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Take a strategic trip to the ‘strong point on the Tay’, where Broughty Castle was built to help defend the nation against a gathering English navy.

Broughty Castle was erected in 1490 by the 2nd Lord Gray, on a charter from James IV, in response to increased English naval activity. It was taken without a shot fired by the English in 1547, and reclaimed by the Scots two and a half years later. The castle fell back into English hands in 1651.

In 1860 the threat of French invasion prompted Broughty’s conversion from a ruin to a modern artillery defence. The castle was further altered in response to the German threat in the two world wars.

The castle now houses a museum run by Leisure & Culture Dundee. It contains displays on the life and times of Broughty Ferry, its people, the local environment and the wildlife.

About the museum

Aerial view of Broughty Castle, the beach stretching along the coastline, and the surrounding town behind the castle.
Grassy fortifications and a circular gun emplacement in front of Broughty Castle tower, with the river in the background
Interior of Broughty Castle museum showing display cases with historical artefacts and exhibition panels in a lofted room with timber beams

Ready for an adventure?

Use a Membership or Explorer Pass to discover centuries of Scottish history and heritage, all while saving money and supporting our work.

Membership

Ideal for regular visitors and heritage supporters

Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events

Two adults, holding hands with two young children, walk through a graveyard, with historical stone ruins in the background. It is a sunny day.
  • Unlimited annual pass for all ticketed sites plus daytime events
  • Discount in our shops and cafés (on site and online)
  • Historic Scotland magazine delivered to your door
  • Free or discounted entry to sites in England, Wales and the Isle of Man

Explorer Pass

Perfect for short-term trips and sightseeing

Valid for 14 consecutive days

A family walking across a grassy lawn with the New Abbey Corn Mill building in the background.
  • Valid for 14 consecutive days
  • Entry to all ticketed sites, including Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Urquhart Castle
  • 20% discount on audio guides at Edinburgh Castle, Stirling Castle and Glasgow Cathedral
  • Guaranteed entry when you pre-book online