South Queensferry is a town located on the outskirts of Edinburgh, Scotland. It’s a scenic spot with stunning views of the Firth of Forth and its famous bridges. This page provides a list of things to do in South Queensferry, plus a map showing each location, and hotel recommendations too.
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Famous for its stunning views of the three iconic Forth Bridges, this coastal town is a lovely place to visit in Scotland. With its cobbled streets, quaint waterfront, and historic landmarks, South Queensferry is a great day trip to take from Edinburgh.
Hi 👋 I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger regularly travelling between London and Scotland for my day job. I’ve made it my mission to explore both places as much as possible and share my insights with you.
Things to do in South Queensferry.
Let’s begin with my guide to things to do in South Queensferry, Scotland. There’s a map at the bottom of the post.
1. Admire the Forth Bridges.
For me, the main highlight of South Queensferry is the spectacular views of the three iconic bridges over the Firth of Forth.
The bridges are:
- The Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and marvel of Victorian engineering;
- The Forth Road Bridge, a suspension bridge that was once the longest of its kind outside the USA;
- The modern Queensferry Crossing, which opened in 2017.
You can see these impressive structures from various vantage points around the town, especially from the waterfront.
You might like to take a tour, such as the 90-Minute Firth of Forth Sightseeing Cruise or the Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise.
2. Explore Hopetoun House.
Just a short drive from South Queensferry is Hopetoun House, one of Scotland’s grandest stately homes.
This 17th-century mansion is set on stunning grounds and is a fantastic place to explore both indoors and outdoors.
Inside, you’ll find beautifully preserved rooms with period furnishings, while the surrounding parklands and gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The house is often used as a filming location, including for the popular series Outlander.
3. Take a boat trip to Inchcolm Island.
From South Queensferry, you can take a boat trip to Inchcolm Island, a small island in the Firth of Forth.
The island is home to Inchcolm Abbey, one of Scotland’s best-preserved monastic sites, dating back to the 12th century.
The boat journey itself offers incredible views of the bridges and surrounding coastline. Once on the island, you can explore the abbey, spot wildlife, and enjoy a peaceful day out.
Below is an aerial photo of the island, which I managed to take from a plane!
4. Dine with a view at the waterfront.
South Queensferry’s picturesque waterfront is perfect for a leisurely walk and a bite to eat.
The promenade offers beautiful views of the Forth Bridges and the town’s historic buildings.
Along the way, you’ll find quaint cafes, restaurants, and pubs where you can relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
The waterfront is also home to the Hawes Pier, where you can catch boat tours to explore the Firth of Forth.
5. Discover Dalmeny House.
Another great estate near South Queensferry, Dalmeny House is the ancestral home of the Earls of Rosebery.
This Gothic Revival mansion is set amidst a sprawling estate, with beautiful woodlands and coastal walks.
The house is open to visitors during the summer months, offering tours of its lavish interior, which includes a remarkable collection of art and antiques.
The estate also offers coastal paths that lead to secluded beaches along the Firth of Forth.
6. Take a coastal walk to Cramond.
South Queensferry is an excellent starting point for scenic coastal walks.
One popular route is the walk along the John Muir Way to the village of Cramond.
This picturesque path offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth and its islands, with plenty of wildlife to spot along the way.
Once you reach Cramond, you can explore its historic village and the Cramond Island causeway (tide permitting).
7. Visit St. Mary’s Episcopal church.
One of the oldest buildings in South Queensferry, St. Mary’s Episcopal church, also known as the Priory Church, dates back to the 15th century.
This beautiful Gothic church features stunning stained glass windows, a peaceful interior, and a serene garden area.
The church’s rich history makes it an interesting stop for visitors interested in South Queensferry’s religious heritage.
8. Explore the High Street.
South Queensferry’s charming High Street is lined with historic buildings, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
As you stroll through the narrow streets, you’ll come across old-world architecture, including traditional stone cottages and merchant houses.
