South Queensferry
Location: South Queensferry, EH30
South Queensferry is a small town on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, 10 miles northwest of Edinburgh city centre. You can easily reach it from Edinburgh by bus in less than an hour. Or, you can take a short train journey from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny, then a 15-minute walk from there. It’s best known for its spectacular views of the three Forth Bridges – the Forth Rail Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge and the Queensferry Crossing. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here, from taking boat trips on the Forth to exploring the local shops, cafés and pubs in this picturesque waterside town.
The name Queensferry comes from a ferry service established by Queen Margaret over 900 years ago, which provided transport across the Firth of Forth. The service operated from the 11th to the 20th century, after which the ferry crossing was replaced by the Forth Road Bridge. The town is called South Queensferry to distinguish it from North Queensferry, which sits directly opposite on the north side of the firth. You can learn all about the history of this fascinating area at the Queensferry Museum, from social history to the building of the three remarkable bridges across the Forth.
5 things to do in South Queensferry
- View the famous Forth Bridges, and perhaps cross one of them by train, car or on foot.
- Take a boat trip with Maid of the Forth, sail under the bridges and visit Inchcolm Island.
- Visit the Queensferry Museum to learn about the history of the town and its bridges.
- Wander the characterful streets and explore the local shops, cafés and pubs.
- Visit other nearby stately homes, Hopetoun House and Dalmeny House (during selected summer opening times).
