Water of Leith Walkway, Edinburgh
A tranquil 12-mile riverside walkway weaving through Edinburgh’s nature, history, and art, perfect for peaceful strolls and cultural discovery.
The Water of Leith Walkway is a scenic 12-mile riverside path running through Edinburgh, from the Pentland Hills to Leith. This tranquil urban wildlife corridor offers walkers and cyclists a peaceful escape amid lush greenery, historic sites, and cultural landmarks such as Dean Village, the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, and the Royal Botanic Garden. The route features diverse wildlife, public art installations, and the Water of Leith Visitor Centre, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and culture seekers alike.
A brief summary to 0 Water of Leith Walkway
- 0 Water of Leith Walkway, Edinburgh, EH6 4AF, GB
- Duration: 1 to 7.5 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes as the full route covers about 12 miles and can take over 7 hours to walk end-to-end.
- Visit the Water of Leith Visitor Centre for maps, exhibitions, and refreshments roughly halfway along the path.
- Look out for Antony Gormley’s ‘6 Times’ statues placed in and around the river for unique photo opportunities.
- The walkway is suitable for cyclists and families with buggies, with many entry points allowing flexible walk lengths.
- Stop at nearby attractions like Dean Village, the Royal Botanic Garden, and Saughton Park to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Public Bus
Several Lothian Bus routes connect central Edinburgh to points along the Water of Leith Walkway, including stops near Dean Village and the Water of Leith Visitor Centre. Journey times range from 15 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £1.80–£2.00 GBP one way.
-
Cycling
The walkway is suitable for cycling with mostly flat terrain and dedicated paths. Bike rental shops are available in central Edinburgh, and cycling from the city centre to the walkway typically takes 15–25 minutes.
-
Walking
From Edinburgh city centre, walking to the Water of Leith Walkway at Dean Village takes around 30–40 minutes over mostly paved and accessible paths. The route is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central Edinburgh to key points on the walkway such as the Visitor Centre or Dean Village takes approximately 10–15 minutes, with fares typically between £8 and £12 GBP depending on traffic.
0 Water of Leith Walkway location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Windy Conditions
Discover more about 0 Water of Leith Walkway
A Serene Urban River Pathway
The Water of Leith Walkway traces the course of Edinburgh’s main river, stretching approximately 12 miles from the Pentland Hills in the southwest to the historic port area of Leith in the northeast. The path offers a peaceful retreat from the city bustle, winding through woodlands, parks, and charming villages. It is a green artery that connects diverse urban and natural environments, making it popular for walking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.Rich Natural Habitat and Wildlife
This walkway is an Urban Wildlife Site, home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can encounter over 80 species of birds including swans, herons, and ducks, as well as 11 species of fish inhabiting the river. Mammals such as otters and badgers are occasionally spotted along the banks. The riverside vegetation includes native trees and wildflowers, contributing to the walkway’s tranquil and verdant atmosphere.Historic and Cultural Highlights Along the Route
Along the walkway, several noteworthy attractions enrich the experience. Dean Village, with its picturesque historic buildings, offers a glimpse into Edinburgh’s past. The Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art and the Royal Botanic Garden provide cultural and botanical interest. St Bernard’s Well, a Greco-Roman style structure, and the Colinton Tunnel, adorned with Scotland’s largest historical mural, add architectural charm. Antony Gormley’s evocative ‘6 Times’ statues stand sentinel in the river, blending art with nature.The Water of Leith Visitor Centre and Community Engagement
Located roughly midway along the path, the Water of Leith Visitor Centre is housed in a renovated schoolhouse. It serves as an information hub with interactive exhibitions about the river’s heritage and wildlife. The centre also hosts conservation projects, offers a café and gift shop, and is fully accessible. It acts as a focal point for community activities and environmental education.Recreational and Practical Aspects
The walkway is suitable for a variety of users, including families with children, cyclists, and dog walkers. The mostly flat and well-maintained path accommodates buggies and wheelchairs. There are numerous entry and exit points, allowing visitors to tailor their walk length. Nearby parks such as Saughton Park provide additional recreational facilities, including gardens, play areas, and cafés.Artistic and Environmental Stewardship
The Water of Leith is not just a natural haven but also a canvas for public art and community projects. The Colinton Tunnel mural and Gormley’s statues are highlights that invite reflection on the relationship between humans and the environment. Local artists and volunteers actively contribute to maintaining and enhancing the walkway’s character, promoting sustainability and community pride.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Water of Leith Walkway Finish
0.5 km
Edinburgh’s scenic 13-mile riverside trail ends at Leith’s historic waterfront, blending nature, heritage, and urban charm.
