Queensferry, Scotland is a port of call for many cruise ships and gateway to historic Edinburgh, about 16 kms away. This charming port is home to the famous Forth Bridge, a Scottish landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
All cruise ships arriving in Queensferry use tenders to take you to shore. If you are planning to take a trip into Edinburgh, check out guides to top things to do in Edinburgh, Scotland,Discover Edinburgh Castle, the most well-known historic site in Scotland, and top things to do in historic Grassmarket, Edinburgh
Top things to do in Queensferry
View Forth Bridge a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Forth Bridge is a famous Scottish landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The railway bridge connects Scotland to the rest of the UK. It crosses the Firth of Forth, which opens out towards the North Sea. This bridge made it possible to travel by rail from London to Aberdeen. Construction started in 1883 and the bridge opened in 1890. The distinctive cantilever design became one of the first major steel structures designed in Britain. In 2016, it was voted the greatest man-made wonder in Scotland. You can take the train across the bridge from Dalmeny station, which is located at the top of the hill above Queensferry.
Port of Call – Top things to do in Queensferry. Marvel at the engineering genius of the famous Forth Bridge. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Stop at Hawes Inn
Famous author Robert Louis Stevenson stayed at the 17th century Hawes Inn. Stevenson wrote part of his novel “Kidnapped” at the Inn.
Famous author Robert Louis Stevenson stayed at the 17th century Hawes Inn at Queensferry, Scotland near medieval Edinburgh. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Explore 12th century Inchcolm Abbey
Visit Inchcolm Abbey. As you leave Queensferry by cruise ship, you can view the 12th century Inchcolm Abbey. It is one of the best examples in Scotland of a monastic building. It was built by David l in 1235. If you plan to visit the abbey, check for closures. There is a ferry service leaving from Hawes Pier to the Abbey if you would like to explore the area on your own or join a walking tour.
The 12th century Inchcolm Abbey built by David l in 1235 can be viewed as you cruise into port of call Queensferry, Scotland near historic Edinburgh. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
View from South Queensferry. Discover things to do in medieval Edinburgh. Explore Old Town and New Town along with the many museums, monument, memorials and galleries of this historic city. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Visit Forth Road Bridge
View the Forth Road Bridge, the fourth longest suspension bridge in the world.
Take a Queensferry historic walking tour
Take a historic walking tour of Queensferry, which includes the Forth Road Bridge, the Forth Bridge, 17th century buildings and the 19th century harbour area.
Hop on a shuttle to Edinburgh
Take a shuttle into Edinburgh for the day. For a small round trip fee, a shuttle service from the South Queensferry port to Edinburgh is usually offered to cruise ship passengers.
Friendly, entertaining shuttle bus hosts on the South Queensferry to Edinburgh route. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Returning to the ship after a day of touring historic Edinburgh. Holland America cruise ships tenders for South Queensferry port of call. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Drummers perform at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Forth Bridge at Queensferry, Scotland near medieval Edinburgh. Photo Credit: Wendy Nordvik-Carr
Visit Edinburgh’s official tourism site and also Visit Scotland for more information on things to do and to book accommodations.
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Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, a travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National PD Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW & NATJA.
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