Nestled just under The Three Bridges that span the River Forth, South Queensferry is a popular town on the outskirts of Edinburgh. With a busy historic high street, abundance of cake shops and scenic boat tours launching from Hawes Pier, this harbour town is the perfect day trip.
South Queensferry is 10 miles from Edinburgh City Centre and can be reached by train, car and guided tour bus.
This article shares the best things do in South Queensferry so you can plan a day out or a hotel stay, where to eat and how to get there.
You may like our guide to South Queensferry hotels, B&Bs and rentals.
Updated September 2026
| Activity | Type | Area | Cost | Postcode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Three Bridges views | Sightseeing | Esplanade | Free | EH30 9TB |
| Firth of Forth Sightseeing Tour | Boat cruise | Hawes Pier | from ~£20 | EH30 9TB |
| Three Bridges Cruise | Boat cruise | Hawes Pier | from ~£20 | EH30 9TB |
| Inchcolm Island landing | History/nature | Inchcolm | £8.50 landing + ferry | KY3 0UA |
| Guardian of the Bridges | Public art | Esplanade | Free | EH30 9TB |
| South Queensferry Museum | Museum | High Street | Free | EH30 9TU |
| North Queensferry lighthouse | Heritage | North Queensferry | Free | KY11 1JD |
| Deep Sea World | Aquarium | North Queensferry | £16.50 adult | KY11 1JR |
| Blackness Castle (Outlander) | Castle | Blackness | £7.50 adult | EH30 9TP |
| Dalmeny Estate walks | Walking | Dalmeny | Free | EH30 9TQ |
| Forth Road Bridge walk | Walking | Bridges | Free | EH30 9TB |
| Murder Mystery Trail | Game | High Street | ~£10 | EH30 9TU |
| The Loony Dook | Event | Hawes | Charity (register) | EH30 9TB |
| Burryman parade | Event | Town-wide | Free | EH30 9TU |
| Hopetoun House | Stately home | Hopetoun | £14 adult | EH30 9SL |
A Brief History of South Queensferry
South Queensferry’s story stretches back centuries. The town takes its name from the medieval ferry that carried pilgrims across the Firth of Forth to St Andrews – “Queensferry” honours Saint Margaret, who is said to have used the crossing in the 11th century. For hundreds of years the ferry was the only practical way to travel between Edinburgh and Fife.
Today the town sits beneath three iconic bridges spanning three centuries of engineering: the Victorian Forth Bridge (1890, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015), the Forth Road Bridge (1964) and the modern Queensferry Crossing (2017). The cobbled High Street retains its 17th- and 18th-century character, and the harbour remains a working port for boat tours and fishing vessels.
Best Things to do in South Queensferry
Be Impressed by the Architecture of The Three Bridges
The Forth Bridges connect Edinburgh with the Kingdom of Fife, an east coast region with beautiful beaches, historically important towns, Outlander locations and golf courses making both South Queensferry and West Fife a nice wee day trip from Scotland’s capital.
Alternatively, if you are going to Edinburgh and are looking to build your Scotland itinerary, consider visiting South Queensferry as a stop on the way to Fife or further afield to Dundee, Aberdeenshire and the Cairngorms or The Scottish Highlands.
The Forth Bridge was built in 1890 and is the bridge you will travel over if going to Fife by train.
Don’t worry, you don’t go up and over this UNESCO World Heritage bridge.
The Forth Road Bridge was built in 1964 and is used by buses and larger vehicles, it used to be the option for cars.
Can you see the St Andrew’s Cross in the architecture?
The newest, The Queensferry Crossing, was built in 2017 and is used by cars and motorbikes so if you are driving to Fife, you will go over the longest three-tower cable stayed bridge in the world!
This image was taken from the DoubleTree by Hilton in North Queensferry in Fife.
South Queensferry Boat Tours
As this picturesque town is situated on the River Forth, visitors have the opportunity to get on the water via the comfort of a covered small cruise boat with a bar and outside seating for fair weather days.
