V&A Dundee is Scotland’s first design museum, on the River Tay waterfront. Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the building to evoke Scotland’s rugged coastline, so the exterior is part of the visit. Inside, the free Scottish Design Galleries trace design past and present, with objects including Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s restored Oak Room, reconstructed from more than 700 original parts. Changing exhibitions cover design from Scotland and around the world. The museum also has a café with views over the Tay.
A museum shaped by its waterfront
V&A Dundee opened in 2018 as Scotland’s first design museum and the first V&A museum outside London. It stands on the River Tay at 1 Riverside Esplanade, beside Dundee’s waterfront and close to RRS Discovery.
Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the building with the cliffs of Scotland’s east coast in mind. Its two linked, inverted-pyramid forms separate at the base and join higher up in a twisting shape. The exterior is a draw in its own right, and the museum’s position makes the building easy to see along the waterfront.
Scottish design and the Oak Room
The permanent Scottish Design Galleries are free to enter. They explore Scottish design across different periods, with objects and ideas connected to subjects such as textiles, ceramics, illustration, architecture and furniture. The displays place Scottish work in conversation with design from elsewhere, and cover both historical and contemporary creativity.
Look for the Oak Room, Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s Art Nouveau tearoom interior. It was rebuilt from more than 700 original parts, including its oak panels. The room gives the galleries a close-up view of Mackintosh’s design, set within a museum whose own architecture makes a striking contrast.
Changing exhibitions and a café by the Tay
Alongside the Scottish Design Galleries, the museum has spaces for temporary exhibitions. Their subjects change, with past exhibitions covering fashion and textiles, among other areas of design. Check what is on before your visit if a particular exhibition is part of your plan; temporary shows may have an admission charge even though the permanent galleries are free.
A café and restaurant are inside the museum. The café has views across the River Tay, and outdoor seating is available in warmer weather. Free daily tours provide another way to learn about Dundee’s history while visiting the building and galleries.
FAQ
Is V&A Dundee free to enter?
The permanent Scottish Design Galleries are free. Temporary exhibitions may require a paid ticket.
What should I see at V&A Dundee?
Look for the Scottish Design Galleries, Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s restored Oak Room and the building designed by Kengo Kuma.
Who designed the V&A Dundee building?
Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed it. Its form draws inspiration from Scotland’s rugged coastline.
Are there tours at V&A Dundee?
Free daily tours cover Dundee’s history.
