The Queensferry Crossing: Scotland’s Modern Engineering Marvel
Experience the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern Scottish icon spanning the Firth of Forth with grace and engineering brilliance.
The Queensferry Crossing is the world’s longest three-tower, cable-stayed bridge, spanning 1.7 miles across the Firth of Forth near Edinburgh. Opened in 2017, it carries motorway traffic on the M90 and is renowned for its elegant design, innovative engineering, and weatherproof features that minimize closures. It stands alongside the historic Forth Road Bridge and the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, offering spectacular views and a vital transport link connecting Edinburgh with Fife.
A brief summary to The Queensferry Crossing
- Queensferry Crossing Bridge, Queensferry, EH30 9ST, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Walk or cycle the adjacent Forth Road Bridge footpaths for stunning views of all three Forth bridges.
- Visit South Queensferry to explore charming streets, cafes, and museums celebrating the bridges’ history.
- Check for special guided tours during Doors Open Days to see inside the Queensferry Crossing.
- Take a boat tour from South Queensferry for unique perspectives of the bridges and surrounding wildlife.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train from Edinburgh Waverley to Dalmeny or North Queensferry stations, approximately 20-30 minutes. From North Queensferry, you can explore the area on foot. Trains run frequently with tickets costing around £5-£10 one way.
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Bus
Bus services from Edinburgh city center to South Queensferry take about 40-50 minutes. Buses run regularly, with fares typically under £5. The town is walkable, with access to viewpoints near the bridges.
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Car
Driving from Edinburgh to Queensferry Crossing takes around 20-30 minutes via the A90. Parking is available in South Queensferry, but can be limited during peak times. No tolls apply on the bridge.
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Boat
Boat tours depart from South Queensferry’s Hawes Pier, offering cruises under the bridges and around nearby islands. Tours last 1-2 hours and cost approximately £15-£25 per person.
The Queensferry Crossing location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Windy Conditions
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Queensferry Crossing
A Landmark of Contemporary Engineering Excellence
The Queensferry Crossing, inaugurated in August 2017, represents a pinnacle of modern bridge engineering. Stretching 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles), it holds the record as the world’s longest three-tower, cable-stayed bridge. Its design incorporates cables that cross mid-span, a unique feature that enhances stability and aesthetics. Built to carry motorway traffic on the M90, it replaced much of the road traffic previously handled by the Forth Road Bridge, offering a safer, more weather-resilient crossing over the Firth of Forth.Architectural Elegance Meets Practical Innovation
The bridge’s sleek towers rise impressively above the water, designed not only for strength but also to withstand Scotland’s often challenging weather. Unlike its predecessors, the Queensferry Crossing was engineered with advanced weatherproofing to reduce closures caused by high winds, a frequent issue on the Forth Road Bridge. Its smooth, level deck and wide lanes—including emergency lanes—provide a comfortable driving experience. The bridge’s concrete and steel structure combines durability with graceful proportions, making it a striking addition to the iconic trio of Forth crossings.Context Within the Forth Bridges Trio
The Queensferry Crossing stands alongside two other famous bridges: the Forth Rail Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site completed in 1890, and the Forth Road Bridge, opened in 1964. Together, these three bridges symbolize over a century of Scottish engineering achievement. Visitors to the area can appreciate the contrast between the Victorian-era cantilever railway bridge, the mid-20th-century suspension road bridge, and this 21st-century cable-stayed marvel, all spanning the same estuary.Visitor Experience and Surroundings
While the Queensferry Crossing itself is not open to pedestrians, the adjacent Forth Road Bridge offers footpaths and cycleways providing spectacular views of all three bridges and the Firth of Forth. The nearby towns of South and North Queensferry offer charming historic streets, cafes, and museums that celebrate the bridges’ heritage. Boat tours from South Queensferry allow visitors to see the bridges from the water, including trips to nearby islands with rich history and wildlife.Events and Access Opportunities
Occasionally, special guided tours inside the Queensferry Crossing are offered during events such as Doors Open Days, providing rare access to parts of the bridge normally closed to the public. These tours reveal the inner workings of the bridge’s structure and cable stays, narrated by engineers who maintain this vital transport artery.Significance and Legacy
The Queensferry Crossing is more than a transport link; it is a symbol of Scotland’s commitment to innovation and infrastructure resilience. Its construction during the 2010s brought together cutting-edge engineering, environmental considerations, and aesthetic design, ensuring it will serve as a landmark for generations. The bridge enhances connectivity between Edinburgh and Fife, supporting economic growth while complementing the historic legacy of the Forth bridges.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Queensferry Crossing
0.0 km
Discover the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern marvel spanning Scotland’s iconic Firth of Forth.
