North Queensferry Light Tower

North Queensferry lies on the banks of the Forth, nestled between two commanding structures - the impressive feat of modern engineering that is the Forth Rail Bridge, and the more genteel-looking Forth Road Bridge. Steeped in history it is a fascinating place to wander around, signs of a rich maritime past hiding around every corner. And with the Firth of Forth being at its narrowest point here, North Queensferry grew in importance as a transport link across this stretch of water, and holds the distinction of housing the world's smallest operational light tower. Sitting on the Town Pier, dwarfed by the trademark red paint of one of the engineering wonders of the world, the Forth Rail Bridge, the North Queensferry Light Tower stands only 21 feet high. It was built by Robert Stevenson, engineer to the commissioners of Northern Lighthouses, playing a key role in the developing of the Queensferry Passage across the Forth and replacing the Old Harbour Light Tower also designed by Stevenson, which had originally

been installed on top of the Signal House staircase. This tiny, but nonetheless vital, part of Scottish maritime history, has been restored by the North Queensferry Heritage Trust and is once again in full working order. The lamp was relit in June 2010 by HRH the Princess Royal some 120 years after it had fallen into disuse, and should be seen by everyone who visits this fascinating town. Discover first hand how the light-keeper kept the lamp burning. Find out how the unique signalling system worked. And become a part of the history of this gem in Scotland's maritime crown by lighting the lamp and receiving a Certificate of Competence as an Honorary Keeper of the Light.

Beside the Light Tower stands its equally small, but nonetheless fascinating, tour guide office, a treasure chest of information on the lighthouse with a display of passage-related items and gifts. A replica of the Book of Regulations from 1843 contains a table of freight charges, porters, regulations, and sailing times, as well as a comprehensive list of the signal flags that were flown from the ferries to hail specific types of transport for onward journeys. Heavy freight would arrive at the port in a horse and cart, whilst those from the higher echelons of society would bring themselves and their goods in a light carriage, or "chaise and pair." These hired vehicles and horses would be left behind, and a fresh set picked up on the opposite shore. It was left to the ferry crew to hoist the relevant flags, indicating exactly what was required, the ostlers and carriage hands then ensuring all was in readiness for a swift onward journey. Today, the Fisherman's Hut sports a set of modern signal flags. Visitors can use them to create their own short messages. Command a fleet or spell out your name - it all makes an interesting souvenir snap.
For a real feel of what life was like as Keeper of the Light, grasp the opportunity while you are there to light the lamp. The Duty Superintendent of Passage will escort you up the twenty four narrow steps to the lamp, following in the footsteps of those who did so over 100 years ago. Discover how they kept the lamp burning, learn more about the unique signalling system, and hear how this tiny lamp kept passengers, livestock, cargo, and the Royal Mail safe on the Queensferry Passage. Receive a short introductory course on lighthouse procedures and optics - then comes the moment you can light the lamp and bring it safely to "Standard Flame Height." Your reward? Apart from creating your own little piece of history, you will be given your Certificate of Competence, stating that you are now an "Honorary Keeper of the Harbour Light Tower at North Queensferry, in the kingdom of Fife." So go on, do it. Cross the Firth of Forth 21st century fashion, then take a step back in time and discover one of this country's hidden gems. The North Queensferry Light Tower, so small and unimposing, yet so so important for the safety of so many and the efficient running of the Queensferry Passage. One small light piercing the night sky, holding in its beam those on the water leaving the haven of one shore for the safety of another. They do say the best things come in little packages ........