Leith Links: Historic Heart of Edinburgh’s Old Port District
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Leith Links is a spacious public park in Edinburgh’s historic docks district, Leith. Known for its lush green expanses, mature trees, and rich history, it was once a famous golf links dating back to the 15th century. The park is divided by a road into two main grassy sections and features scheduled monuments from the 1560 Siege of Leith. Today, it offers a tranquil urban green space blending centuries of local heritage with recreational charm.
A brief summary to Leith Links
- 4 Links Gardens, Edinburgh, Leith, GB
- +441315297061
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the artillery mounds known as Giant's Brae and Lady Fyfe's Brae to connect with the park’s military history.
- Explore the surrounding Georgian architecture for a glimpse of Leith’s 18th and 19th-century urban development.
- Enjoy a leisurely walk or picnic in the park’s tranquil grassy expanses shaded by mature trees.
- Learn about the origins of golf here, where the first official rules were drawn up in the 18th century.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 10 or 22 from central Edinburgh to Leith Links, with journey times of approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Services run frequently during the day but reduce in evenings and weekends. A single ticket costs around £1.80 GBP.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams from the city centre to Newhaven, then walk about 15 minutes (1.2 km) to Leith Links. The tram journey takes about 15 minutes, with trams running every 7-10 minutes. Tram tickets cost approximately £1.80 GBP for a single trip.
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Taxi
Taxis from central Edinburgh to Leith Links take around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £8 to £12 GBP. This option offers direct and convenient access but can be affected by peak hour congestion.
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Walking
From central Edinburgh, walking to Leith Links takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain. This route offers an immersive experience through historic streets but requires moderate fitness and comfortable footwear.
Leith Links 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 Leith Links
Leith Links: A Green Legacy in Edinburgh’s Port District
Leith Links stands as the principal open space within Leith, the historic docks area of Edinburgh. This public park is divided by a road into two main sections, each a largely flat grassy expanse bordered by mature trees. Historically, the area extended northwards to the shoreline of the Firth of Forth and was originally a stretch of grass and sand dunes used as golf links. Today, it remains a peaceful green oasis amidst urban surroundings, cherished by locals and visitors alike.Golfing Origins and Royal Connections
Leith Links is deeply intertwined with the early history of golf. Golf was played here at least as far back as the 15th century, and the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers formalized the first official rules of golf in 1744, cementing Leith’s place as a cradle of the modern game. Royalty also graced the links: King Charles I played golf here in 1642, famously receiving news of the Irish rebellion during a game. The links were the site of early international golf contests, underscoring their significance in the sport’s heritage.Historical Turmoil and Military Significance
Leith Links has witnessed pivotal moments in Scottish history. During the Siege of Leith in 1560, English and Scottish troops dug siege trenches across the area. Two artillery mounds on the links, known as "Giant's Brae" and "Lady Fyfe's Brae," remain as scheduled monuments, tangible reminders of the military conflict. Earlier, in 1559, the Protestant Lords of the Congregation negotiated a truce with Mary of Guise on the links, highlighting its role as a site of political and religious importance.Transformation into a Public Park
The area was formalized as a public park in 1888 under the Leith Improvement Plan. The landscape was levelled, trees planted along its perimeter, and paths created to divide the space. Cast iron railings once enclosed the park but were removed during World War II. Golf was discouraged and eventually banned in 1905 to allow the space to serve broader public recreational needs. Today, the park offers a welcoming environment for leisure, sports, and community events.Leith’s Independent Spirit and Urban Context
Though Leith was incorporated into Edinburgh in 1920, it retains a distinct identity and independent spirit. The area around Leith Links features Georgian architecture and historic streets that reflect Leith’s evolution from a medieval port town to a vibrant urban district. The park remains a focal point for locals, surrounded by cafes, shops, and cultural landmarks that celebrate Leith’s maritime and industrial heritage.Natural Beauty and Community Hub
Leith Links is cherished for its mature trees, open grassy areas, and tranquil atmosphere. It serves as a green lung for the community, providing space for walking, picnics, and relaxation. The park’s historical layers, from ancient golf traditions to military history and urban renewal, enrich the visitor experience, making it a unique blend of nature, culture, and heritage in Edinburgh’s cityscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Queen Victoria Statue
0.5 km
A commanding bronze tribute to Queen Victoria and Leith’s Boer War heroes, standing proudly at the foot of Leith Walk since 1907.
