Dudhope Castle History & Nature TraiL

The Dudhope Castle History & Nature Trail is a self-guided journey through the grounds of one of Dundee’s most historic and beloved landmarks. With 15 interactive stops, the trail weaves together stories from the past, playful hidden objects, sensory reflections, handcrafted poetry, and a deeper connection to nature.

It’s more than a walk, it’s a chance to slow down, look closer, and rediscover wonder.

We believe nature and play are powerful for wellbeing — and that we don’t need to go far to connect with them. Dudhope Castle’s grounds offer the perfect space to reimagine how we see green spaces, inviting everyone to explore, reflect, and create.

This trail was designed to:

• Encourage mindfulness and wellbeing
• Inspire creativity through art and play
• Connect people of all ages and abilities with nature
• Make being active fun and accessible
• Spark curiosity about local history
   

Through storytelling, reflection, and gentle discovery, we hope this trail helps you reconnect, with the land, your city, and yourself.

This amazing project was led by Uppertunity, and could not have happened without the support of:

• Uppertunity’s team (staff, members, and volunteers) for dreaming it all into reality.
• ScrapAntics, who helped create many of the sculpture pieces
• The Circle, landlord of Dudhope Castle, who have been very supportive and helped source the history
• Wellgate Library for their history wisdom
• Feeling Strong, Wellbeing Works, Hearing Voices, Dundee and Angus College and all the local volunteers and students who supported us
• Various volunteers including the lovely McLaughlin and Harvey Construction
• Community Lottery for their grant to make it happen 

The trail is suitable for solo explorers, families, groups, and anyone seeking a moment of quiet curiosity.

• Pick up a Trail Map & Recording Sheet from the reception desk of the castle or download it here. This includes  a space to record: The 14 hidden treasures you’ve spotted; poems you’ve found; trees and birds you’ve noticed; and what you’ve discovered about nature and about yourself
• Follow the numbered signs across the 15 trail points. See the map here.
• Look for hidden treasures, play with the instruments, read the poems, reflect on the prompts, and enjoy the space.
• Record your observations, thoughts, and discoveries along the way. You can do this through drawing and journaling.
• Take your time, there’s no rush. This is your journey.
• Why not enjoy your own picnic while you're here too!

We are committed to making this trail as accessible and inclusive as possible, and accessibility was considered throughout the planning process.

However, as Dudhope Castle is a 13th-century heritage site, there are some unavoidable limitations to structural changes. Here’s what to expect:

• The trail is step-free and flat throughout.
• There are three main paths laid with stone chips on grids. These are navigable for most wheelchair users, but wheelchairs with small front wheels or less suspension may find some sections more difficult.
• The central garden area is smooth at the entrance but transitions onto grass, which may be less accessible in wet weather.
• Benches and resting points are located throughout the trail.
   

If you have specific access needs or want to check suitability before your visit, please get in touch, we’re happy to help however we can. We welcome feedback and are committed to continuous improvement.

 We’d love to see your experience!
Tag us on social media (Uppertunity on Facebook and Instagram).

Thank you for being part of this!

 Your presence here means a lot.
By walking this trail, you’re not just exploring a historic site, you’re joining a living story of connection, care, and creativity.