Best Attractions Near Forth Bridge (Edinburgh)
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The best attractions near Forth Bridge
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48 attractions
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Botanical garden4.7★22,151 reviews
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a world-renowned botanical garden located just one mile north of Edinburgh city centre. Spanning over 70 acres, it features diverse plant collections, tranquil landscapes, and spectacular views of the city skyline. Founded in 1670, the garden combines horticultural beauty with scientific research and conservation, offering visitors a peaceful retreat and an immersive experience in plant biodiversity.
Daily 10:00–16:00Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.6★14,773 reviews
Dean Village
Nestled just northwest of Edinburgh’s city centre, Dean Village is a tranquil and picturesque former milling village with a rich history spanning over 800 years. Known for its cobblestone streets, charming stone cottages, and the flowing Water of Leith, it offers visitors a peaceful escape filled with historic architecture, scenic river views, and a unique atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
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Zoo4.3★12,213 reviews
Edinburgh Zoo
Set on 82 acres of scenic sloping parkland in Corstorphine, Edinburgh Zoo is home to over 2,500 rare and endangered animals, including Scotland’s only koalas, sloths, and pygmy hippos. Offering immersive educational talks, animal encounters, and family-friendly play areas, it combines conservation, adventure, and natural beauty just three miles from Edinburgh city centre.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 3–6 hrs
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Aquarium3.8★5,438 reviews
Deep Sea World
Deep Sea World, located beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge in North Queensferry, is Scotland’s national aquarium offering a captivating underwater tunnel, one of Europe’s largest collections of Sand Tiger sharks, and interactive marine exhibits. Visitors can explore themed aquatic habitats, watch seal demonstrations, and even dive with sharks. The aquarium is family-friendly with engaging talks and feeding sessions, open daily from 10am to 5pm.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★4,087 reviews
Pittencrieff Park Dunfermline Glen
Pittencrieff Park, affectionately known as "The Glen," is a 76-acre historic urban park in Dunfermline, Scotland. Gifted by Andrew Carnegie, it offers beautifully landscaped gardens, woodland walks, a Victorian greenhouse, and a peacock sanctuary. The park blends natural beauty with rich heritage, featuring historic sites like Malcolm’s Tower and the Art Deco Glen Pavilion, making it a serene retreat in the heart of the city.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bridge4.8★3,919 reviews
Forth Bridge
The Forth Bridge is an engineering masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning the Firth of Forth between South and North Queensferry. Completed in 1890, this 2.5 km-long cantilever railway bridge is a symbol of Scotland’s industrial heritage, carrying around 200 trains daily. Its striking red steel structure stands 110 meters tall, showcasing Victorian innovation and enduring strength.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Art museum4.5★4,033 reviews
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern One
Modern One, part of the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh, is a neoclassical gallery showcasing outstanding modern and contemporary art. Housed in an 1825 William Burn design, it features captivating exhibitions and a sculpture park with works by major artists. Visitors can explore two gallery spaces, enjoy the striking landscape architecture by Charles Jencks, and relax at Café Modern One, famous for its legendary scones. Open daily with free admission, it offers a sensory and thought-provoking art experience.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Castle4.7★3,650 reviews
Blackness Castle
Blackness Castle, perched on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth near Linlithgow, is a striking 15th-century fortress known as 'the ship that never sailed' for its unique ship-like silhouette. Originally built by Sir George Crichton in the 1440s, it evolved into a formidable artillery fortress under King James V. With panoramic views, rich history as a royal garrison and prison, and its fame as an Outlander filming location, it offers a captivating glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent past.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Shopping Centre3.8★3,944 reviews
Kingsgate Shopping Centre
Kingsgate Shopping Centre is a vibrant, fully enclosed retail hub located in the heart of Dunfermline, Scotland. Spanning over 309,000 sq ft, it houses more than 70 diverse shops and over 8 eateries, offering everything from fashion and technology to gifts and homeware. With easy access via public transport and a large multi-story car park, Kingsgate provides a convenient and lively shopping experience for locals and visitors alike.
