29 best things to do in South Queensferry

South Queensferry is a pretty Scottish town that should be at the top of your list for a day trip from Edinburgh. 

Just 8 miles from Edinburgh, the town is easily accessible by train, bus or on a guided tour, making it a great option for things to do near Edinburgh. 

The cute harbour town is known for its historic high street and its location almost underneath the Three Bridges that cross the Forth including the iconic Firth of Forth Bridge, which connects Edinburgh to the kingdom of Fife. 

The bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for a relaxing day out.

Despite its small size, there are plenty of fun things to do in South Queensferry. From taking a leisurely stroll along the seafront to visiting historical buildings such as Hopetoun House and Dundas Castle, South Queensferry is a hidden gem that should be on your radar if you’re visiting Edinburgh

How to get to South Queensferry

South Queensferry is the perfect day trip from Edinburgh and the best part is you don’t even need a car to get there! It’s such an easy trip by public transport from Edinburgh to South Queensferry which means you can enjoy a pint or two and then head back to the city. Here’s everything you need to know on how to get there.

Train from Edinburgh to South Queensferry

If you’re looking for the quickest way to get to South Queensferry, taking the train is your best bet. 

With departures from either Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket, you can arrive in South Queensferry in just 15 minutes. 

Get off the train at Dalmeny Station, which is the last stop before the bridge. 

From there, you can take a leisurely hike through a wooded area to reach the town centre. 

By Bus

To get to South Queensferry from Edinburgh by bus, take the Lothian Bus 43 or Stagecoach X51 bus from St. Andrew Square Bus Station in Edinburgh.

Tickets can be purchased either online or at the bus station, and cost between £3-£5 per person. The journey takes around 30 minutes, and you’ll be dropped off at South Queensferry High Street or the nearby Hawes Pier. 

Just repeat this to get from South Queensferry to Edinburgh.

Best Things to do in South Queensferry

1. Check out the Three Bridges

The Three Bridges is a piece of world-renowned architecture that connects Edinburgh with the Kingdom of Fife. 

The Forth Bridge, completed in 1890 and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the most photographed feature in the area. This is the one you’ll travel across if you go to Fife by train.

The Forth Road Bridge, which opened in 1964, is next to it and is the bridge used by buses and larger vehicles. 

The newest, The Queensferry Crossing, built in 2017, is used by cars and motorbikes. If you end up driving to Fife, this is the one you’ll go over. It’s the longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world!

You can learn more about the history and engineering of these bridges at the South Queensferry Museum (below), which is a must-visit destination for architecture and history enthusiasts.

2. South Queensferry Bus Tour

A fun way to explore South Queensferry and its surrounding area is to take the South Queensferry Bus Tour. 

The tour leaves from St Andrews Square in Edinburgh and ends in South Queensferry, taking you past the Georgian New Townhouses on the way out of the city.

Sit back and relax in the comfort of the tour bus while the guide shares interesting information and stories about South Queensferry and the surrounding areas.

Once you arrive in South Queensferry, you can join a boat cruise tour, similar to the Three Bridges Cruise. Then finish up your visit by walking along the cobbled high street and grabbing a coffee or ice cream from one of the many cafes in South Queensferry.

Book the South Queensferry bus and sightseeing tour

3. Attend Your View South Queensferry

If you’re lucky enough to visit South Queensferry during the “Your View” experience, then attending this incredible event is a must-do activity. 

Organised by Barnardo’s, this event gives visitors a chance to see an uninterrupted 360-degree panoramic view of the Edinburgh and Fife coastline from a viewing platform raised 361 feet in the air.

Tickets for these events are often limited, and visitors can choose between three different ticket packages: Classic, Sunrise or Sunset, and Ultimate. 

With stunning views and an unforgettable experience, attending Your View is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in South Queensferry.

4. South Queensferry Boat Tours

South Queensferry’s location on the River Forth means it’s a great palace to get out on the water. One of the best ways to do this is to take a boat tour which will give you a whole new perspective of the Three Bridges. 

There are a couple of boat tours available that depart from Hawes Pier, including the Maid of the Forth which takes you on a 1.5-hour cruise, showcasing the breathtaking views of a seal colony, bird reserve, and the Oxcars Lighthouse. 

