Leith: one of the world's coolest neighbourhoods

Since then, a lot has happened. The area became an official part of Edinburgh in 1920, The Royal Yacht Britannia made her final stop at Ocean Terminal, and Leith was catapulted into the spotlight by Irvine Welsh’s Trainspotting.

But Leith has always done its own thing. The area slowly began to shed its industrial skin and embrace a trendy new guise – and was 16th on the list of coolest neighbourhoods in the world for 2023, according to Time Out.

Here’s our guide to the area, with tips on eating, drinking and other fun things to see and do.

Leith’s dining scene is innovative, inventive and varied, with new restaurants cropping up all the time, each bringing with them something fresh and new. Not to mention it’s home to three of the capital’s Michelin-star restaurants.

The Lighthouse Restaurant & Bar aboard Fingal

From five course afternoon teas to exceptional dining awarded 2 AA Rosettes, eating out on board this luxury floating hotel is a truly unique experience. 

Book your meal on board

The Kitchin

Tom Kitchin and his team believe in the ‘nature-to-plate’ philosophy and rustle up some delicious dishes in one Edinburgh’s finest Michelin-star restaurants. Seriously delicious.

Book The Kitchin

Restaurant Martin Wishart

Another Michelin star belongs to Martin Wishart. Experience a blend of classic French culinary techniques with Scottish produce and treat yourself to an unforgettable meal.

Dine at Restaurant Martin Wishart

Heron

Head to one of Leith's Michelin Star restaurants for expertly crafted fine dining and fresh ingredients, overlooking The Shore. 

Dine out at Heron

Ship on the Shore

Seafood lovers, here’s something for you! Head here for fresh seafood and sparkling champagne.

Book Ship on the Shore

Mimi's Bakehouse

Get your sugar fix with a toppling tower of cakes from Mimi’s. The ‘Before-noon tea’ is another delight for all breakfast fans.

Eat cake at Mimi’s Bakehouse 

Williams & Johnson

For fans of the coffee bean, Williams & Johnson is a must-visit for delicious coffee and dairy-free latte options.

Shop at Williams & Johnson

Alby's

Head to Alby’s for huge sandwiches! More than a regular sandwich shop, this is a deli with a difference as the space hosts evening events from Wednesday to Friday. Come yourself, or with your dog, friends and favourite beverages (it’s BYOB).

Get lunch at Alby’s 

Toast

Raise a toast to the Shore’s first ever wine café! It’s also a great spot for breakfast and brunch, or Mediterranean-style sharing plates in the afternoon and evening. There’s also a deli counter, cakes and pastries.

Dine at Toast

You’ll find perfect pints and cocktail combinations you’ve never heard of before at pubs and bars across Leith.

Nobles

While away the hours inside this gorgeous pub, originally opened as a Victorian café in 1896 with beautiful stained-glass windows.

Relax at Nobles

Roseleaf

Indulge in cocktails in tea cups and admire the wall display of extravagant hats inside this colourful little bar just along from the Shore.

Drinks at Roseleaf

Lost in Leith and Campervan Brewery Tap Room

Visit Leith’s first ever brewery Tap Room and try the range of Campervan brews available. It opens on Fridays and Saturdays.

Sample beers at Campervan Brewery Tap Room 

Lionness of Leith

There are lots of lovely things to try on the cocktail menu here. The bar also serves gourmet ‘Lioness’ burgers and homemade waffles in the morning, so what’s not to love?

Cocktails at Lionness of Leith

Leith’s cultural attractions will introduce you to the area’s fascinating history and show you its creative side too.

Royal Yacht Britannia

Explore the floating royal residence and see the ship that sailed the world with the Royal Family on board for over 40 years. See the Queen’s favourite viewpoint and have tea in the Royal Deck Tea Room.

Step onboard the Royal Yacht Britannia

Water of Leith walkway

Weaving its way through Edinburgh from the foot of the Pentland Hills to Leith, this route is perfect for a peaceful leafy walk or cycle through the city.

Follow the Water of Leith walkway

Trinity House

Dive into Leith’s famous maritime history. This grand Georgian house was once housed the Incorporation of Mariners and Shipmasters, and is bursting with maritime gems including four portraits by Sir Henry Raeburn.

Visit Trinity House

Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop

A hub of creativity, this amazing workspace offers lots of workshops for sculptors of all levels. Try clay portraiture, wood carving or metal work and see what masterpieces you can create!

See what's on at the Edinburgh Sculpture Workshop