Forth Rd Bridge
0.7 km
A monumental suspension bridge connecting Edinburgh and Fife, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over six centuries.
Hawes Pier, Queensferry
2.2 km
Historic ferry pier where centuries of Scottish maritime heritage meet modern tourism beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
Travelodge Edinburgh Park
10.3 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in Edinburgh Park with great transport links, free parking, and family-friendly amenities.
The Cross Well
11.9 km
Discover Linlithgow’s iconic crown-shaped Cross Well, a historic monument and vibrant town centre gathering spot steeped in royal heritage.
What to do in Edinburgh
12.3 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh with guided tours that bring the city's unique stories to life.
Dean Cemetery
13.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical richness of Dean Cemetery, a hidden gem in Edinburgh with stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
Dean Village
13.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Dean Village, a tranquil escape in Edinburgh with historic charm and picturesque landscapes.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
13.4 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.
Well Court
13.4 km
Experience the historical allure of Well Court in Edinburgh, a stunning landmark blending Victorian architecture with the beauty of nature.
The Dean Bridge
13.6 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
13.6 km
An elegant 18th-century Greco-Roman temple in Edinburgh, famed for its healing mineral spring and classical beauty beside the Water of Leith.
Newhaven Harbour
13.8 km
Edinburgh's historic fishing village where royal shipbuilding heritage meets working waterfront charm and legendary fishwife tradition.
Circus Lane
13.9 km
Edinburgh's most photographed mews lane—a fairy-tale cobbled street where Georgian history meets Instagram dreams.
15 Charlotte Square
13.9 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deep Sea World
1.6 km
Explore Scotland’s national aquarium beneath the Forth Rail Bridge with immersive underwater tunnels and one of Europe’s largest shark collections.
Forth Bridge
1.6 km
Discover the breathtaking Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning views and rich Scottish history.
Priory Church
1.6 km
A 15th-century Gothic landmark blending medieval heritage with contemporary worship in the heart of South Queensferry.
South Queensferry Harbour
1.6 km
A charming historic harbour with breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges and vibrant maritime culture.
Queensferry Museum
1.9 km
Discover South Queensferry’s heritage with stunning views of the Forth Bridges and engaging local history exhibits.
Maid of the Forth
2.2 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.
Hopetoun House
3.1 km
Explore Hopetoun House, a majestic Georgian stately home near Edinburgh, blending historic grandeur with tranquil gardens and stunning coastal views.
Midhope Castle
4.7 km
Explore Midhope Castle, Scotland’s 15th-century tower house and iconic Outlander filming location, known as Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home, Lallybroch.
Craigie's Farming Deli and Cafe
5.1 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
5.2 km
Explore Dalmeny House, Scotland’s pioneering Tudor Gothic Revival mansion with rich history, exquisite art, and stunning Firth of Forth views.
Limekilns
5.4 km
Historic Limekilns village on Fife’s Firth of Forth coast blends medieval port heritage with tranquil seaside charm.
Blackness Castle
6.4 km
Explore Blackness Castle, the 'ship that never sailed,' a 15th-century fortress with rich history and stunning views over the Firth of Forth.
Eagle Rock
6.9 km
Discover the allure of Eagle Rock, a historical landmark near Edinburgh, where nature and Scottish heritage converge in breathtaking beauty.
House of the Binns
6.9 km
Explore a historic 17th-century Scottish laird’s house with stunning parkland, peacocks, and panoramic views over the River Forth.
The Cramond Whale
7.2 km
Discover the enchanting Cramond Whale sculpture, where art meets nature on Edinburgh’s scenic coastal foreshore.
Essential places to dine
The Wee Restaurant
1.5 km
A charming, intimate Scottish seafood and steak restaurant in North Queensferry, blending local flavors with warm hospitality near the Forth rail bridge.
Orocco Pier Restaurant
1.7 km
A chic boutique hotel and seafood grill offering stunning Forth Bridge views in historic South Queensferry, blending modern comfort with Scottish charm.
Luca's Kitchen
7.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with fresh-baked pizzas, creamy pastas, and homemade gelato in a lively Dunfermline setting.
Aroma Restaurant & Bar
8.2 km
Authentic Indian cuisine crafted with premium ingredients in casual Broxburn setting
Carlucci Restaurant
8.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at Carlucci Restaurant in Dunfermline’s vibrant High Street.
The Viceroy Fine Dining
8.3 km
Experience authentic Indian and Pakistani flavors with generous portions and welcoming hospitality in the heart of Dunfermline.
Jack 'O' Bryan's
8.3 km
A vibrant bar and kitchen in Dunfermline blending traditional Scottish flavors with a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Incontri
8.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors and vibrant atmosphere meet at Incontri, Dunfermline’s contemporary dining gem with vegan-friendly options and a stylish bar.
