery's drinking scene boasts everything from rejuvenated institutions to lively music venues. That said, there are a handful of Dundee pubs and bars that stand head and shoulders above the rest. I put on my drinking boots and went to find out which of them are the city's best. The first pub I visit is the Star & Garter. This iconic establishment, which first opened in 1874, was inactive between 2018 and 2023 but had new life breathed into it by father-son duo John and Thomas Justice. This is evident from the moment I arrive. Several people are sat at the outdoor tables, making the most of the sunshine. Inside, the pub is traditionally decorated with a beautiful bar, decorative glass panels and leather seating. Many of the original fixtures are present and they add real character. Towards the rear of the pub is a wood-panelled whisky saloon that is absolutely stunning. John tells me there are '300 whiskies in the building and about 200 behind the bar'. Both rooms have a wonderful atmosphere, and several customers tell me how much they love the pub's old-school feel. The pub also serves many different beers, including real ale. The team do a great job of championing local Scottish beers from the likes of SaltRock Brewing and 71 Brewing. Customers who get hungry are also in luck; the Star & Garter sells pies produced locally by Harvey's Takeaway. On the day I visit, chicken tikka and leek and potato are just two of the options available. Address: 42 Union St, Dundee, DD1 4BE As a pub-bar-music-venue hybrid, Duke's Corner is noticeably buzzier than the other businesses I have visited. Here, live music is played every Friday and Saturday. Open mic sessions give brave customers an opportunity to show off their talents, while a Saturday night DJ provides ample excuse to dance. That said, it's clear that Duke's Corner has plenty to offer during day as well. I'm impressed by the range of beers offered by the pub. The blackboard behind the bar boasts an extensive list that includes a surprising number of sour and fruity tipples, including Vault City's rhubarb drizzle beer. It's not just beer drinkers who can try something new at Duke's Corner. Bar staff know how to make an impressive number of lesser-known cocktails. These include the kiwiido, a mix of vodka, lavender, apple juice, kiwi and soda. Whatever customers order, they are encouraged to enjoy them in the pub's extensive beer garden. The sheltered spot is a real suntrap during the long summer evenings. Address: 13 Brown St, Dundee, DD1 5EG Although it is one of the oldest pubs in Dundee, The Phoenix is also among the liveliest. It is packed when I visit just after 1pm on a Friday afternoon. As with several other pubs on this list, The Phoenix has lovely, old fittings and fixtures. But, along with the dark wooden seats and tables, the pub also has blaring rock music and more than its fair share of eye-catching oddities. A stag's head is mounted on the far wall and stained-glass windows cast multicoloured light across the drinkers. The blend of classic and quirky extends beyond just the décor. 'We've got quite an eclectic mix of customers,' owner Andy Robertson tells me. 'This makes the pub quite unique and very exciting.' He goes on to say that 'people come from far and wide for the real ale selection'. The Phoenix serves five cask beers. Two of these are unchanging stalwarts: Duke IPA from Swannay Brewery and Timothy Taylor's Landlord. The other three are rotating guest beers. 'The previous owner built up good relationships with local breweries,' Andy tells me. 'I've kept that going.' The Phoenix is also known for its famous chilli. Decidedly spicy, this dish is a fan favourite. Address: 103 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4DH To step into The Speedwell Bar on Perth Road is to be transported back to the early 1900s. A beautiful, L-shaped Edwardian mahogany bar dominates the main room while two lounges – front and back – are hidden from view by glazed etched glass screens. Mahogany dado panelling completes the lovely space. 'Everything you see is authentic,' owner Jonathan Stewart tells me. 'There's not many pubs like this around any more,' he adds. The luxurious feel of this Dundee pub is complemented by the drinks that are on offer. I spy three cask-conditioned ales and eight lagers on offer, along with numerous bottled and canned beers and ciders. Around 100 whiskies are also served here, including several premium options such as Glenesk 1984 and Coleburn 1981. 