Discover Leith: maritime history, culture and whisky

Topics to consider when planning your trip to Leith include maritime history, cultural events, a weekly market and the Water of Leith Walkway. Whisky experiences are another focus. The ways to explore vary, from a historic house and events and tastings to a long route along the water. Consider which theme you want to shape your stay.

Maritime history and culture

Trinity House was the seat of the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters of the Port of Leith. Its maritime significance is illustrated by this specific historical role. Events regularly take place at Trinity House, exploring its collections and the maritime history of Leith. The focus here is therefore both the house’s historical function and events related to this theme. Leith Theatre also has a clear historical connection: it first opened in 1932.

Whisky experiences

The Port of Leith Distillery offers two experiences of different lengths. The 90-minute flagship experience explores the building’s architecture and whisky-making; visitors also fill their own miniature bottle of the spirit. There is also a one-hour whisky tasting featuring grain whiskies, malts, blends and single casks, during which four drams are sampled.

The difference is clear when planning: the longer experience combines architecture, production and bottling, while the shorter tasting focuses on four drams and several whisky categories. If you’re choosing an activity to fit your schedule, you can choose between a 90-minute option and a one-hour one. You can also decide whether to focus on architecture and production or on a tasting.

Festival and market

Leith Festival Week includes music, theatre, exhibitions and workshops. It ends with the free Leith Festival Tattoo at the Shore. This distinguishes the varied programme throughout the week from its closing event. If an event is the reason for your trip, check the specific festival dates before planning your stay around it.

Leith Market takes place every Saturday at Dock Place. It offers food as well as distinctive products from local makers and designers. Food and goods from local vendors give the market a different focus from cultural events and whisky experiences. As the weekly schedule can change, check the date before your visit.

Water of Leith Walkway

The Water of Leith Walkway runs for 13 miles and ends where the Water of Leith flows into the Firth of Forth at Leith. The route is suitable for cycling; some sections are also accessible by wheelchair and on horseback. Wheelchair and horse access apply only to some sections, not the entire route. When planning, therefore, take into account both the length of the path and this limitation. This will help you assess how much of a place the route should have in your itinerary.

Discover more destinations: Ratho, Newbridge, Queensferry, Currie.

See the main travel guide: Edinburgh.