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.
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn sandstone column in Leith honoring the bravery and sacrifice of Scotland’s merchant seafarers lost at sea in war and peace.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.0 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.
Forth Lock
2.2 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Dugald Stewart Monument
2.2 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Robert Fergusson Statue
2.4 km
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Scottish poetry with the Robert Fergusson Statue, a joyful tribute on Edinburgh’s historic Canongate.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
2.4 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
2.4 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
The Centre of Edinburgh
2.5 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Edinburgh
2.5 km
Explore Edinburgh, a city rich in history and culture, with stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and breathtaking landscapes.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
2.5 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
2.5 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Unmissable attractions to see
Trinity House Maritime Museum
0.5 km
Explore Leith’s seafaring legacy in an elegant Georgian townhouse, home to a remarkable collection of maritime treasures and stories.
Wonder World Soft Play Edinburgh
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s largest indoor soft play and party venue offering thrilling slides, go-karts, and dedicated toddler zones for endless family fun.
Leith
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
The King's Wark
0.7 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Shore
0.7 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
Custom House Leith
0.7 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Teuchters Landing
0.8 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Leith Citadel
0.9 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
The Leith Mural
1.1 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
1.1 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Lochend Park
1.2 km
A peaceful urban retreat in Edinburgh featuring a scenic loch, playgrounds, and abundant wildlife for all ages to enjoy.
Leith Walk
1.3 km
Leith Walk is Edinburgh’s vibrant, historic street linking city centre buzz with the lively maritime charm of Leith’s waterfront.
Ocean Terminal
1.4 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
1.4 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Essential places to dine
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
0.5 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
0.6 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant flavors in the heart of Leith at Tapa, Edinburgh’s celebrated tapas bar and restaurant.
Heron
0.6 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Domenico's
0.8 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.8 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Fishers
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.8 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
The Kitchin
0.8 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
The Walnut
1.5 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
1.8 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
1.9 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Taisteal
2.1 km
A Michelin-mentioned Edinburgh gem where Scottish ingredients meet global flavours in a warm, intimate setting.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
2.1 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
The Lookout by Gardener's Cottage
2.1 km
Suspended fine dining with panoramic Edinburgh views from an architectural marvel atop Calton Hill.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Georgian Antiques
0.3 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.
Destined for Home
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
Logan Malloch Ltd
0.5 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Flux
0.6 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
ScotClans
0.8 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.8 km
Discover sustainable tartan magic in Leith: touch lambswool blankets, customize with embroidery, and carry home Scotland's cozy soul from this Edinburgh gem.
Wee Leith Shop
1.1 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
1.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
Build-A-Bear
1.4 km
Craft your own cuddly companion in Leith's lively workshop, where stuffing hearts and dreams creates lifelong memories for kids and families alike.
The Leith collective
1.4 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
1.4 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Britannia Gift Shop
1.4 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.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
1.5 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
The Cats Miaou
1.7 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
The Dragonfly
2.1 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
Leith Dockers Club
0.4 km
Leith's 1946 social heartbeat: massive bar, function suites, beer garden, and community spirit for gatherings big and small.
The Lioness of Leith
0.4 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.4 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Three Marys
0.7 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
0.7 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
The Barologist
0.8 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
The Vine Bar
1.2 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
2.2 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
2.4 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
2.5 km
Intimate New Town speakeasy with whisky-led cocktails, reclaimed-wood warmth and attentive, bespoke service for relaxed late-night evenings.
The Voodoo Rooms
2.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
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.
The World's End
2.6 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.
Cask
2.6 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Whiski Bar & Restaurant
2.7 km
A cosy Royal Mile whisky bar with 300+ Scotch malts, hearty Scottish food and nightly live music in Edinburgh’s Old Town.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Why Not Nightclub
2.8 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
2.8 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
Garibaldi's
2.8 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.
Shanghai Nightclub
2.8 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
2.9 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.
Cabaret Voltaire
2.9 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
2.9 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
2.9 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Opal Lounge
2.9 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
Sneaky Pete's
3.1 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
3.1 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
3.1 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
The Liquid Room
3.1 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.2 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.3 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly