Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial, Leith, Edinburgh
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
The Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial in Leith, Edinburgh, honors the sacrifice of over 6,500 Scottish merchant seafarers lost in conflicts and peacetime service. Erected in 2010 at Scotland’s historic main port, it features a sandstone column adorned with bronze reliefs depicting maritime scenes, symbolizing Scotland’s deep connection to the sea and the bravery of its merchant navy personnel.
A brief summary to Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
- Shore, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 7BZ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight for the best views of the detailed bronze reliefs and to appreciate the waterfront setting.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Leith’s Shore to explore local eateries and the historic harbour atmosphere.
- Take time to read the inscriptions and plaques to understand the stories commemorated by the memorial.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 10 or 22 from Edinburgh city centre to Leith Shore; journey time is approximately 20-30 minutes with frequent service. Tickets cost around £1.80-£2.00 GBP. The stop is a short walk from the memorial.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Tram to York Place, then take a 25-minute walk along the waterfront to Leith Shore. The tram ticket costs about £6.50 GBP for a single journey. Walking terrain is flat and accessible.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city centre to Leith Shore takes around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £8-£12 GBP. Suitable for travelers seeking convenience.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
A Tribute Rooted in Scotland’s Maritime Heritage
The Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial stands proudly at the Shore in Leith, the historic port of Edinburgh that has been central to Scotland’s maritime trade for over 700 years. This memorial commemorates the courage and sacrifice of more than 6,500 Scottish merchant seamen who lost their lives during the two world wars, other conflicts, and peacetime duties along global trading routes. It was conceived to recognize a group whose vital contributions were often overshadowed despite their critical role in wartime logistics and supply.Design and Symbolism of the Memorial
Designed by artist Jill Watson, the memorial is a 5.5-metre-high column crafted from Bearl sandstone, a material that evokes strength and endurance. The column is topped with the Merchant Navy crest, while its bronze reliefs and sculptures vividly illustrate seafaring scenes, telling the story of life at sea and Scotland’s enduring relationship with maritime commerce. These artistic elements invite reflection on the perilous conditions faced by merchant sailors and celebrate their dedication and resilience.The Journey to Creation and Dedication
The memorial was the vision of Professor Gordon S Milne, OBE, who founded the Merchant Navy Memorial Trust Scotland in 2009 to fundraise for the project. With the patronage of HRH The Princess Royal, the fundraising swiftly exceeded its £150,000 target, culminating in the memorial’s unveiling on 16 November 2010 by Princess Anne herself. The location at Leith was chosen for its historical significance as Scotland’s premier port for centuries, making it a fitting site to honor the merchant navy community.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Set against the backdrop of the old inner harbour, the memorial offers a serene and contemplative space for visitors. The surrounding area combines the charm of Leith’s waterfront with a peaceful ambiance, making it a place for quiet remembrance and reflection. The memorial’s detailed sculptures and inscriptions provide a tangible connection to the stories of bravery and sacrifice, inviting visitors to appreciate the human cost behind maritime history.Continuing Legacy and Cultural Importance
Beyond its role as a war memorial, this site serves as a cultural landmark that underscores Scotland’s maritime identity. It stands as a reminder of the merchant navy’s vital role in shaping the nation’s history and economy. The memorial is regularly visited by locals and international guests alike, reflecting a shared respect for those who served at sea under often dangerous conditions.Integration with Leith’s Vibrant Waterfront
Leith’s Shore area, where the memorial is located, is a lively district known for its restaurants, cafes, and historic charm. Visitors can combine their visit to the memorial with a stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the blend of old maritime heritage and contemporary urban life. This integration enhances the memorial’s accessibility and relevance within the community.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
0.0 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Robert Burns Statue
0.3 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.4 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.8 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
Forth Lock
1.4 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Leith East Breakwater Lighthouse
1.7 km
Historic maritime beacon guiding ships into Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks since 1876, now a cherished symbol of nautical heritage.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.7 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Dugald Stewart Monument
2.8 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Burns Monument
2.8 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
2.9 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
2.9 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
3.0 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
The Centre of Edinburgh
3.0 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
3.0 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Robert Fergusson Statue
3.0 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Unmissable attractions to see
Custom House Leith
0.2 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Shore
0.2 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
The King's Wark
0.2 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Leith
0.3 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
Leith Citadel
0.4 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
0.6 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Ocean Terminal
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
0.7 km
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
0.7 km
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
The Leith Mural
0.7 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.8 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Leith Links
0.8 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Wonder World Soft Play Edinburgh
0.9 km
Edinburgh’s largest indoor soft play and party venue offering thrilling slides, go-karts, and dedicated toddler zones for endless family fun.
Lighthouse Park
1.6 km
Tranquil coastal park in Leith with iconic lighthouse views, maritime heritage, and sweeping panoramas over the Firth of Forth.
Essential places to dine
Fishers
0.0 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.1 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Domenico's
0.2 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
The Kitchin
0.3 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.4 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
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.
Tapa
0.4 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Heron
0.4 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
The Walnut
1.9 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
2.4 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
2.4 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
2.5 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Fhior
2.6 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Taisteal
2.6 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flux
0.2 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
ScotClans
0.4 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Destined for Home
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
Georgian Antiques
0.6 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.
Build-A-Bear
0.6 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
0.6 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.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.7 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
The Leith collective
0.7 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
0.7 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Logan Malloch Ltd
0.9 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Wee Leith Shop
1.6 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.
Planet.A Boutique
2.0 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Cats Miaou
2.2 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
2.3 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
The Dragonfly
2.5 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
The Barologist
0.2 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
Malt & Hops
0.2 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
Three Marys
0.4 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.
The Vine Bar
0.7 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.8 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Leith Dockers Club
0.8 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
The Lioness of Leith
0.9 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
The Street
2.6 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.
Nightcap
2.9 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Alchemist St James Quarter
2.9 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
3.0 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Cask
3.1 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Cocktail Geeks
3.1 km
Edinburgh's arch-hidden gem for themed cocktails, geeky immersions, and masterful mixology in a cozy, ever-changing vault.
Bramble Bar
3.1 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Grand Cru
3.2 km
Edinburgh's cocktail haven on Hanover Street, blending masterful drinks, modern European bites, and seamless day-to-night vibes in the heart of New Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
3.2 km
Edinburgh's tiniest nightclub packs the biggest late-night punch on Hanover Street, with killer margaritas and a dance floor that never quits till 3am.
Why Not Nightclub
3.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
3.2 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
3.3 km
Edinburgh's sizzling Latin nightclub where salsa beats pulse through New Town nights, drawing dancers to its vibrant Hanover Street heart until the early hours.
Opal Lounge
3.3 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.3 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Cabaret Voltaire
3.4 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
La Belle Angele
3.5 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
3.5 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.5 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Sneaky Pete's
3.6 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Bongo Club
3.6 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
3.6 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.6 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- 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
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
