Remembering Dundee at war - bombings, spies and murder in The Blackout
Civil & World Wars affecting Dundee. Black Watch, Fighter Writers, RRS Discovery at war, spy fever, murder, SOE, lost submarines and BAMSE dog!
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We will lead you safely through some of the numerous wars which have affected our city. You will encounter great courage, terrible betrayal, spy fever and a war time murder trial.​​​
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Scroll down to read more and to find out details of where to meet for this tour.
Learn how the city mobilised for total war and of how the workforce pulled together in support. We will discuss the boys of The Mars, The Black Watch, the men and women of The Unicorn and the Submarine bases of the First and Second World Wars.
Few realise that HMS Ambrose, Dundee, was the starting point for secret Commando and SOE raids on Norway.
Captain Scott's RRS Discovery was launched here in Dundee, in 1901. The ship’s story, which you will hear, included action in the First World War, involvement in the Russian Civil War and finally a significant role in the defence of London during the Blitz of World War Two.
The 4th Black Watch were “Dundee’s Own”. Every man was a volunteer. Learn of their courage and sacrifice in World War One.
HMS Unicorn takes the surrender of a German Submarine at the end of World War Two. Hear its fascinating story.
Dundee became a submarine base, when they first arrived in the Tay between 1908 and 1909.
Hear about the tragic story of Submarine C29, shown here.
Winner of the animal “George Cross” (PDSA Gold Medal) for courage. His story is uplifting.
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Bamse fought out of Dundee and Montrose, with the Norwegian naval forces.
Fighting Sea Dog, Bamse.
Tour details
This “wartime tour” is over a distance of approximately 1.9km and takes around two hours. Please be advised that this tour is a longer walk over more difficult terrain than the standard waterfront tour. Though much of the “wartime tour” is on the level, there are some ramps and the section around the submarine memorial has a few steps and some cobbles.
Although everyone is welcome, those using prams or wheelchairs should please have someone to assist them, or check in advance what arrangements they may require to make for themselves in order to fully enjoy the tour.
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Tours will go ahead irrespective of the weather. Please do take care to dress accordingly. You must have on stout waterproof footwear for your own comfort and safety. Dundee is situated at the Tay estuary, leading to the North Sea and the weather is changeable, however, it is the sunniest city in Scotland.
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Please note that your tour ticket price does not entitle you to entry to any of the attractions which we will view or discuss. We would however be glad to recommend that you do try to visit or investigate them for yourselves. Tour tickets are for sale online only. Sorry no refunds after ticket purchase.​
Meet outside Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa
Meet outside Apex City Quay Hotel & Spa (revolving door at harbour side), 1 West Victoria Dock Road, Dundee DD13JP