The High Street is perfect for those looking to experience the local culture, shop for unique items, or grab a bite to eat while enjoying the town’s relaxed atmosphere.
9. Visit Port Edgar Marina.
Port Edgar is a lively marina situated on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, just west of the Forth Road Bridge and near South Queensferry in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Once home to the naval base HMS Lochinvar, Port Edgar is now a bustling marina with a sailing school and over 300 berths, welcoming boating enthusiasts and visitors alike.
The marina is also home to several local shops, including the Bosun’s Locker for maritime gear, and great spots to dine, like the famous Scott’s Bar and Down the Hatch, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and views of the water.
10. Cross the Forth Road Bridge by foot or bike.
For those who enjoy walking or cycling, the Forth Road Bridge can be crossed on foot or by bike. It offers stunning views of the Forth Bridge and the Firth of Forth.
The bridge has dedicated pedestrian and cycle lanes, allowing you to fully appreciate the engineering marvel of the bridges while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
Beware, though – it can get very windy up there!
Map of South Queensferry.
This Google Map shows all of the things to do in South Queensferry, as listed in this post. If you are viewing on a phone, you can use two fingers to pinch and drag the map.
Where to stay in South Queensferry.
Here are three great hotel options for a stay in South Queensferry.
Hotel 1: Orocco Pier
Situated right on the waterfront, Orocco Pier is a stylish boutique hotel with stunning views of the Forth Bridge and Firth of Forth. The hotel features contemporary rooms with modern amenities, many of which boast sea views.
Orocco Pier also has a fantastic restaurant and bar serving fresh local seafood and drinks. Book here.
Hotel 2: The Hawes Inn
A charming and historic hotel, The Hawes Inn dates back to the 17th century and offers a cosy, traditional stay just a short walk from the Forth Bridge. Many of the inn’s rooms provide views of the Firth of Forth, and the hotel’s restaurant serves hearty meals and local ales in a warm, welcoming setting.
The inn’s connection to Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, who once stayed here, adds to its charm and historical appeal. Book here.
Hotel 3: Dakota Edinburgh
Located just outside the centre of South Queensferry, Dakota Edinburgh is a sleek, modern hotel known for its luxury and excellent service. It offers contemporary rooms with stylish interiors and high-end amenities.
The hotel’s award-winning restaurant, The Grill, serves gourmet dishes in a sophisticated setting. Book Dakota here.
Alternatively, you can check out all hotels in South Queensferry.
Map of hotels in South Queensferry.
Here is a map from Booking.com showing hotels and accommodation by location. You can zoom in, zoom out, drag, and move the map. Clicking the map will take you to Booking.com, where you can look more closely at your options.
I recommend reserving your room immediately to get the best price. It’s usually free to reserve on Booking.com, and you can always cancel later.
FAQs for things to do in South Queensferry.
Below are some frequently asked questions about things to do in South Queensferry, and about visiting South Queensferry in general.
A: Below are the top-rated tours of things to do in South Queensferry from Viator:
– Edinburgh Shore Excursion: City Tour and Royal Yacht Britannia
– Stunning 90-Minute Firth of Forth Sightseeing Cruise Adventure
– Edinburgh Three Bridges Cruise
– Private St. Andrews & Fife Full Day Tour in Luxury Minivan
– Speyside Whisky Tour – Three Distilleries Included – Private – 5 Star Reviews
A: South Queensferry is a coastal town located on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, just west of Edinburgh, Scotland. It is known for its stunning views of the Forth Bridges and is around a 20-minute drive from the city centre of Edinburgh.
A: South Queensferry is easily accessible by car, bus, or train from Edinburgh. By train, you can take a short ride from Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket stations to Dalmeny Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the town centre.
Regular bus services also run between Edinburgh and South Queensferry.
