Within sight of the City of Edinburgh lies a remarkably quiet stretch of coast, with beautiful sandy beaches and rocky headlands made of different types of igneous rock. Starting from beneath the Forth Rail Bridge we walk east along the shore of the Firth of Forth, past Dalmeny House and Eagle Rock.

THE ROCKS: We begin with an array of sedimentary rocks, containing clues to their formation in the Carboniferous period more than 300 million years ago. Walking further along the coast we leave these soft rocks behind, and the character of the coast line is determined by occasional rocky headlands made of a range of hard igneous rocks.

THE WALK: This is a flat and gentle walk. We’ll start under the Forth Rail Bridge, and follow the coast path past Dalmeny House before cutting inland and returning to the start point via quiet roads and paths. Despite the proximity to Edinburgh, this is a quiet and underappreciated stretch of coast, with beautiful sandy beaches and rocky headlands.

I have classified this as an Moderate Walk, mainly because of the length of the walk (13km). There are short sections on sandy and rocky beaches, which may be rough or slippery underfoot at times. It may be wet, windy or cold. Come equipped with strong footwear, waterproof clothing and something to eat and drink.

MEETING POINT & ROUTE: At the Hawes Pier, South Queensferry. Grid reference: NT136783 | Nearest Postcode: EH30 9TA | What3Words: bottom.solutions.pillows | Route Map.

CORONAVIRUS – IMPORTANT INFORMATION: During Geowalks activities, the aim is to keep everyone safe and to minimise the risk of transmission of Coronavirus. Everyone has a duty to minimise the risk to themselves and others. All participants must read this document “Geowalks: Coronavirus Pandemic 2020-2021: Information for participants on short walks (version 2.0 15Mar21)” and you can only attend a Geowalks activity if you have read and agree to follow the procedures outline, and accept the risks involved.

Most importantly, do not attend if you are experiencing any symptoms of Coronavirus, or if you, or anyone you have been in close contact with, has tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 14 days. The main symptoms are a new continuous cough, fever or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste.