Cramond Beach & Promenade, Edinburgh - a sandy beach with boats in the water
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Cramond Beach & Promenade Edinburgh

4.7
·2k reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Cramond Island, accessible only at low tide via a historic causeway, offering WW2 relics and stunning coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Low tide periods

Access Cramond Island safely

CrowdMedium
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Cramond Beach & Promenade, Edinburgh - a sandy beach with boats in the water

Cramond Beach & Promenade Edinburgh

Best Time

Low tide periods

Access Cramond Island safely

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Cramond Island, accessible only at low tide via a historic causeway, offering WW2 relics and stunning coastal views.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"A must-visit for its unique tidal island access and fascinating wartime history!"

Vertical photo
TIP

⏰ Check Tide Times Religiously

Crucial for island access! Text CRAMOND to 81400 for safe crossing times.

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The causeway can be uneven, and the island has rocky terrain.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cramond Island Causeway

Cramond Island Causeway

Cramond Beach

Walk across a submerged concrete path to a historic island, but only at low tide!

WW2 Fortifications

WW2 Fortifications

Cramond Island

Explore remnants of military history, including old bunkers and anti-tank barricades.

Cramond Promenade

Cramond Promenade

Cramond Beach

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or cycle along scenic, flat paths with coastal views.

Planning Your Visit

Mastering the Tides for Cramond Island

Cramond Island is only accessible via a causeway during low tide. Always check tide times before you go! The RNLI provides reliable schedules, and a quick text to 81400 can also give you the safe crossing windows. Don't get stranded; aim to spend no more than 3 hours on the island. Reddit

Getting to Cramond Beach & Promenade

While free parking is available at Cramond, consider public transport. The walk from Cramond Brig via the River Almond path is a scenic route. Reddit The promenade offers wide, flat paths perfect for walking or cycling, with grassy areas ideal for dog walks. Reddit

Best Times

When
Low tide periods
Why
Access Cramond Island safely
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏝️ Cramond Island, in Edinburgh, Scotland #Scotland #scotlandtiktok #scotlandtravel #visitscotland #scotlandexplore
@chrislawlor
35.3K likes • 600.6K views

⏰ Check Tide Times Religiously

Crucial for island access! Text CRAMOND to 81400 for safe crossing times. Reddit+1

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The causeway can be uneven, and the island has rocky terrain. Reddit

This is Cramond Island, located next to Edinburgh on the Firth of Forth. Remember to check the tide times. #cramondisland #Scotland #travelscotland #explorescotland #visitscotland #ilovescotland
@mikey_youmans
11.1K likes • 274.6K views
Strolling to Cramond Beach, soaking in Scotland's wild beauty 🌳 #Scotland #ScotlandTikTok #Edinburgh #Scottish #ScottishTikTok #EdinburghTikTok #VisitScotland #PlacesToVisit #ScotlandTravel #Cramond
@scotland
1.6K likes • 36.9K views

🎒 Pack for the Wait

If you misjudge the tide, be prepared to wait for hours. Bring water and snacks. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Promenade

Great for dog walks, but keep them on a lead near the water. Reddit

Replying to @nelwilma Cramond Island is a must! #thetravelingsaffa #saffaabroad #edinburgh #cramondisland #cramondbeach #Scotland
@thetravelingsaffa
414 likes • 7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

⏰ Check Tide Times Religiously

Crucial for island access! Text CRAMOND to 81400 for safe crossing times. Reddit+1

👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended

The causeway can be uneven, and the island has rocky terrain. Reddit

🎒 Pack for the Wait

If you misjudge the tide, be prepared to wait for hours. Bring water and snacks. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Promenade

Great for dog walks, but keep them on a lead near the water. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

Breathtaking scenery of the Firth of Forth and surrounding areas. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Cramond Beach and Island for its unique causeway access, historical WW2 fortifications, and scenic promenade. The opportunity to walk to an island at low tide is a major draw, offering beautiful views and a sense of adventure. However, the importance of checking tide times cannot be overstated, as getting stranded is a real risk. Some find the island's terrain rough and litter can be an issue in certain areas.