The second excursion takes visitors to the mysterious Inchcolm Island to explore an ancient abbey and perhaps see some wildlife.

Whichever you choose, you’re sure to have a great time!

5. Learn to Sail at Port Edgar Watersports Centre

Port Edgar Watersports Centre is a short walk from South Queensferry’s high street and offers RYA-recognized training courses in a dinghy or keelboat sailing, powerboating, windsurfing, SUP, and kayaking. 

Book two-hour taster sessions or full training courses and leave with qualifications so you can go sailing elsewhere.

With the Queensferry Crossing in the background, learning to sail at Port Edgar is an excellent way to experience the beauty of South Queensferry’s surrounding areas.

6. Cycle the Forth Bridges

Crossing the Forth Bridges by bike is one of the most popular activities in South Queensferry. 

This world-famous suspension bridge offers unbeatable views of the Industrial Revolution-era rail bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the new Queensferry Crossing. 

It can get windy some days which leads to the bridge being closed to pedestrians, but if you get it on a nice day it’s stunning!

7. Three Bridges Cruise and Firth of Forth Sightseeing Tour

One of the most popular boat tours in South Queensferry is the 90-minute Three Bridges Cruise, which takes visitors on a journey towards the Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

The cruise offers stunning views of the other two bridges in South Queensferry and the Edinburgh skyline. 

You’ll also get the opportunity to disembark the boat at the historic Inchcolm Abbey, a 12th Century Abbey, for a self-guided tour of the island with a rich and varied history. 

You might also see some local wildlife, including seals and puffins, on this cruise too! 

Book the Three Bridges Cruise tour

8. Visit the Dalmeny Estate

The Dalmeny Estate is a stunning 19th-century estate located to the west of South Queensferry. 

The estate is home to the seventh Earl and Countess of Rosebery and is set against a spectacular shoreline and pretty woodland, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. 

While the Dalmeny House is currently closed to visitors, the West Craigie Farm Shop within the grounds is great for gastronomes looking to do some shopping.

You can also enjoy the beautiful landscapes and breathtaking backdrops, with views of the shores of West Lothian and the upland moors of Leithenwater in the Scottish Borders.

9. Murder Mystery Trail

The South Queensferry murder mystery trail is a self-guided trail that takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. 

Follow the trail around the town and discover interesting facts that will help you solve the puzzle. 

By the end of the route, you’ll have solved the murder mystery and also have seen some of the hidden things to do in South Queensferry that you wouldn’t normally come across had you just stuck to the waterfront! 

10. Take part in the Loony Dook

If you’re feeling brave and want to do something out of the ordinary, why not take a dip in the River Forth on New Year’s Day? 

The Loony Dook is a popular event where hundreds of people in fancy dress take to the streets of South Queensferry and then plunge into the icy waters of the river. 

The event is named after the Scottish words for ‘lunatic dip’, and is a great way to start the new year, and even cure a hangover!

The town is understandably busy on January 1st, so make sure to arrive early if you want to take part or spectate. And don’t forget to book a table at a restaurant for a warm meal after the dip!

I took part in this a while back when I was in Edinburgh to celebrate Hogmanay. It certainly was a refreshing way to kick off the New Year!

11. Forth Road Bridge Walk

For a unique experience, take a walk across the Forth Road Bridge during your visit to South Queensferry.

This 2.5km walk is the only bridge accessible to pedestrians and offers stunning views of Fife and the Lothians, as well as the opportunity to see the fancy houses under the bridge. 

From the bridge, you’ll get plenty of photo ops of the UNESCO Rail Bridge, but be sure to bring layers as it can be very windy – if it’s super windy the bridge actually gets closed! 

12. South Queensferry Museum

For a free and fun thing to do in South Queensferry, visit the South Queensferry Museum. 

This attraction in South Queensferry showcases some of the great traditions of the historic town and nearby Dalmeny. 

Enjoy an educational experience and also get first-class views out onto the Firth of Forth and the Forth Bridge. 

If you happen to be in South Queensferry on the second Friday of August, you can witness the traditional Burry Man festival, where a man covered in burrs parades through the town, making stops so locals can feed him with whisky!

