Staying in Leith: the Shore, Leith Walk and tram access
Leith covers more ground than a waterfront photograph suggests. A room on Leith Walk gives a different daily route from one beside the Water of Leith or near Ocean Terminal. Use the nearest tram stop as a second reference when comparing addresses. Around the Shore, check the walk across bridges and junctions, especially if you expect to return after dark.
At a glance
- Best for
- Food, the waterfront
- At night
- Lively around The Shore
- Getting around
- Tram: Foot of the Walk, Newhaven
- Price level
- €€
Edinburgh's old port: seafood, bars and the harbor, on the tram line, well outside the walking center.
Good for
- Food and the waterfront
- Trams along Leith Walk and to the airport
- Better value than the center
Think twice if
- You want to walk to the castle and the Royal Mile
- You do not want to depend on a tram or a bus for sightseeing
What is near Leith
The Shore
From the Foot of the Walk, allow about 12 minutes along Constitution Street and toward the waterfront.
Leith Links
Walk about 10 minutes from the Foot of the Walk toward the western edge of this large public green.
The Royal Yacht Britannia
From the Shore, allow about 20 minutes toward Ocean Terminal; check the official site for current visitor access and opening times.
Eating in Leith
Choose the Shore for a meal beside the water, or explore Leith Walk for a broader spread of casual restaurants and takeaway food. For a weekend dinner, reserve once you have settled your plans. Check how far the restaurant is from your accommodation, as addresses described as Leith can be quite widely separated.
Getting around from Leith
Trams connect Leith with the center and airport. Foot of the Walk, The Shore and Ocean Terminal serve different parts of the area, so match the stop to your address. Lothian buses provide additional routes. For central sightseeing, allow time for the journey and the walk from your arrival stop.
Hotels in Leith
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Other areas of Edinburgh
Staying in Leith: the Shore, Leith Walk and tram access
Which part of Leith should I choose for a tram stop?
Compare addresses near Foot of the Walk, The Shore and Ocean Terminal. The closest stop depends on the building, and a waterfront address may still require a walk.
Can I walk from Leith to the Royal Mile?
Yes, but it is a substantial walk with an uphill finish. From the Shore, allow roughly an hour, depending on your route and walking pace.
Are the Shore and Ocean Terminal the same place?
No. They are separate parts of Leith, with a walk between them. Check the map before booking if you want to be close to a particular attraction or stop.