If you’ve read our latest Classics Collection novel, “The Inheritance” by Annie S. Swan, you’ll know that it’s set in and around Dundee.
While reading the story, I was struck by how familiar the settings are — they’re all places that I’ve visited and loved.
With that in mind, I thought I’d create a wee tour of some of the locations featured in the book.
Now that the government is easing lockdown restrictions, it might make a nice “Friend” staycation!
First stop, Dundee!
The city is the natural place to start. This is the location of the Eliot Mills, owned by the Speeds and Lundies, in Annie S. Swan’s book.
To experience what life would have been like for a millworker like Mary Durie or Betty Baxter, head to the Verdant Works.
And to learn more about the history of the city, a visit to the The McManus Art Gallery and Museum is well worth your time, too.
Our Tracey visited recently, and was happy to find it just as fascinating as ever!
If you’re looking for more to do, there’s plenty.
Visit the exhibitions at the new V&A Dundee, learn all about the RSS Discovery or take a hike up to the top of the Law for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the whole city.
You can even go hunting for references to some beloved comics that originated here — the Beano, The Dandy and Oor Wullie.
And that’s not to mention all the lovely independent shops, cafés and restaurants.
This city is full of hidden gems, and you can easily spend a few days exploring them all.
Next stop, Broughty Ferry
Locally known as “the Ferry”, this charming seaside town is definitely worth a visit. And it’s only a short journey. by car or bus, from Dundee.
In the book, it’s the backdrop for “The Rowans” — the house owned by Mr and Mrs George Halliwell Speed.
Take a stroll along the beach, visit the unique shops, cafés and restaurants, or take a look inside the old castle.
It’s a popular day out here. Especially on a sunny day!
Discover Lunan Bay
Katherine Lundie, one of the key characters, particularly loves spending time on this beach.
It’s easy to see why! Nestled between Arbroath and Montrose, it’s a real beauty spot.
Explore the beach and go for a walk on the cliffs to see the ruins of the Red Castle.
All aboard for Newport-on-Tay
Directly across from Dundee is Newport-on-Tay.
In “The Inheritance”, this is where Old George Speed’s coveted house, Ravenscraig, sits, with its magnificent view of the firth.
To get there, you can drive, cycle, walk or catch a bus across the Tay Road Bridge from Dundee.
Once there, put on your walking shoes and explore the beautiful Fife Coastal Path, starting from Wormit Bay.
You could also stop by the home and resting place of another “Friend” legend — William C. Honey, affectionately known as “The Violin Man.”
Hop over to St Andrews
From Newport-on-Tay, just follow the coast down to St Andrews.
The famous university town is where Netta Speed had her music lessons.
St Andrews is truly a lovely place to visit.
From the ruined cathedral and castle to the world famous ice cream shop, make sure it’s on your list of day trips!
Last stop Blairgowrie & Rattray
Rattray is the childhood home of Old George Speed.
In the book, he remembers running around the countryside here with fond nostalgia.
Get a taste by walking the Cateran Trail or even just take a gentle stroll into the quirky town centre past the river.
Click here to order your copy of “The Inheritance” at the DC Thomson Shop.
For more travel recommendations from “The People’s Friend”, click here.
Abigail Phillips Abbie is the newest member of the fiction team at the "Friend." She loves how varied the role is - every day is different and there is always a new story to read. She is keen to work closely with established writers and discover new writers, too.
