When people think of Dundee attractions, places like the V&A Dundee, RRS Discovery, and The McManus often spring to mind. But tucked away within the University of Dundee is one of the city’s lesser-known gems – and it’s opening its doors throughout the summer.
The D’Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum will once again welcome visitors every Friday afternoon throughout June, July and August, offering a fascinating glimpse into the natural world and the legacy of one of Dundee’s most remarkable scientific minds.
Named after pioneering biologist and mathematician Sir D’Arcy Wentworth Thompson, whose groundbreaking work influenced generations of scientists, the museum houses an intriguing collection of animal specimens, skeletons, preserved creatures, and natural history displays that continue to captivate visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re a family looking for an educational day out, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who enjoys uncovering Dundee’s hidden attractions, the museum offers a unique experience right in the heart of the city.
Summer Friday Openings Return
The museum’s popular summer opening programme begins this month, with visitors able to explore the collection every Friday from 2pm until 4.30pm throughout June, July, and August.
Monthly Saturday openings will also continue, giving even more opportunities to discover this often-overlooked attraction.
Best of all, it’s one of those places that manages to surprise people. Many Dundonians don’t even realise it exists until someone points them in its direction.
And once they visit, they’re usually wondering why it took them so long.
Taking Part in Dundee Play Festival
The museum is also joining this year’s Dundee Play Festival, a city-wide celebration of creativity, imagination, and community led by ScrapAntics and the Dundee Play Forum.
As part of the festival, the museum team will be teaming up with the University Archives for a special event at the ScrapAntics Community Hub in the Wellgate Shopping Centre on Thursday 11 June.
Visitors can drop in between 12.30pm and 2.30pm to try a unique Dundee-themed reminiscence board game designed to spark conversations, memories, and stories about the city.
Whether you’ve lived in Dundee your entire life or have only recently arrived, it’s a fun and engaging way to explore the city’s rich history through play.
The event is designed for all ages and backgrounds, with organisers encouraging everyone to join in and share their own experiences of Dundee.
A Different Side of Dundee
One of the joys of exploring Dundee is discovering the attractions that don’t always make the front page of the guidebooks.
The D’Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum is exactly that sort of place. It’s educational without being stuffy, fascinating without being overwhelming, and offers a chance to connect with a remarkable chapter of Dundee’s scientific heritage.
On a summer afternoon, it makes for the perfect addition to a day spent exploring the city centre, university campus, or nearby cultural attractions.
After all, some of the best discoveries are the ones you weren’t expecting to find.
Visitor Information
D’Arcy Thompson Zoology Museum
📍 University of Dundee
Summer Friday Openings
📅 Every Friday throughout June, July and August
🕑 2pm – 4.30pm
Dundee Play Festival Event
📍 ScrapAntics Community Hub, Wellgate Shopping Centre (Level 2)
📅 Thursday 11 June
🕧 12.30pm – 2.30pm
For more information and booking details, visit the University of Dundee Museum Services website or Eventbrite.
