Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum: Scotland’s Smallest Working Light Tower
Discover the world’s smallest working lighthouse and Scotland’s tiniest museum with stunning views of the iconic Forth Bridges.
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.
A brief summary to Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum
- 60 Main St, Inverkeithing, North Queensferry, KY11 1JG, GB
- +447886235881
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance if you want to light the Argand lamp and become an Honorary Keeper of the Light.
- Visit during opening hours from 9am to 5pm daily to explore the museum and climb the lighthouse.
- Combine your visit with a stroll along the Town Pier for panoramic views of the Forth Bridges.
- Bring a camera to capture unique close-up views of the Forth Bridge and surrounding estuary.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
Take a train to North Queensferry station from Edinburgh or Dunfermline, with a journey time of approximately 30-40 minutes. From the station, the museum is a 10-15 minute walk through the village. Trains run regularly but check schedules for weekend or holiday service variations. Tickets cost around £5-£10 one way.
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Bus
Local bus services connect North Queensferry with nearby towns including Dunfermline and Inverkeithing. Travel times vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on the route. Buses run frequently during weekdays but less so on weekends. A single fare typically costs £3-£6.
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Car
Driving to North Queensferry from Edinburgh or Fife takes about 25-35 minutes via the M90 motorway. Limited parking is available near the museum and in the village. Parking may be restricted during peak tourist seasons. Expect to pay around £2-£5 for parking in designated areas.
Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum
A Maritime Beacon with Historic Roots
The Forth Bridges Lighthouse Museum is home to the world’s smallest working lighthouse, a diminutive yet vital maritime structure built in 1817 by the renowned engineer Robert Stevenson, grandfather of author Robert Louis Stevenson. Standing just 5 metres tall and 1.2 metres wide, this hexagonal stone lighthouse guided vessels safely through the treacherous waters of the Firth of Forth for over a century. Though the ferry service it once supported ceased in the 1960s, the lighthouse was meticulously restored and reopened in 2010, preserving a critical piece of Scotland’s nautical history.An Intimate Museum Experience
Adjacent to the light tower is possibly Scotland’s smallest museum, a compact space packed with exhibits detailing the lighthouse’s history, the Town Pier’s development, and the broader maritime legacy of the Forth estuary region. Visitors can explore how the lighthouse’s unique signalling system worked and learn about the evolution of navigation before modern electricity and gas. The museum’s intimate scale makes it a fascinating stop for all ages, especially lighthouse enthusiasts and families.Climbing the Tower: A Unique Perspective
Inside the lighthouse, a narrow spiral staircase of 24 steps leads to the lamp chamber, a snug space that only fits one person at a time. From here, visitors enjoy unparalleled views of the Forth Bridge, the Forth Road Bridge, and the Queensferry Crossing, three engineering marvels spanning three centuries. The experience offers a rare opportunity to appreciate the scale and beauty of these iconic structures from a close vantage point.Becoming an Honorary Keeper
For those seeking a hands-on encounter with maritime tradition, the museum offers the chance to light the Argand lamp, a historic oil lamp once used in the lighthouse. By prior arrangement, visitors can become an Honorary Keeper of the Light, receiving a certificate to commemorate their participation. This special experience is overseen by volunteers from the North Queensferry Heritage Trust and requires a modest donation, adding a personal connection to the lighthouse’s living history.The Surrounding Village and Pier
The museum sits at the head of John Rennie’s Town Pier, completed in 1813 and extended by Thomas Telford to accommodate steamboats. Though no longer serving ferry traffic, the pier remains a recreational spot with boat trips departing nearby. The charming village of North Queensferry, with its cobbled streets and conservation area status, provides a picturesque setting, enriched by stunning views of the Forth estuary and the three bridges.Preserving a Scottish Maritime Legacy
Managed by the North Queensferry Heritage Trust, the lighthouse and museum embody the community’s dedication to preserving local history and maritime heritage. The site offers a quiet, contemplative atmosphere where visitors can connect with Scotland’s nautical past while enjoying scenic vistas and educational exhibits. It’s a unique cultural landmark that complements the grandeur of the nearby bridges and the natural beauty of the Forth coastline.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Forth Rd Bridge
1.1 km
A monumental suspension bridge connecting Edinburgh and Fife, offering stunning views and a rich history spanning over six centuries.
The Queensferry Crossing
1.4 km
Discover the world’s longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge, a modern marvel spanning Scotland’s iconic Firth of Forth.
Hawes Pier, Queensferry
2.0 km
Historic ferry pier where centuries of Scottish maritime heritage meet modern tourism beneath the iconic Forth Rail Bridge.
Travelodge Edinburgh Park
10.1 km
Modern, clean, and comfortable hotel in Edinburgh Park with great transport links, free parking, and family-friendly amenities.
