Everything You Need to Know about Leith in Edinburgh
Leith is where Edinburgh’s past and present collide in the best way possible. Once a bustling port, now a thriving cultural hotspot, this waterfront neighbourhood has a personality all its own that’s full of charm, grit, and an energy that pulls you in.
This place has so many exciting things to offer. You can sip craft beer in a cosy pub that’s been around for centuries, taste flavours from all over the world, and wander past grand old buildings that whisper tales of the city’s maritime past.
And because there’s so much to see and do, I’ve put together a guide to help you navigate this iconic neighbourhood like a pro. Let’s make your visit to Leith memorable!
Where is Leith?
Leith is a neighbourhood in the northern part of Edinburgh. It sits along the southern shore of the Firth of Forth, a large estuary that flows into the North Sea. It’s about a 15-minute drive from the city centre, making it an easy destination to explore!
What is the main street in Leith?
The main street in Leith is Leith Walk. It’s a bustling thoroughfare that connects Edinburgh’s city centre to this neighbourhood.
This vibrant stretch is lined with shops, cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
How to Get to Leith
By Bus: Several Lothian Buses routes pass through Leith, including 7, 21, 35, 36, 49, and the night bus N22. Major stops include Leith Walk, Constitution Street, and The Shore.
By Train: Although it’s not your typical train, the Edinburgh Trams offer a quick and convenient way to reach Leith. You can hop off at stops like The Shore Tram Stop, Ocean Terminal, or the Newhaven Terminus to easily explore the neighbourhood.
By Taxi: As of 2025, taxis in Edinburgh charge a base fare of approximately £3.60, with an additional £1.70 for every kilometre thereafter. You can ask your driver to drop you off at Leith Walk, The Shore, or Constitution Street.
By Car: If you’re driving to Leith, you’ll find paid parking options at Shore Car Park, Aldi Leith Car Park, and Fingal Car Park. Alternatively, free parking is available at Ocean Terminal, though it’s best to arrive early to ensure you get a spot.
Best Time to Go to Leith
The best time to visit Leith is in June, during the vibrant Leith Festival. This annual arts celebration kicks off with the Gala Day on Leith Links, a lively event filled with live music, dance performances, food stalls, and even a charming dog show.
Another highlight of the festival is the Leith Pageant, a colourful parade featuring schools, community groups, and performers, all coming together to celebrate the neighbourhood’s dynamic spirit.
The festival typically concludes with the Leith Community Tattoo, a multicultural showcase of music and dance, ranging from traditional pipes and drums to contemporary performances.
What to Do and See in Leith
Step aboard the royal family’s former yacht
– Photo credit: royalyachtbritannia
Website: https://www.royalyachtbritannia.co.uk/
Address: Ocean Dr
Contact details: +44 131 555 5566
Operating hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM (MON-SUN)
Price:
Adult (18+) – £20.00
Child (5-17) – £9.50
Ah, The Royal Yacht Britannia, a majestic floating palace that’s permanently docked at Ocean Terminal. Once the royal family’s private yacht, Britannia sailed over a million nautical miles, hosting world leaders, royal honeymoons, and family holidays.
I remember the first time I stepped onto the yacht—it felt like walking into another world. The State Dining Rooms were exceptional, and I can only imagine all the important conversations that took place there.
Seeing the late Queen Elizabeth II’s former lounge and the elegant Rolls-Royce Phantom V onboard was another highlight. To top it all off, I enjoyed a relaxing afternoon tea at The Royal Deck Tea Room.
Admire the Firth of Forth from Lighthouse Park
– Photo credit: you_are_the_bluest_light
Address: Western Harbour Drive
It’s only proper that we admire the sea from the most iconic seaside neighbourhood in Edinburgh! I find Lighthouse Park, a small park tucked away near Western Harbour, to be the best spot to do so.
Rich in history, this park sits close to the old Leith West Breakwater Lighthouse, built back in the 1930s. It’s also near the famous Forth Lock, which serves as the gateway to Leith Docks.
Beyond enjoying the scenery, this park is a great place to stretch your legs with its scenic walking trails that wind through lush greenery. It’s also a lovely spot for birdwatching if you fancy a slower-paced activity.
Stroll along the Water of Leith at The Shore
– Photo credit: alejandro_haro
Another cool spot I recommend for amazing views is The Shore. This charming waterfront area was once the landing point for monarchs during their visits to Edinburgh, including Mary, Queen of Scots, and George IV.
These days, this place has become a hub for Edinburgh’s thriving culinary scene. It’s home to a couple of Michelin-starred restaurants like Restaurant Martin Wishart, alongside cosy cafes and pubs.
With its historic buildings lining the cobblestone streets, The Shore exudes a rich sense of heritage. Paired with the tranquil beauty of the Water of Leith, it creates a picture-perfect scene that’s truly unforgettable.
View narwhal tusks at Trinity House Maritime Museum
– Photo credit: davidtorrance1977
Website: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/trinity-house/
Address: 99 Kirkgate
Contact details: +44 131 554 3289
Operating hours: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (FRI)
Price:
Adult (16-64) – £7.50
Concession (65+) – £6.00
Child (7-15) – £4.50
As a huge fan of museums, I couldn’t help but share why Leith’s Trinity House Maritime Museum should be on your bucket list. The building itself is a gorgeous Georgian masterpiece that’s been standing tall since the early 1800s.
Inside, you’ll find an incredible collection of ship models that showcase the evolution of British shipbuilding through the centuries. There are also fascinating maritime artefacts to be found here, like narwhal tusks and navigational tools.
For me, the highlight is definitely the Master’s Room. It’s such a meaningful part of the museum’s history, as it was where pensions were once handed out to sailors. You can feel the weight of its past importance—it’s a truly special place!
See how whisky is made at the Port of Leith Distillery
– Photo credit: portofleithdistillery
Website: https://www.leithdistillery.com/
Address: 11, Whisky Quay
Contact details: +44 131 600 0765
Operating hours:
11:00 AM – 9:30 PM (SUN and MON)
10:30 AM – 9:30 PM (TUES and WED)
10:30 AM – 10:30 PM (THURS-SAT)
Price:
Adult (18+) – £30
Child (7-17) – £10
Ever wondered how Scotch whisky is made? Then you’ll definitely want to add the Port of Leith Distillery to your itinerary. Opened in 2023, it’s quite popular since it’s the first-ever vertical whisky distillery built in Scotland.
And that vertical design isn’t just for show since it uses gravity to guide the whisky-making process from start to finish. I got to see this firsthand on one of their hour-and-a-half tours, which was such an eye-opener.
The tour was a cool experience, taking us step by step through the process from the mash tun at the very top down to the gleaming copper still below. To top it all off, we went to the rooftop bar, where we enjoyed stunning panoramic views.
What to Eat and Drink in Leith
Toast
– Photo credit: toastwinecafe
Website: https://www.toastleith.co.uk/
Address: 65 Shore
Contact details: +44 131 467 6984
Operating hours:
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON-THURS)
8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (FRI)
9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (SAT)
9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
I find the best way to start your day is with a warm cup of coffee in your hand. That’s why I recommend getting your breakfast fix from Toast, a cafe you’ll find on The Shore, the iconic riverside road I mentioned earlier.
Their menu is packed with delicious options, from huevos rancheros to sourdough sandwiches. And if you have a sweet tooth, they also have some artisan cakes and pastries. They even have vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices available.
After coming here a couple of times, I can confidently say that their avocado toast with poached eggs is my personal favourite. It’s a nice balance of creamy, tangy, and buttery goodness that tastes so good paired with a cup of black coffee.
The Ship on The Shore
– Photo credit: theshipontheshore
Website: https://www.theshipontheshore.co.uk/
Address: 24-26, Shore
Contact details: +44 131 555 0409
Operating hours:
11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (MON-FRI)
10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (SAT and SUN)
The Ship on The Shore is great if you love seafood. It features charming decor that captures the feel of a ship’s interior, along with outdoor seating for those who enjoy dining with scenic views of the Water of Leith.
They specialise in fresh Scottish seafood, and their menu offers tempting options like oysters and langoustines. Their wine list is also excellent, providing great pairings to complement your meal.
If it’s your first time visiting, I recommend their hot shellfish platter. Perfect for two, it includes a delicious selection of lobster, crab, mussels, and clams, all served piping hot with rich, buttery sauces.
Restaurant Martin Wishart
– Photo credit: martinwishart
Website: https://restaurantmartinwishart.co.uk/
Address: 54 Shore
Contact details: +44 131 553 3557
Operating hours: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM, 6:30 PM – 10:00 PM (WED-SAT)
If you want to experience what dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant is like, reserve a table at Restaurant Martin Wishart. This fine dining restaurant seamlessly combines classical French techniques with the finest Scottish ingredients.
Their menu is full of tempting options like Orkney scallops and ravioli, each beautifully presented and packed with flavour. They also cater to vegetarians, so everyone can enjoy a memorable meal here.
I will admit, it’s not a place I can visit often given the price range, but the times I have dined here were all quite excellent. Their roasted veal sweetbread was a standout for me—delicately rich and so tender it practically melts in your mouth!