These tours sail under or close to the Three Bridges.
There are a couple of boat tours in South Queensferry to choose from which set sail from Hawes Pier across from the Hawe’s Inn.
Firth of Forth Sightseeing Tour
The Firth of Forth Sightseeing tour uniquely offers a cream tea and a hot drink whilst sailing out to Inchcolm Island.
The tour is around 90 minutes and gives you an unrivalled view of all three bridges over the river while a guide shares stories about the area over a speaker.
As you cruise along, you are able to see Blackness Castle which is featured in the TV show Outlander.
The sight of the pretty Fife village of Limekilns is another literary mention in the classic ‘Kidnapped’ by Robert Louis Stevenson which we’ll discuss below.
Sea life fans can spot sunbathing seals and the ‘Scottish penguin’ the puffin!
During the boat tour, you are served a cream tea which consists of a scone, jam, and cream along with a hot drink.
Three Bridges Cruise
Another South Queensferry cruise that you can take do is the 90-minute Three Bridges Cruise.
As you sail towards the Forth Bridge, which has UNESCO status, you can see the other two South Queensferry bridges in the distance.
You’ll want to take a photo or two of the bridges from this angle.
The cruise also stops at the historic Inchcolm Abbey so you can get off the boat for a self-guided tour of the island.
Known as the Iona of the East due to the similarities between this island and Iona, Inchcolm Island and medieval Abbey have a rich and varied history that is worth exploring.
As with the first tour, watch out for seals and puffins making an appearance.
You can also see the coastline of Fife as well as spectacular views of the Edinburgh skyline.
South Queensferry Bus Tour
Leaving from St Andrews Square, this bus tour begins in Edinburgh and ends in South Queensferry, taking you past the Georgian New Town houses on the way out of the city.
Your guide shares information and stories about South Queensferry and surrounding areas while you sit in the comfort on the tour bus.
When you arrive in South Queensferry, you join boat cruise tour, similar to the tours described above.
Before you head back to Edinburgh, you have time to wander along the cobbled High Street (main street) and grab a coffee or ice cream from one of the many wee South Queensferry cafes, restaurants or pubs.
South Queensferry Museum
South Queensferry Museum (53 High Street) gives you the history of South Queensferry and neighbouring Dalmeny, so you have a peek into what life was like for residents of the area in times gone by.
Walking you through the history of the ferries and into the engineering exhibitions, even locals will learn something new.
If you happen to be in South Queensferry on the second Friday of August you may witness one of Scotland’s most unusual traditions: the Burry Man parade, part of the town’s annual Ferry Fair. A local volunteer is covered head to ankles in thousands of hooked burdock seed heads and walks a seven-mile route through the town over nine hours, accompanied by two attendants. At each stop householders offer a dram of whisky through a straw and receive a burr as a token of good luck.
The custom is of ancient, possibly pre-pagan origin and is unique to South Queensferry. You can learn more about the Burry Man and the Ferry Fair at the museum.
Murder Mystery Trail
South Queensferry offers its own self-guided murder mystery trail which takes around 1.5 hours to complete.
As you follow the trail around the town, you will discover interesting facts that will help you solve the puzzle.
By the end of the route, you will have solved the murder mystery and also seen some of the sights that you wouldn’t normally see by just wandering along the waterfront.
The Loony Dook
Using the Scottish words for a ‘lunatic dip’, this is a well named activity as it involves going for a swim in the River Forth on New Year’s Day.
Probably one of the coldest times of the year to go for a swim, yet hundreds of people, dressed in fancy dress, take to the streets of South Queensferry and then into the cold cold waters!
Those that take part in the dip, need to register online and then raise some money for the charity of their choice.
As you can imagine, South Queensferry is very busy on the 1stn of January, so if you want to take part or spectate, get there early.
Also, book somewhere to eat after or you might be left out in the cold!
You might also like our guide to the most festive things to do in Edinburgh.
