About Islandeering
Hi and welcome to Islandeering Islandeering is for people who want adventure in Britain’s wild blue spaces – our rivers, coast, lakes, canals and islands. You will find amazing walks, paddles and swims in the UK’s most special places, those recognised for outstanding natural beauty, incredible geology or special and abundant wildlife.
More About UsWe continuously find new islands, rivers, lochs, canals and coast to walk, SUP and swim in and meet plenty of great folks along the way. Join our community to get new routes and adventures, latest blogs and news by using the email box below. Tune in also to our Facebook and Instagram pages to see where we are going next.
Table of Contents
About Firth of Forth Islands
Paddleboarding in Firth of Forth
Islands of Firth of Forth
Firth of Forth Islands Guide
The Firth of Forth islands form a compact but historically rich island group along Scotland’s east coast, stretching from the outer reaches of the Firth towards the sheltered waters near Edinburgh and Fife. Long associated with defence, religion, navigation and wildlife, these islands offer striking contrasts between wild seabird colonies and layers of human history.
From short boat-accessed walks and clifftop circuits to wildlife watching and quiet shoreline exploration, the Forth islands provide rewarding, low-impact island experiences close to Scotland’s largest cities.
This guide provides an overview of the islands of the Firth of Forth.
The Outer Forth Islands
The outer islands of the Firth of Forth sit closer to the open North Sea and are shaped by exposure, seabirds and maritime navigation. These islands are primarily accessed by boat and reward careful, respectful exploration.
Expect: seabird colonies, cliffs, lighthouses, exposed coasts, boat access.
Isle of May
Internationally important for seabirds, the Isle of May is a National Nature Reserve known for puffins, seals, cliffs and lighthouse history.
→ Explore Isle of May
Bass Rock
An iconic volcanic island in the outer Firth of Forth, Bass Rock is internationally important for seabirds and supports one of the world’s largest northern gannet colonies.
→ Explore Bass Rock
Inchkeith
A strategic island with layers of military history, abandoned buildings and wide views across the Firth.
→ Explore Inchkeith
The Inner Forth Islands
Closer to the mainland and historically linked to religious life, trade and defence, the inner islands combine sheltered waters with rich cultural heritage.
Expect: monastic ruins, grassland, sheltered shores, historic structures.
Cramond Island
A tidal island off Edinburgh, Cramond Island is known for its wartime history, causeway access and seabirds, with wide views across the Firth of Forth.
→ Explore Cramond Island
Inchcolm
Best known for its remarkably preserved medieval abbey, Inchcolm offers gentle walking, wildlife and views across the bridges of the Forth.
→ Explore Inchcolm
Inchmickery
A small, low-lying island once fortified during wartime, now important for seabirds and visible from the Edinburgh coastline.
→ Explore Inchmickery
Nature, Culture & Island Identity
Wildlife
The Firth of Forth supports internationally significant seabird populations, particularly on the Isle of May, alongside seals and rich intertidal life.
Maritime & Military History
From early Christian monasteries to Napoleonic and World War defences, the Forth islands reflect centuries of strategic importance.
East Coast Island Landscape
(H3 – Theme)
Lower cliffs, grassy tops and expansive sea views define these islands, shaped by exposure to the North Sea and long maritime histories.
Island Adventures
Walking
Short island circuits, clifftop paths and gentle grassland routes.
Wildlife Watching
Exceptional seabird viewing during the breeding season, particularly on the Isle of May.
Coastal Exploration
Boat-based access and shoreline exploration with a focus on safety and conservation.
Plan Your Visit
Best Seasons
Spring and early summer for seabirds; late summer and autumn for quieter visits and sea views.
Getting There
Boat trips operate seasonally to selected islands, with departure points from Fife and the Lothian coast.
Paddleboarding in Firth of Forth
We have shared some of our favourite routes in our Top paddles on Scottish Island blog but more can be found on our Route Map page
Islands of Firth of Forth
Read more about the islands in our Islandeering book
Isle of May
Bass Rock
Inchkeith
Inchcolm
Crammond Island
Inchmickery
Islands of Firth of Forth
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We have shared some of our favourite routes below but more can be found on our Route Map page
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