Mon–Sat 8:00–18:00 · Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Castle4.2★2,893 reviews
Midhope Castle
Midhope Castle, a 15th-century tower house near South Queensferry, Scotland, is famed as the real-life Lallybroch from the Outlander TV series. Set on the scenic Hopetoun Estate, this partially ruined castle offers visitors evocative views of medieval Scottish architecture and the surrounding countryside. Though the interior is unsafe and closed to the public, the castle grounds, courtyard, and nearby walking paths provide a rich experience for history lovers and Outlander fans alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Craigie's Farming Deli and Cafe
Craigie's Farm Deli and Cafe is a charming rural escape near Edinburgh offering a farm shop, café, pick-your-own produce, and a family-friendly farm park. Known for fresh Scottish produce, seasonal fruits, and hearty meals, it blends countryside tranquility with local culinary delights. Visitors enjoy fresh baked goods, artisan cheeses, and a lively children's play area, making it a perfect day out for families and food lovers alike.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Inverleith Park
Inverleith Park is a sprawling 54-acre public park located just north of Edinburgh’s city centre. Known for its wide open green spaces, sporting pitches, a scenic boating pond, and family-friendly playground, it offers a peaceful urban escape. Adjacent to the Royal Botanic Garden, the park features mature tree-lined boulevards, allotments, and panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle, making it a cherished community and recreational hub.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Lauriston Castle
Perched above the Firth of Forth on Edinburgh’s northern edge, Lauriston Castle is a 16th-century tower house with Victorian extensions and Edwardian interiors, preserved much as it was in the early 20th century. The house is open by guided tour only, offering an intimate glimpse into Edwardian life, while its extensive grounds and award-winning Japanese garden are free to explore year-round. With sweeping views, woodland paths, and a peaceful café, it’s a perfect escape from the city bustle.
Daily 8:00–19:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace
Dunfermline Abbey, founded in the 11th century by Queen Margaret, is a majestic medieval site in Dunfermline, Scotland. It serves as the final resting place of King Robert the Bruce and several Scottish monarchs. The abbey’s Romanesque nave, stunning stained glass windows, and historic ruins of the adjacent palace offer visitors a profound glimpse into Scotland’s royal and religious history. The abbey remains an active place of worship and a cherished cultural landmark.
Mon–Sat 10:00–16:00Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Jupiter Artland
Jupiter Artland is an acclaimed contemporary sculpture park and art gallery located near Edinburgh, set within 120 acres of scenic meadow and woodland. Featuring permanent and rotating works by renowned artists such as Tracey Emin, Antony Gormley, and Anish Kapoor, it offers visitors a unique blend of immersive outdoor art experiences and indoor galleries. The site includes a café, shop, and family-friendly events, making it a cultural highlight for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Hopetoun House
Hopetoun House, near South Queensferry, is a grand 17th-century stately home and estate, renowned for its exquisite Georgian architecture and rich history. Designed initially by Sir William Bruce and later expanded by William Adam and his sons, it remains the ancestral home of the Hope family. Visitors can explore magnificent interiors, extensive grounds, and serene nature trails, experiencing a blend of aristocratic heritage and natural beauty.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Cramond Beach
Cramond Beach, located on the Firth of Forth just north of Edinburgh’s historic village of Cramond, offers a scenic sandy shoreline with a promenade popular for walking and cycling. Visitors can explore the tidal causeway to Cramond Island at low tide, enjoy free parking, and soak in views of the estuary and surrounding nature. This tranquil beach blends natural beauty with rich history, from ancient settlements to a Roman fort.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Xtreme Karting / Combat Edinburgh
Xtreme Karting / Combat Edinburgh is Central Scotland's largest indoor karting track, located in Newbridge. It offers fast, electric go-kart racing with a thrilling boost feature, alongside urban laser tag combat missions and escape rooms. Rated 5 stars by Visit Scotland, this venue combines adrenaline-pumping fun with a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a top destination for karting and laser tag enthusiasts near Edinburgh.