Visit Inchcolm Island
Just a short boat ride from Hawes Pier, Inchcolm Island is home to one of Scotland’s best-preserved medieval abbeys. Often called the “Iona of the East,” the island’s 12th-century Augustinian abbey sits dramatically on the hillside above the Firth of Forth. Beyond the abbey, you will find World War II gun emplacements and observation posts that were used to defend the bridges.
Ferry trips to Inchcolm run from April to October and take around three hours, with roughly 90 minutes ashore to explore the abbey ruins, visitor centre and coastal paths. Landing fees are £8.50 for adults, £6.80 for concessions and £5 for children (7–15 years). Both Maid of the Forth and Forth Boat Tours operate the crossing from Hawes Pier. Keep an eye out for seals, puffins and gannets on the way out.
Find the Guardian of the Bridges
Strolling along the South Queensferry esplanade, look out for the Guardian of the Bridges – a colourful mosaic creature locals have nicknamed “Nessie.” Commissioned in 2014 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Forth Road Bridge, the sculpture was designed by Queensferry school children and built with the help of more than 700 community members. It sits near the Briggers Memorial, a sombre tribute to the workers who lost their lives building the Forth Bridge – the two pieces make a striking contrast.
Cross to North Queensferry
Most visitors stick to the south side of the Firth, but the tiny village of North Queensferry (pop. around 1,000) is worth the trip. You can reach it by train across the Forth Bridge from Dalmeny station (around 5 minutes) or by car via the Queensferry Crossing.
Highlights include the world’s smallest working lighthouse, built in 1817 by Robert Stevenson (grandfather of Robert Louis Stevenson), and the Forth Bridge Heritage Centre in the old station’s Ladies’ Waiting Room. For families, Deep Sea World is Scotland’s national aquarium, featuring one of Europe’s longest underwater viewing tunnels with a moving walkway. Adult tickets are £16.50, children (3–12) £11.75, and under-3s enter free. The village also has a pleasant shoreline walk to Carlingnose Point Nature Reserve, where seabirds and occasional dolphins have been spotted.
Explore Outlander Filming Locations
The area around South Queensferry is a treasure trove for Outlander fans. Blackness Castle, a 15th-century fortress on the Firth of Forth shore (EH30 9TP), served as Fort William and the headquarters of the villainous Black Jack Randall in series one and two. The castle is open year-round and is often called “the ship that never sailed” because of its distinctive jutting promontory shape.
Just west of town, Midhope Castle on the Hopetoun Estate stands in as Lallybroch, Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home. The 16th-century tower house is visible from the estate roads (the grounds are free to walk). Hopetoun House itself featured as Sandringham House in all three early series. The estate’s gardens and coastal paths are open year-round; the house opens to visitors June through August.
Walk the Dalmeny Estate
The Dalmeny Estate stretches along the coast west of South Queensferry and offers some of the best easy walking in the area. Trails wind through ancient woodland, along cliff-top paths with views across the Firth of Forth, and past Barnbougle Castle, a 13th-century tower perched above the shoreline. The estate is free to access year-round and is popular with dog walkers, cyclists and families. Dalmeny House, the seat of the Earl of Rosebery, opens to the public between June and August (Sunday to Wednesday) for guided tours.
Eating Out in South Queensferry
For such a small town, South Queensferry has lots of places to eat at.
From traditional Scottish food to Canadian fayre, here is a quick guide to some of the best places to eat in South Queensferry.
Cafes in South Queensferry
The cafes in South Queensferry offer home baking and a place to grab a quick sandwich before you set off on your chosen tours.
The Little Bakery
Pink sign, pink canopies, pink flower wall, pink cups – The Littler Bakery (6-7 High Street) has nailed social media marketing and the tray bakes are a ten.
Manna House
The rustic Manna House Bakery & Patisserie (45-46 High Street) is another recommended cafe for take out or sitting in.
Although relatively new to the cafe scene in South Queensferry, Manna House was an established brand in Edinburgh with over 15 years of cake providing service.
