Leith Citadel: Cromwellian Fortress and Historic Gateway to Edinburgh's Port
Explore Leith Citadel’s historic gateway, a surviving remnant of Cromwell’s 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s vital port.
Leith Citadel is a historic 17th-century fortification in North Leith, Edinburgh, built under Oliver Cromwell’s rule to control the strategic port area. Though largely demolished, its surviving vaulted gateway on Dock Street marks the site of a once imposing pentagonal fortress with bastions, barracks, and military stores. The Citadel reflects Leith’s turbulent history, military significance, and its role in Edinburgh’s maritime heritage.
A brief summary to Leith Citadel
- Dock St, Edinburgh, Leith, EH6 6HU, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the vaulted gateway on Dock Street to see the only remaining physical structure of the Citadel.
- Combine your visit with a walk around Leith’s historic docks and waterfront for full context.
- Learn about the Citadel’s history through local heritage societies or guided tours focusing on Leith’s military past.
- Nearby, the Citadel Youth Centre offers community activities but is separate from the historic site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take Lothian Buses routes 16, 34, or 35 to Commercial Street; from the stop, the Citadel gateway is a short walk. Buses run frequently with fares around £1.80–£2.00 GBP.
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Train and Walk
Alight at Edinburgh Waverley station, then take a 25-30 minute walk or a short bus ride to Leith Citadel. Walking offers scenic views along Leith Walk and the waterfront.
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Taxi or Ride-share
A taxi from central Edinburgh to Leith Citadel takes approximately 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, costing around £8–£12 GBP.
Leith Citadel 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
Discover more about Leith Citadel
Origins and Military Purpose of the Citadel
Constructed in the 1650s during Oliver Cromwell’s occupation of Scotland, Leith Citadel was a formidable pentagonal fortification designed to secure the vital port of Leith and regulate maritime traffic. General George Monck, Cromwell’s commander in Scotland, oversaw its construction following the Parliamentary forces’ victory at the Battle of Dunbar. The fortress featured five bastions, thick stone walls, barracks for soldiers, magazines for munitions, and residences for officers, underscoring its strategic military importance in controlling access to Edinburgh via the port.Architectural Features and Layout
Though only the west-side vaulted gateway on Dock Street remains today, historical records describe the Citadel as a large stone-faced structure encompassing an area bounded by Dock Street, Coburg Street, Cooper Street, and Commercial Street. The fort replaced earlier medieval structures, including the Old Hospice and the church of St Nicholas, whose stones were repurposed for the Citadel’s construction. Its robust design reflected contemporary military engineering, emphasizing defense and control over the bustling port and town.Political and Social Impact
The Citadel symbolized Cromwell’s military dominance and the suppression of local religious and civic freedoms, as churches were closed and repurposed for military use during the occupation. After the monarchy was restored in 1660, the Citadel was largely demolished, with Edinburgh authorities buying it back to maintain control over Leith. The site briefly hosted industrial activities and even housed one of Scotland’s earliest newspapers, the Mercurious Caledonius. The Citadel’s church, known as St Nicholas, served the occupying parliamentarian forces during their tenure.Leith’s Maritime Heritage and the Citadel’s Legacy
Leith’s identity as Edinburgh’s historic port is inseparable from the Citadel’s presence. The fortress was part of a broader network of defenses protecting the harbor, which was crucial for trade, naval activity, and Scotland’s economic lifeblood. The Citadel’s remnants stand as a tangible link to the mid-17th century conflicts and the evolution of Leith from a contested military site to a vibrant maritime community.Modern Context and Preservation
Today, the surviving gateway on Dock Street is a protected historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into Leith’s layered past. The area around the Citadel has evolved into a lively district blending heritage with contemporary urban life. Nearby, the Citadel Youth Centre continues the legacy of community engagement, although unrelated to the original fort, it carries the historic name forward as a hub for local youth activities.Visiting and Appreciating the Site
While the Citadel itself no longer stands in full, the gateway invites reflection on the turbulent history of 17th-century Scotland and Leith’s strategic importance. The site’s proximity to Leith’s docks and historic streets makes it a poignant stop for those exploring Edinburgh’s maritime and military heritage, linking past conflicts with the present-day vibrancy of the port area.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.3 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
Scottish Merchant Navy Memorial
0.4 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
0.5 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
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.
