Queensferry Museum: Gateway to the Heritage of South Queensferry
Discover South Queensferry’s rich heritage and breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges at this charming local museum.
Queensferry Museum, located at 53 High Street in South Queensferry, offers a compact yet rich exploration of the town's heritage, including its historic ferry service and the iconic Forth Bridges. Set in a historic building with stunning views over the Firth of Forth, the museum showcases social history, folk traditions, and engineering marvels, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Queensferry Museum
- 53 High St, South Queensferry, EH30 9HP, GB
- +441313315545
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the museum’s current opening hours before visiting as they can vary seasonally and due to maintenance.
- Use public transport like the train to Dalmeny station or local buses to avoid limited parking in South Queensferry.
- Take time to enjoy the views of the Forth Bridges from the museum and nearby High Street viewpoints.
- Visit during Ferry Fair Week in August to experience traditional local events and festivities.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take the ScotRail service from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny station, approximately a 15-minute journey. From Dalmeny, it is about a 15-minute walk downhill to the museum. Trains run frequently but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. Tickets cost around £4–£6 one way.
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Bus
Lothian Country buses 43 and X43 run from Edinburgh city centre to South Queensferry every 20 minutes, with a journey time of about 35 minutes. The nearest stops to the museum are on High Street or nearby streets. A single fare costs approximately £3–£4. Night service N43 operates in evenings.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh takes roughly 25–35 minutes via the A90 and B924. Parking is available but limited near the High Street, especially during summer and weekends, so early arrival is advised. Some parking may require payment.
Queensferry Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Queensferry Museum
Historic Roots and Architectural Character
Queensferry Museum is housed in a historic structure on South Queensferry’s High Street, originally built in 1900 as the Viewpoint Temperance Hotel. The building itself carries historical significance, having served as the Norwegian Naval Command during World War II. Its location offers commanding views of the Firth of Forth and the UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge, providing visitors with a scenic backdrop that complements the museum’s exhibits.Exploring Local Heritage and Traditions
The museum’s collections focus on the rich social history and traditions of Queensferry and the neighbouring village of Dalmeny. Exhibits include artifacts and photographs documenting daily life, the ancient ferry service established by Queen Margaret in the 11th century, and the development of the town as a royal burgh. Visitors gain insight into local customs, including the famous Ferry Fair Week, which features traditional events like the Bellstane Walk and wheelbarrow races.Engineering Marvels of the Forth Bridges
A highlight of the museum is its detailed coverage of the iconic Forth Bridges—rail, road, and the Queensferry Crossing. Through photographs, models, and information panels, the museum celebrates these feats of civic engineering that have shaped the region’s identity. The views from the museum allow visitors to appreciate these structures in their full grandeur.Visitor Experience and Community Engagement
Though compact with just four rooms, the museum is well-curated to provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. It includes a dedicated children’s corner to make local history accessible to younger audiences. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions curated by community groups, reflecting ongoing local heritage and culture.Setting Within South Queensferry
South Queensferry itself is a picturesque town on the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, historically a ferry crossing point and now a commuter town for Edinburgh. The High Street near the museum is lined with independent shops, pubs, and cafes, enhancing the visitor experience with opportunities for leisure and dining. The museum’s location makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the town and the surrounding natural and architectural landmarks.Practical Information and Accessibility
The museum typically operates with seasonal hours, often open Thursdays and Fridays from 10am to 4pm, though visitors should check current opening times before visiting. Admission is free, with donations welcomed to support the museum’s work. Nearby Dalmeny railway station and several bus routes provide convenient public transport access. Parking is available but can be limited during busy periods.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hawes Pier, Queensferry
0.5 km
Historic ferry pier where centuries of Scottish maritime heritage meet modern tourism beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
Forth Rd Bridge
1.3 km
A monumental suspension bridge connecting Edinburgh and Fife, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over six centuries.
The Queensferry Crossing
1.9 km
Discover the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern marvel spanning Scotland’s iconic Firth of Forth.
Travelodge Edinburgh Park
8.5 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in Edinburgh Park with great transport links, free parking, and family-friendly amenities.
What to do in Edinburgh
10.7 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh with guided tours that bring the city's unique stories to life.
Dean Village
11.7 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Dean Village, a tranquil escape in Edinburgh with historic charm and picturesque landscapes.
Well Court
11.7 km
Experience the historical allure of Well Court in Edinburgh, a stunning landmark blending Victorian architecture with the beauty of nature.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
11.8 km
Uncover the beauty and biodiversity at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a serene retreat showcasing thousands of plant species in a stunning natural setting.
The Dean Bridge
11.9 km
A soaring 19th-century stone bridge by Thomas Telford, linking Edinburgh’s New Town with the scenic Water of Leith valley.
St. Bernard's Well
12.0 km
An elegant 18th-century Greco-Roman temple in Edinburgh, famed for its healing mineral spring and classical beauty beside the Water of Leith.
