15. Society Point at Hopetoun near South Queensferry
Situated north-east of Hopetoun House, this is an interesting shoreline displaying several geological formations. This site includes a large sandstone outcrop and other rocks.
Society Point is large outcrop of Binny Sandstone, an excellent example of sedimentary features such as cross-bedding and pebbly and carbonaceous flagstones. This is one of several sites on the south side of the Firth of Forth with views of the Forth Bridges.
The shoreline from Society East Shore westwards to Abercorn Point (sites 14-18) displays a reasonably well exposed, gently-folded section of rocks from the middle part of the Carboniferous Period (around 330 million years ago). Sixteen individual exposures have been recorded within this section. Society East Shore is part of the Hopetoun Foreshore Geology Walk and a separate leaflet is available: Hopetoun Foreshore Geology Walk.
The site is close to Hopetoun House and parking is available at the small rural car park east of Society Cottages at Society Point. The area is accessible from minor roads and by National Cycle Route 76 that goes around the Firth. There is public transport to South Queensferry and Dalmeny Station, with a walk of 3-4 km along quiet roads. Nearby sites are Hopetoun Obelisk Quarry (13), Society East Shore (14) and Society Shore (16).
