Queensferry – Alive with Legends, Attractions and Festivities
Because of the existence of North Queensferry, Queensferry is often referred to as South Queensferry to eliminate confusion. It name is derived from Queen Margaret of Scotland, who was the wife of Malcolm III. The couple married in a church, which was constructed at the Queen’s request, in Dunfermline. After their wedding in 1070, the church became a site of pilgrimage, and the Queen enjoyed revisiting the church. To reach the church meant that one had to cross the river and the Queen quickly established a ferry, run by monks, to transport people. Thus the settlement became known as Queensferry.
Today, Queensferry is still an important ferry crossing from Edinburgh to Fife, but it also has two bridges. The first is a suspension bridge for rail crossing, which was constructed between 1883 and 1890.The second bridge, for road use, was constructed between 1958 and 1964. These magnificent works of engineering can be seen today and are still used.
South Queensferry has a vast variety of noteworthy buildings that are of historical significance, to visit. St. Mary’s Church, which is located on High Street, is the oldest building in town and was constructed in 1441. Second to St. Mary’s Church, and also in High Street, is Black Castle. Black Castle has a skin crawling legend attached to it. A sea captain, who built the house in 1626, was the original owner of the house. It is said that after the captain was lost at sea, it was discovered that he had perished in the ocean because his housekeeper had asked a beggar to cast a spell on the sea-farer. As the punishment for witchcraft was death, both women were burnt at the stake. Other attractions include the 1600 Tolbooth, the 1720 clock tower, the seventeenth century Plewlands House, the Hawes Inn, Hopetown House, Dalmeny House, Dundas Estate and Stirrat Castle.
While discovering the beauty, legends and secrets of Queensferry, keep a close eye on the local activities. In August the crowning of the Ferry Fair Queen takes place and is an event filled with bands, competitions and parades. Another famous feature of this festival is the Burry Man. A local is covered in burrs from the Burdock plant, and hobbles around through the town, with assistance of course, while children run from door to door, collecting money on behalf of the Burry Man who has very restricted movement. South Queensferry is a destination in Scotland that boasts tranquility, beauty, festivals, fascinating events, attractions, sights and activities that will keep visitors entertained for days. It is a historic town that has held on to its charm and magic.