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.
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.
Robert Burns Statue
0.9 km
A striking tribute to Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, set in the historic maritime district of Leith, Edinburgh.
Forth Lock
1.5 km
Historic Forth Lock in Leith, Edinburgh, blends maritime heritage with vibrant waterfront life and scenic canal views.
Leith East Breakwater Lighthouse
1.9 km
Historic maritime beacon guiding ships into Edinburgh’s vibrant Leith Docks since 1876, now a cherished symbol of nautical heritage.
Dugald Stewart Monument
2.3 km
A neoclassical tribute to philosopher Dugald Stewart, offering iconic views over Edinburgh from historic Calton Hill.
Earl of Hopetoun Statue
2.4 km
A distinguished bronze statue honoring John Hope, 4th Earl of Hopetoun, set amidst the elegant Georgian surroundings of Edinburgh’s St Andrew Square.
Burns Monument
2.4 km
Edinburgh's classical tribute to Scotland's national poet, a Neo-Greek temple with commanding city views.
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.
Queen Mary's Bath House
2.4 km
A rare 16th-century Tudor pavilion near Holyrood Palace, steeped in royal mystery and linked to Mary, Queen of Scots.
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.
Melville Monument
2.4 km
A towering neoclassical column in Edinburgh’s New Town, commemorating Henry Dundas with rich history and architectural grandeur.
Duke of Wellington Equestrian statue
2.4 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
2.4 km
Historic Georgian landmark transformed into a modern, sustainable office hub in the heart of Edinburgh’s vibrant city centre.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Leith Mural
0.1 km
A monumental mural in Edinburgh’s Leith district capturing decades of community history and maritime heritage through vivid street art.
Lind and Lime Gin Distillery
0.4 km
Discover Edinburgh’s artisanal gin heritage with interactive tours and tastings at Lind and Lime Gin Distillery in vibrant Leith.
Leith Citadel
0.4 km
Explore the enduring 17th-century fortress guarding Edinburgh’s historic port in the vibrant Leith waterfront district.
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.
Teuchters Landing
0.7 km
Waterside freehouse on Leith’s Shore — wide whisky range, rotating ales, dockside beer garden and roomy conservatory for all seasons.
Custom House Leith
0.7 km
Historic Georgian Custom House in Leith, evolving into Scotland’s first fully digital museum and vibrant cultural hub.
Ocean Terminal
0.7 km
Edinburgh’s premier waterfront shopping and leisure destination, blending retail, dining, cinema, and maritime heritage in vibrant Leith.
Shore
0.7 km
Historic waterfront district in Leith blending maritime heritage with vibrant dining, bars, and scenic river views.
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.
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.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
0.9 km
Explore the majestic Royal Yacht Britannia in Edinburgh, a floating palace rich with royal history and stunning waterfront views.
Leith
0.9 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)
0.9 km
A poignant memorial in Leith honoring the valor and sacrifice of the Royal Marines 43rd Commando during World War II.
Fishmarket Square
1.1 km
Historic Fishmarket Square in Newhaven, Edinburgh, where maritime heritage meets vibrant community life by the Firth of Forth.
Leith Links
1.1 km
Historic green oasis in Edinburgh’s Leith district, birthplace of golf and witness to centuries of Scottish history.
Essential places to dine
Roseleaf Bar Cafe
0.5 km
Eclectic family-run bar cafe in Leith serving fresh Scottish classics, inventive cocktails, and a quirky, artistic atmosphere.
Heron
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern Scottish dining in Leith with innovative seasonal menus and scenic waterside views.
The Kitchin
0.6 km
Experience refined Scottish cuisine with a French touch in Edinburgh’s iconic Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in historic Leith.
Domenico's
0.6 km
A cozy, authentic Italian restaurant in Leith serving fresh Sicilian-inspired dishes with warm hospitality and generous portions.
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.