Where to Shop in Leith
Ocean Terminal
– Photo credit: ocean_terminal
Website: https://www.oceanterminal.com/
Address: 74 Ocean Dr
Contact details: +44 131 555 8888
Operating hours:
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (MON)
10:00 AM – 8:00 PM (TUES-FRI)
10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (SAT)
11:00 AM – 6:00 PM (SUN)
Kick off your shopping spree in Leith with a trip to Ocean Terminal, the neighbourhood’s largest shopping centre. Situated on Ocean Drive, it offers stunning views of the Firth of Forth alongside a lively shopping experience.
Inside, you’ll find a mix of high-street shops and independent boutiques, great for picking up anything from stylish outfits to cute souvenirs. And if you’re feeling hungry, the mall also has plenty of casual cafes and sit-down restaurants worth checking out.
Personally, I make it a point to visit the cinema here. Their reclining seats make watching the latest blockbuster flicks such a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of exploring and shopping.
Georgian Antiques
– Photo credit: georgianantiques
Website: https://www.georgianantiques.net/
Address: 10 Pattison St
Contact details: +44 131 553 7286
Operating hours:
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (MON-THURS)
8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (FRI)
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM (SAT)
Georgian Antiques is an absolute treasure trove for anyone who appreciates history and fine craftsmanship. Located on Pattison St, this expansive five-floor warehouse spans over 50,000 square feet, making it a paradise for antique lovers.
With such a large collection, the variety here is incredible. During my visits, I came across elegant Georgian dining tables, intricate grandfather clocks, and even books from the late 19th century.
What stood out the most to me, though, were the antique globes. It was fascinating to see globes depicting nations that no longer exist, like Austria-Hungary and the Ottoman Empire. They reminded me how the world has significantly changed today.
Destined for Home
– Photo credit: destined4home
Website: https://www.destinedforhome.com/
Address: 98a Constitution St
Contact details: +44 844 332 9919
Operating hours:
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (THURS-SAT)
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM (SUN)
If you’re after a cool souvenir to remember your visit to Leith, stop by Destined for Home. This charming shop on Constitution Street is filled with items crafted in the UK by talented designers and makers.
What makes this shop so special is the variety of products. They have quirky home decor, stylish storage solutions, beautiful candles, and even handmade jewellery.
Oh, by the way, check out their sale section as well. You can often snag great deals with discounts ranging from 10% to 20%. It’s a great place to discover something special!
Where to Stay in Leith
Fingal Hotel
– Photo credit: fingaledinburgh
Website: https://www.fingal.co.uk/
Address: Alexandra Dock
Contact details: +44 131 357 5000
Check in: 3:00 PM
Check out: 12:00 PM
Price (£ for £199 and below, ££ for £200-£300, and £££ for £300 and up): ££
You can make your stay in Leith a lot more exciting by reserving a room at the Fingal Hotel. This luxury floating hotel is permanently docked at Alexandra Dock and was originally a Northern Lighthouse Board vessel.
I stayed here once with a friend visiting from the US. The cabins here were quite impressive, featuring polished wood finishes, king-sized beds, and stylish lighting.
They also have some nifty features like underfloor heating, smart TVs, and personal safes. Their onboard restaurant is another highlight; we enjoyed a relaxing dinner with stunning waterfront views.
Ocean Mist
– Photo credit: oceanmistleith
Website: https://www.oceanmistleith.com/
Address: 14 Shore
Contact details: +44 131 322 3330
Check in: 2:30 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: £
Another floating hotel I recommend, especially if you want a slightly cheaper option, is the Ocean Mist. Built in 1919 to serve as a minesweeper for the Royal Navy, it had an exciting history before it was permanently docked on The Shore today.
I haven’t stayed here myself, but some of my friends told me the rooms here have that vintage charm quite similar to the cabin rooms of luxury liners back then with the addition of modern amenities.
That includes stuff like plush furnishings, air conditioning, and even soundproof walls. There’s even a nice bar and lounge on board that’s good for relaxing with a drink while enjoying a nice view of the Water of Leith.
Malmaison Edinburgh
– Photo credit: itison
Website: https://www.malmaison.com/locations/edinburgh/
Address: 1 Tower Pl
Contact details: +44 131 285 1478
Check in: 3:00 PM
Check out: 11:00 AM
Price: £
If you prefer staying on solid ground for your stay in Leith, check out Malmaison Edinburgh. It’s located just a couple of steps away from The Shore, making it a good base for exploring both the neighbourhood and its attractions.
The rooms here are quite decent and comfy, with plush beds, chic decor, and thoughtful touches like free WiFi and satellite TV. Some even offer lovely views of the port.
Aside from the rooms, another thing I like about this hotel is the Malmaison Brasserie, where you can enjoy delicious British classics. Pair that with a drink from their Mal Bar, and you’ve got a good place to relax after a day of exploring.