Leith, Edinburgh Travel Guide

Discover Leith, Edinburgh's vibrant waterfront neighbourhood, known for its rich history, diverse food scene, cultural attractions, and scenic views.

Leith, located in the northern part of Edinburgh, is a vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern charm. Once a bustling port, Leith has transformed into a lively area filled with trendy bars, diverse restaurants, and independent shops. Stroll along the historic waterfront, where you'll find beautifully preserved buildings and a picturesque view of the Firth of Forth. One of the highlights of Leith is its thriving food scene. From Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy cafes, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss out on a visit to The Shore, a popular area known for its seafood restaurants and lively atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes while watching boats gently bobbing in the harbour. Leith is also home to several cultural attractions. The Royal Yacht Britannia, a former royal residence, is permanently docked at Ocean Terminal and offers fascinating tours that provide a glimpse into royal life. The area also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the renowned Edinburgh Mela, which celebrates multiculturalism through music, dance, and food. For those who love the outdoors, Leith Links is a large park perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The Water of Leith Walkway, a scenic path that winds along the river, offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to explore a different side of Edinburgh, Leith is a must-visit destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Leith.

Visit The Shore for the best seafood restaurants and lively atmosphere.
Explore the Royal Yacht Britannia at Ocean Terminal for a royal experience.
Take a stroll along the Water of Leith Walkway for a scenic escape.
Check out local festivals like the Edinburgh Mela for a taste of multicultural celebrations.
Spend some time at Leith Links park for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Explore Leith: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Leith

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Palace of Holyroodhouse

Explore Scotland’s royal heritage at the Palace of Holyroodhouse, a magnificent historic residence rich with royal drama, art, and stunning gardens.

4.6

Royal Mile

Walk the historic Royal Mile, Edinburgh’s vibrant artery linking castle, palace, and centuries of Scottish heritage in a captivating urban journey.

4.7

Holyrood Park

Explore Edinburgh’s majestic Holyrood Park, where ancient volcanoes, royal history, and vibrant wildlife converge in a spectacular urban wilderness.

4.8

The Royal Yacht Britannia

Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a unique floating palace that reveals royal life at sea across five fascinating decks.

4.6

Best landmarks in Leith

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Forth Lock

Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.

4.5

Leith Citadel

Explore Leith Citadel’s historic gateway, a surviving remnant of Cromwell’s 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s vital port.

4.3

Trinity House Maritime Museum

Explore Leith’s maritime heritage in this elegant Georgian house filled with rare artifacts, historic artworks, and captivating stories of Scotland’s seafaring past.

4.3

Water of Leith Walkway Finish

Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.

5.0

Best restaurants in Leith

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The Kitchin

Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal flavors elevated by classical French techniques in an intimate Leith waterfront setting at The Kitchin.

4.8

Domenico's

A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.

4.8

Fishers

Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.

4.6

Heron

Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.

4.8

Best bars in Leith

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Malt & Hops

Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.

4.5

Roseleaf Bar Cafe

Leith's quirky bohemian café-bar where Scottish comfort food meets Wonderland whimsy in teapots and hearty bowls.

4.7

Smoke & Mirrors

Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.

4.7

The Lioness of Leith

Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Leith

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Cabaret Voltaire

Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.

3.9

La Belle Angele

Small, atmospheric Old Town nightclub and live-music venue known for loud, intimate gigs and alternative nights.

4.3

Legends

Edinburgh's unyielding rock fortress in Cowgate: metal, punk and alternative anthems from 8pm till late, seven nights a week with free entry and fierce subculture vibes.

3.6

Sneaky Pete's

Edinburgh's tiny powerhouse for live gigs and club nights, where future stars shine in Cowgate's underground vault.

4.1

Best shops in Leith

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Georgian Antiques

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.

4.5

Britannia Gift Shop

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.

4.4

Build-A-Bear

Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.

4.5

Destined for Home

Discover hand-picked quirky gifts, homewares, and jewelry in Leith's charming independent haven—unique finds wrapped with love by Karen and Harley. (162 characters)

4.9

Explore Leith on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Leith, mapped for you.

Leith Essentials

Leith is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Edinburgh. The most convenient way is via public transport. From the city center, take a bus (Lothian Buses 11, 22, or 35) which runs frequently and takes approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can take a tram to York Place and then catch a bus to Leith. If you prefer a more scenic route, consider walking along the Water of Leith Walkway, which takes about 40 minutes from the city center.
Leith is well-served by public transport. Buses are the primary mode of transportation, with several routes connecting Leith to the city center and beyond. Cycling is also a popular option, with dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services available. Although Leith is quite walkable, be mindful of pedestrian traffic in busy areas, especially near the Shore, where many restaurants and cafes are located.
Leith is generally a safe neighborhood for tourists, but like any urban area, it's wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. Areas around the docks can be quieter and less populated after dark, so it's advisable to stay in well-lit areas. Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded spots, especially at markets or public events. Always keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, located a short bus ride away. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station and pharmacies in Leith. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry a list of local emergency contacts.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but smartly when visiting restaurants or bars. Don't wear overly casual attire like flip-flops in fine dining establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs at religious sites, including St. Mary's Cathedral. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on buses or trams. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod. Don't use overly loud or boisterous tones in quiet public spaces. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local seafood and craft beers. Don't ignore local dining etiquette, such as making reservations for popular restaurants.
To experience Leith like a local, visit the weekly farmers' market on Saturday mornings for fresh produce and artisan goods. Explore the vibrant street art scene, particularly around the Shore area, and take a stroll along the waterfront. Engage with local fishmongers and shopkeepers, as they often have fascinating stories to share about the neighborhood's maritime history. For a unique experience, consider joining a local pub quiz night for a taste of the local social scene.

