Edinburgh

Leith

About

Leith

Leith is full of surprises and is a prime example of Edinburgh’s tendency to contrast the old with the new. Once the city’s main port, Leith is where Mary Queen of Scots returned back to Scotland after spending years in France. Its marine background is still evident, whilst looking very different today. Leith’s shore area, is lined with waterfront seafood bistros, traditional pubs, and stylish converted buildings which attracts young creatives and long-time residents. You can visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, which was the former Royal Family’s oceanfront residence. It has extravagant state rooms and even a Rolls Royce onboard. Leith Walk is dotted with independent restaurants and vintages shops, and the riverfront Water of Leith Walkway connects this busy neighbourhood to the city centre. At Hopscotch Travel, our Edinburgh City day tour incorporates Leith.

Things to see & do

Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia at Ocean Terminal
Walk the Water of Leith Walkway to Stockbridge
Walk and eat along The Shore waterfront
Explore the independent galleries and studios
Visit Leith Market on Sundays
Visit the Shore's acclaimed restaurants and bars

FAQs

How do you spend a day in Leith?

You might start at the Royal Yacht Britannia, then work through the Shore's restaurants and bars, walk along the Water of Leith, catch Leith Market on a Sunday, and browse the independent shops and galleries around this lively waterfront.

How do I get from Edinburgh city centre to Leith?

Leith is about 2 miles from the city centre, roughly 20 to 25 minutes by bus (routes 16, 22, 35 and 36 from Princes Street) or a 40-minute walk along the Water of Leith walkway.

What is Leith famous for?

Leith is Edinburgh's historic port, the place where Mary Queen of Scots landed on her return from France in 1561. Today it's home to the Royal Yacht Britannia, a thriving food and drink scene, and plenty of maritime heritage.

How long does it take to walk the Water of Leith?

The full Water of Leith Walkway runs 12 miles from the Pentland Hills to Leith docks. The most popular stretch, from Stockbridge to Leith, takes around 1.5 to 2 hours at an easy pace.

Visit
Leith

Book a private tour and explore

Leith

with a local expert guide.

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Key Facts
Region
Edinburgh
From Inverness
111 miles (2hr 28mins)
From Edinburgh
2 miles (3 mins)
Best time to visit
Year-round; Leith Festival in June; the Shore particularly lively in summer
Location
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Leith
,
Edinburgh

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