Shuffling the Deck

Dundee’s Poker Scene and the Big Names Behind the Chips

Poker might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Dundee—after all, the City of Discovery is better known for jute, journalism, and jam. But if you dig a little deeper, you’ll find a solid poker scene with a rich history, regular tournaments, and a few legends who have graced the tables over the years.

The Dundee Poker Scene And Where to Play

These days, if you’re looking for a proper poker game in Dundee, the Grosvenor Casino on West Marketgait is your best bet (pun absolutely intended). It’s the city’s main venue for live poker, hosting cash games and tournament series that draw in players from across Scotland. The NPL (National Poker League) Series is one of the standout events, bringing together a mix of local talent and traveling grinders looking to make their mark.

While Dundee might not have the sheer volume of games you’d find in Glasgow or Edinburgh, the poker community here is dedicated. The games range from casual low-stakes sit-and-gos to more serious multi-table tournaments (MTTs), ensuring there’s something for everyone—whether you’re a seasoned pro or just fancy a punt after a few pints.

Dundee’s Poker Legends, (Whose in charge, me or the devil..)

If we’re talking about notable names in Dundee’s poker history, we have to mention the late, great David “Devilfish” Ulliott. While he wasn’t a Dundonian himself (he hailed from Hull), Devilfish was a regular at the old Gala Casino in the late ’90s, when it was one of the hotspots for poker in Scotland. He was already a feared player back then, long before he became a household name through the televised poker boom of the early 2000s.

Devilfish’s charisma and sharp wit made him one of poker’s biggest personalities. He had that classic blend of old-school gambler and modern poker strategist—equally happy running a bluff or entertaining the table with his banter. If you were lucky (or unlucky) enough to share a table with him back in the day at the Dundee Gala, you’d have come away with a story, even if he took your stack in the process.

Rising Stars and Notable Players

While Dundee hasn’t yet produced a headline-grabbing, WSOP bracelet-winning superstar, the city has its fair share of sharp poker minds. Several local players have had solid results in UKIPT (UK & Ireland Poker Tour) events and deep runs in Scottish poker championships. Some even make the occasional trip to the bigger circuits in England or Europe.

With the rise of online poker, many Dundee-based players grind away at sites like PokerStars and GGPoker, cutting their teeth in online MTTs and cash games before taking their skills to the live felt. The hope is that one of them will emerge as Scotland’s next big poker star—perhaps even following in the footsteps of Scottish poker legends like Niall Farrell and Ludovic Geilich. Of course, whether playing online or in a casino, responsible gaming is key. These tips are taken from the Responsible Gaming page of an online casino review site: set limits, know when to walk away, and never gamble more than you can afford to lose.

Is Dundee the Next European Poker Hotspot?

Let’s be honest—Dundee probably isn’t about to rival Vegas, Monte Carlo, or even London as a poker hub. But what it does have is a strong community, a steady flow of good games, and a bit of history sprinkled in for good measure. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a recreational player looking for a friendly game, there’s always a seat at the table in Dundee.

And who knows? Maybe the next Devilfish is out there right now, grinding the NPL Series at Grosvenor, waiting for their big break. Just remember—if you find yourself all-in against a Dundonian who looks suspiciously confident, they probably aren’t bluffing.