Access
Special arrangements are currently in place at Inchcolm Abbey, to comply with Scottish Government guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic. These arrangements are detailed below, and will be regularly updated. Last updated 28 JUly 2020.
Although things may be a little different, we hope that you will have an enjoyable visit and will be greeted with a warm and friendly smile by staff.
Safety measures
- Our staff have been trained in hygiene and physical distancing and have been provided with the necessary PPE
- Signage is on site to guide visitors, including one way systems and marked areas that are currently closed to visitors
- We have introduced enhanced cleaning measures, including our toilet facilities, to make visitors feel comfortable while visiting
- In line with Scottish Government legislation and guidance, face coverings are now mandatory if you are visiting any indoor/enclosed spaces at our sites including retail and catering areas (subject to some exceptions)
Watch our video on what to expect when you visit our sites
Carers tickets
In line with best practice in the visitor attractions industry and as advised by Capability Scotland, visitors with disabilities are treated on an equal basis with all other visitors and entry is charged at the appropriate admission category rate - Adult/Concession/Child. Proof of disability is not required.
We offer free entry for carers accompanying visitors with disabilities. To book a free carer ticket, please email ticketing@hes.scot and quote your order number.
Parking
On-street parking is available in South Queensferry.
Approach to site
Two commercial ferries sail to the island, both from South Queensferry (Maid of the Forth and Forth Tours). Both boats have narrow gangways onto them.
The island pier has 20 stone steps (the descent may be shorter, depending on the tide).
Dogs
Assistance dogs are permitted at all our sites and within roofed areas.
Visitors' dogs are allowed at Inchcolm Abbey, but are not permitted in roofed areas.
Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and not left unattended at any time. Owners must pick up after their dogs.
What will be open during your visit
- The Abbey (with the exception of the upper level of the tower)
- Exhibition (limited to 3 people at one time)
- Unisex toilets
What will remain closed during your visit
- The Tower - Upper level and the mural turnpike stair, from ground to first floor
- Doorway adjacent to The Pend
- Shop – open for shelter only (space limited), no purchasing opportunities
Visiting the site
Visitors will be able to move around the site without following a specific route, but social distancing measures will be in place. Please pay attention to the safety signage on site. Access to some spaces may be limited.
- There is a loose gravel path from the ferry landing to the visitor centre. It is accessed up a metal stair with handrails on both sides. Alternatively, please speak to a steward for ramped access
The exhibition will be limited to a capacity of 3 people at any one time
A room will be available in the visitor centre for visitors to rest or shelter. This room has a capacity of 3 people at a time
Three toilets at the visitor centre will be limited to 1 person at a time. There is no adapted toilet on the island. The nearest is on the mainland, about 1.5 miles from the ferry piers, at Tesco, Ferry Muir, EH30 9QZ - The abbey is 180m from the landing up a gentle slope. There are threshold steps at both the east and west doors, which lead to the cloister and chapter house. Light levels can be very low
- The abbey’s upper levels are reached by uneven historic stairs
- The bell tower will not be open to the public at this time
- The First and Second World War ruins are reached along very uneven, steep rocky paths. There is a danger of rockfall above some of the paths.
