09-05-2025
Scotland's 'sunniest city' with sandy beach and award winning fish and chips
It may not get the acclaim of the capital or Scotland's biggest city, but there's lots to like about this place.
Scotland has been enjoying good weather in recent days. The warm temperatures and sunny skies won't last forever, though, so it is important to make the most of it.
While most of the country has seen at least a bit of sun lately, there are certain areas that tend to experience more sunshine than others throughout the year. Those who want to maximise their exposure to good weather should spend as much time as possible in these sunny hotspots.
One of the places in Scotland that is known for its high levels of sunshine is Dundee, which sees an average of around 1,520 hours of sun per year. In fact, according to the Visit Dundee website, it is the "sunniest city in Scotland".
Dundee is located along the coast on the Firth of Tay estuary in the east of Scotland. The fourth-biggest city in the country, it is home to approximately 148,000 people.
Given its reputation as Scotland's sunniest city, there is thankfully plenty to get up to around Dundee to make the most of the good weather. The most notable is Broughty Ferry Beach in the suburb of Broughty Ferry, four miles east of the city centre.
Broughty Ferry Beach is an award-winning sandy bay that features incredible views out over the Tay Estuary to the north coast of Fife. It is a top destination for a day out, whether you're travelling with family or friends, with a huge expanse of sand to explore.
The beach is also a great destination for wildlife lovers, since it is home to a nearby nature conservation site. Visitors may be able to spot everything from seabirds to seals when walking about.
Broughty Ferry Beach also offers plenty of opportunities for water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and jet-skiing. It is important to note, however, that there is an animal exclusion zone on the beach between May and September in which dogs are not allowed.
Just off the beach is an esplanade featuring a crazy golf course and 'kiddicars', as well as picturesque flower beds. There is also the glass-fronted Urban Beach restaurant, which serves up a varied menu including burgers and fish dishes.
In addition to being recognised at Scotland's Beach Awards, Broughty Ferry Beach has also earned positive feedback from visitors. It currently has an overall rating of 4.5 out of five based on 688 reviews.
One beachgoer wrote: "Beautiful beach. Lovely bay and castle so much to see, easy access to Dundee, St. Andrews, golf courses , caravan parks, etc."
Another shared: "A really nice beach to visit during summer. Has cute cafés nearby and a park for children to play in."
While visiting the beach, it is worth walking up to the 15th-century Broughty Castle that dominates the landscape. Built to defend Scotland against the English navy, it is now home to a fascinating museum detailing the area's history.
Meanwhile, when the sun is shining, nothing compares to a fish supper by the coast. Fortunately, there are plenty of mouthwatering fish and chip shops dotted around Dundee.
One of these is the award-winning Silvery Tay, which has previously been recognised at the Scottish Chippy Awards. The family-run takeaway offers traditional suppers, with fresh fish sourced from local fish merchants.
Among the dishes available at The Silvery Tay are battered haddock, Icelandic haddock, and scampi. Also on offer is a selection of Porrelli Italian ice cream.
Recent reviews on Google have described The Silvery Tay as "amazing" and "lovely". Another satisfied customer wrote: "One of the best chippers, if not the best chipper, in Dundee".
More information about what visitors can get up to in Dundee on a sunny day can be found on the Visit Dundee website.