Kezban Mediterranean Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Mediterranean flavors and warm hospitality on the vibrant shore of Leith in Edinburgh.
Fishers
0.8 km
Historic 17th-century watchtower turned seafood haven in Leith, serving fresh Scottish fish with a relaxed, waterfront charm.
The Shore Bar and Restaurant
0.8 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
1.4 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
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.
L'Escargot Bleu Restaurant and Wine Bar
1.9 km
Authentic French bistro in Edinburgh blending classic cuisine with fresh Scottish ingredients and a cozy wine bar atmosphere.
The Gardener's Cottage
1.9 km
An intimate Edinburgh dining gem blending seasonal Scottish produce with rustic charm in a historic garden cottage setting.
Fhior
1.9 km
Experience innovative Scottish fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in a minimalist, elegant setting at Edinburgh’s acclaimed Fhior.
Educated Flea
1.9 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
0.5 km
Authentic Scottish clan and tartan products crafted with heritage and pride in the heart of Leith, Edinburgh.
The Leith collective
0.6 km
Discover upcycled artistry and sustainable treasures from 65+ Leith makers in this eco-heartfelt shopping gem at Ocean Terminal.
Retro Clothing Outfit
0.6 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
0.7 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
0.7 km
Curated cards, artisan homewares and design-led gifts in a compact, maker-friendly shop on Bernard Street, Leith.
Logan Malloch Ltd
0.7 km
Edinburgh's Leith gem: artisanal gifts, art prints, witty cards, books & Scottish crafts in a charming shop on vibrant Leith Walk.
Destined for Home
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and personal service in the heart of Leith at Destined for Home, Edinburgh’s charming boutique for distinctive treasures.
Britannia Gift Shop
0.8 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.
Georgian Antiques
1.1 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
1.2 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
1.7 km
A vibrant Leith gift shop bursting with quirky, pun-filled designs and ethically sourced handmade treasures in Edinburgh.
Planet.A Boutique
1.8 km
Discover Edinburgh’s stylish and sustainable gift shop offering unique local treasures and eco-friendly finds on Easter Road.
The Dragonfly
1.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at The Dragonfly, a stylish boutique gift shop in Edinburgh’s vibrant Broughton Street.
Curiouser & Curiouser
1.9 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
0.3 km
Experience the warmth of Leith at The Vine Bar, a cozy spot offering a delightful selection of local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
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
0.6 km
A characterful Leith pub-cocktail bar mixing inventive drinks, rustic plates and quirky interiors for relaxed nights and small celebrations.
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.
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
0.8 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
2.0 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
2.2 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
2.3 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
2.4 km
Edinburgh's clandestine Victorian lair of cocktails, cabaret, and live tunes in opulent, hidden chambers.
Bramble Bar
2.4 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
2.5 km
A cosy, stylish cocktail bar in Edinburgh’s Stockbridge, famed for creative drinks, expert whisky selection, and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Cask
2.5 km
Discover Cask: Edinburgh's rooftop cocktail bar offering stunning views, innovative drinks, and delectable small plates in a vibrant atmosphere.
Grand Cru
2.5 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
2.5 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
2.5 km
Edinburgh's multi-award-winning late-night haven with LED immersion, garden vibes, and non-stop beats on George Street.
Shanghai Nightclub
2.6 km
Edinburgh's Oriental nightlife den: Asian decor, themed beats, VIP vibes, and non-stop energy on George Street.
El Barrio Latino
2.6 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
2.6 km
A stylish live music bar and nightclub in Edinburgh’s New Town, perfect for celebrations and vibrant nightlife.
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.
The Shack Retro Bar & Club
2.8 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
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.
Lulu Bar and Nightclub
2.9 km
Edinburgh's George Street gem: chic cocktails, thumping beats, and dance floors that ignite the night in upscale style.
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
3.0 km
A vibrant Edinburgh nightclub and live music venue blending folk, electronic, and techno in a lively, casual setting.
The Liquid Room
3.0 km
Edinburgh's multi-level nightlife gem: techno thumps, live gigs, and warehouse vibes on historic Victoria Street.
Sneaky Pete's
3.0 km
Intimate live music and club nights in Edinburgh’s Old Town, where emerging talent meets vibrant nightlife.
Legends
3.0 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
3.0 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
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- 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
