Things to see and do South Queensferry

Nicknamed the Iona of the East, this abbey is located on an island in the Firth of Forth. Inchcolm Abbey was founded as a priory in 1215 by David I, but Alexander I before him had already dreamed of building a place of worship there after taking refuge there during a storm. Surprisingly well preserved, it is one of the best preserved monastic buildings in Scotland. Remarkable objects include a humpbacked tombstone dating from the 10th century, a superb fresco of a funeral procession and an octagonal chapter house (1200s), as well as remarkable stone screens. The cloister is the most complete of its kind in Scotland, creating a moving atmosphere conducive to meditation. From the 14th to the 16th centuries, there were numerous English raids during the various Anglo-Scottish wars. In 1560, the Reformation put an end to its religious activity but the site remained occupied, particularly militarily. The island is also famous for its wildlife, seals and tusks from the First and Second World Wars

One of the most beautiful views is probably the one you get from the water, when the boat docks.

Practical info: Inchcolm Abbey can be visited by ferry from South Queensferry. Two companies serve the island and offer cruises, with or without a stopover on the island: Forth Boat Tours and Maid of the Forth. Count a 3-hour excursion for about £15 per adult, plus the cost of the site visit. Guided tours are available, as well as a quiz to make it more fun.

This magnificent monument, built from 1699 to 1701 by Sir William Bruce, has since been substantially extended by an architect, William Adam. Robert and John, his sons, also architects, took care of the luxurious interior. Hopetoun House has remained unchanged since then, both in its high level of refinement and in its Georgian attributes.

The drawing rooms and the view from the roof are a must, as is the impressive staircase with its trompe l'oeil paintings. The park and the English gardens are also magnificent and the deer are happily roaming around. The family of the Marquis of Linlithgow still lives here, but an association is in charge of preserving the heritage of the place. Many works of art and sumptuous decorations are to be discovered and it is also the occasion to take a tea in the enchanting tea room or to buy some good products from the farm of the domain. Notice to families: Children will love the place, since several areas and activities are dedicated to them. They can walk along a path specially designed to facilitate their visit to the house, dress as they did in the past in Butler's panty, go on a bug hunt, try a treasure hunt (geocaching) or an orienteering race (extra charge of £2), or have fun in the park games.

Practical information : During your visit, depending on your desires or your budget, you can choose to visit the gardens alone (half price) or gardens + house. The parking is free.

This small village museum is located on the edge of the Firth of Forth, in the shadow of the famous Forth Bridge. It tells the story of Queensferry and its people through its bridges and strategic location between Lothian and the Kingdom of Fife. It will be of interest to lovers of local and social history, folklore traditions, but also civil engineering (history of the bridge, the construction site...). In addition to its permanent exhibitions, it also has temporary exhibitions, which are regularly renewed. Note: the site offers a breathtaking view of the estuary.

Dalmeny House was built in 1817 in a Gothic style and belongs to the Primrose de Rosebery family. It houses beautiful interiors decorated with portraits and porcelain, as well as an interesting collection of Napoleonic objects, one of the largest of its kind in Britain. The beautiful backdrop is a large park and the Firth of Forth. Entry to the house is by small groups only, on a guided tour (in English). In high season and to be sure to see the inside of the house, consider booking.