South Queensferry
Home of Scotland's reddest bridge, sitting in its shadow.This historic coastal town sits beneath three iconic bridges spanning the Firth of Forth. Its narrow streets and 17th-century buildings recall its past as a medieval ferry port.
South Queensferry, located ten miles northwest of Edinburgh, stretches along the Firth of Forth where three massive bridges cross the water. You can walk the granite-setted streets to find medieval St Mary's Episcopal Church, a 17th-century tolbooth with its distinctive clock tower, and waterfront restaurants overlooking the UNESCO-listed Forth Bridge. Take boat trips to spot seals around the islands, visit the 12th-century Inchcolm Abbey, or join locals for the New Year's Day Loony Dook - a chilly plunge into the winter waters.
Getting to South Queensferry
Trains run from Edinburgh's Waverley Station to Dalmeny Station every 20 minutes, with the journey taking 15 minutes. Regular buses operated by Lothian Country connect Edinburgh city center to South Queensferry's High Street. If you're driving, you can reach the town via the A90 and park in one of several areas near the waterfront.
The Three Bridges of the Forth
The red-painted Forth Bridge, completed in 1890, carries trains across the Firth of Forth. The Forth Road Bridge, opened in 1964, now serves buses and cyclists, while the newest addition, the Queensferry Crossing from 2017, carries the main road traffic. You can walk or cycle across the Forth Road Bridge for close-up views of all three structures.
Walking Through Town
The High Street runs parallel to the water, with elevated pavements on its inland side following the natural slope. St Mary's Episcopal Church from the 1450s continues to hold services as Britain's last active medieval Carmelite church. The 17th-century Tolbooth, topped by its 1720 clock tower, marks the center of the old town.
Water Activities and Island Exploration
From the harbor, you can take boat tours under the bridges and to nearby islands. Many visitors head to Inchcolm Island to explore its 12th-century abbey and World War II defensive structures. During the boat trip, you'll likely see seals and various seabirds around the islands.
Annual Events and Traditions
The Ferry Fair in August includes the Burry Man tradition, where a local person walks through town covered in burrs - a custom dating back 300 years. On New Year's Day, hundreds of people dress up in costumes for the Loony Dook and jump into the cold waters of the Forth. Throughout the year, you can hear the community brass band performing at local events.
Nearby Estates
Two miles west of town lies Hopetoun House, designed by William Adam, with 150 acres of grounds to explore. At Dalmeny House, two miles east, you can view art collections including works from the Rothschild family. Both estates have walking trails through their grounds.