Catering to various dietary requirements, the menu includes salads, sandwiches, cakes, bread and artisan coffee.
You have to try the brownies! The best in Edinburgh.
The Little Parlour
If it’s just an ice cream you fancy, then The Little Parlour (52 High Street) is perfect.
You will rarely pass this cafe without seeing a line outside, which is a testament to how delicious the goods are!
Choose from over 40 flavours of ice cream and creative toppings or a gran a coffee to go.
Just over the road from the cafe is a viewing point with steps to sit on or access to the beach.
Restaurants in South Queensferry
If you are looking for something more substantial to eat and enjoy the views, then you have plenty of restaurants to choose from.
One of the most popular eateries in South Queensferry is not Scottish but Canadian.
Down the Hatch
Down the Hatch is located in Port Edgar Marina, just under the road bridge in South Queensferry.
The Canadian diner opened in 2015 and is a firm favourite with the residents of the central belt area.
The portions are huge and everything is cooked fresh to order.
There are no airs or graces about this diner.
You choose; you order; you eat.
Popular menu items include Mexican skillet breakfasts, Canadian poutine, dirty burgers and monster shakes.
Down the Hatch also features in our best brunch in Edinburgh guide.
Sticking with Port Edgar Marina area, there is another sought after spot.
Scotts Bar and Restaurant
Scotts, South Queensferry is a trendy Edinburgh-style restaurant with a laid back atmosphere.
It is popular with couples and friends who like to brunch.
The large industrial space has indoor and outdoor seating right next to the Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing.
Reserve a tavke to avoid disappointment.
Orocco Pier
Moving back into South Queensferry’s High Street, Orocco Pier (17 High Street) is a boutique hotel that offers a fabulous place to dine.
Walking through the door, your eyes are immediately drawn to the huge expanse of windows that offer you views over the Forth and of the Bridges.
The menu showcases Scottish produce and locally caught fish.
There is a deck area where you can sit outside on a rare sunny day.
This is a popular wedding and events space.
The Boat House
Just along the High Street, The Boat House South Queensferry (22 High Street) is another well kept secret.
(It is one of my favourites as I had my first date with my now husband here!)
The Boat House is mainly a seafood restaurant but offers a choice of other meats and vegetarian options.
If you are in South Queensferry for the Loony Dook, book a table as they have a menu for New Year’s Day brunch.
Dune
Pick up pastries early doors at Dune (35B High Street) or you’ll miss out!
This viral cafe has a small amount of indoor seating.
Thirty Knots
Thirty Knots (2 Newhalls Road) is another South Queensferry restaurant with a smashing view of the bridge.
The interior is very pretty and there is a variety of tables for couples and small groups.
The menu is pretty extensive and features everything from burgers to bao buns, and seafood to salad.
Hawes Inn
Hawes Inn South Queensferry (7 Newhalls Road) is a popular restaurant at the weekends.
This vintage inn has links to Robert Louis Stevenson who is said to have penned some of his novel ‘Kidnapped’ here in the late 1800s.
The Inn is actually mentioned in this Scottish literary treasure.
Offering brunch, lunch and dinner, Hawes Inn is a great option for the family and it is dog-friendly.
The menu includes pub favourites such as lasagne, steak, burgers and stone baked pizzas.
On Sunday, there are a handful of roasts to choose from – lamb, pork, turkey, beef or vegetable.
There is also a beer garden but it is mostly in the shade so bring some layers.
Railbridge Bistro
The Railbridge Bistro (4 Newhalls Road) has huge windows that give you the perfect vista over the Forth and towards the Forth Bridge.
Inside the restaurant, there is an interesting moving train that is set just under the mezzanine level.
A great wee conversation piece for you to watch while you await your lunch or dinner.
There is a lovely terrace just outside where you can sit in the sun and enjoy the views of the bridge.
Fish and Chips in South Queensferry
Every day trip in Scotland ends with a bag of chips to heat up cold fingers and empty bellies.