'We're seen as a destination pub, mainly because of our whiskies,' Jonathan says. The Speedwell Bar was named pub of the year in 2017, and it is not difficult to see why experts hold the pub in such high regard. From the design to the service, everything at The Speedwell Bar is of a timeless quality. Address: 165-167 Perth Rd, Dundee DD2 1AS Previously a bank, the Trades House is a spacious pub that nonetheless has an intimate feel. This is largely thanks to wonderful wooden interiors and beautiful stained-glass windows, both of which were fitted when the pub opened in the 1990s. Tom Maxfield, who has been coming to the pub since it opened, told me he kept coming back because 'it is such a friendly place'. Aside from a good crowd, the pub also has some 30 beer fonts, ensuring a huge variety – and volume – of beer can be served throughout the day. The Dundee pub also serves an impressive array of wine, including an English white wine and a 0% sparkling wine from Spain. Those abstaining from alcohol can also enjoy alcohol-free cocktails, including a ginger no-jito. Thanks to several TV screens that populate the space, the Trades House is a great spot for those wanting to watch sporting events. I'm told that many customers book tables in advance to ensure they get the best seats for specific matches. A wide range of pub grub classics – like fish and chips, steak and ale pie and scampi – ensure that drinkers don't have to head home hungry. Address: 40 Nethergate, Dundee, DD1 4ET
The Independent
06-02-2025
- The Independent
19 of the most beautiful beaches in Cornwall to visit this summer
The poster child of the British coastline, Cornwall, draws swarms of tourists to its shores each summer for good reason. From the golden sands of Summerleaze to Porthcurno and Crantock, the coastal county does beaches best. To ride a wave on a body board, pop a parasol or paddle in the often frigid waters of the English Channel, the staycation hotspot on the UK 's southwestern tip is a sand-sure hit with holidaymakers when the sun is shining. With more than 400 sandy swathes to bathe on between pasties, it can be hard to choose where to sink your toes along Cornwall 's 422-mile coastline. To help guide surfers, swimmers and sunbathers alike, here are some of the best Cornish beaches to lay your towel in the UK's ultimate seaside county. Best Cornwall beaches 1. Pedn Vounder Beach, St Levan With clear blue waters and pristine sands tucked under the Treen Cliffs, tidal beach Pedn Vounder feels more Caribbean than Cornish. A favourite swathe with the local naturist community, it's a hard hike down to the cove's lively rock pools and turquoise shallows but undoubtedly well worth the walk. Where to stay Book Bijou Bolthole for an airy seaside stay in Mousehole a short drive down the coast from Pedn Vounder beach. 2. Summerleaze Beach, Bude Bude's Summerleaze is a Blue Flag beach primed for watersports, saltwater swimming and surfing the waves. The expansive sands are a hit for families pitching up with a bucket, spade and some sand-crusted sandwiches in the summer, with beach huts bookable from £10 per day. Where to stay Stylish rooms at The Beach have sea views, balconies and hot breakfasts just steps from Summerleaze Beach. 3. Swanpool Beach, Falmouth On the outskirts of Falmouth, Swanpool Beach is a stretch of sand and shingle and a sheltered swimming spot for those braving a cool dip. In front of the Swanpool Lake Nature Reserve, the wildlife hotspot promises beachgoers some serious birdwatching between kayaking, windsurfing and ice creams in the beach cafe. Where to stay In Falmouth, Star & Garter offers cosy sea-view apartments a short stroll from Swanpool. 4. Watergate Bay, Newquay Craggy cliffs back the dog-friendly beach at Watergate Bay. Aside from the miles of golden sand for sunbathing and sandcastle construction, Watergate's waves and Atlantic swells host the English Nationals Surfing Championships and Boardmasters crowds come summer. Where to stay OYO Minerva Guesthouse sits in the heart of seaside Newquay with double sea view rooms ideal for surfers looking to catch a wave on the local beaches. 5. Sennen Cove, Sennen The sands at Sennen Cove are some of Cornwall's best for a beach holiday, with great waves, shops and cafes servicing the stunning western swathe just north of Land's End. Where to stay Sundowner drinks meet quirky seafront stays at The Old Success Inn, a 17th-century inn on Sennen Cove. 6. Porthchapel Beach, St Levan Lay a towel on Porthchapel to paddle in calm shallows and stretch out on a secluded Cornish cove – you may even spot a seal after making the journey down the narrow cliff path through a wooded valley and climbing the granite cliffs to the beach. Where to stay Cove View apartment sits 600m from Porthchapel for five guests to enjoy views over the rugged coastline and catch a performance at the open-air Minack Theatre. 7. Porthmeor Beach, St Ives Star of St Ives, Porthmeor's fine sands are ideal for rambles through rockpools and bodyboarding the breaks. Al fresco cafes have lunch sorted in summer with the Tate St Ives showcasing dynamic art exhibitions to take cover should the great British weather take a turn... Where to stay Stay at Sunnyside Retreat for a modern bungalow within walking distance of the best of St Ives coastal attractions. 