Believe it or not, you’re stood on top of a railway tunnel! This tunnel used to take the coal from the pits behind you down the hill. Imagine the tram rolling over the top and the train running underneath!
The decline of the docks started in 1972 after the demolition of the Wellesley Colliery. By 1979 the last of the hoists used to load the ships was removed putting a nail in coffin of the coal mining industry in Methil for good.
Follow the road towards the large white tower!
In the distance and out in the Firth of Forth you’ll see an oil rig. Providing employment to the local people, these oil rigs have been operation since the 1970s.
The Firth of Forth is an estuary (or "firth") of the River Forth, where the river flows into the North Sea. It's located in Scotland, stretching from the east coast to the west of Edinburgh, Scotland's capital city. This body of water is not just significant because of its natural beauty, but also because of its strategic importance throughout Scottish history. The Firth of Forth is a key area for both transportation and defense. Its shores have been inhabited since ancient times, with settlements taking advantage of the fertile lands and the estuary itself for fishing and trade. Over the centuries, various castles and fortifications have been built along its banks, highlighting the Firth's role in military strategy. One of the most remarkable features of the Firth of Forth is the engineering marvels that span it. The Forth Bridge, a railway bridge completed in 1890, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Scotland's industrial heritage. Its cantilever construction is a stunning example of Victorian engineering and is still used by trains today. In addition to the Forth Bridge, there's the Forth Road Bridge, a suspension bridge opened in 1964 to carry road traffic. More recently, the Queensferry Crossing was opened in 2017 as a major road bridge, featuring a cable-stayed design. It sits alongside its predecessors, showcasing the evolution of bridge engineering over more than a century. The Firth of Forth is also known for its wildlife, particularly the islands that dot its waters, such as Inchcolm, which is home to an ancient abbey, and the Isle of May, a National Nature Reserve. The waters and islands are habitats for diverse bird species, seals, and occasionally dolphins and whales. In essence, the Firth of Forth is a fascinating blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and engineering achievement, making it an integral part of Scotland's landscape and heritage.
As you go around the trail, tap the ‘previous’ and ‘next’ arrows to move between points. The picture at the top of the page is shows you where you should be.
If the map does not show your current position when you click “Show My Location” , check your phone browser setting and allow Location.
If there’s more than one of you with a smartphone, you can use the What3Words app to help you navigate. It’s free to download – type in the what3words location, tap “use compass” and it will help you find your way. Though remember, this will point to the exact location, not necessarily following the right path, so use the map on each page to help you.
