The Auld Tram
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Overview
The Auld Tram is a preserved horse‑drawn tramcar repurposed as a charming coffee and sandwich kiosk in Dundee’s city centre. Operated by Bridgeview Station, it sits on old tram rails along Commercial Street and offers museum‑style appeal paired with café convenience. It’s a living link to the city’s transport history, now serving gourmet teas, coffees, and freshly made sandwiches.
Bridging heritage and hospitality, the Auld Tram complements Bridgeview Station’s restaurant in giving Dundee a unique “grab & go” experience inside a piece of restored tram memorabilia.
History & Significance
The tram originally operated under Dundee & District Tramways in the late 1870s, before electric trams replaced horse trams.
Known as Tram Car No. 2, it was refurbished and repainted in the green and cream livery used in later years.
After retiring, it was stored, damaged by fire, cosmetically restored by preservation societies, and eventually acquired and converted for its current purpose.
In 2013, the tram was installed along Commercial Street beneath Bridgeview Station’s wing as a static café unit—tracks remain beneath it though the wheels no longer function.
This piece of Dundee transport heritage is preserved not just as an exhibit but as a working, walk‑up kiosk serving locals and visitors alike.
What They Serve
The Auld Tram menu is focused but high quality, drawing from Bridgeview’s award‑winning culinary team. Typical offerings include:
Hot artisan coffees & specialty teas
Soft drinks and seasonal beverages
Soup & bloomer sandwiches (menu rotates with seasons)
Freshly made sandwiches prepared to order
Vegan, vegetarian, and dietary options
Customers often note the authentic tram aesthetic, the tactile experience, and the cosy “nostalgic café” feel even while in the heart of the city.
Location & Access
Address: Commercial Street, Dundee, DD1 2AT (on site of Bridgeview Station)
Access & Walking Routes:
Right in the city centre, easy walk from Union Street, High Street, the V&A, and Dundee station
On public transport routes, near bus stops
Located on historical tram tracks on Commercial Street for visual appeal
Hours of Operation:
Typically open 08:00 – 16:00 daily (check current hours with Bridgeview Station)
Sundays or special closures may apply
Visitor Experience & Atmosphere
A distinct blend: heritage tram meets café setting
Compact seating or leaning area around the kiosk, ideal for takeaway or quick breaks
Interiors styled to evoke tramcar charm — wood finishes, vintage touches
Ideal for museum tourists, office workers, and shoppers seeking a classic Dundee bite
Often praised for its sandwich quality, warm soup, and strong coffee
Connection to Bridgeview Station
The Auld Tram is part of the Bridgeview Station dining experience. Bridgeview, located on Dundee’s waterfront near the V&A, is housed in a restored Victorian station building. The restaurant and the tram kiosk work in tandem:
The tram serves light, quick‑serve food in the city centre
Bridgeview’s full restaurant offers sit-down meals with waterfront views
The chef team behind Bridgeview designs the Auld Tram’s sandwich and soup menu
The tram adds heritage presence and footfall, enhancing Bridgeview’s brand offshoot
Thus, Auld Tram is both a standalone attraction and a mouthpiece of Bridgeview’s culinary vision.
Why Visit the Auld Tram?
It’s living history — not just a museum piece but a functioning café inside a restored horse tram
Perfect for a quick, quality sandwich or soup while exploring Dundee centre
Offers a unique photo opportunity and local story — “where else do you drink coffee from a tram?”
Complements a visit to Bridgeview or the waterfront sector
Strong pull for locals, tourists, railway/transport enthusiasts, and heritage lovers
FAQs
Does the tram still run?
No — it’s now static. Tracks remain visible under it, but it functions as a stationary café kiosk.
Is there seating?
Limited; mostly takeaway or street-side leaning. For full dining, Bridgeview Station is nearby.
Are vegetarian or vegan options offered?
Yes — menu rotates and includes vegetarian/vegan choices.
Is the tram part of a museum?
While not a formal museum exhibit, it is a preserved historical tram and tied to the city’s tram heritage.
Do they take card payments?
No — Cash only.
