Longcraig Pier
Pier / Slipway used by the Longcraig Scout Activity Center
Updated: August 8, 2025
Description
Longcraig Pier is used by Longcraig Scout Activity Center, located on the Southern end of Whitehouse Bay Beach on the South side of the Firth of Forth, approximately 750m East of the Forth Rail Bridge.
Constructed around 1815 by John Rennie and Robert Stevenson, Longcraig Pier was originally built as part of the Forth crossing between North and South Queensferry. Multiple piers along the coast were built, with the intention of always having a suitable landing place without sailing vessels needing to tack.
Longcraig Pier is owned by the City of Edinburgh Council, and is readily accessible to the public but predominantly used by Longcraig Scout Activity Center.
The pier is located to the East of South Queensferry, which has a range of facilities available for visitors including pubs, restaurants, cafe’s and small shops. Further along the coast is Port Edgar Marina which has full marine facilities for visiting vessels.
Contact Details
Coordinates: 55.994324, -3.373371
Address: Longcraig Scout Centre, Longcraig Pier, South Queensferry, EH30 9TD
E-Mail: bookings@longcraig.info
Hours: Ad-Hoc
Facilities
Scout activity center with full facilities for taking youth groups onto the water.
Navigational Information
Approach
Best approach is from the north or the west. Approaching from the east is possible, but watch for submerged rocks. The only navigational mark is a scaffold pole embedded in concrete towards the East end of the pier.
Navigational Hazards
Rocks on the east side, so approach with caution. Some are marked, but not all. The west side is more exposed, so ensure you have good fendering.
Slipway
Construction
Concrete
Vehicle Access
Vehicles can park at the top end of the slipway. Most of the scout dinghies are hand launched.
Club
Type
Scout Activity Center
Membership Details
Voluntary organisation that takes bookings from scout groups.
Visitor Information
New volunteers always welcome.
Pier
Visitor Information
Visitors can make fast, but advise to speak to the scout center in advance. The pier is owned by City of Edinburgh Council, so it is available for use by the public.