The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery and Museum

Originally built as a memorial to Prince Albert and known as the ‘Albert Institute for Literature, Science and Art’, today the McManus is free to enter, and is nicknamed the People’s Museum, housing a collection spanning 400 million years. The fine and decorative art collections, along with the whaling collection, are recognised as being of national importance.

Diverse collection

The galleries host permanent and temporary exhibitions covering a range of subjects from archaeology to world cultures. The fine and decorative art collection focuses on nineteenth and twentieth century Scottish painting but also include Dundee silver Scottish ceramics and much more. The history collection sheds light on development of Dundee’s community life and its industries, from historic whaling, jute and shipbuilding to today’s biotech and gaming.

Creative learning

Want to dive deeper into the exhibits and the world of art and history? The McManus also hosts a program of tours, talks and events where you can discover more about the collection. There are also learning spaces dedicated to the development of 'hands-on' creative learning, providing artist-led workshops, creative activities and events, plus a family drop-in space.

Cafe and shop

After all the exploration, take a break in the museum's cafe, offering refreshments and light bites, or alternatively, browse the gift shop and find unique souvenirs or gifts inspired by the museum's collections.

There is lots to see and do in Dundee, why not take a look at these nearby attractions: V&A Dundee, Dundee Contemporary Arts who were both Art Fund Museum of the Year finalists.