Overview
Description
South Queensferry affords you superb views of all three of Scotland's famous Forth bridges; be sure to get out at sunset (or dawn if you’re keen) to capture them at their best.
From South Queensferry you start to enter the outskirts of the capital city, passing through the coastal Dalmeny estate. If you've time, why not visit the largest Napoleonic collection outside France in Dalmeny House before turning inland at Cramond to take on the capital and all of its delights?
Terrain
The first few miles of this section follow gently undulating estate road through woodland fringing the Firth of Forth. At Dalmeny the route splits briefly, with the walking route continuing along the coast on rougher hillier paths and the alternative cycling route providing a smoother ride. Approaching the city, you will follow quiet roads and good quality tracks. The undulating route through the city winds variously along pavement and shared cycle paths, the Union Canal towpath and Water of Leith Walkway. There is also a climb up Corstorphine Hill, which can be avoided using the waymarked cycle alternative.
Accessibility
At Dalmeny Estate, narrow gaps in fences at either end limit accessibility. The sections between Cramond and Corstorphine Hill, along the Water of Leith, Union Canal and through the Meadows are fully accessible. The path over Corstorphine Hill and the steep steps up onto the canal at Slateford are only accessible on foot but the waymarked cycling route provides more level, accessible options.
For detailed information about potential access restrictions along this section, see the Accessibility Storymap.
Getting There
By rail: South Queensferry is served by Dalmeny train station, with regular services to and from Edinburgh Waverley.
By bus: the X38 bus service links Linlithgow and Edinburgh. For travel between Bo'ness, Blackness and Edinburgh, see the Bo'ness Community Bus.
By car: in South Queensferry parking is available along the front towards the Forth (Rail) Bridge. Parking in Edinburgh is plentiful but can be expensive.
Points of interest
Water of Leith Visitor Centre and Cafe
Find out more about the Water of Leith & enjoy refreshments at the volunteer-run cafe, open 7 days, 10am-4pm.
Visit Website
Lauriston Castle
A beautiful 16th-century castle. You can view its furnished interior exactly as it was when it was left to the City of Edinburgh by its last private owner in 1926.
Visit Website
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle is one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Set in the heart of Scotland's capital city it is sure to capture your imagination. The scenery will take your breath away.
Visit Website
Eagle Rock, Cramond
A weather-worn carving of an eagle, thought to date to the Roman occupation of Cramond.
Visit Website
Dalmeny House
Completed in 1817 and home to the 7th Earl and Countess of Rosebery, guided tours of the interior and art collections are available in June & July, Sun-Wed.
Visit Website
Cramond Island
If you’re feeling adventurous, a short walk along the causeway from Cramond village will take you to this tidal island. Used as a defensive site for centuries, there are WWII military barracks and evidence of a Roman fort on the island. Be aware of tide t
Visit Website
Craiglockhart Hill Local Nature Reserve
Nature trail, sculptures and views from Easter Craiglockhart Hill out over the Forth, the Trossachs, the Pentlands and East Lothian.
Visit Website
Corstorphine Hill
Corstorphine Hill is only 531 feet high, but rising above the western suburbs of Edinburgh, it presents some great views of the city and the Firth of Forth.
Visit WebsiteGallery
Route sections
Click on one of the sections below to view more details and plan your trip.