Mon–Fri 11:30–22:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Maid of the Forth
The Maid of the Forth offers breathtaking 90-minute sightseeing cruises from South Queensferry, sailing beneath the three iconic Forth Bridges and towards the historic Inchcolm Island. Enjoy spectacular views of the engineering marvels, abundant wildlife including seals and seabirds, and the tranquil Scottish waters. The vessel features large viewing windows, onboard refreshments, and accessible facilities, making it a memorable experience for families, solo travelers, and nature lovers alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
South Queensferry Harbour
South Queensferry Harbour is a lively waterfront hub on the Firth of Forth, framed by the iconic Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge, and Queensferry Crossing. Cobbled lanes lead down to a working marina and pier where boats come and go, offering panoramic views of the three bridges and the water. The harbour is lined with cafes, pubs, and independent shops, making it a perfect spot to relax, enjoy a drink with a view, and soak up the maritime atmosphere of this historic ferry town just outside Edinburgh.
Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
Aberdour Castle and Gardens
Aberdour Castle, located in Burntisland, Fife, is one of Scotland’s oldest standing stone castles, dating back to the 12th century. This historic site features a mix of well-preserved ruins and roofed sections, including a rare 17th-century painted ceiling. Visitors can explore the grand hall-house, terraced gardens, and a charming walled garden with scented flowers and a distinctive beehive-shaped doocot overlooking the Firth of Forth. The castle’s rich history spans several noble families and offers scenic views and tranquil grounds to enjoy.
Daily 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Cramond Falls
Cramond Falls is a serene natural attraction nestled along the River Almond in the charming borough of Cramond, Edinburgh. This picturesque spot offers tranquil cascading waters, lush greenery, and scenic walking paths, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat near the city. Easily accessible year-round, the falls provide opportunities for gentle hikes, wildlife spotting, and picnicking in a calming riverside setting.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
National Galleries of Scotland: Modern Two
Situated at 73 Belford Road in Edinburgh, Modern Two is part of the National Galleries of Scotland, showcasing a compelling collection of modern and early 20th-century art. Set within a beautiful sculpture park, the gallery offers visitors a journey through innovative, experimental, and abstract artworks, alongside striking outdoor sculptures. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, Modern Two provides a rich cultural experience complemented by dining options and research facilities.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cramond Causeway
Cramond Causeway is a unique tidal pathway in Edinburgh that leads to Cramond Island, accessible only at low tide. Stretching over three-quarters of a mile into the Firth of Forth, this causeway offers a scenic walk with views of historic military remnants and natural beauty. The island itself spans 19 acres, featuring ruins, wildlife habitats, and panoramic vistas, making it a fascinating escape just outside the city.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway is a scenic 13-mile urban trail following the river from Balerno through Edinburgh to Leith. It offers peaceful riverside paths, historic villages like Dean Village, lush woodlands, and cultural highlights including Murrayfield Stadium and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art. Suitable for walking, cycling, and partly wheelchair accessible, it is a tranquil escape showcasing Edinburgh’s natural beauty and heritage.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1.5–5 hrs
Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum
Nestled in the historic village of North Queensferry, the Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum houses the world’s smallest working lighthouse, built in 1817 by Robert Stevenson. This unique maritime landmark offers visitors a glimpse into Scotland’s rich nautical heritage, featuring a tiny museum and the chance to climb the 24-step tower for stunning views of the iconic Forth Bridges and the Firth of Forth estuary.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Almondell & Calderwood Country Park
Almondell & Calderwood Country Park is a 220-acre natural haven near Broxburn, Scotland, offering extensive woodland and riverside trails, picnic and barbecue areas, a visitor centre with aquaria and exhibitions, and family-friendly facilities. Open year-round with free admission, it is a popular spot for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers seeking tranquil outdoor experiences amid diverse wildlife and historic landscapes.
Daily 10:00–16:00Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum
The Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum in Dunfermline, Scotland, preserves the humble 18th-century weavers' cottage where Andrew Carnegie was born in 1835. The museum also features an adjoining Memorial Hall built in 1928, dedicated to Carnegie's life as an industrialist and philanthropist. Visitors explore his early life, family’s weaving trade, emigration to America, and his global legacy in education, peace, and culture.