15 Charlotte Square
12.2 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Circus Lane
12.2 km
Edinburgh's most photographed mews lane—a fairy-tale cobbled street where Georgian history meets Instagram dreams.
The Georgian House
12.3 km
Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Charlotte Square
12.3 km
Explore the elegance and cultural richness of Charlotte Square, Edinburgh's Georgian gem and vibrant hub of history and art.
Newhaven Harbour
12.3 km
Edinburgh's historic fishing village where royal shipbuilding heritage meets working waterfront charm and legendary fishwife tradition.
Unmissable attractions to see
South Queensferry Harbour
0.3 km
A charming historic harbour with breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges and vibrant maritime culture.
Priory Church
0.3 km
A 15th-century Gothic landmark blending medieval heritage with contemporary worship in the heart of South Queensferry.
Maid of the Forth
0.5 km
Sail beneath Scotland’s iconic Forth Bridges on a scenic 90-minute cruise to historic Inchcolm Island, spotting seals and seabirds along the way.
Forth Bridge
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning views and rich Scottish history.
Deep Sea World
2.1 km
Explore Scotland’s national aquarium beneath the Forth Rail Bridge with immersive underwater tunnels and one of Europe’s largest shark collections.
Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum
2.1 km
Discover the world’s smallest working lighthouse and Scotland’s tiniest museum with stunning views of the iconic Forth Bridges.
Craigie's Farming Deli and Cafe
3.2 km
A charming farm shop and café near Edinburgh offering fresh Scottish produce, pick-your-own fruits, and a family-friendly farm park experience.
Dalmeny House
3.7 km
Explore Dalmeny House, Scotland’s pioneering Tudor Gothic Revival mansion with rich history, exquisite art, and stunning Firth of Forth views.
Hopetoun House
4.3 km
Explore Hopetoun House, a majestic Georgian stately home near Edinburgh, blending historic grandeur with tranquil gardens and stunning coastal views.
Eagle Rock
5.3 km
Discover the allure of Eagle Rock, a historical landmark near Edinburgh, where nature and Scottish heritage converge in breathtaking beauty.
The Cramond Whale
5.5 km
Discover the enchanting Cramond Whale sculpture, where art meets nature on Edinburgh’s scenic coastal foreshore.
Cramond Falls
5.6 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Cramond Falls, a scenic waterfall retreat along Edinburgh’s River Almond, perfect for peaceful walks and nature escapes.
Mini Mack Tours - Private Car Tours
5.7 km
Experience the magic of Edinburgh with personalized private car tours from Mini Mack Tours, perfect for exploring the city's rich history and stunning landscapes.
Cramond
5.8 km
Historic riverside village and coastal retreat with ancient roots, scenic walks, and a charming harbour just northwest of Edinburgh.
Midhope Castle
5.8 km
Explore Midhope Castle, Scotland’s 15th-century tower house and iconic Outlander filming location, known as Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home, Lallybroch.
Essential places to dine
Orocco Pier Restaurant
0.2 km
A chic boutique hotel and seafood grill offering stunning Forth Bridge views in historic South Queensferry, blending modern comfort with Scottish charm.
The Wee Restaurant
2.2 km
A charming, intimate Scottish seafood and steak restaurant in North Queensferry, blending local flavors with warm hospitality near the Forth rail bridge.
Aroma Restaurant & Bar
7.7 km
Authentic Indian cuisine crafted with premium ingredients in casual Broxburn setting
Luca's Kitchen
9.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with fresh-baked pizzas, creamy pastas, and homemade gelato in a lively Dunfermline setting.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
9.3 km
Honest home cooking, genuine hospitality, and fair prices in a welcoming Uphall bistro.
Forth View Hotel
9.4 km
Coastal retreat in Aberdour with stunning Forth views, fresh seafood dining, and warm Scottish hospitality.
The Oatridge Hotel & Restaurant
9.7 km
Charming 19th-century coach house with cozy rooms, lively bar, and hearty dining near Edinburgh Airport in the heart of Uphall.
Tony Macaroni
9.7 km
Casual Italian dining with family-friendly vibes and great pizza in Dunfermline’s lively Fife Leisure Park.
The Pentland Restaurant
9.7 km
Elegant Scottish dining with scenic golf course views at Dalmahoy’s historic Pentland Restaurant near Edinburgh.
Christies Scottish Tapas
9.8 km
Discover Scottish flavors reimagined as tapas in a lively, welcoming setting at Christies Scottish Tapas in Dunfermline.
Chenzo's Restaurant
9.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of Uphall at Chenzo's Restaurant.
Frankie & Benny's
9.9 km
Classic American-Italian comfort food served fresh in a lively, family-friendly setting at Dunfermline’s Fife Leisure Park.
Carlucci Restaurant
10.0 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Carlucci Restaurant in Dunfermline’s vibrant High Street.
The Viceroy Fine Dining
10.1 km
Experience authentic Indian and Pakistani flavors with generous portions and welcoming hospitality in the heart of Dunfermline.