Tony Macaroni
8.3 km
Casual Italian dining with family-friendly vibes and great pizza in Dunfermline’s lively Fife Leisure Park.
Gratzi Restaurant
8.4 km
Experience authentic Italian and Mediterranean flavors in a warm, inviting setting at Gratzi Restaurant in Dunfermline.
Christies Scottish Tapas
8.5 km
Discover Scottish flavors reimagined as tapas in a lively, welcoming setting at Christies Scottish Tapas in Dunfermline.
Frankie & Benny's
8.5 km
Classic American-Italian comfort food served fresh in a lively, family-friendly setting at Dunfermline’s Fife Leisure Park.
Champany Inn
9.2 km
Charming historic inn near Linlithgow, famed for exceptional steaks, boutique rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Forth View Hotel
9.5 km
Coastal retreat in Aberdour with stunning Forth views, fresh seafood dining, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
9.5 km
Honest home cooking, genuine hospitality, and fair prices in a welcoming Uphall bistro.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harbour Lane Studio
1.6 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and art in a cozy South Queensferry studio blending tradition and creativity.
Primark
8.2 km
Discover stylish, affordable fashion for the whole family at Primark Dunfermline, your go-to High Street shopping destination.
THE SECRET DOOR
8.2 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures in Dunfermline’s cozy and captivating Secret Door shop.
Kreative Dunfermline
8.2 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Kreative Dunfermline, a charming boutique celebrating Fife’s creative spirit.
Antiques & Gifts
9.0 km
Explore unique antiques and delightful gifts in the heart of Aberdour, where every item tells a story.
Blake's Vintage & Collectables
9.0 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky collectibles in the heart of Aberdour’s charming vintage shop.
La Vida
9.7 km
Discover unique, colorful fashion and personal styling at La Vida Boutique in Cairneyhill, where individuality meets affordable style.
The Original Factory Shop (Cowdenbeath)
11.3 km
Shop big brands for less at The Original Factory Shop Cowdenbeath, your go-to discount store for clothing, footwear, beauty, and party supplies.
Your Factory Outlet
11.5 km
Discover quality fashion and a bright shopping atmosphere at Your Factory Outlet, Livingston’s accessible clothing destination.
Fair Tradewinds
12.1 km
Discover unique fair trade gifts and sustainable fashion at Fair Tradewinds in Linlithgow’s historic High Street.
You Know Who's
12.7 km
Discover top high street brands at unbeatable prices with friendly service in the heart of Cowdenbeath.
Craigshill Shopping Mall
12.7 km
A vibrant community shopping centre in Livingston offering diverse stores and essential services for everyday needs.
The Fashion Love Boutique
12.7 km
Discover stylish clothing and friendly service at Livingston’s Fashion Love Boutique, your go-to spot for great fashion finds in The Mall.
Whiteflower Mercantile Fancy Dress
12.9 km
Discover a world of creative costumes at Whiteflower Mercantile Fancy Dress in Livingston, the perfect stop for unique dress-up experiences.
First Shop
13.2 km
Discover convenience and local charm at First Shop in Livingston, where friendly service meets quality products for all your travel needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hillend Tavern
5.0 km
A cosy traditional pub in Hillend with real ales, a welcoming beer garden, and a vibrant community spirit near Dalgety Bay.
Lourenzos
8.1 km
Lourenzos is Dunfermline’s vibrant bar and nightclub, renowned for its lively atmosphere, quality cocktails, and friendly service.
East Port Bar
8.2 km
Experience authentic Scottish pub culture with lively sports, local ales, and warm hospitality in Dunfermline’s East Port Bar.
The Creepy Wee Pub
8.2 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
8.2 km
Historic and welcoming pub in Dunfermline’s center, blending rustic charm with lively atmosphere and excellent food.
The Glen Tavern
8.5 km
Cozy and friendly pub in Dunfermline serving hearty Scottish fare and local brews in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Auld Classic Bar
8.8 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
11.5 km
Lively sports bar in Pumpherston offering live games, snooker, pool, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Grapes
12.1 km
A friendly village pub in East Calder serving hearty British and Scottish fare with a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Willow Tree
12.6 km
A historic Linlithgow pub reborn as The Willow Tree, blending tradition, local legend, and lively hospitality in a welcoming setting.
The Tower Bar
12.8 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 Mid Calder Inn (The Tapshop)
13.0 km
A friendly, traditional village pub in Mid Calder offering good food, drinks, and a warm community atmosphere in Livingston.
The Riccarton Inn
13.5 km
Traditional Scottish pub and cozy inn offering real ales, homecooked food, and convenient lodging near Edinburgh in Currie.
The Last Word
13.8 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Jolly Botanist
13.8 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
