If you are looking for a day trip from Edinburgh that is close, scenic, and rich in history, point yourself toward South Queensferry. Perched on the southern edge of the Firth of Forth, this coastal town packs charm into its narrow cobbled lanes, brightly painted houses, and breathtaking coastal vistas.
South Queensferry gets its name from Queen Margaret, who, in the 11th century, set up a ferry service here for pilgrims making their way to St Andrews.
Today, the ferries are replaced with three mighty bridges, each built in a different century. The most famous of them all is the Forth Rail Bridge, which has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On a clear day, you can see its distinct silhouette from Arthur’s Seat or Calton Hill, standing proud like a crown above the Forth.
I have lost count of how many times I have wandered around South Queensferry over the years. So if you are in Edinburgh and wondering if South Queensferry is worth the trip, let me show you exactly what to see, where to eat, and why this little town keeps calling me back.
12 Best Things to Do in South Queensferry, Scotland
1. Marvel at the Magnificent Forth Rail Bridge
Tourists from all around the world flock to South Queensferry to see the iconic Forth Rail Bridge. Stretching across the Firth of Forth just north of Edinburgh, the Forth Rail Bridge is one of Scotland’s most remarkable engineering achievements.
Completed in 1890, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was a trailblazer in its day. Over 2.5 kilometres long and built with nearly 50,000 tonnes of steel, it was the longest cantilever bridge in the world when it opened.
No matter how many times I have been to South Queensferry, I still find myself standing in awe beneath it. The sheer scale, the sound of trains rumbling overhead, and the way the light hits the metal – it is so photogenic.
You can spot that distinct red silhouette from nearly anywhere in South Queensferry. Some of our favourite viewpoints are Port Edgar Marina, Hawes Pier and the South Queensferry Harbour.
2. Embark on a Boat Trip Adventure to Inchcolm Island
When in South Queensferry, we highly recommend booking a boat cruise to the magical Inchcolm Island. Impressive historic ruin, an abundance of wildlife and stunning coastal scenery will make you forget you are not very far from Edinburgh. During our visit, we even spotted some seals lounging on the rocks.
Tours are operated by a company called Maid of the Forth. In the summer months, they typically run three boat trips a day.
Setting sail from Hawes Pier in South Queensferry, their cruises glide beneath the mighty Forth Bridge and head out across the sparkling waters of the Firth of Forth. You will have incredible views of the Fife coastline and Edinburgh’s skyline in the distance.
Often described as the “Iona of the East,” Inchcolm Island is home to one of the best-preserved medieval monastic sites in Scotland, Inchcolm Abbey.
Stroll around the coastal paths. Look out for various seabirds nesting on rugged cliffs. This wee island played a vital role during the world wars. While exploring the island, you will come across the concrete bunkers and lookout points.
3. Stroll around the Picturesque High Street
The High Street of South Queensferry is lined with quaint old stone buildings, colourful terraced houses, independent shops, cafes, and galleries. Every step in this cobbled street feels like you have mysteriously time-travelled to a different century.
I love wandering in and out of the little stores. One moment you are looking at handmade Scottish crafts, the next you are standing in a 17th-century close. There is a strong sense of community here, and most of the businesses are family-run.
As you stroll, look up to spot the historic tower of South Queensferry Tolbooth. Built in the 18th century, it once served as a council chamber, jail, and courthouse.
Just a little farther along, stands Black Castle. Don’t let the name fool you into expecting a towering fortress. Instead, this 17th-century house is one of the oldest houses in South Queensferry and is remembered for its connection to witchcraft.
4. Enjoy Great Views from South Queensferry Harbour
As you wander through the heart of South Queensferry, make time for a little detour down to the harbour. From the main street, look out for the narrow Harbour Lane or Gote Lane.
This is our favourite spot to soak in the uninterrupted panorama of all three Forth bridges. Besides the renowned Forth Rail Bridge, you will find the Forth Road Bridge, which was opened in 1964. And beyond that, stand the sleek lines of the elegant Queensferry Crossing, the newest of the trio, opened in 2017.
There are benches dotted along the harbour to relax and soak in the vistas – the gulls are flying overhead, boats gently bobbing in the water and the sound of the crashing waves on the shore.
Also, just beside the harbour, there is a small pebbly beach that is often overlooked, but it is a lovely spot for a stroll or a summer picnic.
5. Stop by Dune Bakery for Some Sweet Treats
I am not the one to shy away from admitting that we once took a trip from Edinburgh to South Queensferry only to devour the delicious pastries of Dune Bakery.
I came across their name from social media posts, and they are totally worth the hype. Their pistachio croissant and Pain Suisse are heavenly. Even a hard-to-please foodie like my husband has to admit the pastries strike the right balance of flakiness and softness. We went back to try their Reuben Sandwich, and it didn’t disappoint.
We went on a Saturday morning, and a queue was already winding outside by the time we arrived.
There are only a handful of seats inside. Most people, including ourselves, opted for takeaway. We sat on a staircase near the harbour area and enjoyed the delicious pastries with the iconic views of the Forth bridges.
6. Experience the Loony Dook: A Chilly Scottish Tradition
If you are in Edinburgh in winter, particularly during the Hogmanay celebrations, check out this crazy Scottish tradition. We attended Loony Dook a few years ago.
It is not exactly a centuries-old tradition. It only started in the 1980s, but it feels like something that could only happen in Scotland.
On New Year’s Day morning, costumed revellers parade through the streets of South Queensferry before diving into the freezing Firth of Forth. Some are dressed as Vikings, others in tutus, kilts, superheroes, or nothing but swimsuits.
If you are brave, you can join them to take a plunge or cheer from the shore. Either way, it is fun to be there.
