A Scottish town named for a royal ferry now hosts ancient secrets and traditions

Countries & Cities · Published 15 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: South Queensferry, a town on the Firth of Forth, is defined by its deep historical roots and peculiar local customs. From its origins as a medieval crossing point established by a queen to modern-day rituals involving burr-covered men and freezing New Year swims, this town balances antiquity with vibrant community life.

The town owes its name to Queen Margaret, who in the 11th century established a ferry service to assist pilgrims traveling to St Andrews. This crossing remained active for centuries until the opening of the Forth Road Bridge in 1964. Archaeological findings near the site suggest human presence in the area dates back roughly 10,000 years, with 2012 excavations revealing what is considered the oldest dwelling ever discovered in Scotland.

Cultural life in South Queensferry is marked by unique, long-standing traditions. During the annual Ferry Fair, a local man known as the Burry Man parades through the streets covered in thousands of sticky burdock burrs. This ritual, which has persisted for over three centuries, involves a slow, physically demanding walk supported by attendants. Another notable event is the Loony Dook, a New Year's Day tradition where participants dive into the icy waters of the Firth of Forth, an activity that began in 1986 as a lighthearted joke among friends.

The town's architecture reflects its layered history. St Mary's Episcopal Church, built in the 1450s for the Carmelite Order, stands as the only medieval Carmelite church in the British Isles still in use. Other landmarks include 17th-century buildings like the Black Castle and the local tollbooth. Beyond its history, the town remains a hub for community engagement, hosting brass bands, local fairs, and charitable events like the sponsored bridge walks that have raised over £1,000,000 for Christian Aid since 1972.

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