Emma Mykytyn Frankenstein Steps Dundee: Discover Dundee’s Eerie Link to Mary Shelley
Looking for unusual things to do in Dundee? Hidden away on South Baffin Street is one of the city’s most intriguing landmarks, the Frankenstein Steps. These atmospheric steps are connected to the story of Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, and offer a fascinating glimpse into Dundee’s literary history.
Whether you are a fan of gothic literature, local history, or simply enjoy discovering hidden corners of Scotland, the Frankenstein Steps are worth adding to your Dundee walking itinerary.
Where Are the Frankenstein Steps?
The Frankenstein Steps are located on South Baffin Street in Dundee, close to where a grand house known as The Cottage once stood.
Today, the steep stone steps climb between residential streets, but their connection to one of the world’s most famous novels has turned them into a local curiosity and a favourite stop for literary tourists.
The Mary Shelley Connection
Before she became known as Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein, she was Mary Godwin, a young teenager sent from London to stay with the Baxter family in Dundee between 1812 and 1814.
The Baxters lived at The Cottage, a large mansion surrounded by gardens and woodland overlooking the River Tay. During her time in Dundee, Mary spent her days exploring the surrounding countryside, walking the hills and developing what she later described as “the airy flights of my imagination”.
Many historians believe that her time in Dundee played an important role in shaping the imagination that would later create Frankenstein, first published in 1818.
Why Are They Called the Frankenstein Steps?
The steps themselves were built after The Cottage had disappeared, making the connection something of a historical coincidence. However, because they stand close to the site where Mary Shelley once lived, locals began referring to them as the Frankenstein Steps. Over time, the name stuck.
Today, the steps have become one of Dundee’s more unusual attractions, attracting visitors interested in Scotland’s literary heritage and gothic history.
The Cottage and Lost Dundee
The Cottage was far grander than its modest name suggests. Built around 1790, it stood within extensive grounds stretching up the hillside above Broughty Ferry Road.
As Dundee expanded during the nineteenth century, the grand villas of the area gradually disappeared. The Cottage was demolished in the 1890s to make way for the growing city and the tenement housing that now occupies the area.
While the house is gone, the Frankenstein Steps remain as a reminder of Mary’s time in Dundee.
What To Expect When Visiting
Visitors should not expect a major tourist attraction. The appeal of the Frankenstein Steps lies in their atmosphere and historical significance.
The steep stone staircase feels surprisingly dramatic, particularly on a grey Scottish day when the skies over Dundee add to the gothic mood.
A visit only takes a few minutes, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.
Looking for somewhere to stay in Dundee? Check out our review of Apex City Quay Hotel.
Nearby Places To Visit
Dundee Law
One of Dundee’s most famous landmarks, Dundee Law offers panoramic views across the city and the River Tay. Mary Shelley is known to have explored the area during her time in Dundee.
Baxter Park
Named after the same influential Baxter family associated with Mary’s stay in Dundee, Baxter Park is one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces.
Looking for unusual things to see? Check out our Quirky category.
V&A Dundee
Combine literary history with modern design at Dundee’s world-famous design museum on the waterfront.
Discovery Point
Learn about Dundee’s maritime history and the city’s connections to exploration and whaling, industries that shaped the Dundee Mary Shelley would have known.
How To Get There
Address: South Baffin Street, Dundee
The Frankenstein Steps are within walking distance of Dundee city centre and can easily be incorporated into a self-guided Dundee history walk.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, if you enjoy uncovering hidden stories.
The Frankenstein Steps may be a small landmark, but they connect Dundee to one of the most influential novels ever written. Standing on the steps and imagining the young Mary Godwin exploring this part of Scotland adds an extra layer of intrigue to any visit to the City of Discovery.
For literary fans, history lovers, and anyone searching for unusual places in Dundee, the Frankenstein Steps offer a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known chapter of Scottish history.
FAQ
Why are they called the Frankenstein Steps?
The steps are located near the site where Mary Shelley lived as a teenager. Although the steps were built later, locals linked them with the author of Frankenstein and the name became established.
Did Mary Shelley live in Dundee?
Yes. Mary Godwin, later Mary Shelley, stayed with the Baxter family in Dundee between 1812 and 1814.
Where did Mary Shelley stay in Dundee?
She stayed at The Cottage, a large house on what is now South Baffin Street. The building was demolished in the late nineteenth century.
Are the Frankenstein Steps free to visit?
Yes, the steps are a public area and can be visited at any time.
