HAWES PIER

• Latitude: 55.9931
• Longitude: -3.38556
• UK Coast & Atlantic
• Marina in UK

Address: South Queensferry, Edinburgh EH30 9TB UK

Hawes Pier is situated in South Queensferry, Scotland, along the River Forth estuary, just to the west of Edinburgh. It's a historic pier that is best known for its close proximity to the iconic Forth Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This bridge is a marvel of Victorian engineering and serves as a vital railway crossing over the Firth of Forth. The pier itself, while not a major commercial port, serves various purposes including tourism, leisure, and local transportation. Here are some more specific details about Hawes Pier:

Description

• Location: South Queensferry, Edinburgh, Scotland
• Coordinates: Approximately 55.9890° N latitude and 3.3982° W longitude
• Primary Use: Tourism and leisure activities. It is a popular departure point for boat tours of the Firth of Forth, including trips to Inchcolm Island.
• Historic Significance: Close proximity to the Forth Bridge, making it a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.

Specifications

1. Type of Pier

   • Construction: Typically, generational piers like Hawes Pier are constructed with a combination of wood, stone, and reinforced concrete to withstand tidal actions and weather conditions. Specific construction materials can be verified through historical and engineering records.
   • Length: The exact length can vary, but small historic piers like this often range between 100 to 300 meters in length.

2. Activities

   • Tourism: Ferry rides, boat tours, and sightseeing.
   • Leisure: Fishing, walking, and photography.
   • Local Transport: Occasional use for local ferry services.

3. Accessibility

   • Road Access: South Queensferry is accessible by road, and there is usually parking available nearby.
   • Public Transport: Easily reachable via buses and taxis from Edinburgh and other nearby locales.

4. Facilities

   • There are typically facilities such as public restrooms, small shops, and sometimes cafes or restaurants near tourist-focused piers. Specifics would rely on current municipal and business operations around the pier.
   • Interpretive signage often explains the historical significance and gives information about the Forth Bridge and surrounding area.

Operational Information

• Ownership: Usually governed by local authorities in conjunction with heritage conservation agencies, given its historical context.
• Operational Hours: This can vary, but public access is generally available year-round, adjusted for specific activities like boat tours which may be seasonal.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

• Safety measures would include proper railings, warning signs, and maintenance protocols to ensure visitor safety.
• Environmental measures would be in place to preserve the local marine life and maintain water quality, particularly given its status near a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Nearby Attractions

• Forth Bridge: A significant engineering marvel that dominates the skyline around Hawes Pier.
• Inchcolm Island: Historic tourist attraction accessible from boat tours departing from the pier.
• South Queensferry High Street: Offers shops, restaurants, and accommodations for visitors.

Additional Notes

• Seasonal Variability: This area can be affected by seasonal changes and weather patterns, which may influence operational aspects like tour schedules and accessibility.
• Special Events: The pier may also be a hub for local events, community activities, and celebrations, especially related to maritime heritage.

Hawes Pier combines historical significance with present-day tourism and leisure activities, making it a meaningful location for both locals and visitors to the region.