INSIDER'S GUIDE
Discover Leith in Edinburgh: A Local's Guide
Just a casual wander, a quick bus journey, or a smooth few stops on the tram from the centre of Edinburgh is Leith. Leith offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and attitude, making it one of Edinburgh's most eclectic and exciting areas to explore.
If you're looking to see a different side to Edinburgh, away from the picture postcard tourist areas, there's no better place to start than down by the water.
HISTORIC PORT, MODERN HANGOUT
Leith's roots as a bustling port city date back centuries, and its maritime heritage is still very much a part of the area but now often with a contemporary update. No place sums this up better than the majestic Custom House, once a pivotal part of this port status, is now home to art exhibitions, food pop-ups, and some of the finest coffee you can buy in the city. History meets modernity.
After grabbing a coffee from here take a wander along the Shore area, where cobblestone streets wind alongside the Water of Leith, you’ll pass by charming cafes (*cough* get a cupcake from Mimi’s), laidback bars, and some of the city's finest seafood restaurants.
If history is your vibe, then take a wander along to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Once the floating palace of the British Royal Family, this opulent vessel is now permanently moored in Leith. Expect a fascinating insight into royal life at sea. You’ll see the elegant State Apartments, the Crew's Quarters, and the pristine Engine Room. While some may marvel at the luxury of the royal life at sea, you’ll also get an insight into the dedicated work of the crew who served aboard.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
When in Leith, eat. Leith's food scene is a delightful blend of traditional and contemporary and has everything from cult takeaways to Michelin-star fine dining.
Fishers
If you like seafood, Fishers is almost a must, renowned across the city as the place to enjoy the fruits of the sea. Set in a 17th-century watchtower, the vibe is one of relaxed quality. If you find yourself here in the summer, an outside table with a crisp white, some mussels and a bit of people-watching is the perfect afternoon.
Restaurant Martin Wishart
This eponymous restaurant has been a jewel of Edinburgh’s fine dining crown for around 20 years. Expect the highest quality of food and service that comes with a Michelin-star fine dining establishment. A luxurious foodie treat if you are looking for a taste of the finer things.
The King's Wark
Cafe, Restaurant, Bar. The King’s Wark is the pub you imagine if you think up ‘Snug, cosy Scottish pub’. Come for the food, stay for the atmosphere, and while away the day watching the world pass by on the waterfront.
Roseleaf Bar
Cocktails in teapots? Delicious menus hidden inside National Geographic magazines? What The Roseleaf has in charm it backs up in its food, drinks and atmosphere. Find yourself down in Leith for an evening, then head to The Roseleaf for warm hearty food and stunning drinks.
CAFES & COFFEE
Full of quirky cafes and small boltholes, Leith is bursting with great coffee spots, the only question is where to go?
Printworks Coffee
Printworks Coffee is known for its friendly baristas and excellent brews, but even more so for its dedication to the independent cafe culture, you can pick up the luxurious Monmouth coffee from London as well as pastries from local bakeries. Near or far if it’s made with care, you’ll find it here.
Cafe Domenico
A true Leith legend, hidden off the beaten track Cafe Domenico has been serving up pasta, sandwiches and wraps for decades. Pop in and grab a seat at the humble red checked tables and enjoy some pasta or do as the locals do and grab a takeaway. Word of warning, lunchtime will show you just how popular this place is, expect to queue, but expect it to be worth it.
Rocksalt Café
Known for hearty breakfasts and stunning salads, Rocksalt is a foodie treat, although don’t worry the coffee is up to scratch too. A Leith staple, Rocksalt is a perfect big cafe that is ideal to meet friends or just chill in the huge windows reading the papers.
The Haven Café
A short walk along from the shore, don’t let the walk put you off, The Haven Cafe is exactly what it's name suggests: a cosy little cafe that offers one of Edinburgh’s heartiset breakfasts (and they do it all day) also their cakes are something to behold. Don’t believe us, go check out their instagram.
CREATIVE HAVEN
Leith is a hub for Edinburgh's creative community, with numerous galleries, studios, and theatres calling this district home. You’ll also find advertising agencies, film production companies and photography studios down here. With a huge new film studio opened in the last few years there have been a number of Hollywood and independent movies shot in the area - so don’t be surprised if you bump into a movie star or two!