A: Yes, there are several parking options available in South Queensferry. You will find both on-street parking and dedicated car parks, particularly near the waterfront and the High Street area. However, parking may be limited during peak tourist season, so arriving early is recommended.
A: The Forth Bridges consist of three iconic bridges: the Forth Rail Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the new Queensferry Crossing. These bridges connect South Queensferry with the northern side of the Firth of Forth.
You can walk or cycle across the Forth Road Bridge, and there are excellent viewpoints in South Queensferry for photos of all three bridges.
A: South Queensferry can be visited year-round, but the summer months (June to August) offer the best weather for outdoor activities, boat tours, and scenic walks along the waterfront.
Spring and autumn are also pleasant, with fewer crowds and stunning natural scenery. Winter brings a quieter charm to the town, though some outdoor activities may be limited.
A: Yes, several boat tours operate from South Queensferry, offering trips to nearby islands like Inchcolm Island, where you can explore the historic Inchcolm Abbey. You can also take sightseeing tours to view the Forth Bridges and local wildlife, including seabirds and seals.
A: South Queensferry is home to several popular annual events, the most famous of which is the Loony Dook, a New Year’s Day tradition where participants take a freezing plunge into the Firth of Forth. There is also the Ferry Fair, a community festival held in August with parades, entertainment, and local celebrations.
A: In addition to the Forth Bridges, nearby attractions include Hopetoun House, a grand stately home with beautiful gardens, and Blackness Castle, a dramatic 15th-century fortress with stunning views of the Firth of Forth. You can also visit Dalmeny House, a historic mansion open to the public at select times.
A: Yes, South Queensferry offers several scenic walking routes. You can walk along the waterfront for stunning views of the Forth Bridges or take the John Muir Way, which passes through the town and continues along the coast. There’s also a lovely woodland walk through Dalmeny Estate, which has coastal views and peaceful surroundings.
A: South Queensferry has a variety of dining options, from traditional Scottish pubs to fine dining restaurants with views of the Forth Bridges.
Seafood is a popular choice, and many restaurants along the High Street and waterfront offer fresh, locally sourced dishes. Be sure to try some local specialities like Cullen skink and freshly caught fish.
A: South Queensferry is relatively accessible, with many of the main attractions, restaurants, and shops located on or near the High Street. However, some parts of the town, particularly along the waterfront, may have cobblestone streets or uneven ground.
The Forth Road Bridge is accessible for walkers and cyclists, including those with mobility aids.
A: Yes, South Queensferry has several historic sites, including Queensferry Museum (temporarily closed – check the website here), which showcases the town’s rich maritime history, and Hawes Pier, a historic pier with links to the ferry service that once connected the area to Fife.
A: Yes, South Queensferry makes an excellent day trip destination from Edinburgh or other nearby areas. With its stunning scenery, historic sites, and family-friendly activities, you can easily spend a full day exploring and enjoying the local attractions.
Quick links for things to do in South Queensferry.
Here are some links that may interest you when planning your trip.
- Reserve your South Queensferry Hotel early (no fee required upfront).
- Compare South Queensferry Rental Cars before choosing a hire car.
- Book South Queensferry Tours in advance (no payment required up front).
- Check out these South Queensferry Gifts on Amazon before or after your trip.
- Remember to get a Universal Plug Adaptor if you need a UK plug.
- Packing cubes are a traveller’s best friend. I recommend these ones.
Related reading for things to do in South Queensferry.
Below are some posts related to this article on things to do in South Queensferry.
Pinterest pins for things to do in South Queensferry.
If you have enjoyed reading this guide to things to do in South Queensferry, or found it useful, please feel free to use the below images to pin to your own Pinterest boards.
General Travel Resources:
Booking.com is the best site for hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for tours and activities.
Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
See my Travel Resources page for a full list of helpful booking links.
Popular Destinations: London | Edinburgh | Malta | Scotland | Madeira | Cyprus | Italy | Canary Islands
Tags: Edinburgh, Scotland, South Queensferry
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