7. Take a Scenic Coastal Hike to Cramond
The walk from South Queensferry to Cramond is pure bliss if you are craving sea air, birdsong, and greenery. It is one of the best walks in Edinburgh for nature lovers and takes around 3 to 4 hours at a gentle pace.
Starting beneath the mighty steel arms of the Forth Rail Bridge, the path winds east along the coast. Some stretch of the walk passes through the grounds of Dalmeny Estate. You will pass through woodlands, hidden beaches and meadows buzzing with wildflowers, with the occasional glimpse of Barnbougle Castle peeking out from the trees.
Eventually, the landscape begins to shift as you near Cramond, a sleepy village on the outskirts of Edinburgh where the River Almond meets the sea.
8. Discover the Hidden Walled Garden of South Queensferry
The Hawthorn Bank Walled Garden is one of the hidden gems of South Queensferry. During our last visit, we accidentally discovered it.
Climb the narrow staircase of Vennel to reach this hidden corner. We were surprised to learn that this peaceful garden was once a neglected piece of land. But later, the local community came together to transform it. Such an inspiring story!
There is a wooden viewing platform that opens up to sweeping views of the Forth. To our surprise, there is a stunning mosaic mural here, which is a tribute to the life and landmarks of South Queensferry. It was created over ten years through workshops with local residents.
9. Enjoy the Festive Atmosphere of the Ferry Fair
The Ferry Fair is the biggest annual event in South Queensferry. It takes place in early August and runs for a whole week. It is full of colour, music, traditions and brings out the true community spirit.
Throughout the week, the town comes alive with parades, ceilidhs, fancy-dress competitions, concerts, and dog shows. You will hear pipe bands echoing down the cobbled streets and see bunting strung along the street.
Then there is the Burryman, the strangest part of the fair. A local man is covered head-to-toe in sticky burrs. He walks through the streets of South Queensferry for hours collecting whisky and coins. No one knows exactly why it started. But the tradition goes back hundreds of years.
10. Take in Breathtaking Views from the Forth Bridges Trail Walk
If you love a walk that combines history and jaw-dropping views, then the Forth Bridges Trail is for you. You can start the walk from either South Queensferry or North Queensferry train station.
The trail forms a circular loop of around 5km. The path is mostly flat and easy to follow, with clear signposts along the way.
The highlight of this walk is, of course, the three magnificent bridges that span the Firth of Forth. Along the way, you will find information boards depicting the colourful tales of this town.
One of the loveliest stretches of the trail takes you through Port Edgar Marina, where you can pause for coffee or watch yachts drift lazily in and out.
11. Learn the Town’s Past at Queensferry Museum
Just off the High Street, the Queensferry Museum is a small but fascinating spot. It showcases the social and maritime heritage of South Queensferry.
Exhibits cover everything from this area’s early ferry services to its industries, trades, and the daily lives of the people who lived here. One of the highlights is the full-sized Burryman costume.
This museum is free to enter, and it doesn’t take long to go through, but it is well worth a visit, especially if you enjoy learning about the local stories.
12. Explore Hopetoun House and Midhope Castle
Just a short drive or a lovely cycle away from South Queensferry, Hopetoun House and Midhope Castle are a must-visit for history buffs. Even better, both of them are filming locations for the famous TV series Outlander.
Hopetoun House is a grand stately home perched on the edge of the Firth of Forth and is surrounded by peaceful woodland. The house itself is massive, with opulent rooms full of fine art, antique furniture, and intricate plasterwork.
A little further along the estate lies Midhope Castle. Outlander fans will know it instantly. It is Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s cherished family home. The castle itself is not open, but you can walk around it and take photos.
How to Reach South Queensferry from Edinburgh
By Train
The quickest way is by train, which takes only 15-20 minutes. Trains leave frequently from Edinburgh Waverley and Haymarket stations to Dalmeny, which is just a 10-minute walk from the town centre.
By Bus
We visited South Queensferry on the local Lothian Bus 43, which has stops on Princes Street. This route is covered within your Lothian Bus Day Ticket. The journey takes nearly 40 minutes, depending on traffic and drops you close to South Queensferry’s High Street.
By Car
Driving to South Queensferry from Edinburgh takes around 25 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Head west along the A90 and take the exit for South Queensferry just before the Forth Road Bridge. There is ample parking available at Hawes Promenade and Hawes Brae.
Best Places to Eat in South Queensferry
Scotts Bar & Restaurant: Located at Port Edgar Marina, Scotts Bar & Restaurant is one of the most scenic spots in town. It sits right on the waterfront and offers beautiful views. Their menu includes classic fish and chips, dry-aged steaks and fresh seafood – perfect for a laid-back dinner with cocktails and sunset views.
Rogue Bros The Boat House: Located right on the South Queensferry High Street, Rogue Bros The Boat House focuses on seasonal Scottish ingredients and inventive small plates. Their seafood is excellent—grilled prawns, mussels and oysters.
Orocco Pier Restaurant: This restaurant looks out over the Firth of Forth and the bridges. Their menu features local seafood, perfectly grilled meats, and creative seasonal dishes – the perfect place for a delicious lunch.
Down the Hatch: This quirky, Canadian-style diner is tucked away near the marina and known for its big portions and comfort food. You have to try their poutine, hot chips smothered in cheese curds and rich gravy. They have also got burgers, wings, and loaded fries that will satisfy any craving. It is a casual, no-frills place.
The Hawes Inn: This historic pub in South Queensferry sits right beneath the Forth Rail Bridge, and the setting is nothing short of magical. The building dates back centuries and even inspired Robert Louis Stevenson. Inside, it is warm and rustic. The menu sticks to pub classics, like steak and ale pie and fresh fish and chips.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this article, and it has been useful in planning your next day trip to South Queensferry. This town is small, yet it is packed with so much charm, history, and beauty.