Daily 11:00–15:20Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Inchcolm Abbey
Inchcolm Abbey, located on Inchcolm Island in the Firth of Forth near Aberdour, is Scotland’s best-preserved medieval monastery dating back to the 12th century. Accessible only by boat, this atmospheric island offers stunning views of the Forth Bridges, rich history from medieval monastic life to World War fortifications, and abundant wildlife including seals and seabirds. Visitors explore remarkably intact cloisters, rare medieval frescoes, and wartime defenses amid tranquil beach settings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
House of the Binns
The House of the Binns is a 17th-century laird’s house near Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland, set in 260 acres of landscaped parkland overlooking the River Forth. Built in 1612 by Thomas Dalyell, a prosperous Edinburgh merchant, it has been home to the Dalyell family for over 400 years. The house features magnificent plaster ceilings, rare Scottish Renaissance woodwork, and an extensive collection of family portraits and antiques. The estate includes woodland trails, a tower with panoramic views, and a peafowl colony.
Mon 10:00–15:00 · Thu–Sun 10:00–15:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Saughton Park
Saughton Park, located in Edinburgh, is a historic public park spanning over 14 hectares. Opened to the public in 1910, it features formal gardens, a bandstand, a Winter Garden, and a renowned walled garden. Once the site of Saughtonhall House and a private lunatic asylum, the park blends rich heritage with natural beauty, offering tranquil spaces, diverse wildlife, and community events in a well-restored green oasis.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Dalmeny House
Dalmeny House, located near South Queensferry on the outskirts of Edinburgh, is a striking Tudor Gothic Revival mansion completed in 1817. Designed by William Wilkins, it was Scotland’s first house built in this style and remains the family home of the Earls of Rosebery. Set within expansive wooded parkland overlooking the Firth of Forth, Dalmeny House boasts magnificent interiors featuring historic art, French furniture, and one of Europe’s largest Napoleonic collections. Open to the public during summer months, it offers guided tours revealing centuries of heritage and culture.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Queensferry Museum
Queensferry Museum, located at 53 High Street in South Queensferry, offers a compact yet captivating glimpse into the town's history, traditions, and its iconic connection to the Forth Bridges. Set within a historic building overlooking the Firth of Forth, the museum features exhibits on local social history, folk traditions, and engineering marvels, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Kingsfield Golf & Leisure
Kingsfield Golf & Leisure in Linlithgow offers a well-maintained 9-hole golf course renowned for its challenging bunkers and true-rolling greens. Alongside golf, the centre features a driving range, professional coaching, and a welcoming café, making it a versatile destination for golf enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. The friendly staff and quality facilities create an inviting atmosphere for players of all levels.
Mon–Fri 8:00–21:00 · Sat–Sun 8:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
Well Court
Well Court is a striking late 19th-century Arts and Crafts residential complex in Edinburgh’s historic Dean Village. Commissioned by Sir John Findlay, owner of The Scotsman newspaper, it was originally built as affordable social housing for local mill workers. The building features a distinctive clock tower, sandstone façades, and a large communal courtyard, blending traditional and innovative architectural elements. Restored with care in 2007, Well Court remains a cherished landmark within Edinburgh’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Eagle Rock
Eagle Rock is a weather-worn rock carving near Edinburgh, believed to be a Roman-era depiction of an eagle dating from around AD 140 to the early 200s. Located on the Firth of Forth’s shoreline near Cramond, it stands as a mysterious relic linked to the nearby Roman fort and offers a glimpse into Scotland’s ancient military past amidst a scenic coastal environment.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Water of Leith Weir
Nestled near the picturesque Dean Village in Edinburgh, the Water of Leith Weir offers a serene and scenic escape from the city's bustle. This historic weir, part of the Water of Leith river system, is surrounded by charming walking paths and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. The gentle flow of water and the peaceful ambiance provide a relaxing retreat just minutes from central Edinburgh.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Dean Cemetery
Dean Cemetery, established in 1846 in Edinburgh, is a historically significant Victorian garden cemetery known for its ornate mausoleums, elaborate headstones, and tranquil landscaped grounds. It serves as the final resting place for many of Scotland’s notable artists, architects, and philosophers, offering visitors a serene space rich in cultural heritage and Victorian funerary art.