8. Nanjizal Bay, St Just Looking to shake the crowds? Nanjizal Bay's clear waters and mystical sea cave pools make a great escape for beachgoers outside peak season. The Zawn Pyg, or Song of the Sea, rock arch is an impressive frame for sunset, especially in winter and at low tide. Where to stay Lands End Hostel and B&B is just a mile from Nanjizal Beach with guest rooms, a garden and full English breakfasts on the menu each morning. 9. Crantock Beach, Newquay Crantock Beach is a National Trust-owned expanse of golden sand between Pentire and West Pentire headlands. Lapped by a palette of blue waves and backed by high dunes the beach is a magnet for seabirds and surfers alike. Where to stay The Lewinnick Lodge is a boutique hotel a 25-minute walk from Crantock. Perched above the Pentire Headland cliffs, luxury rooms welcome sea vistas and seafood dishes wow in the onsite restaurant. 10. Pentire Steps Beach, St Eval Scramble down the cliffside to secluded Pentire Steps cove for fine, flat sand. The South West Coast Path runs close by for keen hikers to admire the view from above, with the better-known sea stacks of Bedruthan Steps just a cove away. Where to stay 11. Lantic Bay, Fowey Although shingly in spots, Lantic Bay is ideal for picnics and paddling near Polruan. At low tide splits into two smaller beaches: Little Lantic and Great Lantic Beach. Moor by boat in summer or make the challenging 20-minute walk to the crystal shoreline along the South West Coast Path or from the National Trust car park. Where to stay 12. Fistral Beach, Newquay Surf's up at Newquay's Fistral Beach. Bookended between dramatic headlands, the 'home of British surfing' is renowned for its wild waves, Atlantic swells and competitions on some of the UK's best breaks. Pipped as the county's answer to Bondi, here gold sands and surf schools are fringed by high-end seafood restaurants. Where to stay Esplanade Hotel overlooks Fistral Beach with onsite surf schools offering guests lessons just steps from their stylish rooms. 13. Kynance Cove, Lizard Point With serpentinite rock stacks, white sand and turquoise seas, Kynance Cove is famously one of Cornwall's best swathes when the tide is out. So much so the idyllic spot on the Lizard peninsula was recently seen on screen in House of the Dragon, with Queen Victoria and poet Alfred Tennyson among past visitors. Where to stay Haelarcher Farmhouse and Helicopter B&B in Lizard is well situated for day trips to Kynance Cove, with sea view rooms and a great breakfast spread. 14. Porthcurno Beach, Porthcurno Slap on some sun cream and head to Porthcurno to bathe on white sands sheltered from the wind and walk into turquoise waters. The backdrop to the famed open-air Minack Theatre, Porthcurno's dramatic shoreline is bookended by high headlands for dreamy beach days. Where to stay Studios at Saddle and Stable Rooms in Sennen have cosy doubles, kitchenettes and private outdoor seating areas for beachgoers and theatre fans. 15. Holywell Bay, Cubert Holywell Bay has all the spectacle and scenery of a Hollywood film – the golden sand and turquoise waters backed by high grassy dunes. Catch the mineral formations of St Cuthbert's Cave at low tide, dig in to build a sandcastle or hire a board to ride the waves offshore. Where to stay For four-star service, coastal views, spacious rooms and a seafood bar stay at Atlantic Hotel Newquay. 16. Constantine Bay, St Merryn A wide crescent of pale sand in St Merryn, Constantine Bay has rockpools to paddle and a rocky reef. The popular spot with surfers has some serious swells, connecting with sister beach Booby's Bay just across a rocky point at low tide. Better still, the boarding hotspot is dog-friendly year-round. Where to stay With affordable rooms, shared kitchen facilities and a sea view bar, the YHA Treyarnon Bay hostel sits a short walk from Constantine Bay. 17. Lusty Glaze, Newquay A privately owned sandy cove on the edge of Newquay, the golden grains of Lusty Glaze lap emerald shallows – and are open to the public and their pooches for no extra cost. The popular sunset spot often hosts weddings, open mic and DJ nights year-round featuring local and upcoming talent. Where to stay The Kilbirnie Hotel promises a modern stay in Newquay with an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a sauna and a secluded sun terrace less than a 10-minute walk from Lusty Glaze. 18. The Towans, Hayle Three miles of fine golden dunes in Hayle. The Towans is a haven for holidaymakers looking to lay out, kite buggy along the beach or stroll around the cliffs of Gwithian and Godrevy. Where to stay The Old Quay House is ideally placed for those looking to tan on The Towans, with panoramic views across the Hayle Tidal Estuary Nature Reserve, an onsite restaurant and comfortable double beds. 19. Trevone Bay, Trevone Blue Flag beach Trevone Bay buzzes with beachgoers, surfers and families in north Cornwall. Visit the bay's famous Round Hole, a huge collapsed sea cave just above, for views across to Harlyn Bay or stay on the sand for a dip in Trevone's tidal pool known as Tinker Bunny's Bathing Pool. Where to stay
