Located in Edinburgh on one end the town of Fife on the Forth Road Bridge crosses the Firth of Forth. It sounds a little bit like a tongue twister but despite that, the bridge, the locale, and the crossing are actually very historical with quite a few important moments in Scottish history happening here. The bridge is a suspension-style bridge spanning a pretty considerable distance and is open to vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians and since 2008, has been free to cross with no toll. An estimated 65,000 vehicles cross the bridge per day and in the future, there are plans for driverless buses to start making trips across the bridge as well. Whether you’re going to Edinburgh or to Fife or you’re a fan of architectural marvels, the Forth Road Bridge is quite a sight. Here is our guide to Forth Road Bridge.
Things to do
Forth Road Bridge is actually a part of the historic landscape of Scotland with the rail bridge, known simply as Forth Bridge, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was one of the first major landmarks in Scotland and was built between 1883 and 1890. The bridge was quite the feat of engineering and was opened by Edward Prince of Wales in March 1890. However, crossing between here has been going for centuries beforehand as the first noted crossing by ferry was by Margaret, queen consort of King Malcolm III in the 11th century. They established a ferry service that would transport pilgrims from Edinburgh and thus the Queensferry Crossing was born. This ferry crossing was effectively in use for over 800 years until the building of the rail in the 19th century and then Forth Road Bridge in the 20th century.
Walk or bike across the bridge
Forth Road Bridge offers footpaths and cycling lanes to get across the bridge. The view from here is absolutely beautiful with some great views of Edinburgh as well as Edinburgh Castle and Carlingnose Wildlife Preserve in the distance. The east footpath is linked to the cycling routes and is open at all times unless there are high winds.
Take a boat tour
A pretty unique and interesting way to see the bridges is to view it from a boat below. There are several boats available for tours, most of which start in South Queensferry. Tours are generally guided and often some explanation and history of the area and the bridges.
Visit Queensferry Museum
Located in South Queensferry, this museum documents the history of the people in the area and the importance of the ferry for the people of Dalmeny as well as showcases the process of building the bridges here.
What to eat
Down the Hatch
This simple and quaint diner has some pretty tasty options no matter what time of the day it is. They also have outdoor seating with heated areas and they are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The owners are Scottish and Canadian and try to serve some classic North American-style dishes like cheeseburger and milkshakes as well as some British traditional plates. Down the Hatch is also dog-friendly!
Scotts Bar & Restaurant
For some upscale dining, Scotts Bar & Restaurant is there to satisfy your cravings. Specializing in traditional British fare, the restaurant has beautiful views of the harbor and Firth of Forth as well as cocktails and an extensive wine list.
The Ferry Tap
This little local pub is the spot for some good pints and cheap eats. Indulge in a burger or a classic fish and chips with freshly caught cod. Enjoy the views and the drinks in this quaint little pub only a short walk away from the bridge.
Travelers tips
Pedestrian path restrictions
Because of the Forth Road Bridge’s position and height, there are times when traveling by foot may be unpleasant or just simply unsafe. The winds on the bridge can sometimes exceed 50 mph (80 kph). In such cases, the eastern pedestrian path is usually closed.
General access restrictions
Check out the Forth Road Bridge website to determine who can use the bridge and when.
How to get there
By rail
The closest rail stations are located on both ends of the bridge. On the Fife side of the bridge is the North Queensferry and on the South Side of the Fife, the closest rail is at Dalmeny. If you’re coming from Edinburgh, the ride is approximately 20 minutes.
By car
The A90 is the route that crosses the bridge. If you’re coming from the northern side, follow the M90 southbound and merge onto the A90, afterward, you’ll be straight onto the path to cross the bridge. If you’re coming from the south side, simply follow the A90 out of Edinburgh or the M90 north which merges onto the bridge.
By bus
There are regular bus services going to both North Queensferry and South Queensferry from Edinburgh that stop at the bridge. Head to the South or North Queensferry town center and take the bus from there.
Forth Road Bridge information
Forth Road Bridge
Address: Forth Road Bridge, United Kingdom
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Official website: Forth Road Bridge
Department of tourism: Visit Scotland
Edinburgh 3 Bridges Bus and Boat Tour - Klook
Duration: 3hrsDuration
History
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