"Fantastic place. I went because of the WW2 fortifications on it (plus the causeway) after visiting inchcolm island for the Fortifications also, and a bonus the weather was amazing!
(CHECK THE TIDE TIMINGS BEFORE GOING) Have enclosed photo of tide timings on last photo, but you can also find it online, otherwise it will be a long night waiting for the tide to go back out.."

Colin D

"Amazing island to walk out to at low tide. (I like to arrive 2 hours before low tide to give plenty time to cross and wander at a slow pace round the wartime batteries. The anti submarine structure is an interesting sight too"

fiona whitie

"Lovely area to walk or cycle. Good flat wide tarmac paths with optional grass paths to the side, which are good for dog walks. It's a shame the cafe at the mid point of walk when going east was closed. Toilets at Cramond seemed to be open for females only. At the far end going east, it became very untidy too much litter and evidence of bonfires. Good free parking at Cramond. Nice cafe at Cramond opposite the river and the boats."

Stephen Swinley

What People Like

Unique island access
WW2 fortifications
Scenic promenade walks

What People Dislike

Tide time risks
Island terrain roughness
Litter in some areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Cramond Beach by bus from Edinburgh city centre. Several routes stop nearby. Alternatively, driving offers free parking at Cramond, though it can get busy. Reddit Some visitors enjoy walking from Cramond Brig via the River Almond path for a scenic approach. Reddit

Yes, there is free parking available at Cramond Beach. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on sunny days and weekends. Reddit

Absolutely! The promenade at Cramond Beach is wide and flat, making it ideal for cycling. Reddit

Yes, Cramond Beach is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes serve the area from Edinburgh city centre. Reddit

The most popular way is to walk across the causeway from Cramond Beach during low tide. TikTok+1 Some also enjoy a scenic walk along the River Almond path from Cramond Brig. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to visit Cramond Beach or walk the causeway to Cramond Island. Access is free for everyone. TikTok

Cramond Beach and its promenade are open to the public at all times. However, access to Cramond Island is strictly dependent on tide times. Reddit

The best time to visit Cramond Island is during low tide. Always check the official tide times before you plan your visit to ensure safe passage across the causeway. Reddit+1

The walk to Cramond Island across the causeway typically takes about 25 minutes, depending on your pace. TikTok It's recommended to allow ample time to explore the island and return before the tide turns. Reddit

The primary restriction is tide times. Visitors must cross the causeway within the safe windows provided by tide charts. Reddit+1 It's also advised not to stay too long on the island, as the tide rises quickly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

On Cramond Island, you can explore old military bunkers and WW2 fortifications, enjoy stunning views of the Firth of Forth, and discover small beaches. TikTok+1

The causeway is generally safe when the tide is out, but it can be uneven. Reddit The island itself has some rough terrain and remnants of old structures, so exercise caution. Reddit

A double buggy can likely make it over the causeway, as it has been leveled recently. However, be mindful of manhole covers and potential holes towards the end. Reddit The island itself has a rocky beach and no paved paths, which might make a buggy challenging. Reddit

There are toilets available at Cramond Beach, though historically they have been for females only. Reddit A cafe is located in the village opposite the river and boats. Reddit

Yes, Cramond Beach is a great place for dog walking, with good flat paths and grassy areas. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There's a cafe in the village opposite the river and boats at Cramond Beach. Reddit The Cramond Inn pub is also nearby, though reviews suggest food quality can be disappointing. Reddit

There are no food facilities on Cramond Island. It's advisable to bring your own snacks and drinks if you plan to spend a significant amount of time there. Reddit

The village of Cramond offers dining options, including a pub and a cafe. Reddit+1

Yes, Cramond Beach is a suitable spot for picnics. There are grassy areas and the beach itself, though litter can be an issue in some parts. Reddit

Reviews suggest that the food at the Cramond Inn is not highly rated. Reddit It might be better to explore other dining options in the village or bring your own food. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Cramond Beach offers lovely coastal views, especially during sunrise and sunset. The causeway to Cramond Island is also a unique photographic subject. TikTok

Yes, Cramond Island provides interesting photographic subjects with its WW2 fortifications, ruins, and panoramic views of the Firth of Forth. TikTok+1

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography at Cramond Beach and Island, minimizing harsh shadows. TikTok

