Top 5 things to do in South Queensferry

Do you dream of coastal living yet still want great amenities on your doorstep? Then perhaps you should consider buying your new home in South Queensferry, just 10 miles from Edinburgh city centre. 

Set on the banks of the Firth of Forth, with a stunning backdrop of the Queensferry Crossing and Forth Road and Rail bridges, it’s really no wonder South Queensferry was voted one of the UK’s prettiest places to live in 2023 by the Telegraph.

Whether you are looking to take on the great outdoors, want to enjoy some delicious Scottish fayre, or fancy doing some boutique shopping, we’ve found the top five things to do in South Queensferry.

1. Outdoor activities in South Queensferry

• Water Sports

For thrill seekers and novices, why not try out Port Edgar Marina? There is a wide range of water sports for the whole family to take part in, from windsurfing to dinghy sailing.

• Walking Trails

If you prefer to explore on dry land, there are several walking routes to choose from. Our favourite is the Forth Bridges Trail, a five-mile walk which takes you across the Forth Road Bridge by foot or bike, so you can explore both sides of the Forth.

• Boat Trips

You could take a boat trip out to Inchcolm Island. The island is under the care of Historic Scotland and is home to the historic Augustine Inchcolm Abbey, making it a must-see for history buffs.

2. Eat local in South Queensferry

There are plenty of local businesses and places to eat in South Queensferry, ranging from casual dining to more fine dining options.

We’ve listed our favourites below:

• Down the Hatch

Located at Port Edgar Marina, Down the Hatch has a vast menu based on a traditional Canadian diner, from Poutine to delicious, handcrafted burgers, making it the perfect breakfast or lunch spot.

• Buzzworks

Buzzworks has some gorgeous venues across Scotland, and South Queensferry is no different. Perfect for both casual breakfast, lunches and dinners but also special occasions. It’s also a perfect date night spot with a varied menu and cocktails.

• Thirty Knots

Open for lunch or dinner, you can enjoy traditional pub food with modern twists, along with a great cocktail and drinks menu.

3. Local Retailers

South Queensferry has a great range of independent shops so you can support local businesses in the community, including;

• Joyce Paton

Located on South Queensferry High Street, this boutique boasts a wide range of clothing and accessories.

• Becon

Based in Port Edgar Marina, Becon has an extensive range of clothes, homeware, pet accessories and gifts, including designer brands from Joules to Fairfax & Favor.

4. Fun family days out

South Queensferry is not only well connected to Edinburgh, it’s also just a short hop across the bridge to the Kingdom of Fife, making it the perfect location for commuters in all directions. Dalmeny Train Station is also nearby, so you can easily get the train into the capital, as well as Dunfermline, Dundee and Aberdeen.

• Why not hop on the train at Dalmeny Train Station where you can head over to historic Dunfermline and its Abbey and Palace? Or why not catch a show at the Alhambra Theatre?
• Take a trip down the motorway into Edinburgh city centre, where you can see a show at the Playhouse, or do some shopping and grab some dinner at St James Quarter.

5. History on your doorstep

You’re never too far away from history at South Queensferry, with the town surrounded by lots of places to visit, including;

• Hopetoun House & Grounds is the perfect place to go for a day out. Take a walk around the grounds then pop into the Stables Kitchen, where dogs are welcome to enjoy their own posh pooch menu too.
• Edinburgh Castle is the ideal adventure to steep yourself in Scottish history at the iconic castle, which sits atop a centuries-old volcano. Find out about Scotland’s fascinating history, including the Kings and Queens who held court there.

South Queensferry is a fantastic and varied place to live, with local, independent shops, great schools, and many different activities on offer, including embracing the outdoors and dining out. The town is also well connected, whether that is commuting for work or enjoying a trip to Scotland’s capital.

Ready to find your perfect home in South Queensferry?

We are proud to have two new build developments in South Queensferry: Queensferry Heights and Rosebery Wynd.

You can find more information on both developments here, or call our sales team on 0131 608 3481.