While there are several restaurants and pubs that offer fish and chips on their menu, nothing beats eating out of newspaper (or plastic carton) by the waterside.
Maurizio’s South Queensferry is one of the best ‘chippies’ in the area.
Fresh local fish cooked in their own secret recipe of batter creates the perfect takeaway choice.
There are often long lines so be prepared to wait.
Since you are still in the EH postcode it is customary to ask for salt n sauce on your chips although some people also like vinegar.
Pubs in South Queensferry
With all that walking, wandering and exploring, you will need to quench your thirst!
Luckily, South Queensferry has drinking establishments that will suit everyone’s taste.
The Ferry Tap
At the Forth Bridge end of the High Street, just before the colourful buildings is The Ferry Tap.
This striking red pub is full of character.
You can sample one of the 52 Scottish whiskies that are on offer while enjoying some traditional pub grub.
According to the history of the pub, the regulars have instituted the “Tap Whisky Appreciation & Tasting Society’, an informal whisky-sampling club, and there’s always at least one of the ‘TWATS’ on hand to talk you through their offerings!”
Well worth a visit, if just to meet this group!
Antico Bar
For those who want more of a cocktail lounge feel, then Orocco Pier is the place for you.
The Antico Bar offers you a wide range of wines, cocktails, beers and soft drinks all while you take in the views out of the stunning full-length windows.
‘Lite bites’ are also available in the cafe bar area.
Just enough to stave off the hunger until dinner.
Things to Do Near South Queensferry
While visiting South Queensferry, you might want to take in some of the other attractions that surround this area.
One must-do activity is to walk across the Forth Road Bridge.
Forth Road Bridge Walk
The only bridge that is accessible to pedestrians, is the Forth Road Bridge.
This walk is around 2.5km and offers you the chance to see views of Fife and the Lothians as well as a nosey at the posh houses under the bridge.
The walk is accessible to cyclists and prams.
Often you will encounter groups of fundraisers making several crossings in aid of their chosen charities!
The photo opportunities of the UNESCO Rail Bridge ensure you have that perfect shot for your socials.
Local tip: Park at the Hilton in North Queensferry for free and walk across the bridge to South Queensferry. Remember to bring layers, it’s awfy windy!
Hopetoun House Events
Surrounded by 6,500 acres, Hopetoun House is a 17th-century stately home that the public can visit and enjoy.
You may recognise this house as it has featured in Outlander, the Princess Switched series on Netflix and Rebus.
As you drive into the grounds, you understand why this is a filmmaker’s dream.
Known as Scotland’s finest stately home, the 5-star visitor attraction offers you an insight into how the current family lives as well as a wander around the vast gardens that the house sits in.
There are often different events offered at various times of the year such as their Wondrous Woods walk in winter.
Craigie’s Farm Shop
Craigie’s Farm shop (West Craigie Farm, Queensferry EH30 9AR) is another great attraction for families.
The farm offers a fantastic family-friendly cafe where you can enjoy the farm’s produce.
There is also a big garden with swings, chutes and tractor tyres.
One of the amazing activities is picking your own produce.
You pay a small fee and then are given the opportunity to go and pick your own strawberries, pumpkins, leeks, apples, plums, rhubarb – the list goes on.
A fantastic way to introduce the wee ones in your life to fresh produce as well as getting your seasonal fruit and veg fresh.
Craigie’s Farm also features in our guide to Edinburgh in autumn.
Cramond Beach
Not far from South Queensferry is Cramond Beach.
The walk to this beach takes you past an old fishing village and along to a causeway.
If you want to walk out to Cramond Island, you need to be mindful of tide times as crossing at the wrong time of day could see you stranded until the tide goes back out.
Check out our guide to Edinburgh beaches for more.
Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path is a 187-kilometre (116 miles) multi-day route that starts at Kincardine and ends in Newburgh.
A section of the long-distance walk runs through North Queensferry, just over the bridge from South Queensferry.
It is a relatively easy one-hour circular that passes by a beach, abandoned piers and some industrial yards.