Best things to do near South Queensferry

13. Hopetoun House

Hopetoun House is a majestic 17th-century stately home situated near South Queensferry. 

The 6,500-acre estate is a cool place to visit for a unique day out to enjoy traditional Scottish outdoor activities, such as clay pigeon shooting.

 The Hopetoun Farm Shop, located on the estate, sells estate-reared beef, lamb, and poultry, as well as wild game and the grounds are a popular location for geocaching and orienteering. 

Inside, the elegant Georgian architecture, lavish interiors, and fascinating antiques make this a top place to visit. 

Hopetoun House has also been featured in films and TV shows, including Outlander. 

There are often different events offered throughout the year, such as their Wondrous Woods walk in winter.

Love Outlander? Check out this 1 day Outlander tour from Edinburgh

14. Craigie’s Farm Shop

Located at West Craigie Farm, Craigie’s Farm Shop is an excellent family attraction with plenty to offer for visitors of all ages. 

The farm has a large garden with swings, chutes, and tractor tyres for children to play on, there’s a pick-your-own veg and fruit area and a great cafe too. 

15. Cramond Beach and the walk out to Cramond Island

Located just a short distance from South Queensferry, Cramond Beach is a great place to enjoy views of the Firth of Forth. 

The walk to the beach takes you past an old fishing village and along a causeway. You can also walk out to Cramond Island which I highly recommend doing. Just make sure you’ve checked the tide times. The tide must be low for you to be able to walk out and back! 

16. Fife Coastal Path

The Fife Coastal Path is a 187-kilometre 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’s a relatively easy one-hour walk that passes by a beach, abandoned piers, and some industrial yards and treats you to some stunning views across to the Lothians. 

17. Hike the John Muir Way

For outdoor enthusiasts, hiking the John Muir Way is a must (or at least some of it!).

This iconic Scottish walk starts at Helensburgh and ends at Dunbar, John Muir’s birthplace, covering a distance of 215 km. 

Although you may not be able to complete the entire route, even doing some of this trail gives you a taste of the breathtaking Scottish landscape that inspired John Muir, known as “the father of national parks” and a champion of the American conservation movement.

18. Explore Edinburgh

Located just under 13 km away from Edinburgh, South Queensferry isn’t far from the Scottish capital that’s renowned for its history, architecture and, of course, being the birthplace of Harry Potter.

From the world’s biggest art and comedy festival, The Fringe, to the iconic hike up Arthur’s Seat for breathtaking views of the cityscape and the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, spending a few days, of even one day in Edinburgh, is a must. 

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19. Take a walking tour in South Queensferry

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of South Queensferry on a private walking tour with a local guide who’ll bring the town to life through tales, traditions and stories.

The town of South Queensferry has an interesting past and you’ll soon see why. From its importance during the first world war to a bustling import and export market, and even a home of witches!

Book your private South Queensferry walking tour

Best Places to Eat in South Queensferry

You’re not short of options for restaurants in South Queensferry. This small town has a great variety of cafes and restaurants and many come with great views of the sea!

Cafes in South Queensferry

Cafes in South Queensferry are the perfect places to grab a quick bite before setting off to explore the town. If you are looking for home baking and a cosy atmosphere, then you won’t be disappointed.

20. Manna House

Manna House Bakery & Patisserie is another popular cafe in South Queensferry. The cafe offers various options for those with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and vegan options. From sandwiches to cakes, everything on the menu is freshly made, and totally delicious.

21. Lou Lous Ice cream

If you’re looking for a charming and friendly cafe in a historical seaside town, Lou Lous is a must-visit spot.

They serve delicious gelato, coffee, sandwiches, and sweets and it’s a perfect place to stop and recharge during your day out.

22. The Little Bakery

The Little Bakery is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. The eye-catching pink decor is not the only reason to visit – the tray bakes are delicious! 

From chocolate brownies to millionaire shortbread, The Little Bakery has something to satisfy any sweet craving.

Restaurants in South Queensferry

From traditional Scottish cuisine to Canadian-inspired dishes, you’ll find it all in these South Queensferry restaurants. Here’s my pick of some of the best places to eat in South Queensferry. 

