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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
World
Alexander Smail & Jacob Farr

The Edinburgh island that used to guard Firth of Forth from submarines during war

There is no better way to spend your Saturday or Sunday afternoon than exploring one of Edinburgh’s amazing natural beauty areas.

One ideal spot, which is not as busy or overcrowded as your usual Arthur’s Seat or Blackford Hill is Cramond Island which can only be accessed at specific times.

Located within the Firth of Forth in the north west of the capital, the island can only be reached on foot during low tide and offers some breathtaking panoramic views of Edinburgh and Fife’s coastline including the three Forth bridges.

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But before you set off, be sure to check the tide times, as when the tide is high the paved path that leads out to the island becomes submerged in the sea - trapping you on the island - so be sure to leave plenty of time for returning to the village of Cramond.

The views are not the only thing to capture the imagination on the island as there is also a lot of history to sink your teeth into with World War Two pill boxes to be found on the deserted island.

The wartime bunkers are fascinating for any young kids who want to learn more about the capital's history during this period - but make sure you do not get trapped in one overnight as an army of rats is rumoured to come out after dark.

It has also been reported that an anti-submarine net would run from Cramond Island to the coast and that there were naval guns stationed there during the war.

Cramond Island has a rich history. (Getty/Wire.)

It is also rumoured to have been inhabited by Romans during their invasion of Britain.

All in all, you can take in the island in just over an hour - your four-legged friend would also enjoy it.

Do make sure to plan ahead if you intend on visiting the island to make sure that you leave plenty of time to go out, explore and get back safely.

A signpost detailing the times to head out to the island are found in front of the crossing and tend to be extremely reliable.

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