The Leith Mural: A Vibrant Chronicle of Community and History
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
The Leith Mural, located at 21 North Junction Street in Edinburgh, is a large-scale outdoor artwork created in 1986 by Tim Chalk, Paul Grime, and David Wilkinson. It vividly portrays the rich social and maritime history of Leith, capturing the spirit of the local community through intricate scenes and characters. Though weathered by time, it remains a cherished cultural landmark, recently revitalized through projection art to celebrate its legacy and inspire ongoing community engagement.
A brief summary to The Leith Mural
- 21 N Jct St, Edinburgh, EH6 6HW, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight to fully appreciate the mural’s intricate details and scale.
- Look out for special projection events that digitally restore and animate the mural.
- Explore the surrounding Leith neighborhood to experience its vibrant cultural and historic atmosphere.
- Bring a camera for striking photos of this iconic urban artwork and its colorful backdrop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
-
Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 10 or 22 from central Edinburgh, with a journey time of approximately 25-35 minutes. Buses stop near North Junction Street. Services run frequently but check schedules for evenings and weekends. A single ticket costs around £1.80 GBP.
-
Tram and Walk
Use the Edinburgh Trams to Leith Walk stop, followed by a 10-15 minute walk on mostly flat terrain to the mural. Tram tickets cost about £1.80-£2.50 GBP depending on zones. The walk is suitable for most mobility levels.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Edinburgh city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience but can cost between £8-£15 GBP.
The Leith Mural location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Leith Mural
A Living Canvas of Leith’s Heritage
The Leith Mural stands as a monumental tribute to the vibrant history and community spirit of Leith, a portside district of Edinburgh. Painted in 1986 by artists Tim Chalk, Paul Grime, and David Wilkinson, this expansive mural stretches across a gable end on North Junction Street, serving as a visual narrative of the area's maritime roots and social fabric. The mural’s detailed imagery weaves together stories of local life, industry, and culture, making it a unique outdoor gallery that connects past and present.Artistic Collaboration and Storytelling
Commissioned as a community legacy, the mural was designed with deep input from local voices and artists who sought to encapsulate Leith’s diverse identity. The artwork features scenes that honor the port’s bustling trade, the lives of its residents, and key historical moments. The collaboration between Chalk, Grime, and Wilkinson resulted in a piece that is both historically informative and artistically compelling, with each painted character and scene carrying a story that resonates with the community.Weathering Time and Revitalization Efforts
Exposed to the elements for over three decades, the mural has experienced significant fading and deterioration, with many sections now barely visible. Recognizing its cultural importance, local groups partnered with Double Take Projections to create a groundbreaking projection mapping event in 2020. This innovative project digitally restored and animated the mural’s original imagery, projecting it back onto the wall to revive its colors and bring its characters to life. The event not only celebrated the mural’s legacy but also sparked conversations about preserving street art in urban environments.Community Engagement and Cultural Significance
The Leith Mural is more than just an artwork; it is a symbol of community pride and identity. Its depiction of local history serves as a visual archive that educates and inspires residents and visitors alike. The projection events and ongoing discussions about mural preservation highlight the community’s commitment to honoring its heritage while embracing contemporary art forms. This dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation keeps the mural relevant and cherished.Experiencing the Mural Today
Visitors to the mural can appreciate its scale and detail up close, imagining the stories behind each painted figure and scene. The mural’s location in a lively urban neighborhood adds to its accessibility and appeal, inviting passersby to pause and reflect on Leith’s unique past. While the original paintwork shows signs of age, the spirit of the mural endures, enhanced by modern projection art that reanimates its narrative for new generations.Legacy and Future Prospects
The Leith Mural’s journey from a static painted wall to an animated projection spectacle exemplifies the evolving nature of public art. It stands as a case study in balancing preservation with innovation, encouraging ongoing community involvement in cultural heritage. Plans for further restoration or new murals inspired by this iconic piece continue to foster a vibrant street art scene in Edinburgh, ensuring that Leith’s stories remain visible and celebrated.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
Queen Victoria Statue
0.7 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
0.8 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
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.
Dugald Stewart Monument
2.4 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Burns Monument
2.5 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
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.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.5 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
2.5 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
2.5 km
A towering 27m obelisk in Edinburgh honoring five radical reformists who shaped Britain’s fight for democratic rights in the 18th century.
Melville Monument
2.5 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
2.6 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
The Centre of Edinburgh
2.6 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.1 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.3 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Leith Citadel
0.3 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
Teuchters Landing
0.5 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Ocean Terminal
0.6 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Custom House Leith
0.6 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Shore
0.6 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
The King's Wark
0.6 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
Trinity House Maritime Museum
0.6 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.
Port of Leith Distillery (entrance)
0.7 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Leith
0.8 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
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.
Leith Links
1.1 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Fishmarket Square
1.1 km
Historic Fishmarket Square in Newhaven, Edinburgh, where maritime heritage meets vibrant community life by the Firth of Forth.
Essential places to dine
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.4 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
The Kitchin
0.4 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Heron
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
Domenico's
0.5 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
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.
Fishers
0.7 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Nobles Cafe Bar & Restaurant
0.8 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.
The Walnut
1.6 km
Cozy and unpretentious, The Walnut offers seasonal Scottish dishes with creative flair and excellent value on Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Walk.
Down The Hatch Edinburgh
2.0 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
2.0 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
The Gardener's Cottage
2.0 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Fhior
2.1 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
2.1 km
Discover bold, inventive fusion cuisine with a Scottish twist in a cozy, friendly spot on Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.3 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.
The Leith collective
0.5 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
0.5 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
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.
Flux
0.6 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Britannia Gift Shop
0.7 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.
Destined for Home
0.7 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
0.8 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Georgian Antiques
1.0 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
1.3 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 Cats Miaou
1.8 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Planet.A Boutique
1.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Dragonfly
2.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Curiouser & Curiouser
2.0 km
A design-led independent shop in Edinburgh, filled with art, cards, homewares, and unique gifts with a Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Vine Bar
0.2 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Three Marys
0.5 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 Barologist
0.5 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
Malt & Hops
0.6 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
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
0.8 km
Leith's quirky gastropub haven for gourmet burgers, craft cocktails, and electric vibes since 2013—where quality bites meet lively nights.
The Street
2.2 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.
Nightcap
2.4 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
2.4 km
Experience Edinburgh’s vibrant cocktail theatre and unique dining at The Alchemist St James Quarter, where drinks come alive with magic and flair.
The Voodoo Rooms
2.5 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Bramble Bar
2.6 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
The Last Word
2.6 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Cask
2.6 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Cru
2.7 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
2.6 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
2.7 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
2.7 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
2.7 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
2.8 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.0 km
Edinburgh's gritty Cowgate nightclub: cheap drinks, multi-room beats, and non-stop energy until 3am in the heart of Old Town.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
3.0 km
Edinburgh's retro dance den blasting 60s-90s hits amid quirky decor and sweaty dance floors—pure nostalgic escapism on Rose Street.
Cabaret Voltaire
3.0 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
3.0 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
La Belle Angele
3.1 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
3.1 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
Sneaky Pete's
3.2 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
The Liquid Room
3.2 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Legends
3.2 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
3.2 km
Edinburgh’s underground hotspot blending eclectic music, live art, and a vibrant late-night scene in the historic Old Town.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
- Lively
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Street Art
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
