The museums collections trace the history of the people of Queensferry and Dalmeny, the historic ferry passage to Fife, the building of the road and rail bridges, and the wildlife of the Forth estuary.

Queensferry's unique history is highlighted by the ancient annual custom of the Burry Man. Clad from head to toe in a costume made from the burrs of burdock plant, he parades through the town for nine hours, on a Friday in early August. The origins of the ceremony are lost in the mists of time. Was it intended to evoke good fortune in harvesting the land or sea, or as a device to drive out evil spirits? See the full size model in the museum and ponder.