Forth Lock
1.3 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
2.6 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.6 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
Burns Monument
2.6 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
Scottish-American Soldiers Monument
2.7 km
A unique Edinburgh memorial honoring Scottish soldiers who fought in the American Civil War, symbolizing liberty and transatlantic heritage.
Martyrs of Reform Monument
2.7 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
2.7 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
2.8 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
2.8 km
Historic bronze statue of the Duke of Wellington on horseback, a commanding symbol of British military triumph in the heart of Edinburgh.
Melville Monument
2.8 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.1 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Teuchters Landing
0.2 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Custom House Leith
0.3 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
The Leith Mural
0.3 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
Shore
0.3 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
The King's Wark
0.3 km
A centuries-old Leith gastropub serving seasonal Scottish seafood and classic pub fare in a cosy waterside setting.
0 Water of Leith Walkway
0.4 km
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
Ocean Terminal
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Leith
0.5 km
Historic Edinburgh port transformed into a vibrant waterfront district famed for Michelin-starred dining, lively pubs, and cultural charm.
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.
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
0.6 km
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
Wonder World Soft Play Edinburgh
0.8 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
0.9 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Fishmarket Square
1.3 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
0.1 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
The Kitchin
0.1 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Domenico's
0.2 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Heron
0.3 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
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.
Fishers
0.4 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.4 km
Cozy waterfront dining in Leith offering superior seafood and modern European cuisine in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
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.
The Walnut
1.7 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
2.2 km
Bold Canadian comfort food and lively vibes meet in the heart of Edinburgh’s Antigua Street for a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The Gardener's Cottage
2.2 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
2.2 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
Fhior
2.3 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
2.3 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
ScotClans
0.2 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
Flux
0.4 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
TBCo | Tartan Blanket Co.
0.4 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
0.4 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
0.4 km
Dive into decades of style at Retro Clothing Outfit in Leith's Ocean Terminal—vintage gems await in Edinburgh's creative coastal enclave.
Build-A-Bear
0.5 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
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.8 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
1.4 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
1.9 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Cats Miaou
2.0 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
The Dragonfly
2.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Meadowbank Shopping Park
2.2 km
Edinburgh’s vibrant shopping park offering diverse stores, extended hours, and a welcoming atmosphere for all your retail and dining needs.
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.
Three Marys
0.3 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
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Malt & Hops
0.3 km
Historic Leith pub since 1749, pouring real ales and whiskies by a roaring fire amid maritime charm on the Shore.
Smoke & Mirrors
0.7 km
Quirky Leith cocktail haven where magic-themed vibes meet masterful mixes in an intimate, colourful escape from Edinburgh's everyday.
Leith Dockers Club
0.7 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
2.4 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
2.6 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
2.6 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
2.8 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Bramble Bar
2.8 km
Edinburgh's speakeasy legend: masterful cocktails, dim-lit nooks, and beats that linger until 1am in a Queen Street basement hideaway.
Cask
2.8 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Cru
2.9 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.
The Last Word
2.9 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Garibaldi's
2.9 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
2.9 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
2.9 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
3.0 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
3.0 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
The Hive Nightclub & Venue
3.1 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
3.2 km
Vaulted live-music rooms and a relaxed upstairs bar—Cabaret Voltaire is Edinburgh’s atmospheric hub for alternative gigs and late-night clubbing.
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.
La Belle Angele
3.2 km
Edinburgh’s intimate nightclub and live music venue blending historic charm with vibrant themed nights and diverse performances.
The Mash House
3.3 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
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.
Sneaky Pete's
3.4 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
3.4 km
Edinburgh’s only 24/7 rock nightclub, Legends pulses with raw energy and live alternative music in the heart of Cowgate.
The Liquid Room
3.4 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
The Bongo Club
3.4 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
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
