Trinity House Maritime Museum
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
Step into Leith’s seafaring past at Trinity House Maritime Museum, a fine Georgian building that once served as the headquarters of Leith’s mariners’ guild. Explore a rich collection of maritime memorabilia, including historic ship models, navigational instruments, and a French Tricolour captured at Trafalgar, all within an elegant 18th-century townhouse. Access is by guided tour only on Fridays between April and September, making this a special, intimate glimpse into Edinburgh’s port heritage.
A brief summary to Trinity House Maritime Museum
- 99 Kirkgate, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 6BJ, GB
- +441315543289
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book your guided tour well in advance, as openings are limited to Fridays between April and September and spaces fill quickly.
- Allow about an hour for the tour, and arrive a few minutes early to settle in and take in the building’s exterior and surroundings.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Leith’s historic waterfront and Old South Leith Parish Church for a fuller sense of the area’s maritime past.
- Check the official website shortly before your visit, as the museum may close at short notice for maintenance or adverse weather.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Edinburgh city centre, take a bus towards Leith (for example, services 11, 22, or 26) and alight near Kirkgate. The journey takes about 15–25 minutes depending on traffic and starting point. From the stop, it’s a short walk through Leith’s historic streets to Trinity House on Kirkgate.
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Walking
From central Edinburgh, it’s a 30–40 minute walk along the waterfront or through the city streets to Leith. The route is mostly flat and well signposted, passing through areas like the Shore and Constitution Street before reaching Kirkgate.
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Cycling
Cycling from central Edinburgh to Trinity House takes about 20–30 minutes, using dedicated cycle paths and quiet streets. Secure bike parking is available nearby on Kirkgate or in the surrounding streets.
Trinity House Maritime Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Trinity House Maritime Museum
A Georgian Gem of Leith’s Maritime Past
Nestled in the historic heart of Leith, Trinity House Maritime Museum occupies a graceful Georgian townhouse that once stood at the centre of Edinburgh’s bustling port life. Built in the 18th century, this elegant building served as the headquarters of the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters, a powerful guild that collected port dues, regulated trade, and supported Leith’s seafaring community for centuries. Walking through its doors is like stepping into a maritime time capsule, where polished wood panelling, grand meeting rooms, and period details frame a remarkable collection of nautical treasures. The museum’s story begins long before the current building, stretching back to the 1300s when the Incorporation was first established. Over the centuries, Trinity House evolved from a guild hall into a customs house and maritime administrative centre, playing a vital role in Leith’s development as a major North Sea port. Today, it preserves that legacy through its carefully curated displays and guided tours, offering a rare, personal connection to the lives of Leith’s shipmasters, sailors, and maritime families.Inside the Maritime Collection
The heart of the museum is its outstanding collection of maritime memorabilia, displayed in intimate rooms that once hosted guild meetings and official business. In the grand Convening Room, dominated by a massive mahogany table, visitors can imagine the debates and decisions that shaped Leith’s port. Around the walls hang portraits of naval figures, including a striking painting of Admiral Duncan by Sir Henry Raeburn, one of Scotland’s most celebrated artists. Among the highlights are a French Tricolour captured at the Battle of Trafalgar, a 200-year-old whaling harpoon, and a fleet of exquisitely detailed historic ship models. Navigational instruments, logbooks, and personal effects of mariners bring the human side of seafaring to life, while narwhal tusks and other curiosities hint at the exotic cargoes and distant voyages that passed through Leith. The Master’s Room, a cosy space where pensions were once distributed, retains its Georgian fixtures and furnishings, adding warmth and authenticity to the experience.Visiting as a Guided Experience
Trinity House is not a self-guided museum; access is by pre-booked guided tour only, typically on Friday afternoons between April and September. These one-hour tours are led by knowledgeable guides who bring the building and its collection to life with engaging stories of Leith’s maritime significance, the Incorporation’s role, and the lives of those who worked on the sea. The small group size ensures a personal, conversational atmosphere, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and examine the displays up close. Because the museum is only open seasonally and by appointment, planning ahead is essential. The limited opening schedule makes each visit feel like a special event, and the intimate setting allows for a deeper, more reflective experience than larger, busier institutions. For those interested in maritime history, historic buildings, or Edinburgh’s port heritage, the effort to book in advance is richly rewarded by the depth and character of what’s on offer.Leith’s Historic Waterfront Context
The museum sits in the old core of Leith, just steps from the historic Old South Leith Parish Church and within easy reach of the waterfront. This area was once the commercial and social hub of Edinburgh’s port, lined with warehouses, taverns, and homes of merchants and mariners. Trinity House’s location underscores its role as a civic and maritime institution, central to the life of the community it served. Today, Leith remains a vibrant district with a strong sense of identity, and Trinity House is a key piece of that heritage. Visitors can easily combine a tour with a walk along the waterfront, a visit to nearby historic sites, or a meal in one of Leith’s many restaurants. The museum’s setting in this historic streetscape enhances its atmosphere, making it not just a collection of objects, but a living part of Leith’s story.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
