# South Queensferry To Slateford

## Walk Metadata

| Attribute | Value |
| --------- | ----- |
| **Difficulty** | Low to moderate. The ascent to Corstorphine Hill is easy, but if you have bad knees, you might find a hiking pole useful for the descent. |
| **Distance** | 21 km |
| **Duration** | 4.5 - 5.5 hours |
| **Elevation Gain** | 160 m - top of Corstorphine Hill |
| **Terrain** | Water of Leith walkway, urban paths, parkland |
| **Can be done by public transport** | Yes |

## Getting There

**Start: South Queensferry**
- **Train**: Dalmeny station on the Fife Circle Line (limited service)
- **Bus**: Lothian buses 43 from Edinburgh to South Queensferry

**End: Slateford**
- **Train**: [Slateford Station](https://www.scotrail.co.uk/station/slateford) on the Edinburgh-Glasgow line (frequent service)
- **Bus**: Lothian buses 4, 34, and 44 from Slateford to Edinburgh city centre

## Route

| Section Walked  | Distance | Date Walked |
| --------------- | -------- | ---- |
| South Queensferry to Clermiston | 13 km | 18-AUG-2025 |
| Clermiston to Slateford | 8 km | 5-SEP-2025 |

## Description

From the bus stop, head east past the historic Hawes Inn and beneath the towering, rust-red Forth Bridge. From there, the route takes you through the picturesque Roseberry Estate, also known as Dalmeny Estate. As you continue, the path weaves along the coast before passing the impressive Dalmeny House. From here, the trail moves on towards the village of Cramond, where the peaceful surroundings offer a calm introduction to Edinburgh. The route then heads through the quiet neighbourhoods of Cramond and Barnton, before climbing Corstorphine Hill — one of the highest points on the eastern section of the John Muir Way.

From here, the walk takes you onward, along the scenic paths along the Water of Leith toward Slateford, where your journey finishes.

## Historic Sights

Along the way, you'll pass several notable landmarks:

- **Forth Bridges Viewpoint** - Spectacular views of the iconic Forth Rail Bridge, Forth Road Bridge, and Queensferry Crossing


## Notes

- **Cafes, Restaurants, Pubs, and Grocery Shops**:
  - Excellent cafes and eateries in Queensferry. We love `Dune Bakery`, `Manna Cafe`, and `Rogue Bros`. 
  - `Miller and Carter Steak House` in Cramond
  - Cafes such as the `Bonnie Barista` near Saughton Park 
- **Public Toilets**: Available in South Queensferry near the waterfront. Options along the route include the toilets at Saughton Park and Water of Leith visitor centre.
- **Safety**: Shared towpath with cyclists - stay alert and keep to the left. Some sections can be muddy after rain.
- **Wildlife**: Look out for kingfishers, herons, swans, and various waterfowl along the canal.
- **Weather**: The route is exposed in places, so bring appropriate clothing for wind and rain.
- **Photography**: Excellent photo opportunities of the Forth bridges, especially at sunrise or sunset.