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Things to do in Leith, Lothian

Leith amalgamated with Edinburgh in 1922.

Water of Leith Shore © Ian Dick
Water of Leith Shore © Ian Dick

 

The Water of Leith flows down from the Pentland Hills through Balerno past the picturesque Dean Village (near Edinburgh's west end) down to Leith Docks.

One can cycle or walk along the Water of Leith stopping to view the wildlife or have a drink and a bite to eat at pubs along the way as well as visit the Gallery of Modern Art.

Leith's Shore has little changed over the centuries.

Water of Leith © Ian Dick
Water of Leith © Ian Dick

King George IV landed in Leith at 'The Shore' in 1822, and even Mary Queen of Scots landed here and waited in Lamb's House on Burgess Street for her carriage to Edinburgh.

Both would still recognize the Shore.

The Shore has many pubs which can serve a fine malt as well as beer or wine to go with your meal.

The Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith © Ian Dick
The Royal Yacht Britannia © Ian Dick

 

One restaurant is to be found on board a ship. Hotels and a casino can also be found near-by.

Shopping in Leith

Tartan or camping gear can be found in Commercial Street near the Citadel built by Cromwell.

Behind Commercial Street is the Scottish Office and between, a row of many fine restaurants.

Leith Harbour © Ian Dick
Leith Harbour © Ian Dick

Traveling west, you come to Ocean Terminal a shopping mall with its free car parking, multi-screen cinema and the main tourist attraction The Royal Yacht Britannia.

Newhaven near Leith © Ian Dick
Newhaven near Leith © Ian Dick

Newhaven formerly called 'Our Lady's Port of Grace'

Further west is the picturesque Newhaven Harbour with its lighthouse and the small free but interestingly Newhaven Heritage Museum.

Newhaven Lighthouse near Leith © Ian Dick
Newhaven Lighthouse near Leith © Ian Dick

From Newhaven you can take a trip out in a small boat to visit Inch Colm Island with its Abbey.

Continuing west, Granton Harbour leading to beaches at Silverknowes and ever onwards past Crammond to Queensferry via/thru the Dalmeny Estate.

Description by Ian Dick

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