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Leith

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Leith. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAwrite
  [uh-rite]
- GoodbyeCheerio
  [cheer-ee-oh]
- YesAye
  [aye]
- NoNaw
  [naw]
- Please/You're welcomePleez
  [pleez]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-dun]
- How are you?Hoo ye daein?
  [hoo yee day-in]
- Fine. And you?Aw richt. An ye?
  [aw rikht. an yee]
- Do you speak English?Dae ye speak Inglis?
  [day yee speak ing-lis]
- I don't understandAh dinnae ken
  [ah din-ay ken]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGies the menu, please
  [geez the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatAh dinnae eat meat
  [ah din-ay eat meat]
- Cheers!Slainte!
  [slan-cha]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAh wid like tae pay, please
  [ah wid like tay pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Geez peace!
  [geez peace]
- Call the Police!Phone the Polis!
  [phone the polis]
- Call a doctor!Phone a doctor!
  [phone a doctor]
- I'm lostAh'm awa' aff ma heid
  [ahm away aff ma heed]
- I'm illAh'm pure scunnered
  [ahm pure skun-erd]
- I'd like to buy...Ah wid like tae buy...
  [ah wid like tay buy]
- I'm just lookingAh'm jist haein a wee swatch
  [ahm jist hay-in a wee swatch]
- How much is it?Hoo much is that?
  [hoo much is that]
- That's too expensiveThit's ower dear
  [thits our deer]
- Can you lower the price?Canny gie iz a better price?
  [canny gie iz a better price]
- What time is it?Whit time is it?
  [whit time is it]
- It's one o'clockIt's yin o'clock
  [its yin o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonEftirnuin
  [eft-ir-nu-in]
- EveningEvenin
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYestreen
  [yes-treen]
- TodayThe-day
  [the-day]
- TomorrowMaurra
  [maw-ra]
- 1Yin
  [yin]
- 2Twa
  [twa]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Fower
  [fow-er]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Sex
  [sex]
- 7Seiven
  [sev-en]
- 8Echt
  [echt]
- 9Nin
  [nin]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Whaur's a/the...?
  [whaur's a/the]
- What's the address?Whit's the address?
  [whit's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Canny sho me (on the map)?
  [canny sho me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Whin's the next (bus)?
  [whins the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (tae ....)
  [a ticket (tay)]

History of Leith

Leith's history can be traced back to the 12th century when it was established as a port serving Edinburgh. Initially known as Leth, the area was strategically positioned along the Water of Leith, facilitating trade and commerce. Its growth was attributed to the burgeoning maritime industry, which laid the groundwork for its development as a significant port in Scotland.
By the 16th century, Leith had gained prominence as a bustling trading hub. It became the main port for Edinburgh, handling the export of wool, grain, and other goods. The establishment of the Leith Navigation Act in 1621 enabled the deepening of the river, further enhancing the port's capabilities and attracting more shipping traffic.
The Union of the Crowns in 1603 saw Leith playing a vital role in the political landscape of Scotland. As the port closest to the capital, it became a key point for the movement of goods and people, including the royal court. This period marked an increase in wealth and social development within Leith, leading to the construction of significant buildings and infrastructure.
The 19th century heralded a period of industrialization for Leith, with the opening of the Leith Docks and the expansion of shipbuilding and related industries. The port became a crucial center for shipbuilding, repairing, and maritime trade, contributing to Edinburgh's economic growth. Leith's population surged as workers flocked to the area, leading to the development of residential neighborhoods and cultural institutions.
The 20th century witnessed significant social changes in Leith, particularly after the decline of its traditional industries post-World War II. Economic difficulties led to urban decay, but the area began to experience revitalization in the late 20th century. Regeneration efforts focused on transforming derelict waterfront areas into vibrant residential and commercial spaces, fostering a resurgence of cultural identity.
Today, Leith is celebrated for its diverse culture and vibrant arts scene. The area is home to numerous restaurants, galleries, and festivals, reflecting its rich heritage and contemporary influences. The annual Leith Festival showcases local talent and community spirit, while the historic docks continue to serve as a backdrop for cultural events, contributing to Leith's reputation as a dynamic and beloved part of Edinburgh.