Cramond to South Queensferry Coastal Walk

This coastal walk of about 14 km follows the south shore of the Firth of Forth from Cramond in north-west Edinburgh to South Queensferry, Scotland, passing the Dalmeny Estate and the three Forth bridges. It takes four to five hours one way, with about 150 m of total ascent on mostly flat ground. The start is Cramond Foreshore off Cramond Glebe Road (EH4), reached by Lothian Buses service 41. The finish is Hawes Pier on Newhalls Road in South Queensferry (EH30). Return is by train from Dalmeny to Edinburgh Waverley, about 15 minutes (check scotrail.co.uk), or by Lothian Buses from South Queensferry to Princes Street, at about £2.20. No permit is needed. The route goes inland over the River Almond at Cramond Brig, since the old foot ferry no longer runs, then follows the Dalmeny Estate coastal path to Queensferry. Surfaces are a mix of tarmac, gravel and dirt tracks, with muddy sections after rain. Woodland on the estate gives some shade, while the shore is open and exposed to wind. Landmarks include Cramond Island offshore, the Dalmeny shoreline, and the Forth Bridge, Forth Road Bridge and Queensferry Crossing, which together form a famous view. Estate access times and any path closures are posted at the gates, so they should be checked on the day. Dalmeny station is a possible early bail-out point for walkers who tire. There are no huts, so food and water must be carried, though South Queensferry has cafes and pubs at the finish. The distance is approximate, and an offline map such as OS Explorer 350 is useful. The bridges look best in morning light, and the route suits fit walkers wanting a long, low-level day.