Incontri
10.1 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet at Incontri, Dunfermline’s contemporary dining gem with vegan-friendly options and a stylish bar.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harbour Lane Studio
0.3 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and art in a cozy South Queensferry studio blending tradition and creativity.
Antiques & Gifts
9.1 km
Explore unique antiques and delightful gifts in the heart of Aberdour, where every item tells a story.
Blake's Vintage & Collectables
9.1 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky collectibles in the heart of Aberdour’s charming vintage shop.
Kreative Dunfermline
9.8 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Kreative Dunfermline, a charming boutique celebrating Fife’s creative spirit.
Primark
9.9 km
Discover stylish, affordable fashion for the whole family at Primark Dunfermline, your go-to High Street shopping destination.
THE SECRET DOOR
10.0 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures in Dunfermline’s cozy and captivating Secret Door shop.
Your Factory Outlet
11.0 km
Discover quality fashion and a bright shopping atmosphere at Your Factory Outlet, Livingston’s accessible clothing destination.
La Vida
11.5 km
Discover unique, colorful fashion and personal styling at La Vida Boutique in Cairneyhill, where individuality meets affordable style.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
11.8 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Craigshill Shopping Mall
12.1 km
A vibrant community shopping centre in Livingston offering diverse stores and essential services for everyday needs.
The Fashion Love Boutique
12.1 km
Discover stylish clothing and friendly service at Livingston’s Fashion Love Boutique, your go-to spot for great fashion finds in The Mall.
Those Were The Days Vintage
12.2 km
Discover timeless elegance and authentic vintage fashion from the 1920s to the 1990s at Edinburgh’s curated boutique, Those Were The Days Vintage.
ScotlandShop
12.3 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
The Original Factory Shop (Cowdenbeath)
12.3 km
Shop big brands for less at The Original Factory Shop Cowdenbeath, your go-to discount store for clothing, footwear, beauty, and party supplies.
One World Shop
12.5 km
Edinburgh’s oldest fair trade shop offering ethical gifts and vegan treats beneath historic St John's Church on Princes Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hillend Tavern
5.8 km
A cosy traditional pub in Hillend with real ales, a welcoming beer garden, and a vibrant community spirit near Dalgety Bay.
Lourenzos
9.9 km
Lourenzos is Dunfermline’s vibrant bar and nightclub, renowned for its lively atmosphere, quality cocktails, and friendly service.
East Port Bar
9.9 km
Experience authentic Scottish pub culture with lively sports, local ales, and warm hospitality in Dunfermline’s East Port Bar.
The Creepy Wee Pub
10.0 km
A quirky gothic-themed pub in Dunfermline offering a cozy atmosphere, unique decor, and a great selection of drinks for locals and visitors alike.
The Old Inn
10.0 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Dunfermline’s center, blending rustic charm with lively atmosphere and excellent food.
The Glen Tavern
10.3 km
Cozy and friendly pub in Dunfermline serving hearty Scottish fare and local brews in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Auld Classic Bar
10.5 km
Auld Classic Bar offers rustic charm and friendly vibes in Dunfermline, perfect for a relaxed pint or casual night out at an affordable price.
Cawburn Sports Bar
10.9 km
Lively sports bar in Pumpherston offering live games, snooker, pool, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Grapes
11.2 km
A friendly village pub in East Calder serving hearty British and Scottish fare with a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Riccarton Inn
11.6 km
Traditional Scottish pub and cozy inn offering real ales, homecooked food, and convenient lodging near Edinburgh in Currie.
The Jolly Botanist
12.1 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
The Tower Bar
12.2 km
A historic and lively pub in Livingston offering great drinks, a beer garden, sports bar, and dog-friendly vibes in a welcoming community setting.
The Last Word
12.2 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Mid Calder Inn (The Tapshop)
12.2 km
A friendly, traditional village pub in Mid Calder offering good food, drinks, and a warm community atmosphere in Livingston.
Panda & Sons
12.3 km
Edinburgh's hidden speakeasy where barbershop secrets unlock theatrical cocktails, smoky spectacles, and a fictional family's boozy tales in cosy, low-lit elegance.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hustlers Pool Hall
5.9 km
Affordable, lively pool hall and sports bar in Rosyth offering fun games, friendly vibes, and great social atmosphere for all ages.
West Lothian Casting Agency
7.8 km
Discover the vibrant adult entertainment scene at West Lothian Casting Agency, where immersive performances and themed events await every visitor.
LIFE
10.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and late-night fun at LIFE, Dunfermline’s energetic nightclub with a welcoming atmosphere and great music.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
12.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
12.4 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Club Tropicana
12.5 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant retro nightlife with classic disco hits and lively dance floors at Club Tropicana on Lothian Road.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
12.7 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Opal Lounge
12.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
12.8 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
El Barrio Latino
12.9 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Shanghai Nightclub
13.0 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
Why Not Nightclub
13.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Liquid Room
13.3 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Street
13.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Edinburgh at The Street, a lively cocktail bar and restaurant offering delicious drinks and a diverse menu.
The Bongo Club
13.4 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