What to do in Edinburgh
11.4 km
Uncover the rich history and vibrant culture of Edinburgh with guided tours that bring the city's unique stories to life.
Dean Village
12.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Dean Village, a tranquil escape in Edinburgh with historic charm and picturesque landscapes.
Well Court
12.6 km
Experience the historical allure of Well Court in Edinburgh, a stunning landmark blending Victorian architecture with the beauty of nature.
Newhaven Harbour
12.7 km
Edinburgh's historic fishing village where royal shipbuilding heritage meets working waterfront charm and legendary fishwife tradition.
The Dean Bridge
12.8 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
12.8 km
An elegant 18th-century Greco-Roman temple in Edinburgh, famed for its healing mineral spring and classical beauty beside the Water of Leith.
Circus Lane
13.0 km
Edinburgh's most photographed mews lane—a fairy-tale cobbled street where Georgian history meets Instagram dreams.
15 Charlotte Square
13.1 km
Elegant Georgian townhouse in Edinburgh’s historic Charlotte Square, blending architectural grandeur with rich cultural heritage.
The Georgian House
13.2 km
Discover the elegance of 18th-century life at The Georgian House, a historical museum in Edinburgh's charming Charlotte Square.
Lighthouse Park
13.2 km
Explore the serene landscapes and maritime history of Lighthouse Park in Leith, Edinburgh, a perfect escape for nature lovers and tourists.
Charlotte Square
13.2 km
Explore the elegance and cultural richness of Charlotte Square, Edinburgh's Georgian gem and vibrant hub of history and art.
Unmissable attractions to see
Deep Sea World
0.2 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
0.9 km
Discover the breathtaking Forth Bridge, an engineering marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering stunning views and rich Scottish history.
South Queensferry Harbour
1.9 km
A charming historic harbour with breathtaking views of the iconic Forth Bridges and vibrant maritime culture.
Priory Church
1.9 km
A 15th-century Gothic landmark blending medieval heritage with contemporary worship in the heart of South Queensferry.
Maid of the Forth
2.0 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.
Queensferry Museum
2.1 km
Discover South Queensferry’s heritage with stunning views of the Forth Bridges and engaging local history exhibits.
Dalmeny House
4.4 km
Explore Dalmeny House, Scotland’s pioneering Tudor Gothic Revival mansion with rich history, exquisite art, and stunning Firth of Forth views.
Hopetoun House
4.4 km
Explore Hopetoun House, a majestic Georgian stately home near Edinburgh, blending historic grandeur with tranquil gardens and stunning coastal views.
Craigie's Farming Deli and Cafe
4.8 km
A charming farm shop and café near Edinburgh offering fresh Scottish produce, pick-your-own fruits, and a family-friendly farm park experience.
Limekilns
6.0 km
Historic Limekilns village on Fife’s Firth of Forth coast blends medieval port heritage with tranquil seaside charm.
Eagle Rock
6.0 km
Discover the allure of Eagle Rock, a historical landmark near Edinburgh, where nature and Scottish heritage converge in breathtaking beauty.
Midhope Castle
6.1 km
Explore Midhope Castle, Scotland’s 15th-century tower house and iconic Outlander filming location, known as Jamie Fraser’s ancestral home, Lallybroch.
Inchcolm Abbey
6.3 km
Inchcolm Abbey: A serene escape into Scotland's rich history and breathtaking coastal beauty, perfect for tourists seeking tranquility and exploration.
The Cramond Whale
6.6 km
Discover the enchanting Cramond Whale sculpture, where art meets nature on Edinburgh’s scenic coastal foreshore.
Cramond Falls
6.6 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Cramond Falls, a scenic waterfall retreat along Edinburgh’s River Almond, perfect for peaceful walks and nature escapes.
Essential places to dine
The Wee Restaurant
0.1 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
2.0 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
6.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with fresh-baked pizzas, creamy pastas, and homemade gelato in a lively Dunfermline setting.
Tony Macaroni
7.6 km
Casual Italian dining with family-friendly vibes and great pizza in Dunfermline’s lively Fife Leisure Park.
Christies Scottish Tapas
7.7 km
Discover Scottish flavors reimagined as tapas in a lively, welcoming setting at Christies Scottish Tapas in Dunfermline.
Frankie & Benny's
7.8 km
Classic American-Italian comfort food served fresh in a lively, family-friendly setting at Dunfermline’s Fife Leisure Park.
Forth View Hotel
8.1 km
Coastal retreat in Aberdour with stunning Forth views, fresh seafood dining, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Carlucci Restaurant
8.2 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.
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.
Jack 'O' Bryan's
8.3 km
A vibrant bar and kitchen in Dunfermline blending traditional Scottish flavors with a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Gratzi Restaurant
8.3 km
Experience authentic Italian and Mediterranean flavors in a warm, inviting setting at Gratzi Restaurant in Dunfermline.