Daily 9:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Binny Craig
Binny Craig is a striking natural landmark near Broxburn in West Lothian, Scotland, renowned for its dramatic igneous rock formation rising above rolling farmland. This prominent crag offers spectacular panoramic views stretching to the Firth of Forth, Edinburgh’s Arthur’s Seat, and on clear days, the Southern Highlands. The site features a network of footpaths suitable for a rewarding short hike, with steep cliffs and varied wildlife habitats nearby.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Mini Mack Tours - Private Car Tours
Mini Mack Tours offers unique private tours around Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands in classic Mini Coopers. Led by local guides Rowan and Andy, these tours provide an intimate, fun, and personalized experience, exploring hidden gems, quiet neighborhoods, and iconic sights with engaging stories and local flavor. Guests enjoy a relaxed pace, tailored itineraries, and the charm of traveling in vintage Minis, making it a memorable way to discover Edinburgh beyond typical sightseeing.
Daily 9:30–18:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Priory Church
The Priory Church of St Mary of Mount Carmel is a historic Gothic church in South Queensferry, Scotland, dating back to the 15th century. Originally part of a Carmelite friary founded around 1330, it has served as a place of Christian worship for over 600 years. The church is renowned for its distinctive and unusual roof design and has undergone major restorations in 1890 and 2000, blending medieval heritage with a contemporary congregation.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Cramond Roman Fort
Cramond Roman Fort, located in the north-west of Edinburgh near the mouth of the River Almond, is a significant archaeological site dating back to the 2nd century AD. Established around 140 AD during the construction of the Antonine Wall, it served as a strategic military base and harbor for Roman forces. Visitors can explore the outlines of the fort’s headquarters, granaries, bathhouse, and barracks, alongside interpretive panels revealing its rich history and the famous Cramond Lioness sculpture.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–2.5 hrs
The Cramond Whale
The Cramond Whale is a captivating outdoor sculpture located at 40A Cramond Vale in Edinburgh. This unique artwork blends natural coastal beauty with artistic creativity, offering visitors a charming and tranquil spot to enjoy the scenic foreshore. It’s a delightful place for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike, set against the backdrop of the historic village of Cramond and the Firth of Forth.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Cramond
Cramond is a picturesque village and suburb in northwest Edinburgh, located where the River Almond meets the Firth of Forth. Known for its rich history dating back to Mesolithic times, it features a Roman fort, medieval church, sandy beach, harbour, and a tidal causeway to Cramond Island. A tranquil yet vibrant spot, Cramond offers scenic walks, historic sites, and charming village life just five miles from Edinburgh city centre.
Price level $Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Limekilns
Limekilns is a charming historic village on the north shore of the Firth of Forth in Fife, Scotland. Dating back to the 14th century, it was once the main port for nearby Dunfermline and a center for lime production. Today, Limekilns offers a picturesque coastal setting, rich heritage, and connections to Scottish royalty and maritime trade, making it a captivating destination for history and nature enthusiasts.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Fife Babies Memorial Gardan
Fife Babies Memorial Garden in Dunfermline is a serene and heartfelt sanctuary dedicated to the memory of infants whose ashes were not returned to families due to historic cremation practices. Nestled within Dunfermline Public Park, this tranquil garden offers a place for reflection and solace, honoring the lives of babies with a peaceful, natural setting marked by a significant memorial stone.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Water of Leith Walkway
The Water of Leith Walkway is a scenic 12-mile riverside path weaving through Edinburgh from the Pentland Hills to the Firth of Forth at Leith. This tranquil urban wildlife corridor offers a peaceful escape with diverse flora and fauna, historic sites like Dean Village and St Bernard’s Well, and cultural highlights including the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and Antony Gormley’s striking statues. Suitable for walking, cycling, and family outings, the walkway features a visitor centre with exhibitions and refreshments.
Time to spend 1–7.5 hrs
Inverleith Park
Inverleith Park is a sprawling 54-acre green space in north Edinburgh, offering a tranquil escape from the city centre with open lawns, a scenic pond, sports facilities, and panoramic views of Edinburgh Castle. Nestled beside the Royal Botanic Garden, this beloved local park features a children's playground, mature tree-lined boulevards, and peaceful woodland walks. Free to enter and family-friendly, it's an ideal destination for picnics, leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and outdoor recreation throughout the year.
Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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