A Tribute to Valor: The Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
Discover the poignant Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial in Leith, a tribute to the courage of sailors lost at sea during the World Wars, set against stunning waterfront views.
The Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial in Leith, Edinburgh, is a poignant tribute honoring the bravery of merchant sailors who served during the World Wars. Nestled along the picturesque Shore, this memorial invites visitors to reflect on the sacrifices made by these unsung heroes. Surrounded by the serene waters of the Firth of Forth, the site offers not only a historical perspective but also a beautiful setting for contemplation and remembrance.
A brief summary to Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
- Shore, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 7BZ, GB
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful lighting for photographs.
- Take a walk along the Shore after your visit to enjoy local cafes and shops in the Leith area.
- Look for guided historical tours that may include the memorial, providing more context and stories.
Getting There
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Bus
From the city center, head to the nearest bus stop, such as North Bridge or St Andrew Square. Take bus number 22 or 35 towards Leith. Remain on the bus for approximately 20-25 minutes until you reach the 'Ocean Terminal' stop. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to the Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial located on the Shore. Head along Ocean Drive, turn left onto Constitution Street, and then right onto Shore. The memorial will be on your right, overlooking the water.
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Tram
If you're near the tram line, take a tram from the city center towards York Place. Get off at the 'York Place' stop. From there, catch bus number 10 or 11 towards Leith. After about 10-15 minutes, get off at the 'Ocean Terminal' stop. The memorial is a 10-minute walk from here. Follow Ocean Drive, turn left onto Constitution Street, and then right onto Shore. The memorial will be on your right.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the city center and head towards Leith. Walk down the Royal Mile until you reach Canongate. Continue along the road, which becomes Leith Walk. Follow Leith Walk for about 30 minutes until you reach the junction with Constitution Street. Turn left onto Constitution Street and continue until you reach Shore. The Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial will be on your right at the water's edge.
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Train
If you are near Waverley Station, take a train towards Haymarket and get off at the 'Leith' station. From there, you can catch a bus (number 22 or 35) directly to the 'Ocean Terminal' stop, which is just a few minutes away from the memorial. Once you arrive at Ocean Terminal, it's a short 10-minute walk to the memorial along Shore.
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