Squares Queensferry Crossing (1)
Queensferry Crossing >
Open
Squares Forth Road Bridge (1)
Forth Road Bridge >
Restricted
Squares Forth Bridge (1)
Forth Bridge >
Open
Squares Queensferry Crossing (1)
Queensferry Crossing
Open
Motorway

Open to general traffic, subject to normal motorway restrictions

Road User Guide
Squares Forth Road Bridge (1)
Forth Road Bridge
Restricted
Footpath/Cycleway Restrictions - WEST FOOTPATH - CLOSED (Open at Weekends)

Due to essential maintenance the WEST Footpath/Cycleway is CLOSED except during weekends, please use the EAST Footpath/Cycleway.

Access Restrictions
Squares Forth Bridge (1)
Forth Bridge
Open
Forth Bridges Trail

Seals Craig

Trail stop

what3words///clerk.slides.lake

GPS 55.989745,-3.389202

A UNESCO Treasure

This is a great spot to appreciate the sheer scale of the Forth Bridge.

Opened in 1890, the Forth Bridge is a Scottish icon that is recognised as the most famous of cantilever designs. The world's first major steel structure, the Forth Bridge represents a key milestone in the history of modern railway civil engineering and for 28 years held the record as the world's longest span.

  • The bridge is 110 metres above high water (361 feet) and 2,467 metres long (8,093 feet).
  • Around 200 trains cross every day up to 50 mph (80 km/h).
  • It was built with 53,000 tonnes of mild steel, with around 6% recycled.
  • Around 6,500,000 rivets hold it together.

In July 2015, UNESCO inscribed the Forth Bridge as the sixth World Heritage site in Scotland. World Heritage Sites must prove they have “Outstanding Universal Value” to all of humanity and are required to meet rigorous criteria. World Heritage status is so selective that only 1,223 sites worldwide have been awarded the designation. The Forth Bridge now features alongside the prestigious Pyramids of Giza, The Great Wall of China and Notre Dame.

Scotland is the first country in the world to bring together 15 UNESCO sites into one trail. Discover the wonder within it by following Scotland’s UNESCO Trail.

Look across the road to spot the Guardian of the Bridges, a Nessie-like creature nicknamed Maggie by locals. This characterful mosaic creature commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Forth Road Bridge and is based on designs and mosaics created by Queensferry school children. A true community project, over 700 people were involved in the creation of this public art installation.

Where Next on the Trail?

Depending on which route you are walking, the next stops are:
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Hawes

South Queensferry

Head for the Forth Bridge to the next sign by the Hawes Pier where you can also catch a boat to explore by water.

Location References

what3words///slung.mornings.plug

GPS 55.990284,-3.386309

Hawes Trail Stop >

High Street

South Queensferry

Turn towards the road bridges to explore the historic high street with its shops, cafes and restaurants. The next sign is High Street outside the museum. 

Location References

what3words///defenders.shipyards.purely

GPS 55.989718,-3.393977

High Street Trail Stop >
Background image - Highstreet7
Background image - Forthbridgetrail1

See all Trail Stops

See all Trail Stops >
Background image - Forth Bridges Trail Map

Trail Map

A4 to download & print
Download Map >

Forth Bridges Trail Maps

For North & South Queensferry

You can also use ///what3words to guide you to the trail signs. The ///what3words reference is given on each trail stop page. 

Forth Bridges Trail Map