23. Down the Hatch South Queensferry

If you’re looking for a hearty meal that will keep you going all day, then head to Down the Hatch. 

The food is cooked fresh to order, and the portions are generous. The menu includes classic Canadian items like burgers, poutine and Mexican skillet breakfasts, as well as their famous monster shakes. 

24. Orocco Pier

For a more sophisticated dining experience, try Orocco Pier. This boutique hotel is situated on South Queensferry’s High Street, and it boasts breathtaking views of the Forth and the iconic bridges. 

The hotel has two dining options: the Antico Café Bar, which is perfect for a relaxed lunch, and the Samphire Restaurant and Bar, which offers an elegant seafood dinner. 

25. Railbridge Bistro 

With enormous windows providing an unbeatable view of the Forth and the Forth Bridge, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. 

The interior features an intriguing moving train that runs beneath the mezzanine level, providing a conversation starter while you wait for your meal. There is also a lovely terrace where you can sit outside and enjoy the stunning bridge views.

26. South Queensferry Fish & Chips

When it comes to a classic Scottish meal, nothing beats fish and chips. While many restaurants and pubs in South Queensferry offer this dish on their menu, the best way to enjoy it is by the sea. 

There’s just something special about British fish and chips by the sea and it’s very hard to beat.

Maurizio’s South Queensferry is one of the top chippies in the area, famous for their secret recipe of batter that gives their locally sourced fish a crispy texture. Be prepared to queue as this fish and chips restaurant often has long lines. 

27. The Boat House

The Boat House is a popular choice when it comes to places to eat in South Queensferry. 

This restaurant offers stunning views of the Forth Bridges and the river and the menu features fresh seafood, steak, and vegetarian options, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

Pubs and Bars in South Queensferry

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing quite like relaxing with a cold drink. Luckily, South Queensferry has plenty of options for a pint.

28. The Anchor Inn

The Anchor Inn is a fantastic little pub in South Queensferry that offers visitors a cosy and friendly atmosphere. With just a small room, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a drink and chat with locals or fellow travellers.

The Anchor Inn also boasts a great selection of drinks, including a range of whiskies that are sure to impress even the most discerning connoisseur. 

29. The Ferry Tap

The Ferry Tap is a charming red pub that is full of character. With 52 Scottish whiskies on offer, it’s the perfect spot to try a dram and enjoy some traditional pub food. 

Best places to stay in South Queensferry

Forth Reflections Self Catering

Treat yourself to a wonderful holiday experience by booking a stay at Forth Reflections Self-Catering in Queensferry.

This incredible holiday home offers stunning sea views and you’ll be just a short distance away from some of the most popular attractions in the area, including the iconic Hopetoun House and the Forth Bridge. 

The holiday home boasts a fully equipped kitchen, spacious living area, comfortable seating area, and a dining area. With one bedroom and one bathroom, this charming accommodation is perfect for couples or solo travellers. 

Crawsteps

Experience breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges with a stay at Crawsteps.

This elegant apartment offers free parking and is situated in a historic listed building in the charming town of Queensferry. 

Orocco Pier

When it comes to South Queensferry hotels, this is one of the best.

Immerse yourself in luxury with a stay at Orocco Pier. The boutique bedrooms offer stylish and comfortable accommodations, many with breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth and the iconic Forth Road Bridge. 

Enjoy fresh seafood and a variety of cocktails at the Samphire Seafood bar and grill, open on Fridays to Sundays, or head to the Antico Café bar for daily service from 8 am. 

It’s the perfect choice for a luxurious and relaxing stay.

Final thoughts on the best things to do in South Queensferry Scotland

South Queensferry has plenty to offer for visitors looking for a uniquely Scottish experience. 

From boat tours that showcase breathtaking views of the Forth Bridges and local wildlife to historic landmarks such as the Dalmeny Estate, there is something for everyone. 

Indulge in Scottish cuisine or enjoy a pint and friendly banter at one of the town’s pubs. 

Whether you’re a solo traveller or visiting with friends and family, there are plenty of fun things to do in South Queensferry and the town is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

FAQs about what to do in South Queensferry

Last Updated on April 18, 2023 by Hannah