High St, Dundee DD1 1SG

Desperate Dan Statue

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Desperate Dan Statue: A Must-See Tourist Attraction in Dundee, Scotland

Dundee, a beautiful city situated on the east coast of Scotland, is a hub of cultural and historical attractions. However, among all the must-visit places in Dundee, the Desperate Dan Statue stands out as an iconic tourist attraction that has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike. From its imposing figure to its unique background, this statue is undoubtedly a must-see attraction in Dundee.

The Desperate Dan Statue is a bronze statue of a fictional character known as Desperate Dan. The character first appeared in the popular British comic book "The Dandy" in 1937 and has since become a beloved icon of British culture. Created by Dudley Watkins, the character is known for his enormous strength and his love for cow pies. The statue of Desperate Dan stands tall and proud in the city centre of Dundee, and it is a testament to the city's heritage.

The statue was commissioned by D.C. Thomson, the publishers of "The Dandy," and was unveiled in 2001. Since then, it has become a favourite tourist attraction in Dundee. The statue stands at 5.2 metres tall and weighs approximately 5 tonnes. It is an impressive sight to behold, and visitors cannot help but be awed by its size and stature.

The statue is located in the heart of Dundee, in the city's High Street. This makes it easily accessible to tourists and locals alike, and it is a perfect place to start exploring the city. The statue is situated in a prime location, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can take a break from exploring the city and relax on one of the benches located near the statue, enjoying the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Desperate Dan Statue has become a symbol of Dundee's culture and heritage. It has also become a popular meeting point for locals and visitors. Whether you are looking for a place to rest, to take photos, or to meet up with friends and family, the statue of Desperate Dan is the perfect place to do so.

If you are visiting Dundee, the Desperate Dan Statue should be on your list of must-see attractions. Its unique background, imposing figure, and prime location make it a perfect place to start your exploration of Dundee. The statue is a true icon of British culture, and it is an experience that you will not forget. So, come to Dundee and experience the charm and culture of this beautiful city, with the Desperate Dan Statue as your guide.

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Mark Anderson

Things to do nearby



Desperate Dan is a beloved comic book character from the UK, and his statue stands tall in the town of Dundee, Scotland. For tourists visiting Dundee, the Desperate Dan Statue is a must-visit attraction. But what else is there to do in the area? Here are some places and things to do nearby the Desperate Dan Statue from a tourist perspective.

1. Visit the McManus Galleries: Located just a short walk from the Desperate Dan Statue, the McManus Galleries is a must-visit destination for art lovers. The gallery features a wide range of exhibitions, including contemporary art, historical artifacts, and interactive displays.

2. Explore Dundee Contemporary Arts: If you're looking for a more contemporary art experience, head to Dundee Contemporary Arts. This modern gallery features cutting-edge exhibitions from local and international artists, as well as a cinema and a cafe.

3. Take a walk along Dundee's waterfront: Dundee's waterfront has undergone a major transformation in recent years, and now offers a beautiful walkway along the River Tay. Take a stroll along the waterfront to see stunning views of the river and the city skyline.

4. Visit the V&A Dundee: The V&A Dundee is a world-class museum of design, featuring a collection of over 500,000 objects from around the world. The museum's striking design, inspired by the cliffs of the Scottish coast, is a work of art in itself.

5. Enjoy some outdoor activities at Camperdown Park: Camperdown Park is a large park located just a short drive from the Desperate Dan Statue. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, including a golf course, a wildlife center, and a playground for children.

6. Learn about the history of Dundee at the Discovery Point: The Discovery Point is a museum located on the waterfront, dedicated to the history of Dundee's seafaring past. Visitors can learn about the city's connection to the Antarctic explorer Captain Scott and see his ship, the RRS Discovery.

7. Take a tour of the Dundee Law: The Dundee Law is a prominent hill overlooking the city. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hill to learn about its history and enjoy stunning views of Dundee and the surrounding countryside.

In conclusion, the Desperate Dan Statue is just one of many attractions in Dundee, Scotland. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in the area, including art galleries, museums, outdoor activities, and historical tours. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, Dundee has something to offer everyone.

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