Leith Walk

Welcome to Leith Walk, the iconic street that stretches from the heart of Edinburgh to the historic port district of Leith. Known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and vibrant culture, Leith Walk is more than just a road – it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s heritage.

One of the longest streets in Edinburgh (1.2 miles from one end to the other), Leith Walk connects the Shore area of Leith with the city centre of Edinburgh and Princes Street.

Leith Walk History

Leith Walk has a storied past that dates back to the mid-15th century. Initially a rough pathway, it evolved over the years into a bustling thoroughfare. The street owes its existence to a defensive rampart built in 1650, which later developed into a footpath. By the 18th century, Leith Walk had become a coach route, and it was re-laid as a “splendid causeway” in 1810.

Modern-Day Leith Walk

Today, Leith Walk serves as a vital link between Edinburgh and Leith, well-served by public transport including buses and the newly added tram stations. Whether you’re walking, biking, or taking the tram, you’ll find that Leith Walk is incredibly accessible.

Lots of shops and restaurants can be found all the way along Leith Walk. While the whole street is called Leith Walk, it can be divided into several smaller streets including Picardy Place, Antigua Street, and Gayfield Place on the west side of the walk, and Greenside Place and Elm Row on the east side.

At the foot of the walk, the building used for station bars and waiting rooms for the former Leith Central Station still stands as The Central Bar.

At the top of Leith walk, you can find the Playhouse and the new St James Quarter which is a huge retail and leisure complex.

LEITH DOCKS

Places of Interest

LEITH

Places of Interest

LEITH LINKS

Places of Interest

LEITH MARKET

Places of Interest

The Shore

Places of Interest

WATER OF LEITH

Places of Interest

Walking Distances

The great thing about Leith is there are so many places to go that are within walking distance. For example, from the Shore you can walk to:

  • Foot of Walk to Omni Centre: ~ 24 minutes (1.2 miles)
  • Foot of Walk to Ocean Terminal: ~ 24 minutes (1.1 miles)
  • Foot of Walk to The Shore: ~13 minutes (0.6 miles)
  • Foot of Walk to St James Quarter: ~ 27 minutes (1.3 miles)