The views across to the Lothians are stunning.
Park for free in North Queensferry.
Note: The Fife Coastal Path is not circular, you would continue on to the next town if following the route.
Hilton North Queensferry
Just over the Queensferry Bridge, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel (St Margarets Head, North Queensferry,) is set on the hill overlooking the Forth giving you views towards South Queensferry and the Lothians.
The hotel is modern, spacious and popular with weddings and corporate events.
The Shore Grill & Fish House is a fantastic restaurant overlooking the Queensferry Crossing with sunny seats and big round tables.
South Queensferry Hotels
Hotels in South Queensferry range from family-run B&Bs to large hotels with steak restaurants.
The Dakota
The Dakota South Queensferry (Ferrymuir, Queensferry) is a luxury hotel that looks like a large glass box from the outside.
Rooms are decorated with dark wood panelling and exposed red brick, akin to a NYC loft.
Downstairs, the cocktail lounge is a destination for many in the surrounding areas as the mixologists here really know their drinks.
The Dakota Grill prides itself on its steak but there are also other items on the menu such as oysters and pasta.
In addition to this, there is a vegetarian, vegan and kids menu.
The Dakota is a 5-minute taxi ride or a 15-minute walk from South Queensferry High Street.
Innkeepers Lodge
Innkeepers Lodge South Queensferry (7 Newhalls Road) is a traditional, small hotel that sits under the Forth Bridge.
Some rooms have the most incredible views over the water so you can see the local boats bobbing about as the sun sets over the bridges.
The rooms are basic yet spacious and include en-suite bathrooms.
If you are a literary history buff, then book room 13 as this is where Robert Louis Stevenson is said to have penned some of his novel ‘Kidnapped’.
How to Get To South Queensferry from Edinburgh
Trains leave frequently from Waverley Train Station and Haymarket Train Station to Dalmeny in South Queensferry.
The journey takes around 20 minutes.
There is a short walk from Dalmeny Train Station to South Queensferry High Street.
It doesn’t have the best lighting so it is not advised to be walk it yourself at night.
There is free parking in South Queensferry however it is limited so arrive early.
More spaces can be found at Port Edgar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I spend in South Queensferry?
A minimum of half a day covers the highlights: the bridges, a boat tour, a walk along the High Street and a meal. Adding Inchcolm Island, North Queensferry or Dalmeny Estate walks turns it into a full day. If you want to explore Outlander locations and Hopetoun House, consider an overnight stay.
When is the best time to visit South Queensferry?
Summer (June–August) offers the best weather and longest daylight, but the town gets very busy, especially on weekends. Inchcolm Island and most boat tours only run April to October. For quieter visits, try spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October). The Burryman parade takes place on the second Friday of August and the Loony Dook on 1 January.
Is South Queensferry good for kids?
Yes. Deep Sea World in North Queensferry is a firm favourite with families, and boat tours from Hawes Pier are suitable for all ages. The Forth Road Bridge footpath is wide and safe for children, and the harbour area has ice cream shops and cafes. Inchcolm Island is best for older children who enjoy exploring ruins.
Can you walk across the Forth Bridges?
You can walk across the Forth Road Bridge (around 60–70 minutes each way) via a dedicated footpath and cycleway with excellent views. The Queensferry Crossing does not have pedestrian access. The Forth Bridge (railway) has footpaths on either side, though sections may close for maintenance – check the Forth Bridges website before setting out.
How do I get to South Queensferry from Edinburgh?
By train: services from Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket to Dalmeny station take around 20 minutes, then it is a 15-minute walk into town. By car: take the A90 west from Edinburgh (around 25 minutes); free parking is available in town and at Port Edgar. Several guided tour operators also run day trips from Edinburgh that include a boat cruise and time on the High Street.
Final Words
South Queensferry, while just on the outskirts of Edinburgh, offers you some fantastic ideas for a day out or an overnight stay.
As with most coastal towns, it does get busy during the summer months, so get there early or visit during autumn or winter to avoid the crowds.