0.2 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Robert Burns Statue
0.5 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Forth Lock
1.9 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.1 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Burns Monument
2.1 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Dugald Stewart Monument
2.1 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Leith East Breakwater Lighthouse
2.2 km
Historic maritime beacon guiding ships into Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks since 1876, now a cherished symbol of nautical heritage.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
2.3 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
2.3 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
2.3 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Robert Fergusson Statue
2.3 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
The Centre of Edinburgh
2.3 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
2.4 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wonder World Soft Play Edinburgh
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s largest indoor soft play and party venue offering thrilling slides, go-karts, and dedicated toddler zones for endless family fun.
The King's Wark
0.5 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Shore
0.5 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
Leith
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
Leith Links
0.5 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Custom House Leith
0.5 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.5 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Leith Citadel
0.6 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
Teuchters Landing
0.6 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.6 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
The Leith Mural
0.6 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
Ocean Terminal
1.0 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
1.1 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Leith Walk
1.1 km
Leith Walk is Edinburgh’s vibrant, historic street linking city centre buzz with the lively maritime charm of Leith’s waterfront.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
1.2 km
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
Essential places to dine
Tapa
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Heron
0.3 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
0.4 km
Leith's historic gastropub where Scottish seasons meet craft drinks, roaring fires, and port-side charm in a dog-friendly haven of flavor and vibe.
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.4 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Domenico's
0.5 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
The Kitchin
0.5 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.6 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Fishers
0.6 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Walnut
1.3 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
The Gardener's Cottage
1.7 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
1.8 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
1.9 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Taisteal
1.9 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Fhior
1.9 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Logan Malloch Ltd
0.2 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Destined for Home
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.4 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
ScotClans
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Flux
0.5 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Georgian Antiques
0.5 km
Explore 50,000 sq ft of Scotland's finest antiques in Leith's historic heart – from Regency cabinets to gilded mirrors in one vast warehouse.
Wee Leith Shop
0.9 km
Quirky novelties and charming gifts await in this cozy Leith Walk gem, capturing the neighborhood's independent spirit with playful treasures for every home.
The Leith collective
1.0 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
1.0 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Build-A-Bear
1.0 km
Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.
Britannia Gift Shop
1.1 km
Discover exclusive royal souvenirs and nautical treasures at the Britannia Gift Shop, where the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II's yacht comes alive in every carefully curated item.
Planet.A Boutique
1.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Cats Miaou
1.6 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
1.7 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
The Dragonfly
1.9 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Smoke & Mirrors
0.1 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Leith Dockers Club
0.2 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
The Lioness of Leith
0.2 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
Three Marys
0.3 km
Leith's stylish cocktail gem with smoked margaritas, eclectic decor, and shareable plates in a historic portside nook—perfect for inventive sips and cozy evenings.
Malt & Hops
0.4 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
The Barologist
0.5 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
The Vine Bar
0.8 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Street
2.0 km
Casual cocktail bar by day, energetic late-night bar and small club by night — Picardy Place’s go-to spot for social evenings and weekend parties.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
2.3 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
Nightcap
2.3 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
2.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Cask
2.5 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Cocktail Geeks
2.5 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Bramble Bar
2.5 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
The World's End
2.5 km
Discover the charm of The World's End pub on the Royal Mile, where history meets hearty Scottish cuisine and local brews in Edinburgh.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Scenic
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Historic
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Mindfulness
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