The highest points on Cramond Island offer excellent vantage points for capturing the surrounding landscape and the mainland. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the island's fortifications. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cramond Beach and its promenade are excellent for families. The flat, wide paths are perfect for strollers and young cyclists. Reddit Exploring the beach and building sandcastles can provide hours of entertainment. While a double buggy can navigate the causeway to Cramond Island, the island itself has rough terrain and rocky beaches, which might be challenging for very young children or strollers. Reddit Always prioritize checking tide times before heading to the island, as getting stranded is a serious concern. Reddit Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended, as facilities on the island are non-existent. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

Cramond Beach is a fantastic spot for dog owners. The promenade offers ample space for dogs to walk and run, and the grassy areas are ideal for them to play. Reddit Dogs are generally welcome, but it's always a good idea to keep them on a lead, especially near the water and on the causeway to Cramond Island. Reddit Remember to bring water for your pet, particularly on warmer days. While dogs can access the island, ensure you are aware of the tide times for a safe return. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Explorers

For those interested in history, Cramond Island is a must-visit. The remnants of WW2 fortifications, including bunkers and anti-tank barricades, offer a tangible connection to the past. TikTok+1 Exploring these structures provides a unique adventure. Remember to check the tide times carefully, as access is entirely dependent on them. Reddit+1 The walk across the causeway itself is part of the historical experience, imagining those who traversed it in different eras. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Tides to Cramond Island

The allure of Cramond Island is intrinsically linked to the rhythm of the tides. This unique destination is only accessible via a concrete causeway that emerges from the sea twice daily. Visitors must meticulously check tide times before embarking on their journey. The RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) is a crucial resource, providing official safe crossing times. Reddit+1 Many locals and frequent visitors recommend texting 'CRAMOND' to 81400 for an immediate response with the day's safe windows. Reddit It's advised to aim for a visit lasting no more than three hours to ensure a safe return to the mainland. Reddit Misjudging the tides can lead to being stranded overnight, so vigilance is key. TikTok+1

When planning your crossing, remember that the causeway itself can be uneven, and the island terrain is rocky. Reddit While a double buggy might manage the causeway, navigating the island with one could be challenging due to the lack of paved paths and the presence of rocky beaches. Reddit The experience of walking the causeway, with the sea on either side, is a significant part of the adventure, offering a sense of isolation and connection with nature. TikTok

For those who find themselves caught out by the tide, it's important to remain calm and wait for its recession. The RNLI advises against calling emergency services unless it's a genuine emergency. Reddit Being prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and appropriate clothing for potentially cold and wet weather is a wise precaution for any visitor venturing to Cramond Island. Reddit

Exploring the Historic Fortifications

Cramond Island is not just a natural wonder; it's a historical site dotted with remnants of its past. During World War II, the island served a strategic purpose, and visitors can still explore the concrete military bunkers and anti-tank barricades that stand as silent witnesses to this era. TikTok+1 These fortifications, now partially reclaimed by nature, offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland's wartime defenses and provide a unique backdrop for exploration. TikTok

Walking amongst these structures evokes a sense of history and discovery. The island's isolation, coupled with these man-made relics, creates a compelling atmosphere. TikTok Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the interplay between the historical elements and the surrounding natural beauty. TikTok+1 It's a chance to connect with a different side of Scotland's heritage, far from the bustling city of Edinburgh. TikTok

The Charm of Cramond Promenade

Beyond the island adventure, Cramond Beach and its promenade offer a more relaxed experience. The promenade itself is a well-maintained, wide, and flat tarmac path, making it perfect for leisurely strolls, cycling, or even a gentle jog. Reddit The adjacent grassy areas provide a pleasant space for picnics or for dogs to roam. Reddit The views across the Firth of Forth are expansive and calming, offering a refreshing escape from urban life. TikTok

While the promenade is generally tidy, some visitors have noted areas with litter and evidence of bonfires towards the eastern end. Reddit Despite this, the overall ambiance is one of seaside tranquility. The presence of a cafe in the village adds to the convenience, though it's worth noting that food options directly at the beach area are limited, and the local pub has received mixed reviews. Reddit+1 The free parking at Cramond Beach is a significant draw for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

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