Aroma Restaurant & Bar
9.4 km
Authentic Indian cuisine crafted with premium ingredients in casual Broxburn setting
Champany Inn
10.4 km
Charming historic inn near Linlithgow, famed for exceptional steaks, boutique rooms, and warm Scottish hospitality.
Volunteer Arms Lounge Bistro
10.8 km
Honest home cooking, genuine hospitality, and fair prices in a welcoming Uphall bistro.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harbour Lane Studio
1.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and art in a cozy South Queensferry studio blending tradition and creativity.
Antiques & Gifts
7.7 km
Explore unique antiques and delightful gifts in the heart of Aberdour, where every item tells a story.
Blake's Vintage & Collectables
7.7 km
Discover timeless treasures and quirky collectibles in the heart of Aberdour’s charming vintage shop.
Kreative Dunfermline
7.9 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts and local artistry at Kreative Dunfermline, a charming boutique celebrating Fife’s creative spirit.
Primark
8.1 km
Discover stylish, affordable fashion for the whole family at Primark Dunfermline, your go-to High Street shopping destination.
THE SECRET DOOR
8.1 km
Discover unique antiques and timeless treasures in Dunfermline’s cozy and captivating Secret Door shop.
La Vida
10.2 km
Discover unique, colorful fashion and personal styling at La Vida Boutique in Cairneyhill, where individuality meets affordable style.
The Original Factory Shop (Cowdenbeath)
10.3 km
Shop big brands for less at The Original Factory Shop Cowdenbeath, your go-to discount store for clothing, footwear, beauty, and party supplies.
You Know Who's
11.7 km
Discover top high street brands at unbeatable prices with friendly service in the heart of Cowdenbeath.
CIRCUS Vintage and Curios
12.6 km
Discover timeless vintage treasures and curiosities in Edinburgh’s charming Stockbridge at CIRCUS Vintage and Curios.
Your Factory Outlet
12.6 km
Discover quality fashion and a bright shopping atmosphere at Your Factory Outlet, Livingston’s accessible clothing destination.
Dobbies Garden Centre Livingston
12.7 km
Explore Dobbies Garden Centre Livingston, a vibrant destination for garden lovers, unique gifts, and delightful dining experiences.
Heart of Midlothian Football Club
12.8 km
Discover the vibrant football culture at Heart of Midlothian FC, an iconic club in Edinburgh, home to passionate fans and rich history.
Those Were The Days Vintage
13.0 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
13.2 km
Discover bespoke tartans, tailored kilts, and authentic Scottish gifts at Edinburgh’s ScotlandShop on Queensferry Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hillend Tavern
3.9 km
A cosy traditional pub in Hillend with real ales, a welcoming beer garden, and a vibrant community spirit near Dalgety Bay.
Lourenzos
8.0 km
Lourenzos is Dunfermline’s vibrant bar and nightclub, renowned for its lively atmosphere, quality cocktails, and friendly service.
East Port Bar
8.1 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
8.7 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
12.6 km
Lively sports bar in Pumpherston offering live games, snooker, pool, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Last Word
13.0 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The Grapes
13.1 km
A friendly village pub in East Calder serving hearty British and Scottish fare with a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere.
The Jolly Botanist
13.1 km
A Victorian-style gin bar in Edinburgh’s West End, famed for its botanical cocktails, hearty Scottish fare, and warm, quirky atmosphere.
Panda & Sons
13.2 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.
The Rat Pack - Piano & Cocktail Bar
13.3 km
Edinburgh’s iconic American-style piano bar blending live music and classic cocktails in a lively West End setting.
Heads & Tales Gin Bar
13.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s hidden gin haven where craft distilling meets cozy speakeasy charm in the heart of the West End.
The Oxford Bar
13.3 km
Historic Edinburgh pub famed as Inspector Rebus’s haunt, offering timeless charm and a cozy, no-frills atmosphere in New Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Hustlers Pool Hall
4.0 km
Affordable, lively pool hall and sports bar in Rosyth offering fun games, friendly vibes, and great social atmosphere for all ages.
LIFE
8.2 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and late-night fun at LIFE, Dunfermline’s energetic nightclub with a welcoming atmosphere and great music.
West Lothian Casting Agency
9.4 km
Discover the vibrant adult entertainment scene at West Lothian Casting Agency, where immersive performances and themed events await every visitor.
PDT Please Don’t Tell
13.3 km
Edinburgh’s intimate speakeasy-style nightclub offering expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, conversation-friendly atmosphere.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
13.3 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
Club Tropicana
13.5 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
13.5 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
13.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Garibaldi's
13.7 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
13.8 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.
Why Not Nightclub
13.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
13.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
The Liquid Room
14.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
14.3 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
Legends
14.3 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Solo Female Friendly
